Alpine Seekers

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Region

Jammu & Kashmir

Starting Point

Sonamarg

Trek Grade

Moderate to Difficult

Trek Duration

7 Days / 6 Night

Best Sesion

July to September

Highest Altitude

13,800 ft

Overview

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most breathtaking treks in India, taking you through pristine alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic snow-clad peaks. This trek is a dream for nature lovers, offering views that seem straight out of a painting. Each day of the journey unfolds a new high-altitude lake, each with its own unique charm and stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.

From the emerald-green Vishansar and Krishansar Lakes to the deep blue Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangbal Lakes, this trek is a paradise for photographers and adventurers alike. The trek also passes through lush meadows filled with wildflowers, rocky trails, dense forests, and high-altitude passes, making it a thrilling yet rewarding experience.

Kashmir Great Lake

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Sonamarg (7,800 ft)
  • Arrive at Sonamarg, a beautiful valley surrounded by glaciers and lush meadows.

  • Meet the trekking team for a briefing session.

  • Enjoy the evening exploring the surroundings before dinner.

  • Overnight stay in tents.

Day 2: Sonamarg to Nichnai (11,500 ft) – 11 km Trek
  • Trek begins with a gradual ascent through dense pine forests and scenic meadows.

  • Cross the Nichnai Pass, which offers stunning views of the valley.

  • Descend into Nichnai campsite, a beautiful meadow surrounded by towering mountains.

  • Enjoy a warm meal and rest in tents for the night.

 

Day 3: Nichnai to Vishansar Lake (12,000 ft) – 12 km Trek
  • Trek through lush green valleys, flower-filled meadows, and streams.

  • Reach the mesmerizing Vishansar Lake, reflecting the nearby snow-capped peaks.

  • Spend the evening exploring the lake and capturing its stunning beauty.

  • Overnight stay in tents.

Day 4: Vishansar Lake to Gadsar Lake (13,800 ft) – 14 km Trek
  • Steep climb to Krishansar Lake, located just above Vishansar Lake.

  • Ascend to Gadsar Pass (13,800 ft), the highest point of the trek, offering breathtaking views.

  • Descend to Gadsar Lake, known for its deep blue waters and surrounding meadows.

  • Camp overnight near the lake.

Day 5: Gadsar to Satsar Lakes (12,000 ft) – 12 km Trek
  • The trail passes through rocky terrains, green pastures, and shepherd huts.

  • Arrive at the Satsar Lakes, a group of interconnected alpine lakes.

  • Enjoy a peaceful evening at the campsite.

Day 6: Satsar to Gangbal Twin Lakes (11,500 ft) – 10 km Trek
  • The trail crosses Zaj Pass (13,400 ft), offering a panoramic view of the valley.

  • Descend towards the Gangbal and Nundkol Lakes, two twin lakes at the base of Mount Harmukh.

  • Set up camp near the lakes and enjoy the breathtaking landscape.

Day 7: Gangbal to Naranag (7,500 ft) & Drive to Srinagar – 12 km Trek
  • Final descent through dense pine forests and ancient stone trails.

  • Reach Naranag village, where vehicles will be waiting.

  • Drive to Srinagar, marking the end of the trek.

Food Menu

  • Breakfast: Wake-up Tea/Coffee, Biscuits, Aloo Paratha with Achaar, Boiled Egg, Bread with Butter/Jam, Fresh Fruits.

  • Lunch: Roti/Chapati, Rice/Chawal, Manchurian Rice, Salad, Dal (Rajma/Mixed Dal), Mixed-Veg, Kofta Curry.

  • Snacks: Tea/Coffee, Pakoda, Finger Chips, Veg Cutlet, Maggi, Soup, Popcorn.

  • Dinner: Roti/Chapati, Rice/Chawal, Matar Paneer, Mixed Dal, Salad, Papad, Sweets (Gulab Jamun, Jalebi), Fruit Custard.

    📌 We offer customized meals for vegetarians and other dietary needs.

Inclusions – Everything We Take Care Of

  • Stunning High-Altitude Lakes – Witness seven beautiful alpine lakes along the route.
  • Scenic Meadows & Valleys – Walk through flower-filled meadows and lush green valleys.
  • Challenging Yet Rewarding – Experience a perfect mix of steep climbs, thrilling descents, and mesmerizing landscapes.
  • Adventure & Serenity – Ideal for trekkers looking for both adventure and peace in nature.
  • Unmatched Beauty of Kashmir – Often called the ‘Paradise on Earth,’ this trek truly showcases the best of Kashmir.

Exclusions – What’s Not Included?

  • Accommodation in tents during the trek.
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Experienced trek leader and local guides.
  • Camping and trekking permits.
  • Medical kit with oxygen cylinder.
  • Luggage support (mules/porters for carrying common equipment).

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR).

  • Regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities.

  • Taxi or local transport available from Srinagar to Sonamarg.

  • Nearest railway station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station.

  • Take a taxi or bus from Jammu to Srinagar (approx. 8-10 hours).

  • Regular buses and taxis available from Srinagar to Sonamarg.

  • Distance from Srinagar to Sonamarg: 80 km (2-3 hours by road).

Photo Gallery

Refund Policy

Initiating Cancellation:

To cancel your booking, please send an email to: alpineseekers.in@gmail.com

 

Cancellation Due to Unforeseen Events:
  • If we cancel the trek due to unexpected situations like natural disasters, floods, or political unrest, we will issue a trek voucher instead of a refund. This voucher is valid for one year and can be used for the same or a different trek.

     

Cancellation Due to Personal Reasons:

If you cancel your trek for personal reasons, the following policy applies:

  • No Cash Refunds: We do not provide cash refunds. Instead, a voucher will be issued.

  • Cancellation 30 Days or More Before Trek: A voucher for the full booking amount will be issued.

  • Cancellation 20–29 Days Before Trek: 50% of the booking amount will be deducted, and the remaining amount will be provided as a voucher.

  • Cancellation Less Than 20 Days Before Trek: No voucher will be issued.

FAQs – We’ve Got All Your Questions Covered!

Regular buses and taxis available from Srinagar to Sonamarg. Distance from Srinagar to Sonamarg: 80 km (2-3 hours by road).

The trek is moderate to difficult, suitable for experienced trekkers or fit beginners. It involves long trekking days, steep ascents, and high-altitude conditions.

 

Do I need prior trekking experience?

Prior trekking experience is recommended but not mandatory. However, a good fitness level is required due to the altitude and trek duration.

 

How cold does it get during the trek?

Temperatures range from 5°C to 20°C during the day, but nights can be cold, dropping to -2°C to 5°C. Proper layering is essential.

 

What should I pack for the trek?

Yes, the trek is safe. Our team ensures proper guidance, medical support, and emergency assistance if required.

 

What permits are required for the trek?

Indian nationals need basic trekking permits. Foreign nationals require additional permissions from the local authorities.

 

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