Rama Lake
راما سر جھیل
Rama Lake photographed in 2014
Rama Lake Show map of Gilgit Baltistan Rama Lake Show map of Pakistan
Location	Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Coordinates	35°19′49″N 74°47′08″E / 35.3303°N 74.7856°E / 35.3303; 74.7856
Basin countries	Pakistan

Rama Lake (Urdu: 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. ^[1]

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 3300 meters (10800 feet) above sea level and thus 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 east side of the Nanga Parbat, the world's 9th highest mountain.

Accessibility

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

Demographics

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