This Khanpur Lake travel guide covers the reservoir behind Khanpur Dam on the Haro River, one of the nearest lakes to Islamabad. It is a drinking-water source for the twin cities that has also become a popular half-day outing for boating, picnics and water sports. Because it is a working reservoir, rules, water levels and activities can change between visits.
Quick answer: is Khanpur Lake worth a day trip?
Yes, if you live in or are visiting Islamabad or Rawalpindi and want a short water-focused outing. Go on a weekday in the cooler months, check that the activities you want are running, and keep expectations modest on busy weekends.
Khanpur Lake quick facts
| Detail | Khanpur Lake |
|---|---|
| Province and district | Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Haripur District |
| River | Haro River |
| Distance from Islamabad | About 40 to 50 km depending on where you start; roughly 1 to 1.5 hours by road |
| Dam | About 167 ft (51 m) high; construction began in 1968 and finished in 1983 |
| Purpose | Drinking water for Islamabad and Rawalpindi, plus irrigation |
| Popular activities | Boating, fishing, picnicking; jet skiing and other water sports are offered in season |
| Languages | Hindko, Pashto and Urdu |
| Best months | Spring and autumn; summer days are hot |
Location
Khanpur Dam sits in a gorge on the Haro River near the town of Khanpur in Haripur District. The original village of Khanpur was submerged by the reservoir, so a new town was built downstream of the dam. Taxila lies to the south on the road in.
History
The dam is a multipurpose project that supplies drinking water to Islamabad and Rawalpindi and irrigation water to parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. One travel source puts construction between 1968 and 1983, and the Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) lists the project on its water-sector pages. Some websites give other dates, so we use the 1983 completion date reported by several sources.
How to reach Khanpur Lake
- Nearest airport: Islamabad International Airport. See our domestic flights guide.
- Nearest railway station: Rawalpindi or Taxila. Check Pakistan Railways for current services.
- Road access: From Islamabad or Rawalpindi, take the road toward Taxila and then follow the Taxila to Haripur road to Khanpur. Allow extra time on weekends and public holidays.
Parking is available around the main lake area, but it fills quickly on busy days, so arrive early.
Best time to visit and weather
The lake is most comfortable in spring and autumn. Summer days in the Haripur plain are hot, which is when many visitors come for the water, and winter can be cool, with migratory birds reported on the lake. We do not quote exact temperatures because they vary between seasons.
Places to visit and things to do
- Boat rides: family boats and faster boats depending on the operator.
- Water sports: jet skiing and similar activities are reported in season. Ask for operator details and safety equipment on the day.
- Fishing and picnics: permitted areas and rules can change.
- Nearby heritage: Taxila is on the same route; see our Taxila visit guide.
Adventure activities
Tourism Corporation Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has run water-sport events and an adventure marathon at the lake in past years. Availability of ziplining, wake tubing and parasailing varies by operator and season, so confirm before you travel.
Photography spots
Early morning and late afternoon give the best light on the water and the surrounding hills. Ask permission before photographing other visitors, and avoid flying a drone near the dam, which is working infrastructure.
Where to stay and what to eat
Most visitors treat Khanpur as a day trip from Islamabad or Rawalpindi; see our Islamabad hotels guide. A few lake-side resorts and guesthouses exist nearby, but check current listings and reviews directly. Food stalls near the lake serve snacks and simple meals.
Estimated costs
We do not publish PKR prices we cannot verify, since water-sport prices and entry rules change often. Ask for the price list before you start, confirm what is included, and budget for transport, food and activities.
Packing checklist
- Sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
- Spare clothes and a towel
- Water, snacks and cash
- Comfortable shoes with grip
- A bag for your rubbish
Travel tips
- Go on a weekday for shorter queues.
- Families should check life-jacket sizes for children before boarding.
- Women and solo travellers can use daytime hours and busy areas.
- Dress modestly around other families; see our etiquette guide.
Safety tips
- Wear a life jacket on any boat or water-sport activity.
- Avoid water sports in stormy or windy weather.
- Do not swim in unsupervised areas or jump from rocks into deep water.
- Choose operators who provide safety gear and briefings.
Responsible tourism
Khanpur is a drinking-water source, so keep waste, food and fuel away from the water. Take rubbish home, avoid loud speakers and respect nearby villages.
Emergency contacts
Ask staff at the site where the first-aid post is, and save the number of the nearest hospital. We do not publish a phone list because numbers change.
Possible itinerary
- Morning: Leave Islamabad and reach Khanpur around mid-morning.
- Late morning: Take a boat ride or water activity.
- Midday: Picnic or lunch by the lake.
- Afternoon: Stop at Taxila on the way back, if time allows.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Khanpur Lake from Islamabad?
Sources give about 40 to 50 km, and the drive usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours.
What is Khanpur Lake used for?
It is a reservoir supplying drinking water to Islamabad and Rawalpindi and irrigation water to nearby areas.
Can you do water sports at Khanpur Lake?
Yes, boating and other water activities are offered in season, but check availability and safety equipment on the day.
Can I stay overnight near Khanpur Lake?
A few lake-side stays exist, but most visitors return to Islamabad or Rawalpindi.
When is the best time to visit Khanpur Lake?
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable. Summer is hot.
Nearby attractions and related guides
- Taxila visit guide
- Top places to visit in Islamabad
- Family-friendly destinations
- Adventure sports in Pakistan
Conclusion
A Khanpur Lake trip is a simple, affordable break close to Islamabad. Go in the shoulder seasons, choose safe operators and combine it with Taxila for a fuller day.
Sources and official information
- Wikipedia: Khanpur Dam
- Haripur District, KP Government: Khan Pur Lake
- The Express Tribune: Khanpur Lake coverage
Last reviewed October 2026. Activities, fees and rules change; verify before you travel.