Flavorful Asia

Discovering the Beauty of Kashmir: The Great Lakes Trek

Kashmir, often referred to as “heaven on earth,” truly lives up to its name. This breathtaking region, sculpted by nature’s own hands, reveals its hidden beauty in every detail. Among the many treasures of Kashmir, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek stands out as one of the most beautiful and rewarding treks in India. The ideal time to embark on this adventure is between July and August when the region is at its most vibrant.

Why Choose the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek offers a unique perspective on Kashmir, moving beyond well-known spots like Dal Lake, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg. Starting from Sonmarg, this trek transports you into a world of unparalleled beauty. Over the course of the trek, you’ll traverse five stunning valleys and witness seven high-altitude lakes. Each step reveals the indescribable beauty of the Kashmir Valley, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

On this trek, you’ll cross several high-altitude passes, such as Gadsar Pass and Jaz Pass, each around 14,000 feet, providing breathtaking views of the lakes and surrounding landscapes. In July and August, the trek is adorned with a variety of colorful flowers, enhancing the already mesmerizing scenery. Whether walking through alpine meadows, along rocky paths, or beside clear streams, you’ll be captivated by the snowy mountain peaks and the diverse forms of nature.

Trek Highlights

  • Duration: 7 days
  • Distance: 72 km
  • Maximum Altitude: 13,800 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Temperature: Day (15-17°C), Night (1-3°C)
  • Best Time: July to September

Day-by-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Arrive in Srinagar and stay overnight.
  2. Day 2: Travel from Srinagar to Sonmarg Camp Site by reserved vehicle (90 km, 2375 m).
  3. Day 3: Trek from Sonamarg to Shekdur to Nichnai (11 km, 7-8 hours, 3500 m).
  4. Day 4: Trek from Nichnai to Nichnai Pass (4000 m) to Vishansar Lake and campsite (12 km, 7-8 hours, 3660 m).
  5. Day 5: Trek from Vishansar Lake to Kishansar Lake to Gadsar Pass (4200 m) to Gadsar Lake and campsite (14 km, 10-11 hours, 3655 m).
  6. Day 6: Trek from Gadsar to Mengen Top to Satsar Twin Lakes and campsite (9 km, 6-7 hours, 3650 m).
  7. Day 7: Trek from Satsar to Jaz Pass (3950 m) to Gangabal Lake and campsite (11 km, 6-7 hours, 3500 m).
  8. Day 8: Explore the Gangabal area and rest (3500 m).
  9. Day 9: Trek from Gangabal to Naranag (15 km, 7-8 hours, 2270 m) and return to Srinagar by reserved vehicle (70 km).

Important Information for Trekkers

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a challenging trek, requiring you to trek 8-9 hours daily with a backpack under the sun. Therefore, physical fitness is crucial. Engage in physical exercise for at least a month before the trek to prepare yourself.

This trek is not an indulgence trip. You’ll be camping in the mountains, with tents, sleeping bags, and mats provided by the trekking agency. They will also handle the setting up and taking down of tents. If needed, porters can carry your backpack for an additional fee of ₹3,000 for the entire trek.

You’ll receive three meals daily, cooked and served by local agents. As the food may differ from your usual diet, it’s advisable to carry some dry snacks. Toilet tents will be available for answering nature’s call. Essentially, your main task is to enjoy the trek while the agency takes care of the rest.

Safety Considerations

Altitude-related issues like Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can occur during high-altitude treks. Therefore, individuals with altitude sickness, high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes, or any respiratory issues are advised not to join this trek. Your safety is our highest priority, and we aim to ensure a safe trekking experience at high altitudes.

In conclusion, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a mesmerizing high-altitude trek offering spectacular views and a profound connection with nature. Prepare well, follow safety guidelines, and embark on this unforgettable adventure.