I fitted in a short visit here when my flight from Skardu was delayed by several hours and we had time to kill. We walked from a parking area through some woods and along a stream for about 10 mins, and had a simple lunch in a cafe over looking the lake. It wasn’t gourmet, we just had pakoras, chicken and fries, but tasty and inexpensive. I wouldn’t say the lake is worth an extensive detour but it was a good place to kill some time as we had already seen Skardu town. On the way up, you’ll pass Lower Kachura, the heart shaped lake (sort of). It’s more developed, and apparently an aspirational honeymoon destination!

Must visit place when you are in Skardu. Lots of activities; speed boat, jet ski, zip line, swimming. Drifting in a speed boat was the highlight! The place is happening yet has a calmness to it. Just sitting under the trees, enjoying the lake view feels very relaxing. Its a smaller and less commercial version of Attabad lake Hunza

Upper Kachura Lake really is beautiful. It is easily accessed by car, with plenty of car parking areas available. From the parking area there is a short walk to the lake and this walk takes you past local stall holders selling locally sourced and handmade products. There are also places to stop to enjoy drinks or snacks. The point where you first see you the lake affords you an amazing elevated view. It is breathtakingly beautiful. From this position to get down to the lake level you need to traverse quite a number of steep concrete stairs. If a visitor struggles with mobility then this would present an issue. It is worthy of pointing out that the water level of the lake alters depending on the time of year. In July and August I was informed that much of the mountain snow has melted, meaning that the lake is much fuller with water. I visited in May. The mountains were still snow capped and the water levels lower. Once down at the lake level there are plenty of boats of all different sizes eager to take you on a boat tour of the lake. This is really worth doing and not expensive. I was so fortunate when I visited, it was very quiet and the boat I chose was the only one on the lake. Have such a beautiful place more or less to yourself is such a privilege. It is such a beautiful lake, so serene and picturesque. You cannot visit Skardu without visiting this lake