Overview

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a stunning high-altitude trek located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful treks in the Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of pristine alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and dense forests.

The trek takes you through some of the most picturesque locations in the Kashmir Valley, including Nichnai Pass, Vishansar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Satsar Lake, and Gangbal Lake. The trail is surrounded by towering peaks such as Kolhoi Peak, Harmukh Peak, and Gadsar Peak, which provide a dramatic backdrop to the trek.

The trek is a moderate to challenging level trek, with an average altitude of 11,000 feet above sea level. The total distance covered during the trek is approximately 72 kilometers, and it takes around 7-9 days to complete the entire trek, depending on the route taken.

The best time to undertake this trek is during the months of July to September, when the weather is favorable and the views are at their best. The temperature during the day ranges between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, while at night, it can drop to as low as 3 to 5 degrees Celsius.

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a perfect combination of adventure and natural beauty, and it is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. It is a must-do for all trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers who are looking for an off-beat trekking experience in the Himalayas.

Why our trek starts on Monday?

Kashmir Great Lakes have become a very popular now days and many trekkers are challenging themselves to complete this most beautiful trek. Because of this its becoming crowded and to avoid this crowd Mountainfit starts the trek on a weekday and ends the trek on a weekday. Due to this we are sure that our trekkers will get more empty routes and no long queues on Gadsar Pass.

In addition, trekking on weekdays also means that our trekkers will have more flexibility in their travel plans, as weekends tend to be busier and more expensive for travel and accommodation. By starting and ending the trek on weekdays, our trekkers can save money and avoid the crowds, making for a more enjoyable and stress-free experience.

8 Nights 9 Days Available on request Jammu and Kashmir
Highlights
What makes this tour special
  • Beautiful Alpine Lakes: The trek takes you through seven beautiful alpine lakes, each with its distinct color and charm.

  • Picturesque Landscapes: You'll see some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas, including meadows, forests, and snow-clad peaks.

  • High Mountain Passes: The trek involves crossing several high mountain passes, including Gadsar Pass, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Local Culture: You'll get to interact with the friendly and hospitable people of Kashmir and learn about their culture and way of life.

  • Wildlife: The trek takes you through some of the most pristine forests and is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and snow leopard.

  • Adventure Activities: You can indulge in adventure activities like camping, trekking, and fishing during the trek.

Dates and Rates
date & duration price
  • Sorry no more departures available. You could get in touch with us at bookings@mountainfit.in if you'd like to make a booking.
  • Itinerary

    Day 1: Assemble at Hotel New Park, near Ghat No 9, Dal Lake till 12.00 pm and transfer to Gagangir close to Sonmarg (2800m, 87kms). It is a scenic journey from Srinagar to Gagangir having a splendid mix of grasslands, scattered forests and snow blanketed mountains. Overnight stay in guest house/camp.

    Day 2: Trek from Sitkari village to Nichnai (3505m, 13kms) The trek begins with a climb towards the Nichnai campsite on a route lined with Maple and Pine trees. The highlight of the day's trek is the enchanting view of Sonmarg, Thajwas glacier and the sprawling glaciers surrounding Sonmarg. The day ends after we descend into the Nichnai grazing ground (Shepherd's valley) through a Silver Birch forest. Overnight stay in tents.

    Day 3: Trek from Nichnai to the Vishansar lake(3657m,15kms) Today's trek comprises of a steep and grueling ascent to cross the Nichnai pass standing tall at 4080m and a descent towards the Vishansar & Kishansar lakes and into the Vishansar campsite. Visit the Vishansar Lake situated 500 metres from the campsite. Nothing we can say or write can prepare you for the breathtaking splendour of the alpine high altitude lake. The lake's waters are crystal clear and change colour as the day progresses, despite being surrounded by mountains and being difficult to access. Sitting by the lake, listening to the lapping sounds of the water and taking in the picturesque splendour is bound to make you feel revitalised. Overnight stay in tents.

    Day 4: Trek from Vishansar lake to Gadsar lake(4191m,16 kms) The day begins with a  250-meter climb to the Kishansar lake, about 1/2-kilometer from the Vishansar lake. Despite their near proximity, the twin lakes can only be seen from the top of Gadsar pass. Getting to the Gadsar pass at 4191m is a difficult effort that will tax your legs and back. The breathtaking views at the top of the pass, however, more than help compensate for all of the work. To get to Gadsar Lake, descend from the pass through level meadows covered with beautifully colourful wildflowers. Tents were used for the night.

    Day 5: Trek from Gadsar lake to Mengandob/Satsar lake(3600m, 12km) Early in the morning, we face yet another two-hour tough climb up into the Mengandob plains. We continue on our journey, passing through an army base and approaching the Satsar lakes. Satsar Lakes is a cascade of seven lakes. In the summer and autumn, some of these lakes, which are fed by melting snow, dry up. Overnight stay in tents.

    Day 6: Trek from Satsar lakes to Gangbal twin lakes (3505m, 10kms) Today will be physically and mentally demanding as you negotiate rugged and boulder-infested terrain, cross a few ridges, and climb mountains to reach a ridge at 3570m for a break. We then climb higher to reach the final ridge at 3000 metres. The twin lakes of Gangbal and Nundkol can be seen from here. Following there is a steep rocky descent with a few ups and downs before entering verdant meadows that lead to Nundkol and Gangbal lakes. Overnight stay in tents.

    Day 7: Rest day/Adjustment Day. Today you get to rest by the lakes, explore the neighbouring meadows, take in the breathtaking mountain scenery, learn a few local legends about the lakes, swap travel stories, meditate, practise photography, and do whatever it takes to calm your soul. This day can also be utilised as a make-up day if the weather turns bad and the team needs to stay an extra night at one of the prior campsites. Overnight stay in tents.

    Day 8: Trek from Gangbal twin lakes to Naranag (11kms) – Srinagar. On the last day, we hike past a tree line, through some grassy plains, and into the pine forest. For around 6-7 kilometres, follow the woodland line towards Naranag settlement. We travel to Srinagar for a night's stay after arriving in Naranag.Overnight stay at Srinagar in Hotel/Houseboat.

    Day 9: Trek Ends: It's time to say your goodbyes to your fellow trekkers and continue on your way back home.

    Inclusions/Exclusions

    What is included in the tour

    • Transport support from Hotel Newpark, Srinagar to Hotel Newpark, Srinagar.
    • All meals starting Gagangir (Sonmarg) to Gangbal Camp.
    • Professional guide, cook and support staff.
    • Clean sleeping bags and mattress
    • Good quality ‘A’ shaped or dome tents
    • Kitchen tents, common tents, toilet tents with portable toilet seats
    • Forest entry charges for Indian nationals. For non-Indian passport holders, there will be an additional charge
    • Porter and mule support to carry camping equipment and NOT personal luggage
    • Tented accommodation throughout the trek on sharing basis.
    • Accommodation on Twin / Triple Sharing Basis
    • All applicable taxes

    What is NOT included in the tour

    • Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
    • Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above
    • Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions
    • Cost of Sightseeing, Shopping and etc.
    • Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, road blocks etc.
    • Mule charges to carry personal luggage can be arranged at an additional cost of INR 350 per day (1 soft bag per person < 12 kg)
    • Personal Porter/Mule charges to carry personal luggage Rs 1200 per day.
    • Airport Drop on Day 8.
    Pickup point
    Directions.
    Jammu and Kashmir View on Map
    Things to carry

    Basic Gear :

    Back pack & rain cover

    (40 - 50 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps) (can be rented from Mountainfit)

    Day pack + rain cover

    10 - 20 ltr (If you hire a mule or porter and also for Summit day)

    Walking stick

    Advisable (At least one) ) (can be rented from Mountainfit)

    Head torch

    1 Nos. ) (can be rented from Mountainfit)

    Water bottle/Hydration pack

    2 bottles of one litre each

       

    Snacks

    Energy bars, dry fruits, electoral/ors

    Personal Medical Kit

    Consult your doctor

     

    Clothing :

    T-shirts

    2 to 3 (Dri Fit Preferred)

    Full T-shirts

    1 Nos.

    Fleece jacket

    1 Nos. (Alternative: a woollen sweater)

    Down feather / Hollofil jacket

    1 Nos.  (can be rented from Mountainfit)

    Wind & waterproof (jacket & pant)

    1 Pair

    Thermal inners (upper and lower)

    1 Pair

    Trek pants

    2 Synthetic (avoid shorts, fitting denims, capris)

    Poncho (Rain Protection)

    1 Nos. ) (can be rented from Mountainfit)

    Personal Utilities :

    Sunscreen cream

    Hand sanitizer

    Moisturiser

    Antibacterial powder

    Toilet Paper & wipes

    Toothbrush and toothpaste

    Lip balm

    Quick dry towel

    Sun cap

    1 Nos.

    Woollen cap

    1 Nos.

    Buff / Bandana

    1 Nos.

    Sunglasses

    U/V protected advisable.

    Protect your feet :

    Trekking shoes

    1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle with good grip)

    Floaters/flip-flops

    1 Pair (Very useful to roam around camp).

    Cotton socks

    4 pairs

    Woollen socks

    2 pairs

    Gaiters and Crampons

    1 Pair (MountainFit team will notify you if required)

     

    Protect your hands :

    Waterproof gloves

    1 Pair

    Fleece/woollen gloves

    1 Pair

     

    Few Important Tips:

    • Dress in layers: Carry at least 3 layers at the trek.  Weather is quite unpredictable so we need to keep ourselves warm. Keep it simple, but warm enough. Pack your backpack as per provided Trek essential list.
    • Thermos Flask (1ltr) is very important on winter trek as water in normal bottle freezes due to severe temperature.
    • Do not carry any precious items like jewellery at the trek. Mountainfit Team will not be responsible for loss of damage of such items.
    • Carry extra plastic bags for wet clothes/garbage/etc. “DO NOT LITTER THE TRAIL, KEEP IT CLEAN”
    • Drone and satellite phone is not allowed so please don’t bring any