For all the nature lovers and roadside explorers, it’s time to get your cameras ready. The gates to one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Pakistan have been flung open, after five months of winter sleep, covered in a blanket of snow. On April 25 2026, the road to Naran was opened, heralding the beginning of the summer holidays in the north.
The “Switzerland of Pakistan”, Kaghan Valley, goes into hibernation during winter (from November onwards). It is typically covered with snow and the lifeblood – the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad (MNJ) road – is shut. But due to the efforts of the National Highway Authority (NHA), this year the valley has been opened for tourists from Balakot to Naran Bazaar and the first few tourists have arrived to enjoy the cool and fresh mountain air.
The Great Snow Clearance: NHA’s Battle with the Glaciers
The winter last year was the coldest and wettest, with glaciers 30-40 feet high. National Highway Authority (NHA) machinery has been blasting through the ice for many weeks.
The road to Naran has been cleared, but the one to Babusar Top is still closed because of snow. The pass was opened by the first week of June last year, so for now, Naran is the “last stop”.
Must-Visit Spots: From Shogran to the Frozen Saiful Muluk
With the valley awakening, here are the top things to do:
Shogran & Siri Paye: These pastures, just above the town of Kiwai, are already in full swing, and offer a view of Makra Peak.
Naran Bazaar: Valley’s centre is alive. Stores are open and hotels are taking bookings for the summer.
Lake Saiful Muluk: 4×4 Jeeps are making their way to the magical lake. It is still half frozen, making it more scary than July and August.
Kunhar River: The river is flowing, fed by glaciers – a great place to picnic and (early) raft.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Authority (KPTA) has set up facilitation centres to offer advice to tourists.
Essential Travel Tips: What You Need to Know
Here are some “pro-tips” for travel:
Dress for Winter: It might be spring in the plains but it’s still winter at Naran.Evenings can be very cold so take plenty of warm clothes.
Vehicle Safety: Glacier roads may be slippery. Be sure brakes and tyres are in good condition.
Check the Weather: Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has the latest update.
Responsible Tourism: The valley is beautiful. Don’t leave rubbish and the Kunhar River will be plastic-free.
Economic Relief for the Locals
The opening is a huge relief to the community. The five months of shutdown spell no business for shops, jeep services and hotels. Tourists’ return means the economy is back. The hotel associations, in consultation with the district administration, have been asked to keep prices and services reasonable to provide a quality experience for tourists.
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