Introduction
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most beautiful treks in India. Unquestionably. It validates Kashmir’s legendary reputation as “heaven on Earth.”
This is because the journey is set on a larger-than-life canvas. It’s 75 kilometers northeast of Srinagar. Every day brings a new panorama of wild, rugged mountains, rolling meadows, and turquoise alpine lakes. And you get to visit more than seven of these lakes, as well as five distinct valleys!
The varied terrain makes it a six-day moderate-difficult trek, it is not appropriate for a first-time high-altitude trekker.
The following are some quick facts about the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:
Hiking distance of 72 kilometers
13800 feet is the highest point.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Temperatures range from 17°C to 20°C during the day to 3°C to 4°C at night ( Min. During Night Time)
The months of July to September are ideal for a Kashmir Great Lake Trek.
Itinerary –
DAY 1
Trek from Shitkadi to Nichnai
Trek length: 11.6 kilometres | Trek duration: 6.5 hours | Altitude gain: 7,780 feet to 11,838 feet
A moderate climb of about 3 hours with a combination of moderate to steep ascent through the pine and maple forest section. Following that is a descent through a river valley. The final two hours are spent trekking up to Nichnai’s campsite.
DAY 2
Nichnai to Vishnu Star Trek
13.5 km trek | 7 hours trek | 11,838 feet elevation gain to 12,011 feet
A moderate day that starts with a gradual ascent and ends with an hour-long ascent to the pass. Descended for about an hour before descending to the campsite on a flat path.
DAY 3
Trek Length: 16 km | Trek Time: 7.5 hours | Altitude Gain: 12,011 feet to 12,200 feet via 13,850 feet
A moderately difficult day that starts with a steep ascent to Gadsar Pass and ends with a steep descent before easing into a longer walk through the meadows.
DAY 4
Trek from Gadsar to Satsar
Trek length: 11.5 kilometres | Trek duration: 4.5 hours | Altitude loss: 12,200 feet to 12,100 feet
Another easy day that starts with a steep climb and ends with a level walk. Once you reach the Maengandob plains, the ascent to the Satsar lakes begins.
DAY 5
Trek from Satsar to Gangabal
Trek length: 9 kilometres | Trek duration: 6 hours | Altitude loss: 12,100 feet to 11,651 feet
Difficult day that began with boulder hopping for half an hour, then a 45-minute steep ascent, followed by a steep descent. The trail, as in previous days, ascends and descends throughout.
DAY 6
After trekking from Gangabal to Naranag, drive to Srinagar.
13 km trekking distance | 6 hours trekking time
Drive Duration: 2 hours | Change in altitude: 11,651 feet to 7,450 feet
A moderate day with a mix of ascents and descents until halfway, then a steep descent to Naranag.
Best Time to Visit –
The best time to visit is in June/July. The trek usually begins at the end of June or the beginning of July, depending on snow conditions. In the beginning, trekkers will encounter a lot of snow on high passes and clear/dry campsites. It’s an excellent time for snow and adventure enthusiasts.
August is the middle of the trekking season, with a little snow on the trails, clear passes, and a plethora of wildflowers around Vishansar and Krishansar lakes.
FAQs-
- What is the temperature like?
Before embarking on a trek, weather and temperature are two of the most important factors to consider.
The Pir Panjal mountain range casts a rain shadow over Kashmir. As a result, Kashmir experiences mild rainfall during this period (July to August).
It is peak summer when we begin the Kashmir Great Lakes trek in July. The plains of Srinagar can be hot (between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius), but the mountains are cool. When the sun is directly overhead during the day, it can be extremely harsh. Temperatures in the high camps range from 5 to 8° C in the evenings and at night.
- What documents should I bring with me to the Kashmir Great Lakes trek?
When it comes to Kashmir Great Lakes FAQs, we want you to be completely prepared, including what documents you’ll need to bring on the trek.
Your government ID proof (for example, Aadhaar/Passport/License/) in original and three photocopies. Driver’s In order for your trekking permit to be issued, this must be submitted to the Forest Department.
three to four passport-sized photocopies
Certificate of Medical Fitness (will be shared with you post-registration)
Bond of indemnity (will be shared with you post-registration)
- Which hospital is the most convenient along the route?
In the event of a medical emergency, the nearest hospital is located near Sonamarg, at Baltal or Kangan. If you require urgent medical attention, you should travel to Srinagar.
Ph: (0194) 2455130, (0194) 2455119, Khyber Hospital, Srinagar Florence
Hospital can be reached at (0194) 2440860 or (0194) 2440760 in Srinagar.
- What safeguards will be put in place if it rains during the trek?
If it begins to rain during the trek, we will stay on the planned route. Wearing a poncho to protect yourself from the rain is a good idea. Carry a backpack cover to protect your belongings and the contents of your backpack. The dining tent, toilet tent, and stay tent, on the other hand, are all water-resistant and will keep you dry.
- What other treks should I consider in addition to the Great Lakes Trek in Kashmir?
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek, which explores the stunning lakes near Sonamarg, is a spiritual experience in and of itself. However, there are numerous other treks in Kashmir that will allow you to experience the enigmatic beauty of Kashmir’s valleys and meadows. Tarsar-Marsar Trek, Hampta Pass, and Valley of Flowers are all great alternatives to the Great Lakes Trek in Kashmir. For experienced trekkers, the Pin Babha Pass trek is an exciting option.
