Kashmir Great Lakes Trek 2024 | Check Early Bird Discount and Enquire Now for Limited Period UNBEATABLE OFFERS!!
The idea of trekking in itself is extremely refreshing and mentally relaxing. It offers you a sense of tranquility, allows you to explore the diverse range of landscapes, and helps you to attain perseverance and discipline. People go for trekking expeditions for varying reasons, some people love the away-ness of the wilderness, while others like to take silly risks, some people find it healing and therapeutic and for others, it serves as a disconnect from all the chaos, different people may have different reasons but there’s one thing that is common among them, the desire of discovering themselves. One such trek which stirs a sense of yearning to come back and connect with oneself and nature is the Kashmir great lakes trek.
The surrounding glaciers, surreal lakes, and Kashmir’s rich heritage are a few samples of what awaits you there. It is known to be one of the most remarkable treks in the whole valley owing to the beauty of its landscapes. This alpine trek is a Himalayan high-altitude trek located in central Kashmir valley at an altitude of 13750 ft. The trek starts at Sonamarg and ends at Naranag covering 7 astounding valleys and more than 7 alpine lakes. This terrain ranges approximately up to 72Kms making it Kashmir’s longest hiking trail. It is marked as moderately difficult in terms of challenges that come along with it and therefore requires physical fitness and the well-being of the hikers. Most hikers take 6-7 days to complete the Sonamarg to Naranag traverse.
The great adventure begins at Sonamarg. After reaching the Shitkudi campsite(a few km ahead of Sonamarg) the trekkers start ascending the mountain through maple and pine trees, sunlight seeping in past the thick canopy of branches. From here, trekkers can relish the whole view of the Sonamarg village downhill. The long strenuous walk for hours ends with the scenic views of the sundown. The next day one finds himself surrounded by lovely birch in the Shekdur meadow with the breeze making the leaves shake and swing in amusement. The Shekdur meadow embraces the sparkling tiny streams flowing in serene. Further, the trail climbs back into a river valley Nichanai surrounded by mighty and majestic mountains. Soon after crossing the Nichanai pass one catches sight of the first magnificent alpine lake, Vishansar lake. It is followed by another lake called Krishan Sar lake lying in the infinite stretches of lush green meadows of Vishnusar. Throughout the expedition, you’ll find yourself enthralled by beautiful meadows, snow-covered mountains, panoramic views, and even clusters of waterfalls that make the view stunningly beautiful.
Trekkers climb up to the highest point of the trek called the Gadsar pass beholding the beauty of the twin lakes Vishansar and Kishansar from the top. After a tiring march downhill the Gadsar pass, and the eyes arrest the breathtaking view of the Yamsir lake and the Gadsar lake in the midst of brimming wildflowers. These lakes are the epitome of pristine beauty and tranquility. One thing worth mentioning is that the color of the lakes changes into alluring shades throughout the day. The following day trekkers ascend into the Satsar meadow which offers a fascinating view of the horses running, cattle grazing, and the glimmering seven Satsar lakes.
Day 6 of trekking starts with climbing the rocky terrain to reach the peak of the majestic Harmukh mountain, this is where the most beautiful view of the entire trek is. The very thought that you are surrounded by the highest peaks in the valley can be overwhelming. At the foothills of Mount Harmukh is a serene water body, the Gangbal lake.
The 7-day trekking journey ends with the advent of the last two lakes Gangbal and Nundkol and a series of ascents and descents followed by a very steep descent all the way down to Narang. If you aspire to experience the thrill of the unknown then prepare for the memorable feeling that will literally take your breath away………
Wildfloc assures an experience that will settle in your heart and shine through your eyes. It's not only about the destination but the journey we go through as companions that matters. Every drop of sweat and heavy sigh, every little slip and fall, and the overall fatigue you go through will be worth it when you see the glimpse of the scenery you were promised. So pack your bags and book your trip with us now! We'll be there with every hurdle you cross and as the saying goes ~ happiness is only real when shared!
Best Time to Visit Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
- The months from June to October are the best for the KGL Trek and experience it in all its glory.
How to reach the Base Camp
- A cab from Srinagar will take you to the starting point which is Sonamarg. This is not part of the package and will have to be booked separately.
Safety and Expertise
- The trek is graded as easy to moderate and should present no extreme challenges to regular trekkers.
- It is highly recommended for Amateur Trekkers
Important Things to Carry
- Backpack & rain cover, trekking shoes preferably high-ankle one, day pack to carry on-the-trek essentials like a lunch box, water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, protein bars, etc, headlamp/torch, trekking pole, and personal medical kit.
- Thermals, fleece jacket, down feather jacket, waterproof pants, sun cap, woolen cap: toiletries: sunscreen, lip balm, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, toothbrush & toothpaste, hand towel, sanitary napkins, etc.
- A Fitness Certificate duly attested by a licensed doctor.
- Govt. Identification Card
Duration: 7D/6N Distance: 82km Grade: Moderate Max. Altitude: 4200m Main Attractions: Gangbal Lake, Gadsar Lake, Mount Harmukh, Satsar Meadow
Departure Dates: Starting from 18 May to 27 October on every Saturday and Sunday
Cancellation Policy
30 days before the start date of the Trek: 20 percent cancellation charges.
30 days to 15 days before the start date of the Trek: 70 percent cancellation charges.
Less than 15 days before the start date of the Trek: No refund.
What is included in the tour
- Accommodation in tents on twin sharing basis.
- Sleeping bags, Sleeping Mattresses, Toilet Tents & Kitchen Tents.
- Daily meals (Breakfast Lunch and Dinner).
- Passes and Permits.
- Load ferrying.
- Basic Medical / First Aid Kit.
- Staff (Trek Leaders, Cooks).
What is NOT included in the tour
- Accomodation in Srinagar
- Transport to and fro Airport
- Offloading. (Chargeable as Extras)
- Expenses of personal nature like Laundry, Phone Calls, Alcohol, Cigarettes, Camera Fee, and Bottled Water etc
- Travel Insurance and other Emergency Expenses.
- Transportation from TRC Srinagar
- Gangbal Lake
- Gadsar Lake
- Mount Harmukh
- Satsar Meadow
Snapshot in a blink.
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar, transfer to Sonamarg
- Arrive at the Srinagar airport and transfer to Sonamarg (83 km), the starting point of the trek
- On the way to Sonamarg, enjoy the scenic beauty of the Kashmir valley and visit popular tourist spots such as the Mughal Garden and Chashme Shahi
- Check into a hotel or guest house in Sonamarg and take some rest to acclimatize to the high altitude
- In the evening, explore the local market and try some of the traditional Kashmiri cuisine
Day 2: Sonamarg to Nichnai
- Start the trek from Sonamarg (2800 m) to Nichnai (3600 m), a scenic route with beautiful views of glaciers, streams and meadows
- The trail follows the Sindh river and passes through lush green forests and alpine meadows
- Halt for lunch at a scenic spot along the way
- Reach the camping site in Nichnai by evening and set up camp for the night
Day 3: Nichnai to Vishansar Lake
- Trek from Nichnai to Vishansar Lake (3800 m), passing through dense forests and grazing meadows
- The trail winds through the mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys
- Halt for lunch at a scenic spot along the way
- Reach the camping site near Vishansar Lake by evening and set up camp for the night
Day 4: Vishansar Lake to Gadsar Lake
- Continue the trek to Gadsar Lake (4000 m), a high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks
- The trail passes through alpine meadows and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys
- Halt for lunch at a scenic spot along the way
- Reach the camping site near Gadsar Lake by evening and set up camp for the night
Day 5: Gadsar Lake to Satsar Lake
- Trek from Gadsar Lake to Satsar Lake (3700 m), passing through beautiful meadows and mountain streams
- The trail winds through the mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys
- Halt for lunch at a scenic spot along the way
- Reach the camping site near Satsar Lake by evening and set up camp for the night
Day 6: Satsar Lake to Gangbal Lake
- Trek from Satsar Lake to Gangbal Lake (4100 m), passing through mountain passes and scenic valleys
- The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys and is a challenging stretch of the trek
- Halt for lunch at a scenic spot along the way
- Reach the camping site near Gangbal Lake by evening and set up camp for the night
Day 7: Gangbal Lake to Naranag
- Trek from Gangbal Lake to Naranag (2900 m), an ancient Hindu temple complex
- The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys and is a challenging stretch of the trek
- Halt for lunch at a scenic spot along the way
- Reach the camping site in Naranag by evening and set up camp for the night
- Drive back to Srinagar (65 km) for the return journey
Enquire now for a Detailed Itinerary or mail us at care@wildfloc.com.