The scenic beauty that the Kashmir Great Lakes trek possesses is something that the world cannot afford to miss. This breathtaking trail is known to be one of the most beautiful treks in India and rightly so. The magnificent views of the green mountains, blue skies along with various Snowy, breathtaking views makes this an unforgettable experience.
This trek provides an opportunity to go to places that are quite often concealed and hence Kashmir is always known as "Paradise on Earth". For travel and lake lovers dear should always have it high on their bucket list. The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek makes you experience the exquisite sight of multiple lakes such as the Vishansar, Krishansar, the beautiful Gadsar and beautiful Satsar.
A lot of times in the case of first time trekkers, one sees them getting excessively bothered regarding proper planning of the trek. But worry not, since this guide is the one stop solution for all the information you seek regarding Kashmir Great Lakes trek itinerary, necessary items to carry, and much more. Whether you are an experienced traveler or are traveling for the first time, this guide will be helpful in knowing everything, defining the parameters accordingly. It is best to hurry.
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek's Itinerary
DAY 1: Reaching Base Camp – Driving from Srinagar to Sonmarg
The trip to Kashmir starts after you drive from Srinagar to your first trip destination, the point from where your trekking journey begins. In just three hours, the car ride offers an entertaining sight of snow capped peaks, tranquil streams and typical Kashmiri houses. The plentiful nature really comes to amazement, more so after getting out from the hustling crowded bazaars of the city. The Sonmarg or the ‘The Meadow of Gold’, which is encircled by tall broads and green pastures, is said to be a place that is free from human interference.The wonderful weather after such scenery is sure to revive everyone’s spirit.
On reaching Sonmarg, you proceed to get accommodation in the campsite that has got plenty for comfortable accommodation. The evening can be spent while having appetizing dinner at the campsite and walking around appreciating nature. Such quietness is just what one needs after which one can sit by with a view whilst preparing one self for the trek tomorrow. Before moving onto the soft embrace of the tents, just tilt your head back and behold the beautiful stars scattered throughout the sky.
Day 2: Trekking from Sonamarg to Nichnai through Shekdur
After having breakfast at the campsite, begin your trek by heading to Nichnai, which is the next campsite on the route. The first part of the trek commences gently through maples and pine trees jungles while birds chirp pleasantly, in the cool breeze. Moving on, the trail starts to descend into wide fields layer of meadows at Shekdur where the valley can be seen from these elevated areas.
After Shekdur, there is a gradual gain of 600 feet intending towards Nichnai pass, whose altitude is 13000 feet. Moving from Shekdur through the pass was not hard, there are lovely views of numerous sceneries including the desert ridges, other mountain ranges, glaciers and snow capped ranges, which will make your effort seem worth it. You can rest for a short while and enjoy the view before beginning your descent.
Day 3: Trek from Nichnai to Vishnusar
In today's trek, it is described as one of the most exceptional because you move between Nichnai and Vishnusar, which is over a distance of 12 kms in roughly 7 hours. The beginning of the voyage involves an ascent atop the spectacular Vishansar Valley bordered by towering mountains and lush green meadows. During the journey, there are multiple small clear water springs you will come across and at certain locations, you will be treated to stunning scenery of the several waterfalls that enhance the charm of the valley.
The Vishnusar Lake is about 13,020 feet above sea level and the rough terrain approaches the lake. The site of the lake, majestically located amidst snow capped mountain regions, can be said to be most enchanting. From this spot, one can replenish enough and capture stunning landscapes with the camera.
Wherever you are, get to a spot from where you are able to see the lake and settle down for a while. The beauty while the sun shines is really such that it makes you want to go to the lakeside to view the beauty there and also to bask in the warmth of the sun. Finally, have a sit down at your camp, in the open and have to make a simple hot meal before sleeping.
DAY 4: Trek from Vishnusar (12,011 ft) to Gadsar via Gadsar Pass (13,850 ft)
Your today’s hike will start from Vihnusar Lake and Gadsar Lake is situated at a much broader area. This body of water is a high altitude lake and has many stunning views as well. First, let us start at the Gadsar Pass, which is about 13850 feet above sea level, so expect a constant upward movement from here. The trek is quite lengthy however, the breathtaking views at every curve and height compensate for the length and duration. While approaching a pass, the sights of a deep valley surrounded by towering mountains are visible.
Upon reaching the Gadsar Pass, there is a brief climb that comes as a reward because you get to see striking snow-covered outlines of the angles of the almighty mountains against the gentle fuzziness of emerging alpine medows and valleys. So, now seems to be pictorial views for such wonders. This will be followed a sharp dip, that takes us down towards the Gadsar Lake.
In the same breath as the scenery shifting during a journey to Gadsar Lake, the Lake in addition with its’ two summits are equally wonderful. Set up a camp at the periphery of the lake, so the patrons would be able to relax for a while and enjoy the quietness of the surroundings. An evening is suitable for touristic activities, or even more simply, gazing at the lake in one of the peaceful and pretty locations of the hills. After the trekking over the day, gather around the bonfire and have a decent meal before lying down to rest.
Day 5 : Moving from Gadsar (12,011 ft) to Satsar (12,100 ft)
The breathtaking valleys, the ridges, and altogether the scenery of this place never ceases to amaze, as you will witness while leaving Gadsar Lake and moving towards Satsar. While the green meadows are dotted with numerous wild flowers one cannot help but be amazed at the sight it brings. Bubbly brooks offer not only a breathtaking sight but also relief to the ears while the pine trees break the monotony of the dense forest cover. It will not be difficult to deduce that the present geography is the most striking feature of the memories forged during this odyssey.
The pathway is a slight incline and after some time you shall find yourself at the Satsar Pass which is an effortless peak (12000 ft) and provides probably the most mesmerizing sight of Satsar Lakes. The pass presents a captivating view of the mists and snow covered mountains fitted perfectly as a picture with the residing lakes. Make sure to prepare yourself to be dulled by the amount of beauty the views serve you.
Satsar Lakes offers an epic view, feeling reminiscent of paradise when one sees the place, so try every bit to enjoy the view before heading down. Set up a tent beside the lake and take in the silence and untouched smell of nature. This is a great time to take a long walk around the locality or just stay still and do nothing. The day is well concluded with a blissful dinner in the camp after enjoying an overwhelming day filled with sights of nature's beauty.
Day 6: Satsar to Gangabal Lake through Satsar Pass
The highlights of this day’s hike are the Zajibal Pass along with numerous other panoramic vistas situated at around 13400 feet in elevation, altogether with the other breathtaking sights it makes this section of the trek the best and most enjoyable. With all these features, Zajibal Pass and central
The feed attributes described in earlier paragraphs acts an ideal starting point for our trek as we would complete the day by trekking through the Zajibal pass descending to Lake gangbal, which is described as a cradle of a vast variety of flowers. Retracement In the same way trekking back towards base camp and nourishment would mark the end of this fantastic trek.
The pass is succeeded by a vertical slope which leads to viewing the glorious Gangabal Lake which is placed at the awe-inspiring height of 11,651 feet and is surrounded by great mountains. It goes without saying that the peace surrounding the area increases as one nears the lake itself. With this in mind, folk pitch tents on or about these shores, take it easy after a long day of trekking while gazing at the stupendous sights the place offers. Evening provides sufficient time to do more exploring, some more relaxing and then, enjoy a good meal for dinner by the lakeside.
Day 7: Gangbal to Naranag via Points – and Drive to Srinagar
Gangabal Lake marks the conclusion of the trek and therefore Naranag's descent starts on day 9. Our first task of the day is to climb to Trunkhol pass which is quite a tough one at 12000 ft. The picturesque view from the pass makes one forget about the arduous trek that was needed to get there. The other expected views consist of green meadows interspersed with wildflower plants that the trek passes through providing very soothing surroundings.
Naranag which is well renowned for its beauty and cool temperature is located at an altitude of 7,450 ft. As one commutes towards Naranag one gets a feel of change in the environment as it becomes greener and has trees. The splendour of the views from Naranag makes the trek pleasant and easy. Apart from the splendid views, strong Kashmiri traditions such as terraced farming and wooden architecture are also seen after crossing the milestones of Naranag.
The return trip from Naranag to Srinagar, which is roughly 50 km away, should be remarkable and take close to 2 hours. Along those same lines, look back on all the sights you’ve encountered throughout the journey and marvel at it all. Your trek comes to a close at Srinagar and Srinagar is indeed quite a lovely city. You may get ready to sit back and relax for a while, wander across the city one last time, or grab a final delicious meal in Kashmir.
Best Time to Visit Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
The Great Lakes trek, the most beautiful trek in the entire Himalayan region, is full of beautiful alpine mountains. The best time to go on trekking is ideally between July and September, during the monsoons when the vegetation is replenished and the streams flow through the valleys. June, July, and August are ideal months because the freak weather warns of the snow which unveils the green meadows with valleys which melt treeless yellow, red, orange and blue flowers that are so beautiful to ignore.
The wildlife and majestic views of nature perfect the display throughout Kashmir offering temperatures of at least 15°- 20°C. So expect stunning weather in month of July with mountain slopes fully decorated in bright exotic flowers, Kashmir being the centerpiece, ideal for those who love photography as every piece of art grabs beauty itself.
Trekking in Kashmir lets one unveil exposure to the mountain pass and advanced solar systems at the end of month August. The month of September is where clear cuts of green peaks surrounding Kashmir become visible that are breathtakingly awe inspiring to the eyes of anyone who gazes upon them.
The frequent downpours can to an extent cancel out the enjoyment of the trekking experience, which is why carrying a waterproof trekking shoe or boot covering the shaft is necessary.
The snow and hail not only bring a dip in the temperature but makes the facility hard to use due access being blocked by the one meter tall walls of snow. So, regulated showing during winter months is a good look.
While the months of spring and the early summer can be visually appealing they do not have the lively beauty that the monsoons offer to people making the period from July to September the most ideal time for all the people who wish to step out to explore the beauty of nature.
Trekking Essentials for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
1. Clothing and Boots
- Don’t forget to add a base layer that’s moist-wicking, an insulated jacket, as well as a waterproof layer, to be equipped for the sudden change in weather.
- Sturdy and comfortable trekking boots with firm grip are essential to walking on rugged terrain.
- Make sure to pack thermal inner wears, gloves and a cap so that you aren’t cold at night.
2. Trekking Equipment
- A waterproof durable bag for all the valuables to keep them safe.
- Trekking sticks for easier climbing and decent on steep gaps.
- A forming bag and inflatable tent if the trekking management doesn't provide them.
3. Safety and Other Items
- An antiseptic, band-aids, and other medications are the most common items found in a first-aid kit.
- If you wish to travel or go out for an adventure, or are just thirsty, make sure to fill up your bottle with purified water or pop a purification tablet into your blender.
- Nuts, dry fruits, and energy bars are good sources of energy which a trekker can consume while trekking.
Always remember to traverse through minimal items but if you don't wish to go on a camping trip and rather want to go to Kashmir Great Lakes then remember to pack all the things needed to make your experience smooth and safe.
Key Highlights of the Kashmir Great lake trek
These mentioned features give the Kashmir Great Lakes trek a pleasing feeling to mother nature and adventure seeking people.
Beautiful Upstream Lakes: It is a wonder to behold the seven uncut gems of lakes including Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangbal, this noble sight is completed by the snow-covered mountains and the lush green meadows.
Green Meadows and Scenic Views: Walk across meadows like Nichnai and Gadsar that are filled with beautiful wildflowers and offer some of the most pleasing and satisfying views for the eyes and soul.
Exciting and exhilarating Mountain Crossings: Cross over the High End of passes like the Gadsar Pass standing at over 13,750 feet as it brings the trekkers beautiful sites of the Himalayan range.
Challenges and Tips for Trekking the Kashmir Great Lakes trek
If you are well-prepared, it will help you in making the Kashmir Great Lakes trekking adventure both safe and enjoyable.
High Altitude and the Adaption Process
Challenge: The trek goes as high as above 4000 meters where high altitude sickness can easily set in.
Tip: You can avoid this by hydrating properly, doing not ascend too quickly, and carrying drugs like Diamox if need be.
Trekking where weather is not well defined
Challenge: Out of the blue it could rain, or there could be strong winds or it could be freezing temperatures which is quite a challenge to the trek.
Tip: It is also recommended to use layered clothing to include waterproof and hardy rain jackets so you can withstand any type of weather.
Varied Landscapes and Strength
Challenge: Good endurance is necessary as the trek requires steep climbs, rough terrains, and a lot of walking over an extended period of time.
Tip: Start some cardio and strength training, so that you will be prepared for the trek at least a month before. When heading out for the trek always carry trekking poles to lean on for support.
Conclusion
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is one of the most captivating expeditions, where you will witness glimmering lakes, rich green pastures and impressive mountains. From demanding landscapes to never seen before experiences, it is an amusement like never experienced before. It is one such experience which will definitely leave you in awe, if you plan properly, and pack the right trekking gear.
Ready to take the adventure? From towering snow peaks to thick jungles, let the Himalayan Daredevils guide you through an exhilarating trip with all the dependable assistance for a secure and unforgettable adventure. Pack your bags and start on this adventure and let Kashmir’s beauty enchant you!
