Kashmir Great Lakes
Srinagar
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is undoubtedly known as one of the most picturesque treks in India, covering a total distance of 74 km and reaching altitudes from 7,800 ft to 13,750 ft. This Trek offers breathtaking beauty, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Starting from Sonamarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold'' in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Trek takes you through a captivating journey. As you ascend, you'll encounter majestic glaciers, rugged mountain passes, and the ethereal beauty of alpine lakes. Each lake, such as Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangbal, reflects the surrounding peaks like a mirror, creating surreal landscapes that are both awe-inspiring and unforgettable.
The Trek provides a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, with lush meadows adorned with wildflowers and expansive grasslands that stretch as far as the eye can see. Trekkers are treated to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including the towering Mount Harmukh. The journey is not just about the destination but the immersive experience of trekking through varied terrains, from verdant valleys to rocky trails and serene lake shores.
It offers an unparalleled trekking experience that leaves a lasting impression on every adventurer. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner, this Trek promises an unforgettable adventure through one of India's most picturesque regions.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is undoubtedly known as one of the most picturesque treks in India, covering a total distance of 74 km and reaching altitudes from 7,800 ft to 13,750 ft. This Trek offers breathtaking beauty, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Starting from Sonamarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold'' in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Trek takes you through a captivating journey. As you ascend, you'll encounter majestic glaciers, rugged mountain passes, and the ethereal beauty of alpine lakes. Each lake, such as Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangbal, reflects the surrounding peaks like a mirror, creating surreal landscapes that are both awe-inspiring and unforgettable.
The Trek provides a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, with lush meadows adorned with wildflowers and expansive grasslands that stretch as far as the eye can see. Trekkers are treated to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including the towering Mount Harmukh. The journey is not just about the destination but the immersive experience of trekking through varied terrains, from verdant valleys to rocky trails and serene lake shores.
It offers an unparalleled trekking experience that leaves a lasting impression on every adventurer. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner, this Trek promises an unforgettable adventure through one of India's most picturesque regions.
You are expected to assemble at the Sitkari village(3km fromSonmarg) by 6pm.To reach Sitkari,take a shared taxi from the Srinagar Tourist Reception Center at the latest by 2 pm .
Travelmite can also arrange for taxis on request and trekker expense to pick you from the Srinagar TRC and drop you at Sitkari. Please let us know during registration if you would like to opt for the pick-up service. It is a scenic drive from Srinagar to Sitkari and has a wondertul mix of grasslands ,
scattered forests and snow covered mountains.
Overnight stay in tents.
Begin early morning and start ascending towards the Shok- dhari campsite on a Mapleand Pine tree lined route. Enjoy beautiful views of Sonmarg and the glaciers en route and from the campsite.
Descend into the Nichnai grazing ground (Shepherd's valley). through a Silver Birch forest.
Overnight stay in tents.
Today's trek will comprise o f a steep and grueling ascent to cross the Nichnai p a s s standing tall a t 4080m and a descent towards the Vishansar & Kishansar lakes and into the Vishansar campsite.
Visit the Vishansar lake situated 1km from the campsite. Nothing that we say or write can prepare you for the beauty of the alpine high altitude lake. Surrounded by mountains and being hard to access, the waters of the lake are crystal lear and change color a s the day proceeds.
You are guaranteed to start feeling rejuvenated just sitting by the lake and listening to the lapping sounds of the water and soaking in the scenic beauty.
Overnight stay in tents.
Trek up 250m to the Krishansar lake which is about 1/2km from the Vishansar lake.
Despite being close in distance, the twin lakes can be seen together only from the top at Gadsar pass.
Getting to the Gadsar pass at 4191m is no easy task and is going to take atoll on your legs and back. However, the scintil- lating views at the top of the pass more than compensate ror it.
From the pass, descent into fl a t meadows covered with brightly colored wildflowers to reach t h e Gadsar Lake.
Overnight stay in tents.
Today, you begin with a two-hour steep climb up the mountains to enter into flatlands known a s Mengandob.
Trek ahead, crossing an army camp, to the Satsar lakes. The Satsar lakes are a collection of 7 lakes in a cascade formation.
Fed by melting snow, a couple of these lakes dry up in summer and autumn.
Overnight stay in tents.
You will be physically and mentally challenged today as you cross rocky and boulder ridden terrain, cross few ridges and Climb Mountains to arrive for a break on a ridge at 3570m.
After a quick break, keep going up to reach the final ridge at 3000m.
From here, you can view the twin lakes of Gangbal and Nundkol.
What follows is a steep rocky descent, few ups and downs, and entry into green meadows which lead to the Nundkol lake and Gangbal lake.
Overnight stay in tents.
Today you get to relax by the lakes, explore surrounding meadows, soak in the magnificent mountainscape, uncover a few local legends about the lakes, share travel stories, meditate, exercise your photography skills and do anything that soothes your soul (without disturbing others trekkers/nature)
Overnight stay in tents.
On the final day,we trek past a treeline,some grassy lands and towards the pine forest cover. Follow the forest line for about 6-7kms and descend into the Naranag village.
For people opting homestay at Naranag at an additional cost, you will be provided lunch on arrival, Once you are refreshed you could explore the Naranag Temple built by Lalitaditya Muktapida during Karkota Dynasty till evening.
Day 9 check out after breakfast for people opting Naranag stay.
Cabs can be arranged on request and trekker expense to take you to Srinagar from the village.Please let us know during registration if you would like to opt for the dropped service to Srinagar.
For people opting houseboat at Srinagar at an additional cost, you will have to board taxi(own expense) to Srinagar after the trek and reach Srinagar houseboat by evening, Dinner and breakfast provided at houseboat, Day 9 checkout after breakfast.
1. Accommodation - Stay at a guest house/homestay/ swiss tents/ dome tents during the
trek as per the sharing pattern/occupancy opted.
2. Meals - All meals from your arrival to departure from the base camp are included
(Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Hi-Tea with Snacks, and Dinner). We provide simple, nutritious yet tasty vegetarian meals on all days of the trek.
3. Permit/Charges - Cost of all trekking permits, forest &camping charges are included. Charges
of the porters, helpers, mules, trekking leaders, and guides are included.
4. Trekking equipment - High-quality tents, sleeping bags, ice axes, ropes, microspikes, gaiters, etc. as required are provided.
5. Safety equipment - First aid medical kits, oxygen cylinders, etc. will be available at all campsites to deal with emergencies.
6. Porters, Mules, and helpers shall accompany us during the trek to carry the common load
such as gas cylinders, tents, sleeping bags, toilet tents, etc.
1.Anything not specified in the Inclusions section
2. Additional Meals unless specified
3. Transport unless specified
4. Air Fare / Train/ Bus Tickets
5. Travel Insurance
6. Additional expenditure a n d Extra Services if taken
7. Any expense incurred or loss caused by reasons beyond our control such as bad
weather, natural calamities(landslides, floods), flight delays /rescheduling/cancellations, any accidents/ medical evacuations, riots/strikes/war/pandemic, etc.
8. GST(Goods &Service Tax) at the rate of 5%.
FITNESS/ DIFFICULTY
A high altitude trek in the Himalayas requires substantial fitness. Your body needs to train itself
to tolerate more work with lower levels of oxygen. Therefore, on treks, cardiovascular training is essential.
As a measure of your fitness, we require you to be able to run at least 5 km in 40 minutes by the
time your trek starts. fI you are 45 years or above, try to cover 5 km in 50 minutes. This is a minimum
requirement.
If you prefer cycling over running, then try to cover 20 km in 60 minutes.
Unable to perform the same can make your trek difficult. Trekkers who have not adequately prepared might be asked not to continue the trek at any point.
The team of Travelmite has the right to reject trekkers who do not meet our eligibility
requirements at the base camp.
PAYMENT POLICY
CONFIRMATION POLICY
REFUND POLICY
The best time is from late June to early September when the weather is stable and the trails are accessible.
It is of moderate difficulty, requiring good physical fitness and acclimatization to high altitudes.
Trek covers approximately 74 km.
Trek ranges from 7,800 ft to 13,750 ft.
You need a trekking permit, which can be obtained from local authorities or through your trekking agency.
# Essential gear includes: - Sturdy hiking boots. - Waterproof clothing. - A warm jacket. - A comfortable backpack. - Trekking poles. - A first aid kit.
Consult a doctor before trekking, carrying the necessary medications, and being aware of altitude sickness symptoms.
You need to obtain permits from the local authorities or the tourism department for trekking in the Kashmir region.
The base camp for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is usually Sonamarg, which can be reached from Srinagar by road.
Yes, the trek is generally considered safe, but it's essential to follow the guidelines of the trek given by the guides.
The trek is graded as moderate to difficult due to the high altitudes and rough terrains encountered during the journey.
You should wear comfortable trekking clothes, and it's essential to layer up as the weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
The terrain includes meadows, rocky paths, river crossings, and steep ascents and descents.
Wildlife encounters are rare, but it's essential to take precautions and follow safety guidelines to avoid any mishaps.
Mobile network connectivity is limited during the trek, and it's advisable to inform your family and friends before starting the trek.
Basic medical facilities are available at some points, but carrying a personal first aid kit is recommended.
Yes, acclimatization is necessary, especially when you reach higher altitudes to avoid altitude sickness.
In case of emergencies, helicopters can be arranged for evacuation from certain points on the trek.
It's better to avoid drinking water directly from the lakes and streams. Use water purification tablets or filters.
Nights can be quite cold, and temperatures can drop to sub-zero levels in higher altitudes.
Yes, camping is a significant part of the trek, and you will stay in tents at designated campsites.
Regular cardiovascular exercises, trekking, and hiking practice will help you prepare for the trek.
While it's not mandatory, it's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking and medical emergencies.
We may modify the itinerary or wait for the weather to clear up for safety reasons.
Company Name: company name
Read More