The first rays of dawn crept over the jagged peaks surrounding Mulla ki Basti, a small settlement tucked deep within the Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park. The air was crisp, the scent of damp earth and pine filling our lungs as we woke up, still feeling the chill from the long night. The previous evening, we had stayed in simple yet cozy accommodations, our sleeping bags fending off the icy cold, allowing us a surprisingly comfortable rest despite the harsh surroundings.
The plan was simple but ambitious: a trek to Dudipatsar Lake, known for its breathtaking turquoise waters, nestled amidst the towering peaks of Kaghan Valley. The trek from Mulla ki Basti would take around one to one and a half hours, but the unpredictable weather of this region had its own plans for us. Ali, ever prepared, munched on leftover biscuits from last night, while I checked our minimal gear, ensuring our waterproof jackets and sturdy shoes were ready for the journey.
The Trek Begins
Setting off, the trail led us through meadows dotted with wildflowers, winding along crystal-clear streams fed by melting glaciers. The greenery was lush, contrasting sharply with the gray stones scattered along the path. Each step revealed a new surprise: waterfalls tumbling down steep cliffs, birds darting across the sky, and the occasional glimpse of shepherds guiding their cattle to summer pastures.
Initially, the hike was manageable. The gentle incline allowed us to ease into the rhythm of trekking, each breath drawing in the fresh alpine air. But soon, the clouds thickened, and the drizzle that began as a gentle mist turned into persistent rain, soaking our jackets and chilling our bones. The wind picked up, whipping around the peaks, reminding us of the raw, untamed nature of this wilderness.
Despite the discomfort, there was a sense of exhilaration in braving the elements. The lake seemed deceptively close when we first glimpsed it from a distance, its waters sparkling faintly amidst the clouds. Yet, no matter how much we walked, it remained just out of reach. Our muscles ached, and fatigue started to creep in, but the promise of the lake’s beauty pushed us onward.
Halfway Pause and Drone Views
After hiking steadily for over an hour and a half, we decided to take a well-deserved pause. The rain had eased slightly, though a persistent drizzle still clung to the air, misting the surrounding mountains in a soft, ethereal haze. The trail here was relatively flat compared to the previous inclines, providing the perfect spot to rest our aching legs and catch our breath.
We settled on a patch of grass near a trickling stream, the soothing sound of water cutting through the forest creating a serene ambiance. Ali, ever practical, pulled out a small chocolate bar, nibbling quietly, while I took a moment to soak in the surroundings. The air smelled of wet earth and pine, and distant peaks peeked through the clouds, their jagged outlines giving the valley a rugged, untouched beauty.
I decided it was the perfect moment to launch the drone. The machine hummed to life, ascending gracefully into the sky above us. From this vantage point, the full expanse of the Kaghan Valley and the surrounding Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park unfolded in breathtaking panorama. Streams meandered through the valleys like silver ribbons, and clusters of alpine meadows sparkled with rain-soaked greenery. The lake, still a distant glimmer, reflected the faint light of the overcast sky, its turquoise waters shimmering like a hidden gem awaiting discovery.
The drone carried on, moving almost 3.5 kilometers away, capturing Saral Pass and Saral Lake in the distance. The snow-capped peaks surrounding these high-altitude wonders contrasted sharply with the lush meadows below, creating a surreal tapestry of textures and colors. Though I had never visited Saral Lake myself, hearing stories from trekkers returning from Ratti Gali made the scene even more magical. Their excitement at completing the challenging Saral route resonated through the images being transmitted back to me from the drone.
Watching the aerial footage, I realized that this half-hour pause was more than a rest; it was an opportunity to truly appreciate the scale and majesty of the landscape. From the ground, we could see streams, rocks, and a few patches of forest, but from above, the patterns of the valley, the winding river paths, and the scattered peaks revealed themselves in full glory. The world seemed to stretch endlessly, wild and untouched, a reminder of why trekking in remote areas is so rewarding.
Ali, finishing his chocolate, leaned back and watched the drone with a smile. “Imagine if we camped here,” he mused, “just us and the mountains, no one around for miles.” I nodded, though we both knew camping wasn’t permitted here due to security concerns. Still, the thought captured the essence of why we came — to immerse ourselves in a landscape so beautiful it felt otherworldly.
As we packed up and prepared to continue, I couldn’t help but glance back at the drone’s view one last time. The valley seemed to hold secrets yet to be explored, and the distant lake beckoned us forward, promising the reward of a destination as magnificent as the journey itself. With renewed energy, we set off, each step carrying us closer to Dudipatsar Lake, the culmination of hours of effort and anticipation.
Reaching Dudipatsar Lake
Finally, after a grueling hour and forty-five minutes, we reached the fabled Dudipatsar Lake. Words failed me. The lake was surrounded by snow-capped mountains, its water a crystal-clear turquoise that reflected the sky above. The trek had tested our stamina, our patience, and our resolve, but the sight before us made every hardship worthwhile.
The lake, serene and untouched, was a reminder of nature’s power and beauty. We set up a small camp for photographs and videos, though overnight camping was prohibited due to security concerns. Local authorities maintained a presence in Mulla ki Basti after reports of criminal incidents in the area, ensuring that visitors respected the park and its fragile ecosystem.
Even in the cold, I felt a profound sense of peace. Ali, ever meticulous, prepared the camera equipment while I admired the mountains, streams, and the way clouds floated above the peaks like gentle veils. The lake seemed to exist in a world apart from the troubles of daily life — a haven carved by glaciers, time, and solitude.
Breakfast and the Trek Back
Our breakfast was simple: egg and paratha, yet it was enough to rejuvenate us after the strenuous hike. Tea arrived shortly afterward, providing warmth and comfort against the chill. We knew the return journey would be long and challenging. The weather, now worsened with rain and stronger winds, added a layer of difficulty to the already lengthy trek.
The trail back to Mulla ki Basti was slippery, and we had to tread carefully. Ali led the way, each step deliberate, while I followed close behind, helping whenever the terrain became tricky. The beauty of the surroundings never waned — waterfalls, streams, and green pastures continued to captivate, even under the gray sky and driving rain.
Water Crossings: Nature’s Test
The most challenging part of the return journey was the water crossing. Glacial streams had swollen with rain and snowmelt, flowing with force that made crossing on foot perilous. Stones under the surface were slippery, and a single misstep could result in injury.
I kept my shoes on to protect my feet from jagged stones while Ali navigated carefully behind me. Locals offered assistance, and for PKR 500, helped us cross the strongest sections safely. The experience was both thrilling and nerve-wracking — adrenaline surged as we balanced against the rushing water, our muscles straining against the cold and the current.
As we proceeded, the water crossing grew more difficult. My jeans were soaked, my shoes heavy with stones and water, and my feet numb with cold. Yet, even as the elements tested us, there was a strange exhilaration in braving the river, a connection to the raw power of nature that cannot be experienced elsewhere.
Return to Besal and Moon Restaurant
After hours of trekking and navigating challenging river crossings, we finally reached Besal. The familiar sight of Moon Restaurant brought relief. Here, a rope line carriage helped us cross the final stretch, with locals assisting in pulling it across.
The trek from Mulla ki Basti had taken over four hours, and combined with the morning’s journey, we had covered nearly eight hours of continuous trekking. Rain, wind, icy waters, and glaciers had tested us to the limits, but the sense of achievement was profound.
At the Moon Restaurant, we indulged in a hearty meal — Chicken Achari Handi, Chicken Tikka, and fresh bread. For days, our diet had been simple, often dictated by what was available along the trek. The warmth of the food, the comfort of a roof, and the taste of home-style cooking were a welcome contrast to the raw wilderness.
Return to Batakundi and Reflection
Exhausted but elated, we returned to Batakundi, where our motorcycles were parked. The road ahead was rough and rainy, and we decided to transport the bikes on a truck to ensure safety and comfort. Rain poured heavily as we loaded them, a final test in an adventure filled with challenges.
During the ride back, we reflected on our 24-day tour. The journey had taken us across some of Pakistan’s hidden gems — remote valleys, alpine lakes, and lesser-known trails that rivaled the popular destinations in beauty. Planning such a tour demanded effort, stamina, and teamwork. Ali’s support had been invaluable — capturing footage, navigating trails, and providing company in moments of fatigue and discomfort.
Lessons Learned and Future Adventures
The trek taught us many lessons: preparation is key, endurance matters, respect for nature is essential, and shared experiences enrich every journey. Ali and I have already begun planning future expeditions to regions like Chitral, Swat, and Waziristan, eager to explore areas affected by recent floods and natural events.
Dudipatsar Lake will remain etched in our memory — a testament to the beauty of Pakistan’s untamed landscapes, the thrill of adventure, and the joy of discovering the world’s hidden treasures. The rain, cold, rivers, and glaciers tested us, but the journey itself was as rewarding as the destination.
As we watched the last glimpses of the lake disappear behind misty peaks, I felt gratitude — for the mountains, the trails, the camaraderie, and the adventure itself. True exploration is about embracing every moment, every challenge, and every breathtaking view along the way.
