Chitta Katha Lake, Alpine lake in Shounter Valley, Pakistan.
Chitta Katha Lake is an alpine body of water in Shounter Valley, located in Azad Kashmir at an elevation of approximately 4100 meters. It sits in a steep rocky basin with grassy slopes and is fed by Chitta Katha Stream originating from Mount Harri Parbat.
The basin was carved by glacial erosion during the last ice age, creating the steep rocky bowl that holds the water today. The area has been visited for centuries by local communities and pilgrims drawn to the sacred mountains in the region.
The lake holds spiritual importance for Hindu pilgrims who view the nearby Mount Harri Parbat as a sacred place of Lord Shiva. This belief shapes how people experience and interact with the landscape surrounding the water.
Access to the lake involves a challenging route: approximately 22 kilometers by jeep from Kel to Domail Bala, followed by an 8-kilometer trek on foot. Visitors should bring sturdy hiking boots and weather-resistant clothing, as conditions at this elevation can be unpredictable.
The water is fed by ten waterfalls cascading down from higher elevations through flower-covered grassy slopes, particularly dramatic during snowmelt season. These falls shape the character of the site and create a powerful contrast between the still water and the moving cascades.
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