Difficulty Level
Moderate
Trekking Distance
72kms
Maximum Altitude
13,800ft
Trek Duration
9 Days
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
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Behold at the captivating views of the Himalayan Range and also the Vishansar Lake during the trek. On your fourth and fifth day, you will you will trek to Vishansar and then to Gadsa which will be around 11km of trekking. Marvel at the sight of the pictorial lakes and the exotic flowers and snow on both the sides. On your sixth and seventh day, you will cover Gadsar, Satsar and then to Gangabal Twin lakes. On both these days, you will cover a distance of 12km and 9 km respectively. You trek will lead you to a gurgling stream and then to the beautiful lakes. Keep staring for long at the beautiful lake and also catch some trout fish while you are here. You will also pass through many small bridges and ramble on grassy land dotted with yellow flowers and pine forest during your trek. This Kashmir Great Lakes trek package is definitely the best trek for you to do in this year.
About the Destination:Go on a Kashmir Great Lakes trek and get enchanted with Kashmir, a celestial land nothing short of a fairy tale. A surreal destination, there are many natural gems tucked away here. One of them is Srinagar, the summer capital of the state known for its refreshing gardens, lakes and houseboats. Another sought-after place here is Sonamarg. Meaning the meadow of gold this is where frosty mountains cast against the clear deep blue sky make for a postcard image. Pristine and untouched, the lakes over here be it Dal Lake, Vishansar Lake or Gangabal Twin lakes are surreal and a rare sight.
Alpine and snow clad mountains, green meadows, rocky terrains, gurgling streams, silver birch and other untouched beauties of Mother Earth make for a varied and complete trekking experience of around 63km. Rediscover serenity and uncover what makes Kashmir Great Lakes Trek a trove for adventure and nature enthusiasts seeking a thrilling experience of trekking in India. Kashmir Great Lakes best time to visit is from July to September. This amazing trek takes you through some of the most beautiful sights that are hidden from the normal eyes. The best part about the trek is that you will get a chance to see five beautiful lakes together and each reflecting the beauty of the other.
As you continue you will find that the mountains in the background make the whole place looks majestic. Witness the beauty of the lakes with the snowflakes on the top making the lake much prettier. Adding to it the golden flowers in bloom, the dark blue sky and the lush green grass will seem like just another heaven on earth. Each day of the trek holds something new for you which you will cherish for a lifetime.
Trek Highlights:
- Starting & Ending Point:Â The trek starts at Sonmarg and ends at Naranag
- Temperature: Day: 17°C-20°C and Night: 3°C-4°C
- Railway Station: Jammu is the nearest railway station
- Airport: Srinagar Airport
- Base Camp: Sonmarg
- Best time: June to Sep.
How To Reach:
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Option 1: Fly directly to Srinagar.
You can travel to Sonamarg if you land at Srinagar before 12 noon.
How to reach Sonamarg?
– From the airport, walk outside for 800 meters to take an auto to TRC. Auto will cost you around Rs 250 which is a good rate to pay. They might ask for Rs 300. Take a cab if you are travelling in a group. A taxi/cab will cost Rs 600 to Rs 750.
From TRC, you will get Swaraj Mazda buses frequently going to Soura which is 8 kms away. It takes about 40 mins to reach here and costs Rs 15. If you choose an auto, it will cost around Rs 150 to Rs 200.
From Soura, you get buses to Kangan which is about Rs 40. Again from Kangan, you need to change and take shared cabs to Sonamarg. This will cost around Rs 70 to Rs 150 depending on the number of travellers. If you get shared cabs directly from Soura to Shitkadi, it will cost Rs 300 to Rs 450.
Note: Srinagar Airport to Srinagar TRC, you do have the bus service. However, they are not reliable. They do not move until they are half full.Option 2:
Taking a train/bus to Jammu and reach Srinagar
If you are taking a bus to Jammu, then you have multiple options to take. There are two gates outside Jammu ISBT. You will get shared cabs from both these gates.
If you are reaching the Railway Station, the share cabs to Srinagar will cost between Rs 700 to Rs 1000. ,/p>Accommodation
- 1 Night Hotel
- 8 Nights Tented camps
- All Meals Included
Inclusions
- Full vehicle support throughout (from arrival at Srinagar airport to the departure at the same airport).
- Arrival/ departure 1-night Houseboat/ Hotel accommodation in Srinagar unless specified.
- 8 nights of tented accommodation (full-board) mountain camps.
- Trek equipment such as Sleeping bag, mattress, tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent
- Permits required for the trek
- First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder
- Charge of qualified trek leader, guide and support staff
Exclusions
- International or domestic flights
- Visa & Travel insurance.
- Personal clothing and equipment.
- Any medical costs incurred by you, or costs associated with a medical incident, such as your evacuation from the mountain and/ or hospitalization (for which you should have travel insurance).
- Optional trips or excursions.
- Tips for local staff and guides.
Camping Included
Sightseeing
Included
Potter
Meals
Included
Fixed Departure
July
| 1st July – 9th July | AVBL |
| 11th July – 20th July | AVBL |
| 15th July – 24th July | AVBL |
| 20th July – 29th July | AVBL |
August
| 1st August – 9th August | AVBL |
| 5th August – 14th August | AVBL |
| 10th August – 19th July | AVBL |
| 16th August – 25th August | AVBL |
September
| 1st September – 9th September | AVBL |
Private Group
Day wise itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival at Srinagar
Day 2 : Drive from Srinagar to Sonamarg
Altitude: 7,800 ft (2,377 m)
Time taken: 4 hours drive
The first day of the Kashmir Lakes Trek, spend time in the dreamlike place of Srinagar known for its refreshing gardens, lakes and houseboats. If you wish, you can take an iconic shikara experience at Dal Lake or amble through Mughal Gardens that unravels many beauties along the way.
Leave by the afternoon and be driven to Sonamarg by evening. Spend overnight at a campsite in Sonamarg.
Day 3 : Sonamarg to Nichnai via Shekdur
Altitude: 7,800 ft (2,377 m) to 11,500 ft (3,505 m)
Time taken: 6 hours, 11.6 km
Trek gradient: Moderate. 3 hours of steep ascent followed by descent for an hour. Final 2 hours, a gentle ascent to Nichnai.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water from Sonmarg. You will find sources along the trail to refill your water bottles.
Today will be first day of this enthralling Kashmir great lakes trek!
After having breakfast at the guesthouse, start with a 3-4km trek from the Sonamarg and reach a roadside eatery, from where you can bag up all the required commodities for the day. Here onwards, the trek will be a gradula one and alongside the Sindh River, it will take you through maple and pine forests. Completing the hike through the forests, you will be rewarded with the stunning views of the Sonamarg Valley and pictorial streams.
Here onwards, the trek will descend down and will take you to the snow-covered Shekdur Range. Relax around the vicinity for a while before you start trekking towards the Nichnai, which is located at around 11,500ft above the sea level. Upon arrival in Nichnai, check-in into the campsite; dinner and overnight stay in the camp.
Day 4 : Nichnai to Vishansar Lake (13 km)
Altitude: 11,500 ft (3,505 m) to 12,000 ft (3,658 m)
Time: 6 hours, 13.5 km
Trek gradient: Moderate. 1.5 hours of gradual ascent followed by an hour-long climb to the pass. A steep descent from the pass for about an hour easing off into a flat walk.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water from Nichnai. You will find sources along the trail to refill your water bottles.
Starting early in the morning; around 08:00AM, start the trek towards the Nichnai Pass and enjoy the stunning views of the lush valleys and the untouched beauty of the region. Hereafter, cross the river and continue hiking through the banks of the river and arrive at the Nichnai Pass or the Vishansar Berry. Arriving at the pass, which is located 13,500m above the sea lelvel, witness and enjoy the meticulous beauty of the pass and the snow-covered peaks all around it.
Hereafter, the trek will undergo a steep descend and will lead you to a pictorial meadow of colourful flowers; while on this trek, you can also catch glimpses of a cascade that finally joins a river. Here onwards, continue with the hike and upon arriving a flat valley, continue towards its end and arrive at the campsite. Gazing on the left of this trail, you can also behold captivating views of the Himalayan Range and also the Vishansar Lake; overnight stay in the camp.
Day 5 : Acclimatization day in Vishansar
This day of the Lakes in Kashmir Trek would be a light one as you acclimatise yourself to the weather and rest at Vishansar.
Day 6 : Trek from Vishansar to Gadsar (via Kishasar and Gadsar Pass)
Altitude: 12,000 ft (3,658 m) to 12,500 ft (3,810 m) via 13,800 ft (4,206 m)
Time taken: 5 hours, 16 km
Trek gradient: Moderate. 1.5-2 hours of steep ascent followed by 1 hour of steep descent, easing off into a level walk.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water from Vishansar. You will find sources along the trail to refill your water bottles.
This chilly morning, witness the Kishansar Peak casting its reflection on the azure lake waters. Start the trek for the day towards the lakeside and reach the Kishansar Peak, which is situated around 500ft above the campsite. Here onwards, ascend to the other side of the water reservoir. The trek till here comprises of both easy and tough terrains.
Later part of the day, trek towards the Kishansar Lake and and finally make it to the Gadsar Pass that is perched at a height of 13,800ft and is the highest point of this trek. From the pass, pass through a flowery meadow and some of the pictorial lakes; Yamsar is one of these lakes.
From here, continue with the descend and after crossing Iris, reach the Gadsar Lake. A picturesque lake, it is adorned with the stunning beauty of exotic flowers and snow on both the sides. Arriving at the lakeside, report to the nearest Army Camp and complete the formalities of getting permission to pass Gadsar; ID proofs are a must for this.
Day 7 : Gadsar to Satsar (12 km)
Altitude: 12,500 ft (3,810 m) to 12,000 ft (3,658 m)
Time taken: 6 hours, 11.3 km
Trek gradient: Moderate; 1.5 hours of steep ascent followed by a level walk.
Water sources: Carry at least 2 litres of water from Gadsar. You will find rivulets along the trail but the water might not be suitable to drink.
Your day will begin with a walk from the army camp towards the stream. Brace yourself for varied terrains from super steep, flat and even land. Take a short break at Maengandob that is fringed by mountains.
Reach the first of Satsar lakes, which is a group of seven different lakes and follow the same procedure of yesterday with the army officials and set camps near the surreal first lake of Satsar.
Day 8 : Satsar to Gangabal Twin lakes (9 km)
Altitude: 12,000 ft (3,658 m) to 11,500 ft (3,505 m)
Time taken: 6 hours, 9 km
Trek gradient: Difficult. 30 minutes each of gradual ascent and descent followed by a steep ascent for about 45 and then by a steep descent. Similarly ascending and descending trail all the way through.
Water sources: Carry 2 litres of water. You will find a stream mid way during the descent to refill your water bottles.
A true test of calibre, this is the day when you will have you push your physical and mental limits! Trudge through rocks and boulders ridden terrain, pass the last of the Satsar lakes, and start hiking downwards for half an hour till you arrive at the forest line.
Here onwards, start ascending upward and reach an altitude of 13,400ft; during this climb, you can witness several ridges at different heights and the quaint Gujjar huts as well. From the summit, you can also behold the fascinating views of the twin lakes: Gangabal and Nundkol, that are connected to each other by a picturesque stream and are known for trout-fisihng.
Post this; trek through a sharp and rocky trail and make it to a gurgling stream, passing which, you will reach a lush meadow that advent towards the Nundkol Lake, which is also a popular weekend getaway among the locals. Trekking for around 20 minutes from the Nundkol Lake, you will finally arrive at the Gangabal Lake and by crossing the bridge across the lake; you will arrive at the campsite; dinner and overnight stay in the camp.
Day 9 : Trek from Gangabal to Naranag (12 km, 7 hours)
Altitude: 11,500 ft (3,505 m) to 7,450 ft (2,271 m)
Time taken: 6 hours, 13 km
Trek gradient: Moderate. A mix of ascents and descents for 6 km followed by a very steep descent all the way down.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water from Sonmarg. You will find sources along the trail to refill your water bottles.
On your final day of the Kashmir Lake Trek, start from the Gangabal camp, ramble on grassy land dotted with yellow flowers and pine forest. Descend are reach Naranag, the last leg of your trek. Reach Naranag Village in Ganderbal District. If you wish, you can visit Naranag Temple. Be driven back to Srinagar.
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Singhtseeing
Dal Lake
Dal Lake is one of the largest and most famous lakes in Kashmir. Its crystal-clear waters shimmer in the sunlight, reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks, lush greenery, and colorful houseboats that dot its surface, creating a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors and textures.
Sonmarg
Sonmarg Located about 80 kilometers northeast of Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, Sonmarg is renowned for its natural beauty, adventure activities, and cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers alike.
Nichnai Pass
Nichnai Pass serves as a crucial juncture on the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, connecting the picturesque valleys of Sonamarg and Vishansar.
Vishansar Lake
Surrounded by towering peaks, verdant meadows, and cascading waterfalls, the lake exudes an aura of serenity and majesty, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of their surroundings.
Gadsar Lake
Gadsar Valley, Gadsar Lake is surrounded by towering peaks, verdant meadows, and cascading waterfalls, creating a scene of unparalleled natural beauty.
Satsar Lake
Satsar situated at an elevation of approximately 12,000 feet above sea level, this stunning lake is part of the renowned Kashmir Great Lakes trek, a trekking route that traverses some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas.
Gangabal Twin Lakes
The Gangabal Twin Lakes consist of the larger Gangabal Lake and its smaller counterpart, Nundkol Lake, both of which are fed by melting glaciers and mountain streams.
Videos
9 Day Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
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Payment Policy
- Initial deposit – Rs. 10,000/- to confirm you’re booking with us.
- Second installment will be collect 5,000/-
- 100% payment to be made at least 15 days before departure.
Cancellation Policy
- 35 Days or more prior to Departure Rs.10000/-
- 34 Days to 15 Days prior to Departure 30% of the Tour Cost
- 14 Days to 3 Days prior to Departure 50% of the Tour Cost
- 8 Days to 3 Days prior to Departure 75% of the Tour Cost
- Within 3 Days of Departure 100% of the Tour Cost
Frequently Asked Questions
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- Hotel Rates will be Change Time To Time, So Kindly Check with us for rates.
- Above Rates are Per person on Twin Sharing Basis.
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- This is just a Quotation not a confirmation and everything depends on availability. Above rates are subject to availability.
- Given cost is estimated, based on lowest hotel rates existing as of now. We Don’t Hold Any Confirmation For Hotels/Airline. It’s Subject To Availability at the time of booking. Any difference in cost shall be borne by Passenger
- Any further increase in airfare due to increase in the fuel prices, change in government regulations, taxes, etc charged by the airline will have to be borne by the passengers. MTB KASHMIR will not be held responsible for them. Above rates are subject to change with our prior notice.
- International Hotel Check in time 1400hrs, Check out Time 1200hrs.
- Room Rates based on Standard Rooms. Supplement cost will be applicable for any up gradation in room categories.
- Coach will be with you during your sightseeing only, in your free time we are not bound to serve you a vehicle .For further transportation needed at your free time has to be managed by you at your own cost.
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