Broghil Valley: Pakistan's Remote Yak Plateau of Alpine Lakes

Beyond Mastuj, where the jeep tracks of Upper Chitral finally run out, the land opens into the Broghil Plateau — a broad, wind-scoured steppe averaging over 3,800 metres that feels like the edge of the map.

What makes it special

Broghil is one of the few places in Pakistan where families still herd domestic yak. The plateau holds a network of more than 20 alpine lakes — Chashma, Kozgah, Gazin, Shouur and the majestic, deep-blue Karambar Lake among them — fed by glaciers that stay white through the summer.

Getting there

It's a long, rough jeep journey from Booni or Mastuj, and the final approach depends entirely on the weather. This is a genuine expedition, not a day trip — which is exactly why it remains so untouched.

When to go

July to September is the only realistic window; outside it, snow closes the approach. Come self-sufficient: there are no shops, and the nearest supplies are back in Mastuj.