Saif ul Malook Lake: The Truth Behind the Mystery of Its Depth

Location and Geography

Located approximately 9 kilometers north of Naran, in the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Saif ul Malook Lake is fed primarily by glacial waters from surrounding mountains. It remains frozen for most of the year, with its surface only fully thawing between June and October. The lake’s clear, emerald-green waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a surreal landscape that has made it a must-visit destination for both local and international travelers.

Geological Formation

Saif ul Malook is a glacial lake, formed thousands of years ago during the last ice age around 2.6 million years ago in the Pleistocene era. As glaciers advanced and then retreated, they carved out basins in the earth, which eventually filled with melted ice. The result is a high-altitude lake with pure, cold waters sourced from glacial melt, surrounded by natural moraine walls and alpine vegetation.

Historical and Literary Significance

The lake derives its name from the famous Persian folklore “Qissa Saif ul Malook”, written by Mian Muhammad Bakhsh, a 19th-century Sufi poet of Punjab. The poetic tale, written in Punjabi, tells the story of Prince Saif ul Malook, an Egyptian prince who fell in love with Princess Badi-ul-Jamal, a fairy he saw in his dreams. The story symbolizes the spiritual journey of the soul in search of divine love and is considered an allegory rooted in Sufi mysticism.

Many believe that the lake, shrouded in fog and silence, was the very site where the events of the legendary love story unfolded—hence the name Lake Saif ul Malook.

Famous Myths and Folklore of Saif ul Malook

Beyond the literary origins, the lake is the center of dozens of myths and local beliefs, often passed down through generations. Some are light-hearted tales told by locals to entertain tourists, while others reflect deep-rooted cultural superstitions.

1. The Prince and the Fairy

Locals often narrate that Prince Saif ul Malook met a fairy (Pari) at this lake and fell in love. One version suggests he stole her wings while she bathed in the lake, compelling her to stay. After she agreed to marry him, a jealous demon (Deo)—who was also in love with the fairy—unleashed his rage by flooding the valley, forming the lake itself.

2. The Depth Mystery

One of the most enduring myths is that the lake is bottomless. According to local beliefs:

• Anyone who tries to measure the lake’s true depth meets a tragic end.
• Some claim it’s over 1.6 kilometers (1600 meters) deep.
• Others suggest a powerful spirit or demon lives in its depths and pulls anyone who dares swim into the lake.

In truth, however, scientific surveys have confirmed that the lake’s actual depth is approximately 113 feet (34 meters). The myth likely persists due to the lake’s stillness and the way it mirrors the mountains, giving an illusion of infinite depth.

3. Paranormal Occurrences

Some locals believe that jinns or spirits roam the area, especially at night. It’s said that:

• Fairies still descend to bathe in the lake under the full moon.
• The lake glows with an ethereal light at midnight.
• Strange sounds echo around the lake in silence—attributed to the whispers of jinns.

There’s no evidence to support such supernatural claims, but they form a key part of the lake’s cultural identity.

When to Visit

While the lake is most accessible between June and early October, the best time to experience it with fewer crowds is during the shoulder season (October to early November). The landscape in autumn turns golden, and the crisp mountain air adds to the mystique.

During winter, heavy snowfall blocks access routes, and the lake freezes entirely—creating a serene, untouched panorama that only the daring and adventure lovers can witness, as it is an extreme cold 5-7 day trekking to reach Saif ul Malook lake in winters.

Accessibility and Tips

• Transport: Accessible by jeep from Naran during the summer season.
• Trekking Option: Adventurous hikers can trek the 9 km trail from Naran, although the path can be challenging.
• Altitude Sickness: Due to the lake’s high elevation, visitors should acclimatize and stay hydrated.
• Facilities: There are basic facilities near the lake including small shops and boats for rent, though prices may vary based on the tourist season.

Saif ul Malook Lake Jeep Charges

You can hire jeep ride to Saif ul Malook lake from Naran bazar or you can ask the receptionist of your hotel to arrange a jeep ride for Saif ul Malook Lake.

Jeep ride to lake takes around 45 minutes one way from Naran and will charge you between PKR 4500 to 5000 Rs. The negotiation is not that helpful here as there is Jeep Union in Naran which control these rates.

Final Thoughts

While myths and stories might not always align with science, they’re a window into the beliefs and imagination of a people. The legends of Saif ul Malook have enriched the lake’s identity, adding depth beyond its physical beauty.

So whether you’re visiting for photography, adventure, or just to hear a local’s version of the old fairy tale, Saif ul Malook Lake will never disappoint.