The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is an adventure that caters to every sense. It’s a challenging yet rewarding journey that leaves you with memories etched forever!
Upon arrival in Srinagar, you will be greeted by our team and transferred to Sonamarg, the starting point of our trek. The drive follows the Sindh River, with breathtaking views of dense pine forests, charming villages, and the mighty Himalayas. After reaching our campsite in Sonamarg, we settle into comfortable tents with stunning views.
In the evening, we gather for an informative trek briefing session, covering the route, safety tips, and acclimatization essentials. A short acclimatization walk in the meadows to adapt to the altitude.
As the sun sets over the mountains, we enjoy a warm dinner under a starlit sky, anticipating the adventure ahead.
• Travel (approx.): 90 km, 3 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 3,470 ft. / ⇓ 0 ft.
• Accommodation: At Shitakadi Campsite
• Meals: Dinner
The trek begins with a gentle ascent through a dense pine forest, followed by a steep climb to Shekdur, a beautiful meadow dotted with silver birch and maple trees. Here, we take a break and enjoy the stunning views of snow-capped peaks.
We then traverse lush green meadows before a gradual descent to Nichnai Valley, a vast grassland flanked by towering ridges. Our campsite is set beside a glistening stream, where the evening is spent relaxing and absorbing the peaceful beauty of the Himalayas.
• Trek (approx.): 11 km, 6-7 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 2,700 ft. / ⇓ 0 ft.
• Accommodation: At Nichnai Campsite
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day starts with a gradual climb to Nichnai Pass (13,100 ft.), the first high-altitude pass of the trek. From the top, snow-clad peaks and alpine meadows stretch as far as the eye can see.
Descending from the pass, we enter Vishansar Valley, a landscape straight out of a painting, filled with vibrant wildflowers and grazing sheep. Soon, the mesmerizing Vishansar Lake, a pristine blue jewel nestled between mountains, comes into view.
Evening reflection walks by the lake offer moments of peace, and if we’re lucky, we might catch the changing hues of the lake at sunset.
• Trek (approx.): 13 km, 6-7 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ ⇑ 1,600 ft. / ⇓ 1,000 ft.
• Accommodation: Campsite near Vishansar Lake
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The most challenging yet rewarding day begins with an early morning ascent to Gadsar Pass (13,750 ft.), the highest point of our trek. Along the way, we pass Kishansar Lake, the twin lake of Vishansar, reflecting the sky like a giant mirror.
Reaching the pass, we pause to absorb one of the best panoramic views of the trek—both lakes below and the snow-draped mountains beyond. A steep descent leads us through colorful meadows and glacial streams, ending at Gadsar Lake, known for its vibrant blue waters and wildflower-filled surroundings.
The campsite at Gadsar is remote and serene, making it a perfect place to rest after a long day’s journey.
• Trek (approx.): 16 km, 7-8 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 1,550 ft. / ⇓ 1,750 ft.
• Accommodation: At Gadsar Campsite
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The trail continues through rolling meadows, scattered boulders, and small stream crossings, leading to Satsar – a collection of seven interconnected alpine lakes.
Satsar is known for its rugged terrain and pristine beauty, where mist often hovers over the lakes, adding a mystical charm. The peaceful silence of this place is only broken by the occasional chirping of birds or the rustling of the wind.
• Trek (approx.): 11 km, 4-5 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 500 ft. / ⇓ 0 ft.
• Accommodation: At Satsar Campsite
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s trail takes us through rugged boulder sections and lush meadows, leading to the Zajibal Pass (13,000 ft.)—the final high-altitude pass of the trek. The ascent is steep but rewarding, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
From the top, we get our first glimpse of Mt. Harmukh (16,870 ft.), towering over the landscape like a guardian of the valley. A gradual descent brings us to the twin lakes of Gangbal and Nandkol, fed by the mighty Harmukh Glacier.
Our campsite near Gangbal Lake is the perfect place to relax and soak in the tranquil beauty of these sacred waters. As the sun sets, the sky reflects on the shimmering lake, making for a spectacular end to the day.
• Trek (approx.): 10 km, 5-6 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 780 ft. / ⇓ 1,780 ft.
• Accommodation: Campsite near Nandkol Lake
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The final stretch of our trek begins with a gentle walk along Gangbal Lake, followed by a steep descent through pine forests. The trail winds past meadows dotted with Gujjar settlements, where shepherds tend to their flocks against the backdrop of Harmukh Peak.
As we descend further, the stone-paved path leads us to Naranag, an ancient village known for its centuries-old Shiva temple ruins. Here, we bid farewell to the mountains and board our vehicles for a scenic drive back to Srinagar.
Reaching the city by evening, you can either explore Srinagar’s charming streets or unwind by Dal Lake, reminiscing about the incredible journey through Kashmir’s hidden paradise.
• Trek (approx.): 13 km, 6-7 hrs.
• Travel (approx.): 55 km, 2 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 0 ft. / ⇓ 3,700 ft.
• Accommodation: N/A
• Meals: Breakfast
Unforeseen Delays: In Kashmir region, mountain weather can be unpredictable, and sudden rain can slow down your pace or even make some sections unsafe. A buffer day gives you flexibility to wait out bad weather without throwing the whole itinerary off track.
Important Note
For all your travel plans, include a buffer day to accommodate bad weather on the trek/political instability. This depends completely on the circumstances of the trek and the situation in the Kashmir region.
