A Day Above the Clouds: My First Trek to Katora Lake

In this episode, I take you with me step-by-step on my first trek to the stunning Katora Lake in Kumrat Valley, northern Pakistan. Instead of just saying “it’s beautiful,” I break down the real journey: how we reached Kumrat from the plains, where we stayed, how we arranged a guide and ponies, and what the trail actually feels like under your feet. I share the small moments that tourists always ask about but rarely hear—like what breakfast kept us going, how cold it really gets near the lake, and the one item I regretted not packing. You’ll get practical details for planning your own trip, plus honest reflections on fear, fatigue, and the rush of reaching a high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-clad peaks. In under five minutes, you’ll know if Katora Lake deserves a spot on your next northern Pakistan itinerary—and exactly how to make it happen.