Kashmir Great Lakes

Join Backpackers United for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. Spanning 75 km at 13,750 ft, this trek provides unmatched scenery. Grab exclusive deals today!

50,000+ Trekkers

Since 2017

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Jammu and Kashmir

₹18,999

₹15,999/ person

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Quick Facts

Trek at a Glance

Duration

7 Days / 6 Nights

Pickup → Drop

Srinagar → Srinagar

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction to Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is like stepping into a postcard from paradise. Yes, it is my metaphorical way of saying that the scenery on the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is incredibly beautiful, so much so that it looks like the perfect, idyllic images often seen on postcards. Picture this: a journey through pristine alpine lakes, rich green meadows with wildflowers in regalia, and towering peaks at their mighty best, snow-capped. No wonder the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is called one of the most beautiful treks in the country. The trek will offer a perfect amalgamation of calmness and thrill for trekkers who are nature lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone interested in just escaping the chaos of city life. You can trek through the mesmerizing valleys or camps under the starry sky, but the Kashmir Great Lakes is sure to leave you with a lifetime of memories.

Trek Altitude, Distance, and Trail Overview

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek spans approximately 75 km and reaches a maximum altitude of 13,750 feet. The trail includes versatile trekking with moderate ascents and descents, which makes it definitely quite feasible for anybody with reasonable fitness. You will get to move through rocky land, green meadows, and forested paths, which is a challenge worth experiencing. The route is well-marked, but one does get to see the magnificent views of the lakes in Jammu and Kashmir. This provides a lot of opportunities for photographers and nature lovers.

What Each Day Brings on the 7-Day Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a 7-day trek that begins from the base camp in Sonamarg. You meet your fellow trekkers and get briefed for the journey ahead. The next morning, on the second day, it starts by ascending from Sonamarg to Nichnai, going through dense forests that open up into the vast meadow of Nichnai. On the third day, it brings you to Nichnai and again moves to the beautiful Vishansar Lake, where camp will be set up beside the calm waters. The next day, there would be a little yet scenic trek towards the Kishansar Lake, with a night being spent at the lake's tranquil shores. The fifth day is the most momentous of the entire trek, as you cross the Gadsar Pass at an altitude of 13,750 feet. It shows you an amazing view. On day 6 you will come down facing Satsar and witness a series of beautiful lakes, just an appropriate location for a day worthy of rest. Finally, the trek winds down on day 7 with a descent to Naranag, where the adventure concludes with a mix of joy and nostalgia for the unforgettable journey that you have completed.

Feelings and Experience at the Peak

The experience at the top of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is almost indescribable. You are at the Gadsar Pass, and the world seems to just lie right below you, inviting a sense of fulfillment and awe. Just mesmerizing would be the view—the Great Lakes of Kashmir, shining like jewels against the rugged mountains. It's pure bliss—the relaxation that comes when the hardness of the trek seems to fade away, being consumed by the delightful sensation of having completed such a wonderful journey.

Weather and best trekking time

An ideal season for the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is between late June and early September when the weather is likely to be most congenial. During such a period, the temperatures can be from about 15°C to 20°C during the days and from quite a low of about 2°C to 5°C at night. Days remain clear, giving excellent views across the Kashmir Great Lakes and of the landscapes around. The mountains are unpredictable, so it's good to be prepared for sudden weather changes. In the monsoon season, one may get to see some exuberant green sceneries, but it is the time of occasional rain showers, so one should carry the appropriate gear.

How to Get Ready for the Trek with the Right Fitness Levels

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek shall become utterly easy and enjoyable if you prepare well for it. This certainly calls for a requirement of reasonable fitness levels. Hence, you must begin with your fitness training at least a month in advance. You have to undergo jogging, cycling, climbing stairs, and other exercises that strengthen the endurance and stamina needed for the trek. Complement this with some weight training and core exercises for developing the muscle strength required for long walks along with carrying a backpack. You can add some breathing exercises to your regimen, too, that shall help in achieving high altitudes. The better the level of fitness, the more you will enjoy the views of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.

Permits and Regulations

Since this trek is right next to the Line of Control, one needs permits to trek the Kashmir Great Lakes. However, you don’t have to worry about the paperwork. Backpackers United takes care of all the necessary permits for trekkers traveling with us, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Just focus on your adventure and leave the rest to us!

How to Reach Base Camp from Different Cities Across the Country

The base camp in Sonamarg can be hiked to quite easily. If you're flying, the nearest airport is in Srinagar, about 70 km from Sonamarg. You could hire a taxi or hop on a bus to the base camp from Srinagar. For those coming in by train, the nearest railway station would be Jammu Tawi, 300 km from Sonamarg. One can take a bus or a taxi from Jammu to Srinagar and then further on to Sonamarg. If you are someone who enjoys road travel, there are buses available from major cities such as Delhi and Chandigarh to Srinagar.

Some interesting highlights of the trek

Right from Day 1, the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is filled with so many highlights that make every step count. First on the list are the series of alpine lakes, each one more beautiful than the last, in a chain: Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangbal. Each of them has different vistas to display and is crystal clear, mirrored to reflect the peaks around them. This will also take you across lush meadows, sprinkled with a variety of vibrant wildflowers that make you feel like you are in a fairy tale. In particular, Nichnai and Satsar meadows are such places with their green carpets stretching far and wide and with distant views of snow-capped mountains. Another high point is crossing the Gadsar Pass at 13,750 feet—the highest point on the trek. The feeling of reaching the pass and the view from there is just incomparable. On the way, you will also pass by shepherd huts that present you with a view of how life can be so simple in these areas so far from any city. And not to forget, the starry nights you camp in are an opportunity to gaze at the Milky Way with no light pollution.

Who Can Participate?

Any person who has a moderate level of fitness and a penchant for nature or adventure will simply find the Kashmir Great Lakes trek to be a great choice. It doesn’t matter whether you are an experienced trekker or new to the great outdoors and want to try it once, there is something in store here. If you are a snow lover, then the views of snow-capped peaks and even the sighting of snow patches will be a treat. Adventure lovers will truly enjoy the challenge of the high-altitude pass and rugged terrain. Although physically fit people also often find it tough, it also requires cheerfulness in one's mindset and a spirit to undertake the adventure. Therefore, if you are someone who likes to disconnect from the hustle of urban life and get close to nature, then this is for you. Come on, lace up, and get ready for this unforgettable journey with Backpackers United.

Day by Day

Itinerary

The following detailed itinerary provides a day-by-day breakdown of your exciting Kashmir Great Lake trek. From your arrival to the moment you return home, we've outlined your activities and experiences to make the most of your trek. Let's dive into the specifics.

Day 1

Srinagar to Sonamarg(2730 m, 3 Hour drive)

Drive from Srinagar to the base camp in Shitkadi, Sonamarg. While driving, you will see the nicest parts of the Kashmir landscape.

The route runs through communities and farmlands, and it connects two mountain ranges. You'll be driving alongside the dazzling, ever-flowing Sindh River.

On the route, you may pause to take in the views of the mountains and fields.

By evening, you will arrive in Shitkadi, where you will be greeted with a welcome drink and evening snacks before being served dinner.

Spend the night camping at Shitkadi, which is encircled by alluring mountain peaks.

Your trek lead will inform you about the entire walk and provide you with all the necessary details.

Day 2

Sonamarg to Nichnai(3505 m, 9 km trek, 6 Hours and 30 Minutes)

This is the first day you'll take your backpack and begin ascending to the next campsite.

It's a slow ascent and a lovely plateau surrounded by vegetation that opens up to the Thajwas Mountain Range.

This provides a great panoramic view of the entire Sonamarg area and its mountain range. Witness the iconic Amarnath Peak from here.

Following this, you will travel to Nichnai. You'll be travelling beside the river canal as it descends, and after a section of jungle, the trail opens up to reveal tall mountains.

There is also a river crossing, a little creek that crosses through the valley. Your trek lead will assist you in crossing the stream.

As you make your way closer to the campsite, the vista gets increasingly stunning.

The trail contains rocky areas and is interspersed with maple, birch, and pine trees.

Have dinner and stay overnight at the campsite.

Day 3

Nichnai to Vishansar Valley(3650 m, 13 km trek, 5 Hours and 30 Minutes)

Wake up to a fresh morning and after breakfast, you will be given a packed lunch to eat on your journey towards the next campsite.

You will make your first stop at Nichnai Pass. The pass comes after the river stream.

Just before reaching the summit, cross the ridgeline to observe the gorgeous valley you have just traversed.

There is a steady ascent towards the pass and remember to take regular water breaks while keeping your feet strong and your speed consistent.

The pass has a steep and rocky drop into a beautiful valley. The meadow below is strewn with wildflowers. You will enjoy walking across this tranquil meadow.

You will also see a lengthy stretch of mountains to your left and right.

The mountain range to the right is rocky, whilst the mountain line to the right is snow-capped.

After trekking for a few kilometers, cross the river and arrive at your campsite.

The campsite is located beside the river stream that originates from the gorgeous Vishansar Lake.

The river is home to a diverse population of trout fish, which are well-known in the area. However, fishing is not allowed here.

You must have a valid fishing license from the Fisheries Authority of Kashmir. During August, the entire valley blooms with flowers.

Relax along the lake and enjoy your evening refreshments, which you will receive when you arrive at the campsite.

Day 4

Vishansar Valley to Gadsar(4200 m, 16 km Trek, 8 hours)

This day is the longest and most difficult of the Kashmir Great Lakes trip. The gradient is difficult.

On this day, you will reach the highest point of the hike, Gadsar Pass, which stands at 4,200 metres.

Your trek lead will guide you and get you started early this day. Within an hour of beginning your walk, you will witness the best attractions.

Vishansar and Kishansar Lakes are two stunning lakes that sit peacefully next to each other on your way.

These lakes are well-known for their clear blue waters and abundance of trout fishes. You will observe a lot of trout fishes swimming around.

The fish here are of various colours. Both of these lakes have religious importance and drain into the Kishanganga River, which flows through Gurez Valley.

After the lakes, begin the arduous uphill climb to Gadsar Pass. It has a tight, sharp track.

Ascend cautiously and gently. It takes about two hours to get to the top of the pass.

Most of the magnificent photos of the road are taken from this pass. Rest here for a while.

Click your films and photos here to save the memories for later.

The descent from the pass is steep and long. Place your steps carefully.

The slope ends with a vast, verdant meadow known as Gadsar Meadow. The meadow is undulating and stunningly situated between the two mountain slopes.

It contains beautiful grass and a variety of colourful flowers and herbs. The meadow is the most colourful part of the trek.

Shortly after, on your left, you will see Gadsar Lake, a peaceful blue lake. The lake is the least frequented but an important section of the Great Lakes Trek.

Because it is almost in the middle of the walk, this lake is the least visited and investigated, yet it is one of the nicest alpine lakes you will see.

According to legend, the water and fish of Gadsar Lake have healing qualities.

The campsite is just a short walk from the lake.

Day 5

Gadsar to Satsar(3600 m, 12 km Trek, 5 Hours)

This gradient is easy. It just takes around an hour to ascend to the trailhead in Satsar Meadow.

The stroll thereafter becomes more leisurely, passing through beautiful meadows and trails.

The trail features minor rocky spots among the beautiful meadows and some water-filled meadows.

The mountain's terrain is largely harsh and bleak. The valley has a total of seven alpine lakes.

The seven lakes emerge out of the famous Wangath River, which you will visit on your route to Srinagar after completing the stroll.

You will soon arrive at your campsite, which is right beside the river streaming.

Day 6

Satsar to Gangabal (3587 m, 9 km Trek, 5 Hours)

This day is moderate to challenging, beginning with a section of stones and rocky terrain. The boulder portion will take up most of your day as you hop from one boulder to the next.

The trail leads up to the Zajibal Pass. For around 3 hours, there is a strong ascent towards the pass, followed by an equally long descent.

The trail then climbs and dips until it reaches Gangabal Valley.

The largest of the Satsar Lakes is on the way. The lake is larger and more beautiful.

Following the ascent, one reaches the highest point of the day at the top of the ridge known as Zajibal Pass.

The nicest aspect of this climb, and a visual delight, is the first glimpse of the twin lakes of Nundkol and Gangabal.

After descending from the pass, you will walk through a narrow meadow with little ups and downs until you reach the valley's twin lakes.

Both lakes are glacial, and they draw their water from the melting glacier on Mount Harmukh.

The Camp is by the Nundkol Lake, with Mount Harmukh at a distance.

Gangabal Lake is around 25 minutes from Nundkol Lake. Both lakes have an abundance of trout fish.

Day 7

Gangabal to Naranag to Srinagar (2271 m, 13 km Trek, 6 Hours and 30 Minutes)

This is the last day of the Great Lakes-Kashmir Trek. The gradient on this day is tough. You will leave early in the morning, after breakfast.

The walk to Naranag, the last part of the expedition, begins with a moderate decline and then continues with a rapid plunge through the jungle.

The steady drop takes you into the Trunkhol meadow. This is where you'll find the government cottage and wavy meadows in the middle of the mountains.

The grass is lush and full of yellow blossoms. And the land extends far in front of you. Get some rest at Trunkhol Meadow Hut.

You will also notice a lot of shepherd huts here, made of mud and brick.

If time permits, stop by the mud huts and have some native tea.

Following the Trunkhol meadow, the trail immediately leads through the jungle. After walking for half an hour, you will reach the Butsheri Top, from which a 3-hour difficult descent begins.

It's heavy on your knees. Make sure your laces are ankle-high; if you have kneecaps, wear them.

The trail is not difficult or dangerous, but it is physically demanding. After descending halfway, you will notice the dwellings below.

It then takes a difficult fall to reach the end of the excursion, i.e., the trail is way more steeper from here.

Take some rest in Naranag before continuing to your next destination.

A taxi from Naranag will take you to Srinagar, bidding farewell to this wonderful trek with loads and loads of memories to cherish.

What's Covered

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Included

All meals. Breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner. We serve wholesome vegetarian food and try not to duplicate recipes.
All evenings at the camp are spent in high-quality tents with double occupancy. Sleeping bags, beds, and dining tents.
Mountaineering professionals include expert trek leaders, guides, and cooks.
All mountain medicine kits include first aid, an oxygen cylinder, and other supplies.
Passes and permits from the Indian Army.

What's Excluded

Lunch on the first day.
Personal expenditures.(500 INR per day for luggage transportation)
Anything not explicitly stated in the inclusion list.
Trekking equipment can be leased. Charges applicable.
Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage

Experience

What to Expect

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek takes you through some of the greatest unspoiled and stunning landscapes in the Himalayas. This is where one might continually trudge over carpeted emerald meadows, dark forests, and rust-stained rock zones with the strong guard of colossal snow giants in the backdrop. The series of great alpine lakes on the trail—Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, and Gangabal—form the highlight of this trek. Surrounded by the beauty of the stunning mountains, these highland lakes are crystal clear, and the views are right out of dreamland. You will be trekking over high-altitude passes like the Gadsar Pass, which tests your toughness against some of the most panoramic vistas. Treks are a great combination of challenging ascents, tranquil meadow walks, and thrilling descents, amidst rich cultural heritage all along the Kashmir way. No matter if you are a seasoned trekker or only a nature buff, this trek is going to be the experience of a lifetime — replete with amazing features of landscape and relaxing moments.

Accommodations

Camp stay on a twin-sharing basis

Backpackers United

Backpackers United Team will accompany the entire trip, and local backpackers will join us along the way.

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₹18,999

₹15,999/ person

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Leave planning to our Bangalore team. 50,000+ treks. 7 years.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

11 questions

How can I confirm my booking for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

You can directly reserve your slots by booking the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek on the website and please ensure proper dates are selected before confirming your booking.

Is Kashmir Great Lakes Trek safe for female travellers?

Safety and Security Guidelines are followed at all times, and it is our topmost priority. We have certified trek leads (male and female) accompanying the participants at all times, and our stay follows well-rounded safety measures. Hence Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is safe for female travellers.

What payment options do I have?

We have multiple payment options on the website that you can refer to.

What are the 7 Great Lakes of Kashmir?

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is named after its main attraction, the beautiful high-altitude lakes: Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangbal, and Nandkol. Each lake is unique in its own way, offering trekkers different landscapes and views.

What is the total trek distance of Kashmir Great Lake?

It spans 75 kilometers and will be covered in 7 days.

What is the best time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

June to August is said to be the best time to visit, as temperatures fall between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius during the day and 3 and 4 degrees Celsius at night.

Do I need any prior experience to participate in the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

Prior trekking expertise can help you overcome the challenges of the Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek, such as navigating uneven terrain, river crossings, and variable weather conditions. It depends on your physical fitness levels and strength.

What is the highest point in the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

The highest elevation of the Kashmir Great Lakes will be encountered while traversing the Gadsar Pass. Gadsar Pass is the highest point on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. It lies at a height of 13,800 feet (4,210 metres). Due to its high altitude, Gadsar Pass is mostly covered in snow.

What type of food can be expected on the trail?

Standard vegetarian food would be served throughout the trail.

How do I charge my mobile phones and cameras during the Trek?

It is advisable to carry 2 fully charged 20,000 mah power banks.

How much does the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek cost?

The cost for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek with Backpackers United is ₹15,999 per person. This price includes all essential services such as accommodation, meals, permits, and guidance from experienced trek leaders.

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