❓Have you heard of Blind Lake, tucked in Shigar Valley?
If not, you’re in for a surprise. Blind Lake, locally known as Jarba Zhou, is a tranquil mountain water haven 30–45 km from Skardu in Gilgit‑Baltistan. Nestled between the Indus and Shigar rivers, it’s fed passively and earns its name “blind” since it has no visible inlet or outlet.
What You’ll Learn:
Why it’s called Blind Lake and its cultural origins
How to reach it: routes, transport & accessibility
Best time to visit + season-specific tips
What to do: activities, lodging, and nature
A single key challenge to keep in mind
1. Blind Lake? (Location & History) 🌄
Blind Lake – a serene alpine reservoir
Blind Lake (Jarba Zhou in Balti) is a freshwater lake near Shigar Valley, 30–45 km from Skardu. It sits around 4,100 m elevation, surrounded by the Karakoram peaks—K2’s legendary route runs close by.
No outlet/inlet: fed by seepage from Indus/Shigar rivers—hence “blind.”
Reservoir role: locals rely on it for water in Shigar Valley
Naming: “Jarba” = “blind,” “Zho” = “lake.”
2. How to Reach Blind Lake (Access Guide) 🧭
Start in Skardu (easily accessible by air/road).
Drive ~45 min toward Shigar—unpaved, rocky jeep track.
At the edge of the Sarfaranga cold desert, park and hike the last stretch (20–30 mins).
No public transport—hire a local jeep from Skardu or Shigar.
Tip: Only rugged 4×4 jeeps can handle this terrain—book early.
3. Best Time to Visit Blind Lake🗓️
June–September: ideal—clear skies, thawed tracks.
Monsoon caution: unexpected rainfall and slippery roads.
Winter (October to May): usually inaccessible due to ice/snow.
4. Things To Do On Blind Lake(Activities & Tips)
Camping: under stars with barbecue/beverage setup—light & warm layers essential
Swimming/Boating: clear, cold waters. Bring shoes for the rocky bottom
Fishing: try trout—small government-run fish farm onsite
Hiking & Photo Ops: shores lined with lush grass & stones—great vistas
5. Nearby Attractions
Sarfaranga Cold Desert: dune-lake contrast makes for dramatic photos
Shigar Fort & Amburiq Mosque: cultural stops on the route
FAQs:
What is Blind Lake, Pakistan?
A high-altitude alpine reservoir in Shigar Valley without visible rivers.How do I get to Blind Lake from Skardu?
Hire a 4×4 jeep to Shigar, then hike the last mile.Can you fish at Blind Lake?
Yes—catch trout from a government-assisted fish farm.
8. ✅ Conclusion
Blind Lake is more than a pretty mountain lake—it’s a cultural reservoir, a micro-ecosystem, and a quiet reminder of nature’s subtle resilience. Based on my experience, spending a night by the water, surrounded by peaks, brings clarity few places can match.
You’ve discovered Blind Lake—its mystery, accessibility, best season, and how to enjoy its serene beauty. Ready for your next adventure?
Tell us: Have you visited or plan to explore it? Drop your experience or questions in the comments!
