Babusar Top is one of Pakistan's most dramatic road passes. At 4,173 metres, it sits on the border between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan and links the upper Kaghan Valley to the Karakoram Highway. From the plateau at the top, on a clear day, you can see snow peaks in three directions and watch the road wind down toward Chilas.
This guide covers everything you need: the route from Naran, the current open-and-close schedule, what to wear, how to handle altitude, and whether to continue onwards to Hunza.
Elevation
4,173 m
Height (ft)
13,691 ft
Distance from Naran
~75 km
Drive Time
2 to 2.5 hrs
In This Guide
- 1.About Babusar Top
- 2.Open and Close Dates
- 3.Route from Naran, Stop by Stop
- 4.Weather and What to Wear
- 5.Altitude and Safety
- 6.Where to Stay in Naran
- 7.Frequently Asked Questions
About Babusar Top
Babusar Top, locally known as Babusar Pass, is the highest point on the Kaghan Valley road network. Historically it served as a trade corridor between the northern areas and the Kashmir region. Today it is one of the most-visited scenic drives in Pakistan during the short window when the pass is open.
The drive itself is as memorable as the destination. From Naran, the road climbs gradually through forests, alpine meadows, and finally barren high-altitude plateau. In clear weather, peaks of the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges are visible from the top.
Open and Close Dates
Babusar Top is a seasonal road. Timing your trip around the opening window is non-negotiable. The rough schedule is as follows:
Closed
Mid-October to Mid-May
Heavy snow closes the top section. Road crews typically begin clearing from early May.
Opens
Mid to Late May
Usually opens for daylight travel first, with weather-dependent restrictions through early June.
Peak Season
June to September
Best conditions, clear weather, and reliable daylight access. Expect busy weekends.
Closes
Early to Mid-October
First heavy snowfall determines the exact closure date. Early season closures happen occasionally.
Always confirm status before setting out. Snow on the approach can close the road at short notice even in summer. Our front desk at Belmont Naran is a reliable local source for current conditions.
Route from Naran, Stop by Stop
The drive from Naran to Babusar Top is broken into five recognisable stages. Plan for frequent photo stops.
Naran to Batakundi
~17 km, 35 minThe early stretch follows the Kunhar River up-valley, passing Jalkhad and climbing gently. The road is paved and in good condition. Batakundi is the usual morning-tea stop for travellers heading to Babusar.
Batakundi to Burawai
~25 km, 40 minThe scenery opens out here as the valley widens. Pine forests give way to alpine meadows. A few small dhabas serve tea and light food. Burawai is the last reliable phone signal point before the pass.
Burawai to Lulusar Lake
~10 km, 25 minA short final climb brings you to Lulusar Lake, a large alpine lake at 3,410 metres that is often the highlight of the drive. Spend at least 30 minutes here. Photography is spectacular even in poor weather.
Lulusar to Gittidas
~15 km, 35 minThe landscape becomes genuinely high-altitude from here. Trees disappear entirely. The road passes small summer settlements and long views down the upper Kaghan Valley.
Gittidas to Babusar Top
~8 km, 25 minThe final ascent is the steepest and most dramatic, a series of tight switchbacks that take you to the pass at 4,173 metres. The temperature drops sharply in the last ten minutes of the drive. Pull over at the plateau at the top for panoramic views into Chilas and the Karakoram.
Make Naran Your Base for Babusar
Babusar Top is almost always a day-trip from Naran. Belmont Hotels and Resorts on Jheel Road is the most comfortable base for the excursion. Arrange jeeps from the front desk, return to hot food and a heated room, and let our team handle the logistics.
Weather and What to Wear
Weather at Babusar Top is unpredictable and colder than any other section of a typical Naran trip. Even on a warm July day in the valley, temperatures at the top can be close to freezing. Wind adds significant chill.
- 1A warm jacket is mandatory in any season. Down or synthetic insulation works best. Rain shell over the top is smart.
- 2Wear long trousers, not shorts. A thermal base layer helps if you plan to spend more than 20 minutes at the top.
- 3Gloves, a beanie, and sunglasses round out the essentials. Eye protection is critical given strong UV at altitude.
- 4Sturdy closed shoes only. The plateau is loose stone and moraine. Sandals or flip-flops are unsuitable.
- 5Carry a small water bottle. Hydration helps with altitude and the dry air.
Altitude and Safety
At 4,173 metres, altitude is real and should be respected. Most visitors feel mild breathlessness, some get light headaches, and a small number feel unwell enough to cut the visit short.
- 1Ascend slowly. The drive itself gives the body time to acclimatise. Do not rush the final stretch on foot.
- 2Stay hydrated. Water helps counter the effects of thinner air and dry mountain climate.
- 3Avoid heavy meals before ascending. A light breakfast and snacks in the car are ideal.
- 4Limit time at the top to 30 to 45 minutes unless you feel genuinely acclimatised.
- 5If anyone develops severe headache, vomiting, or confusion, descend immediately. These are altitude sickness symptoms.
- 6Visitors with cardiac or respiratory conditions should consult a doctor before planning this trip.
Where to Stay in Naran
There is no accommodation at Babusar Top itself. The pass is visited as a day trip from Naran, which is the only practical base with proper hotels, restaurants, and jeep services.
Recommended
Belmont Hotels and Resorts, Naran
Jheel Road, Naran. The front desk arranges every jeep required for Babusar and monitors road conditions daily. Signature Suites, Executive Rooms, and Deluxe Rooms available, with buffet breakfast and secure on-site parking.
After a long day at altitude, a hot meal and a warm room are worth more than the hotel category. Belmont delivers both reliably.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Babusar Top open in 2026?
Babusar Top typically opens in mid to late May each year, once the road crews have cleared winter snow. In 2026, the pass is expected to open by mid-May. Always confirm the latest road status before setting out. Your hotel front desk or the local tourism authority is the most reliable source.
When does Babusar Top close for winter?
The pass usually closes in mid-October as the first heavy snows begin to settle. In years of early winter the closure can come as soon as late September. The road on the Naran side stays open to Burawai year-round, but the final climb to the pass is unavailable in winter.
What is the elevation of Babusar Top?
Babusar Top sits at 4,173 metres (13,691 feet) above sea level. This places it among the highest accessible road passes in Pakistan. Altitude is noticeable at the top; even fit visitors may feel short of breath. Move slowly, drink water, and do not linger if you feel unwell.
How do I get to Babusar Top from Naran?
The route is Naran → Jalkhad → Batakundi → Burawai → Lulusar → Gittidas → Babusar Top. The drive is approximately 75 km and takes 2 to 2.5 hours depending on stops. Hire a jeep from Naran bazaar, or ask your hotel front desk to arrange a driver.
Do I need a 4WD vehicle for Babusar Top?
The road is paved most of the way. In good summer conditions, a high-clearance 4WD or AWD is recommended but not strictly required. In early season or after rain, 4WD becomes essential. Local jeep drivers know the road intimately and are the safest option for most visitors.
What should I wear for a Babusar Top day trip?
Even in July, the top is cold and windy. Wear a warm jacket, thermal layer, gloves, and sunglasses. Sun exposure at altitude is strong, so apply SPF 30 or higher. Proper shoes are important; avoid sandals for the walk around the plateau.
Is Babusar Top safe for children and older travellers?
The road is well-travelled and safe in good weather. Altitude is the main concern. Children under five and older travellers with heart or breathing conditions should consult a doctor before attempting the pass. Do not stay at the top for more than 30 to 45 minutes if feeling any altitude effects.
Can I continue to Hunza via Babusar Top?
Yes. Beyond Babusar, the road descends to Chilas on the Karakoram Highway, and from there it is a scenic 4 to 5 hour drive to Gilgit and onwards to Hunza. Many visitors combine their Naran stay with a continuation to Hunza, especially those returning via the same route in reverse.
Planning a Babusar Top Trip?
Book your stay in Naran first. Belmont Hotels and Resorts is the most comfortable base in the valley, with a 24/7 front desk that confirms jeep drivers, road status, and onward bookings to Hunza if you plan to continue.