Rama Lake (Pakistan)

Rama Lake (راما سر جھیل) is a lake situated near Astore in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is located within the Astore Valley, which is characterized by a light covering of oak trees and other vegetation. As of 2013, the region has experienced significant deforestation, low average rainfall, and reduced vegetation, largely due to widespread illegal logging practices.

Location
On the way to Rama Lake from Astore Valley, there are three small lakes known locally as Sarot in the Shina language.

Before 2005, Astore was a tehsil within the Diamir District, which was the fifth district of Gilgit-Baltistan. It has since been upgraded to a district.

The area surrounding Astore consists of more than 50 small villages, including Chilm, Bubin, Gorikot, Eid Ghah, Fena, Bulen, Choungrah, and Parishing.

Rama Valley
Rama Valley is thickly forested with huge pine, cedar, fir and juniper trees. The valley is about 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) above sea level and is snow covered for 7–8 months of the year. In summer, it becomes lush green; conditions favored by local shepherds.

From here one can trek to the east side of the Nanga Parbat, the world's 9th highest mountain.

Accessibility
Rama Lake is near Astore village. On Karakoram Highway, after passing the exit for Fairy Meadows, keep driving for about another 20 minutes. When you come across the sign for Astore turn right, keep going for another 2–3 hours. You will arrive at the village of Astore. The valley is popular for camping in the summer. The road towards Rama meadow has now been cemented and tourists can reach there without undue difficulty, however there is an hour-and-a-half trek to Rama Lake.

Demographics
Rama Lake is located in Choungrah and the people of Choungrah are called Choungroch.