kashmir great lakes trek
Kashmir Great Lakes is the most beautiful trek in India.
Trek Grade
Easy to Moderate
Highest Altitute
12,500 ft/3810m
Best Seasion
July-mid Sept
Trek Duration
7 Night | 8 Days
Trekking Km
72 Km
Stays
Camp
transport
Srinagar,Nanranaag
trek region
Kashmir
Base camp
sonmarg
Meals
veg meal
Trek Grade
Easy to Moderate
Highest Altitute
12,500 ft/3810 m
Trek Duration
7 Night | 8 Days
Base camp
Sonmarg
Meals
veg meal
Stays
Camp
transport
Srinagar, Nanranaag
trek region
Kashmir
Trekking Km
72 Km
How to Reach
Trek Grade
Trek Grade
Trek Grade
Trek Grade
Trek Grade
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Overview
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek stands as an epitome of trekking magnificence within India. It epitomizes Kashmir’s ethereal portrayal as a terrestrial paradise. Nestled 72 km northeast of Srinagar, this trek unfolds across a colossal canvas. Each day unveils a 360° spectacle of untamed, rugged peaks, undulating meadows, and crystalline alpine lakes. With over six lakes and traversing five distinct valleys, the expedition offers a multifaceted exploration.
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Key Highlights
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek boasts several key highlights that captivate adventurers seeking an unforgettable Trekking experience:
Scenic Grandeur
- Situated amidst the pristine wilderness, the trek offers unparalleled panoramic views of rugged mountains, expansive meadows, and vivid alpine lakes. Each day unfolds a new vista, painting a captivating tapestry of nature’s splendor.
Alpine Lakes
- With over six alpine lakes scattered along the trail, the Kashmir great lakes trek presents a mesmerizing spectacle of turquoise waters nestled amidst the mountains. These crystalline lakes, fed by snow patches, exude an ethereal beauty that leaves trekkers spellbound. patches, exude an ethereal beauty that leaves trekkers spellbound.
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Photos
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Itinerary
Daily Hiking Schedule Of Kashmir great lakes trek
Day 1 Srinagar to Sonmarg
(90 km Drive, 3-4 hr approx)
Srinagar to Sonmarg
(90 km Drive, 3-4 hr approx)- Stay: Overnight stay at the Guest House in Sonmarg
- Meal: Tea snacks, Dinner.
- Altitude: Sonmarg (7800 ft), (2378 m).
- Distance: 90 Km
- Time Taken: 3-4 hrs approx.
- Trek Grade: By Road
Your journey would begin at Rishikesh, and upon arriving at Rishikesh, you would meet with the driver
Day 2 Sonmarg to Nichnai via Shekdur
(11 km trek, 8-9 hr approx)
Sonmarg to Nichnai via Shekdur
(11 km trek, 8-9 hr approx)- Stay: Overnight stay in camp at Nichnai
- Meal: Tea snacks, Dinner.
- Altitude: Nichnai (11500 ft), (3505 ft).
- Distance: 11 Km
- Time Taken: 8-9 hrs approx.
- Trek Grade: By Road
Begin your journey from Sonamarg, a picturesque hill station renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Situated at
an altitude of 2,800 meters, Sonamarg serves as the starting point for many treks, including the Kashmir Great
Lakes trek. As you depart from Sonamarg, the trail leads you through scenic meadows and dense forests,
gradually ascending towards Shekdur. Shekdur is a quaint village nestled amidst lush greenery, offering a tranquil
setting for trekkers to rest and rejuvenate.
From Shekdur, continue along the trail as it winds its way through alpine meadows and rocky terrain, eventually
leading you to Nichnai.
Nichnai is a picturesque camping site situated at an altitude of 3,570 meters, surrounded by towering mountains and meandering streams. It serves as an ideal overnight halt for trekkers en route to the Kashmir Great Lakes.
Day 3 Nichnai to Vishansar Lake
(12 km Trek, 7-8 hr approx)
Nichnai to Vishansar Lake
(12 km Trek, 7-8 hr approx)- Stay: Overnight stay at Camp in Vishansar
- Meal: Tea snacks, Dinner.
- Altitude: Vishansar (12000 ft), (3657 m).
- Distance: 12 Km Trek
- Time Taken: 7-8 hrs approx.
- Trek Grade: Moderate
Start your trek from Nichnai, which is a beautiful meadow situated at an altitude of around 11,500 feet above sea
level. Your first milestone for the day is the Nichnai pass or Vishnusar Berry. The pass is visible at a distance from
the campsite. It lies just to the right of the twin snow-clad peaks. The trek begins with a gradual ascent towards
the Nichnai Pass, also known as the Vishansar Berry. It’s at an elevation of around 13,500 feet and offers
stunning views of the surrounding mountains. After crossing the Nichnai Pass, you’ll descend into a valley where
you’ll encounter lush green meadows and streams. The trail then leads to Vishansar Lake, which is nestled at an
altitude of approximately 12,000 feet. The lake is known for its crystal-clear blue waters and is surrounded by
towering peaks. At the end of the valley, a river flows perpendicular from left to right, originating at the Vishansar
Lake, though the lake remains hidden from view, nestled higher up. It’s an ideal spot to set up camp by the
riverbank. If time permits after the day’s trek, you can venture to explore the twin lakes, or save it for the 6th day.
From the campsite, Vishansar Lake is approximately 0.5 km away, nestled about 100 ft higher. Encircled by four
majestic mountains, Vishansar Lake offers a picturesque setting where the Kishansar Lake reflects its beauty.
The lake’s hues vary with the day’s progression and cloud cover. Pre-dawn, it remains colorless, gradually
transforming into a vivid aquamarine blue as the sun ascends. By sunset, it takes on a greenish-blue tint.
Vishansar Lake marks the first of many scenic lakes along the kashmir great lakes trek, promising further exploration in the days ahead.
Tonight, we’ll pitch our tents in close proximity to Vishansar Lake, soaking in its serene ambiance.
Day 4 Acclimatization (Rest) Day at Vishansar: A Day to Recharge and Adjust
Acclimatization (Rest) Day at Vishansar: A Day to Recharge and Adjust
Day 4 is designated for acclimatization, allowing your body sufficient time to adjust to the higher altitude
conditions. Following Vishansar Lake, the next destination is Kishansar Lake, situated approximately 0.5 km
away at the base of Kishansar Peak. The trek to Kishansar from Vishansar typically takes about 45 minutes. You
can embark on a brief acclimatization walk to Kishansar Lake, starting from the right side of Vishansar Lake.
Adjacent to Kishansar Lake on the right-hand side, there’s a vast meadow, offering an ideal setting for
photography enthusiasts.
Note: The decision to utilize the acclimatization day is contingent upon weather conditions. In case of favorable
weather, we may proceed to the next campsite without a stop for acclimatization. In favorable conditions, the
trek will proceed without utilizing the designated rest day or buffer day, resulting in a 6-night, 7-day program.
Day 5 By trek Vishansar Lake to Gadsar Lake through Gadsar Pass
(14 km trek, 9-10 hr approx)
By trek Vishansar Lake to Gadsar Lake through Gadsar Pass
(14 km trek, 9-10 hr approx)- Stay: Overnight stay in camp at Gadsar lake
- Meal: Tea snacks, Dinner.
- Altitude: Gadsar pass (13750 ft), (4151 m).
- Distance: 14 Km Trek
- Time Taken: 9-10 hrs approx.
- Trek Grade: Moderate
Embark on a challenging yet awe-inspiring trek to Kishansar Lake via Gadsar Pass today. From your campsite,
trace a slender trail etched into the mountainside. After an hour and a half of ascent, you’ll reach a ridge, where
another 45 minutes of climbing reveals a breathtaking panorama. Behold the stunning vista of Kishansar and
Vishansar Lakes nestled together, a sight to behold. Gadsar Pass, towering at 13,750 ft, marks the pinnacle of
today’s journey. Pause to soak in the unparalleled views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks on one side and a
picturesque valley dotted with small lakes on the other, some lying beyond the Line of Control (LOC).
Upon reaching Gadsar Pass, commence a steep descent, catching sight of Yamsar Lake en route-a tranquil gem amidst the rugged terrain. Yamsar serves as the gateway to Kishansar Lake. Descend for about an hour until the landscape transforms into verdant meadows, adorned with vibrant wildflowers, enhancing the valley’s enchanting allure. As you near the blue Irises, Gadsar Lake emerges, a pristine alpine oasis nestled beneath towering
snow-clad peaks. The juxtaposition of cascading snow blocks and lush greenery creates a mesmerizing
spectacle.
Our campsite for the day is the serene environs of Gadsar Lake, a hidden gem rarely frequented by travelers. If
camping by the lake, maintain its pristine beauty by leaving no trace. Alternatively, proceed downhill to the Gadsar army camp. After about half an hour of trekking, the valley widens, revealing another azure lake to the left. As you descend further, shepherd huts dot the valley’s edge until you reach the army camp housing a handful of personnel. Beyond lies the army headquarters, where permits are necessary for further travel. Speedily report to the army camp, as clearance from headquarters may take a few hours. Your identification will be verified before proceeding.
Day 6 By trek Gadsar to Satsar
(9 km trek, 5-6 hr approx)
By trek Gadsar to Satsar
(9 km trek, 5-6 hr approx)- Stay: Overnight stay in camp at Satsar
- Meal: Tea snacks, Dinner.
- Altitude: Satsar (12000 ft), (3657 ft).
- Distance: 9 Km Trek
- Time Taken: 5-6 hrs approx.
- Trek Grade: Easy to Moderate
Embark on a gentle descent for an hour, followed by a challenging ascent lasting three hours, before
transitioning into a serene flat meadow walk spanning six hours and covering 12 kilometers.
Setting out from the army camp, veer left towards the stream, ascending above the treeline, with
panoramic views of the verdant valleys below. The ascent persists for an hour and a half, elevating
you by 1,100 ft. Upon surpassing the 11,500 ft mark, the trail transitions into a traverse, veering left
away from the river valley. As you emerge from the valley, find yourself traversing across the tranquil
Maegan Dob meadow, surrounded by majestic mountains. Keep an eye out for craters dotting the
landscape to your right, marking this scenic trail. Soon, the shimmering expanse of the first of the
Satsar Lakes comes into view. Satsar, meaning ‘seven lakes,’ aptly describes this collection of alpine
gems.
If Gadsar Lake was your previous camping site, you have the option to camp here. Alternatively, if you
camped at the army camp, consider trekking a bit further to camp near one of the Satsar Lakes.
Depending on the season, you may encounter four to five lakes with water. After crossing the bridge,
you’ll encounter another army checkpoint, where the customary ID verification process ensues.
Continuing along the trail, within ten minutes, you’ll reach the first of the Satsar Lakes, nestled amidst
lush greenery and framed by towering peaks. The lake’s mesmerizing emerald-blue hues shift with the
passing hours.
Satsar Lake serves as our camping haven for the day. Find a suitable spot near the lake to pitch your
tents and unwind after a rewarding day of trekking amidst nature’s splendor.
Day 7 From Satsar, journey onward to Gangabal Twin Lakes via Zaj Pass
(11 km Trek, 6-7 hr approx)
From Satsar, journey onward to Gangabal Twin Lakes via Zaj Pass
(11 km Trek, 6-7 hr approx)- Stay: Overnight stay in camp at Gangabal Twin Lakes
- Meal: Tea snacks, Dinner.
- Altitude: Gangabal Twin Lakes (11,500 ft), (3505 ft).
- Distance: 11 Km Trek
- Time Taken: 6-7 hrs approx.
- Trek Grade: Easy to Moderate
Day 8 Trek Gangabal To Naranag and Drive To Srinagar
(15 km Trek, 6-7 hr approx),(70 km Drive, 2-3 hr approx)
-
Meal: Breckfast, packed lunch
-
Distance: (15 km Trek), (70 km drive)
-
Time Taken: (Trek 6-7 hrs approx), (Drive 2-3 hrs)
-
Trek Grade: Easy to Moderate
Although today’s journey is primarily a downhill descent, be prepared for the strain it may exert on your knees.
Setting out from your Gangabal campsite, follow the ridge down alongside the stream, gradually making your way toward the tree cover. About 30 minutes into the trek, you may catch an Airtel network signal, allowing you to inform loved ones of your safe descent. As the ridge gives way, you’ll find yourself in a flat meadow, offering a stunning view of the majestic Harmukh Peak towering in the distance.
After an hour of trekking, you’ll enter the treeline dominated by pine trees, with signs of civilization emerging,
including a log hut. Over the next 6 kilometers, you’ll navigate through alternating stretches of forest, maintaining relatively consistent altitude. As you approach the latter part of the trek, the trail gradually descends into a steep, muddy path through dense pine covers. The final 4 kilometers present a significant descent, with an altitude loss of over 3000 feet. Along the way, you may encounter numerous trekkers making their way from Naranang to Gangabal.
Naranang village gradually comes into view, signaling the near completion of your kashmir great lakes trek. The last stretch may test your endurance, with a steep descent ahead. As you approach, a stone-paved path emerges, leading you into the village of Naranang. From here, a drive to Srinagar awaits, with an expected arrival time of around 6:30 pm. FromSrinagar, you can arrange further travel plans as needed.
Trek Gangabal To Naranag and Drive To Srinagar
(15 km Trek, 6-7 hr approx),(70 km Drive, 2-3 hr approx)- Meal: Breckfast, packed lunch
- Distance: (15 km Trek), (70 km drive)
- Time Taken: (Trek 6-7 hrs approx), (Drive 2-3 hrs)
- Trek Grade: Easy to Moderate
Although today’s journey is primarily a downhill descent, be prepared for the strain it may exert on your knees.
Setting out from your Gangabal campsite, follow the ridge down alongside the stream, gradually making your way toward the tree cover. About 30 minutes into the trek, you may catch an Airtel network signal, allowing you to inform loved ones of your safe descent. As the ridge gives way, you’ll find yourself in a flat meadow, offering a stunning view of the majestic Harmukh Peak towering in the distance.
After an hour of trekking, you’ll enter the treeline dominated by pine trees, with signs of civilization emerging,
including a log hut. Over the next 6 kilometers, you’ll navigate through alternating stretches of forest, maintaining relatively consistent altitude. As you approach the latter part of the trek, the trail gradually descends into a steep, muddy path through dense pine covers. The final 4 kilometers present a significant descent, with an altitude loss of over 3000 feet. Along the way, you may encounter numerous trekkers making their way from Naranang to Gangabal.
Naranang village gradually comes into view, signaling the near completion of your kashmir great lakes trek. The last stretch may test your endurance, with a steep descent ahead. As you approach, a stone-paved path emerges, leading you into the village of Naranang. From here, a drive to Srinagar awaits, with an expected arrival time of around 6:30 pm. FromSrinagar, you can arrange further travel plans as needed.
- Stay is included on a days of the trek from Sonmarg. You will be staying in tents on a Triple and quade sharing basis.
- Transport charges from Srinagar, Nanranaag and return.
- All meals from dinner at Sonmarg on Day 1 to tea and coffee on Day 7 are included. Meals are simple, nutritious and vegetarian.
- All the trek equipment will be included like a sleeping bag, kitchen & dining tent, utensils, mattress, tent, toilet tent, and crampon (if needed).
- First aid medical kits, oxygen cylinder and stretcher.
- All fuel charges, toll taxes and needed forest entry fees along with permits.
- Mountaineering qualified and professional trek leader, guide, cook and support staff.
- GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
- Any emergency evacuation charges
- Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.
- Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
- Mules or porters to carry personal luggage.
Best Time to do Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
The Best Time to Trek the Great Lakes of Kashmir The high-altitude alpine Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (KGL) is open from early July to mid-September for a **brief but breathtaking window. The ideal combination of weather, trail conditions, and amazing scenery is available during these three months.
Why You Can’t Trek Before July or After Mid-September?
June & early July
- Snow covers passes like Gadsar and Zaj Pass; trail access is closed for safety.
Mid-September onward
- Cold sets in quickly, snowfall begins, and the route becomes inaccessible.
How to Reach Kashmir Great Lakes?
By Bus:
- National Highway 1A connects Srinagar to the rest of the nation. Regular comfortable buses from Jammu are operated by J & K Transportation. It takes around ten hours for the journey to reach Srinagar.
By Train:
- Jammu, which is 290 kilometers away from Srinagar, might be the nearest train station. The Jammu railway station is conveniently connected by rail to other major Indian cities. Delhi, Trivandrum, Bangalore, and Chennai all have direct rail connections.
By Air:
- The majority of airlines, including Indigo and Air Indian Airlines, offer frequent flights to Srinagar. Flying from New Delhi to Srinagar is thought to be the most practical way to get there.
What to Pack for Your The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
As a trekking, adventure, and travel company, we often receive inquiries from our trekkers, and one of the most frequent questions is about what to pack for the Kashmir Great Lakes trek. Sometimes, it can be challenging to provide detailed explanations, so we’ve compiled a comprehensive packing list that will be beneficial for all trekkers heading to the Himalayas. When preparing for a trek and organizing your gear, it’s helpful to follow a systematic approach. You can start either from head to foot or foot to head, ensuring you cover all essentials and minimize the risk of forgetting important items. So, take it step by step and pack accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
Best Time for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
Can a beginner do Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
- Physical fitness : You don’t have to be a fitness freak to do a trek it is just that basic fitness should be maintained. You should not be obese and should not have any medical ailments.
- Mental fitness : You should come with an open mindset and be ready for the harsh conditions winters have to offer.
- Gear : Being a Monsoon trek good gear is extremely essential.
Is Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Safe?
Is there mobile signals available on treks?
How do you manage toilets?
What happens if there is an emergency?
kashmir great lakes trek cost
Sonmarg to Nanranaag