There is something uniquely peaceful about starting a journey at midnight — the roads are quiet and the air feels different. The excitement of heading toward the mountains and two shots of hot espresso keep you wide awake. My Lahore to Naran Valley road trip began exactly like this: at 12 AM sharp, leaving Lahore with the goal of catching the sunrise somewhere on the Hazara Motorway.
Driving through the empty Lahore streets, crossing toll plazas without queues, and cruising on the motorway under a starry sky felt like the perfect beginning to a northern adventure. If you’re planning the same trip, here’s a complete guide from Lahore all the way to Naran Valley — including road conditions, highlights, where to eat, and what to do once you arrive.
Lahore to Islamabad Motorway (M2)
With almost no traffic at midnight, the M2 motorway feels like your personal highway. The cool night breeze, smooth roads, and the silence around you make the drive effortless and calming. The goal was to reach near Islamabad before sunrise — a target that perfectly aligned with the night drive.
Driving Experience at Midnight
- Clean, well-marked motorway
- No unnecessary stops
- Best time for steady, uninterrupted driving
Where to Stop at Night
All service areas remain open 24/7, so you can stop for:
- Tea or coffee to stay fresh
- Washroom breaks
- Fuel top-up at Bhera or Sukheki
By the time we crossed Kalar Kahar, the eastern sky had begun to show faint signs of blue — signaling the approaching dawn.
Islamabad to Peshawar Motorway (M1)
We reached Islamabad before the morning traffic began. As the city slowly woke up, we switched to M1 for a short stretch before heading toward Hazara Motorway.
This segment is quick, usually 30–40 minutes, but the real reason behind timing the journey this way was waiting ahead — sunrise on the Hazara Motorway.
Hazara Motorway to Balakot – Sunrise and Scenery
If there’s one place where you truly feel the magic of this road trip, it’s on Hazara Motorway (M15). As we entered the motorway just when the sun started rising behind the hills, the entire sky turned golden. The mountains slowly lit up layer by layer, and the morning light created a view that no photograph could fully capture.
Why Sunrise Here Is Worth It
- Mist rising between the mountains
- Soft golden light on the hills
- Wide, scenic motorway curves
- Long tunnels glowing with early morning reflections
Easily the most peaceful and breathtaking stretch of the journey.
Recommended Stops
- Abbottabad Viewpoint
- Hazara Motorway rest areas
Balakot – Gateway to Kaghan Valley
If you don’t take the last exit of Mansehra on the Hazara Motorway and go straight after the toll plaza, you will find a big board, written Naran Valley, and pointing right. If you take that road, you have to pass through a small village. The condition of the road is worse for a 20-30-minute drive. But it saves you at least one hour from the other route. This road took us on the Mansehra-Balakot linked road.
Road Experience
- Not recommended for small cars if you care about your car too much
- Road condition from the Mansehra city route is good.
- Scenic view
- Fresh mountain air
What to Do in Balakot
- Enjoy hot chai with the view of Kunhar River
- Stop for breakfast at Balakot eateries
- Take your first proper mountain photos of the trip
The river flowing beside the road sets the tone for the adventure ahead.
Balakot to Kaghan Valley
This section is pure beauty. The road from Balakot to Kaghan follows the Kunhar River for the most part, passing through pine forests, sharp turns, and offering a refreshing breeze.
Important Stops
- Kiwai Waterfall — famous for trout fish and wooden restaurants built above flowing water. There is a route to Shogran Valley, starting from Kiwai.
- Paras — scenic views and tea spots
- Mahandri — peaceful roadside areas
Road Conditions
- Mostly smooth
- Occasional broken patches
- Can get foggy early morning
This is where the elevation starts increasing, and the temperature drops noticeably.
Kaghan to Naran Valley – The Final Stretch
The last part of the journey from Kaghan to Naran Valley is absolutely stunning. The forests become thicker, the river gets wider, and snow-covered peaks appear in the distance.
What Makes This Stretch Special
- Fresh, crisp air
- Clear river views
- Scenic roadside photography spots
- Fully carpeted road
You finally reach Naran Valley by late morning — still early enough to enjoy the entire day there.
What to Do in Naran Valley
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone who loves peaceful landscapes, Naran Valley has something for everyone.
1. Visit Saif-ul-Malook Lake
No trip to Naran Valley is complete without visiting the legendary Saif-ul-Malook Lake — the crown jewel of the entire valley. Surrounded by mighty snow-covered peaks, the lake shines with crystal-clear turquoise water that feels almost unreal when you see it in person. Getting there requires a jeep, and the ride itself is an adventure, with rugged tracks and breathtaking views at every turn.
The best time to visit is from May to October, when the lake fully opens up, the weather is pleasant, and the reflections on the water are at their absolute best. This is one of those places that stays with you long after you return home.
2. Explore Lalazar Meadows
Lalazar Meadows is a lush green paradise tucked high above Naran, offering views that instantly make you forget the long journey. The jeep ride to Lalazar is an adventure of its own — narrow mountain paths, sharp turns, and breathtaking drops that reveal one of the most scenic tracks in the entire valley.
Once you reach the top, you’re welcomed by wide open meadows, cool breezes, and panoramic views of snow-draped peaks. It’s the kind of place where you can sit for hours, breathe deeply, and simply enjoy the serenity that only nature can offer.
3. Visit Babusar Top
Standing among the clouds at Babusar Top is an experience that words can barely capture. One of the highest viewpoints in northern Pakistan, this majestic pass opens from June to September and welcomes travelers with icy winds, towering glaciers, and jaw-dropping mountain panoramas stretching as far as the eye can see.
If you’re craving adventure, don’t miss the zip line at the highest point — gliding through the cold mountain air with Nanga Parbat rising in the background is a moment you’ll remember forever.
4. River Rafting in Kunhar
If your group loves a burst of adrenaline, river rafting in the powerful Kunhar River is the perfect choice. The fast currents, splashing waves, and dramatic mountain scenery turn this experience into pure excitement. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve done it before, rafting in Kunhar brings out the adventure lover in everyone.
5. Zip Line Over the Kunhar River
If you’re looking for a quick dose of adventure, the zip line over the roaring Kunhar River is something you shouldn’t miss. Gliding from one side to the other with the river rushing beneath you is both thrilling and unforgettable — a perfect “once in a lifetime” experience that adds excitement to your Naran trip.
6. Walk in Naran Bazaar
An evening stroll through Naran Bazaar is something every visitor should experience. The aroma of hot chai, sizzling BBQ, and freshly made trout fills the air, while warm lights and lively shops create the perfect mountain-town atmosphere. Whether you’re a tea lover, a foodie, or a photographer chasing night-time street shots, the bazaar is the ideal place to unwind after a long day of exploring.
Best Budget & Family Hotels in Naran Valley
Finding a hotel in Naran depends on the season and your budget. Here are the best picks:
Budget Hotels
- Erum Hotel
- One Plus Hotel
Mid-Range / Family-Friendly
- Pine Park Hotel
- Imperial Inn
- Swiss Wood Cottage
Premium Options
- Roomy Mountain Top
- Millennium Inn
- Hotel One
Best Food Points in Naran Valley
1. Moon Restaurant
Best for desi and Chinese food, karahi, and BBQ.
2. Punjab Tikka House
Best for Desi Karahi, BBQ and Fish
3. Saif ul Malook Restaurant
Affordable and delicious
Conclusion
Starting the Lahore to Naran valley road trip at 12 AM was one of the best decisions I ever made. Watching the sunrise on the Hazara Motorway, driving through fresh morning air, and reaching Naran with an entire day ahead of me made the journey unforgettable.
From quiet motorways at night to golden mountains at dawn, and from Balakot’s riverside chai to Naran’s scenic beauty — every moment feels like a new chapter in the adventure.
If you’re planning this trip, leave at midnight, pack light, keep your camera ready, and let the road guide you toward the heart of Kaghan Valley.
FAQs – Lahore to Naran Valley Road Trip
1- How long does it take to travel from Lahore to Naran Valley by road?
The Lahore to Naran Valley road trip usually takes 10–12 hours, depending on traffic, weather, and stoppages. Leaving at midnight helps you avoid traffic and reach Naran by late morning.
2- Is the road from Lahore to Naran safe for night driving?
Yes, the motorways (M2, M1, and Hazara Motorway) are safe and well-lit. Most travelers prefer a midnight or early morning departure to enjoy a smooth drive and reach the mountains by sunrise. Extra caution is needed after Balakot due to sharp turns and mountain roads.
3- What is the best time of year to visit Naran Valley?
The best time to visit Naran Valley is from May to October. Babusar Top and Saif-ul-Malook Lake are fully accessible during these months. Winters bring heavy snowfall and road closures.
4- Do I need a 4×4 jeep for Naran?
You don’t need a 4×4 to reach Naran, as the road to Naran is completely carpeted. However, for Saif-ul-Malook, Lalazar Meadows, and Paye Meadows, a jeep is mandatory due to steep and rugged tracks.
5- How is the road condition from Balakot to Naran?
The road from Balakot to Naran is mostly smooth with a few rough patches. It becomes narrower with sharp curves but remains drivable for all vehicle types. The weather can affect certain areas, especially during the monsoon or early mornings when fog appears.
6- What are the must-visit places in Naran Valley?
Some of the top attractions include:
- Saif-ul-Malook Lake
- Lalazar Meadows
- Babusar Top
- Kunhar River rafting
- Naran Bazaar
These spots offer scenic views, adventure, and great photography opportunities.
7- Are there good hotels in Naran for families and budget travelers?
Yes, Naran Valley offers everything from budget rooms to premium stays.
Popular choices include:
- Budget: Erum Hotel, One Plus Hotel
- Mid-range: Pine Park Hotel, Imperial Inn, Swiss Wood Cottage
- Premium: Roomy Mountain Top, Millennium Inn, Hotel One
8- What should I eat during my Naran trip?
Naran is famous for its desi food, BBQ, trout fish, and Chinese dishes. Popular food spots include Moon Restaurant, Punjab Tikka House, and Saif-ul-Malook Restaurant. Don’t miss the fresh trout near Kiwai Waterfall on the way.
9- Is river rafting in the Kunhar River safe?
Yes, river rafting in the Kunhar River is managed by trained professionals and is generally safe for groups, beginners, and adventure lovers. Safety jackets and basic instructions are provided before starting.
10- What should I pack for a Lahore to Naran Valley road trip?
Pack warm clothes (even in summer), comfortable shoes, sunglasses, snacks, a first-aid kit, a power bank, and necessary car documents. The weather in Naran changes quickly, so a light jacket or hoodie is always useful.
