Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Overview:

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is the most popular hiking trail to experience the never-ending beauty of Kashmir region in North India. This high altitude alpine trek is located in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. Alpine lakes are the main attraction during the trek, it passes through some of the most beautiful and huge sized alpine lakes of India like Vishansar, Krishnansar and Gangabal. Kashmiri Hindus associate Vishansar Lake with Lord Vishnu, Krishnansar with Lord Krishna and Gangabal Lake with the holy Ganges which fills spiritual energy from within, also, many yoga practitioners come to this trek to increase their spiritual power. Interestingly, every lake has a unique color and view. Similarly, there are a total of 6 large lakes on the route and that is why this trail path is named "Kashmir Great Lakes Trek". During the trek, one can see alpine lakes as well as shepherd huts, spiritual places around the route, many small water bodies, glaciers, beautiful meadows, mountain peaks and high passes. Trekkers who have traversed this route spoke about the beauty of the trek as per their experience. Shivam, a former trekker of Himalaya Shelter said, “I have done many treks in Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand but this Great Lakes trek in Kashmir turned out to be the best and indeed a great trek because its beauty is something you can’t describe in words, it is all about seeing and capturing it in your heart, that’s all.”

Starting from Sonamarg Basecamp and ending at Naranag, the trail covers a distance of about 75 km. The duration of the trek depends on the itinerary selected by trekkers. Himalaya Shelter provides a safe and perfect itinerary to explore trek very well, which takes 7 days to complete including transport from Srinagar and return to the same point. This trek takes you to a maximum altitude of about 13,800 ft at Gadsar Pass, which is also the most challenging but not technical part of the trek, and safety precautions are potentially necessary at this point. Although Mount Haramukh (5,142 m (16,870 ft)) is the highest mountain peak visible during the trek, and one can see the peak from very close, trekking through the peak is not a part of the trek.

This trek is considered moderate to difficult in terms of difficulty level as it involves daily long distance walking, crossing high altitude passes, several steep ascents and descents, and passing through some rough terrain sections. This is why it is suitable only for experienced trekkers and may be for beginners who have a good level of physical fitness. The trail starts with a gradual climb to the Table Top (one of the few places during the trek where BSNL and Jio networks can be found) and the Nichinai Pass. Throughout the trekking route, trekkers pass through several steep ascents and descents. These multiple ascents and descents reduce the chances of AMS during the trek, as trekkers climb to a top point and then descend to a lower altitude point for night camping, but even then the chances of AMS and breathing problems are not zero. It requires great physical and mental fitness and, therefore, it is important to prepare yourself for the trek at least a month in advance. Also, choosing the right time for the trek can help reduce the difficulty of the trek.

The best time to go on the Trek is during the monsoon months from July to September. Although this may sound unusual, the monsoon is actually the best season to go on this trek. While other regions of India, such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, are almost closed due to heavy rainfall, some areas of Kashmir offer trekkers the inspiration to trek even in the rainy season. The region where the trek is located receives less rainfall and has perfect weather conditions for trekking. This is an ideal time to see the beautiful landscapes of Kashmir, while other areas may be negatively affected by heavy rains and closures.

Due to the difficulty of the route and the requirement of trail permits, it is important to join trekking groups organized by Himalaya Shelter or any other reputed tour operator. We are one of the leading trekking agency in North India which can be clearly seen in the feedback reviews provided to us by our past trekkers. We have expertise in making the adventure more memorable with our good quality services of transportation, accommodation, hygienic food, knowledgeable guides, camping and cooking equipment, safety facilities etc. Apart from this we provide guidance on other essentials required for the trek such as a perfect backpacking, route maps, hiking tips and much more. This Trek is offered by Himalaya Shelter in a package which anyone can complete at an affordable price. One can join our fixed departure groups or create their own dynamic or customized packages to enhance the trekking experience of Kashmir holiday plans. We have expertise in designing the perfect itinerary that aligns with the physical fitness of the trekkers so that trekkers can enjoy the true beauty of the trek and reduce the difficulty as much as possible.

Highlights of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:

Though each day of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a special day in itself, we are defining some of the main attractions during the trek. Here are the alpine lakes, enchanting meadows, mountain peaks and high altitude passes that are located on the trek route.

1. Six or more Alpine Lakes during the Trek:

After crossing the Nichinai pass, beautiful lakes can be seen every day. Vishansar and Krishnansar come after crossing the Nichinai pass, Gadsar and Satsar Lake are visible after crossing the Gadsar pass and Gangbal and Nandkul lakes are visible after crossing the Zaj Pass. Apart from this, many small lakes are visible along with these big lakes.

These lakes are very important for Kashmiri Hindus as well as the shepherds living here, aquatic animals of the lake and wild animals and birds living around. Their water is clean and drinkable. During the night halt, for food and other needs, we supply water from these huge freshwater lakes but without spreading any dirt and pollution. Such a large surface of these lakes presents a beautiful view with beautiful reflections of the surrounding peaks which really captivates the heart of the trekkers. All these lakes change color depending on the sun, clouds and time of the day.

Moreover, all the lakes are surrounded by lush green meadows; hence, it becomes an ideal place for the local shepherds to graze their flock of sheep and goats. Away from the lake we also get to see the camps of the shepherds whose lifestyle makes our trekking experience even better and we understand the difference between camping for a few days and camping for a few months. During winters the lake freezes and when summers and monsoons arrive, the lush green meadows around the lake present a truly amazing sight. At this time the water of the lake becomes clear although some pieces of ice are still seen floating.

All the names of lakes visible during the trek are mentioned below-

1. Vishansar Lake
2. Krishnasar or Kisanasar Lake
3. Gadsar Lake
4. Satsar Lake
5. Gangabal Lake
6. Nundkol Lake

Other Small Lakes:

• Kundan Sar
• Lolgul lake
• Koulsar Lake
• Sarbal Sar
• Posh sar
• Sheera sar

Watch the photographic video to see the scenery around the trail, Vishansar Lake, Krishnasar Lake and Gadar Pass-

2. Experience of crossing 3 high-altitude passes in a single trek:

The passes are some of the main attractions of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek which offers a total of 3 high altitude passes namely Nichinai Pass, Gadsar Pass and Zaj Pass. What makes the experience of these passes wonderful is that each pass has a different view around the trek route and different terrain sections are seen upon crossing them.

1. Nichinai Pass:

   The views from Nichinai Pass are beautiful and there is a well marked route through the table top. Access to the alpine lakes on the trek is possible only after crossing this pass. Trekkers cross the pass on the third day of this trek and enter a wonderful valley which is also known as the Valley of Flowers. While descending towards Vishansar and Krishansar lakes, trekkers will get to see meadows and a variety of blooming flowers in this valley.

2. Gadsar Pass:

   This pass connecting the valley of Vishansar Lake to the valley of Gadsar Lake has a very steep climb. When you reach the top of this tiring climb, it is a reward worth giving as the views of the beautiful mountains all around and the Vishansar and Krishansar or Kisanasar Lake come together. This place provides the most beautiful backdrop of the entire trek for photography and thus becomes a top attraction of this Trek. Moreover, this pass is covered with snow, so most of the trekkers prefer to descend from this pass by sliding on the snow.

3. Zaj Pass:

   Zaj Pass is the last and final pass of the Great Lakes Trek which you will cross with two ascents and two descents. Though it is the shortest and lowest in elevation compared to the previous two, Nichinai and Gadsar, it still holds its importance and also offers a different view compared to the other two passes. Once you reach the top of Zaj Pass you get to see the views of Gangabal Lake and Nund Kol lakes and the peak above Nundkol Lake, Mount Haramukh, which is spectacular.

3. Grasslands of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:

Along with the lakes, the grasslands also add to the beauty of this place. These bugyals are so mesmerizing that you would like to stay there forever under the open sky. These high altitude grasslands add to the beauty of the Great Lakes Trek.

Every day of the Trek, you are going to discover different grasslands of every size and shape. It is so spectacular that trekkers feel more satisfied in capturing these sights with their eyes than with a camera.

There are lush green grasslands, which are green, these are the Sheikhdur grasslands, which are surrounded by Bhoj trees and in some valleys, while crossing the path, you will also find maple and pine trees. This trek lets you explore the vibrant colours of the alpine flora that combined with the crisp mountain air create a calming atmosphere that soothes the soul.

Difficulty level of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a moderate to difficult trek. This trek demands a long day of walking so be prepared mentally as well as physically. You have to cover 75 km in just 7 days. Here are some of the challenges and factors that make it a moderate to difficult trek in terms of difficulty.

• Long Hiking distance in each day (10-12 km on average, 8-9 hrs).

  During the Trek, trekkers have to walk about 12 kms per day, which can be difficult for some trekkers. This long journey feature of this trek is great for experienced trekkers but can be challenging for beginners. This daily long journey cannot be reduced because all the alpine lakes are located at a certain distance from each other and the passes that come during the trekking require almost a full day of hiking program to cross them and rest after that, otherwise more than two days will have to be included to cross each pass and a new alpine lake will be seen every two days. In this case, the total trek duration directly doubles and the total cost of the package will also increase a lot.

• The entire route has several steep ascents and descents.

  In Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, you will be hiking up and down every day. While these ascents and descents help in acclimatization, but the trail takes you to 13,100 ft (Nichinai Pass) on the second day itself which increases the chances of AMS and breathing problems more than acclimatization.

• Crossing three difficult passes.

  Though the passes are naturally ascended and then descended, but these passes during the trek are described separately due to their special nature.

  1. Nichinai Pass (Continuous Ascent):

     The starting point of the Trek is Shitkadi Point located near Sonmarg and from Shitkadi to Nichinai Camp is a 6 to 7 hour trek for acclimatization, however gaining more than 900 m of altitude in a single day may be a bit difficult for beginners. Next day trekkers have to climb up to Nichinai Pass and gain more than 1200 m of altitude in these two days. Some trekkers may be affected by AMS at Nichinai pass but to minimize this effect we do not stay for long at this point and immediately descend down the valley towards Vishansar Lake.

  2. Gadsar Pass (Challenging Climb):

     This is the toughest part of the trek and has to be crossed on the fourth day of the trek. The climb is of about 40 degrees and takes about 2 to 3 hours to cross. This is where the physical fitness of the trekkers is really tested. Also, problems like breathing problems and AMS are most common in this part as trekkers reach a height of 4,210 m. However, by the fourth day you will be acclimatized to a great extent, so there is no need to panic too much.

  3. Zaj Pass (Boulder section with undefined trails):

     This is the second-last day of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. On the way to Zaj Pass, you have to cross boulders, and you will find a 40-minute long section filled with huge boulders. Also, there is no path, so overall it creates a great challenge that can be tiring for some trekkers. It can be even more difficult if you are not at your wits end or are not mentally prepared for it.

Best time to go for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:

Monsoon season is the best time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek as the region receives very minimal amount of rainfall during monsoon season. Here is a detailed description of how this trek will be in different months of monsoon-

• In July:

  Most people prefer to do this Trek in July as it is cloudless and the surroundings are more visible. By July, the snow on the passes melts to a large extent and the valleys below the passes are colourful with a variety of flowers blooming.
  
  

• In August:

  In August it is preferred for those who like to trek with light drizzling rain. By this time, the monsoons have fully arrived in the valley and one can enjoy shower type rains many times during the trek. The surrounding valleys look like a paradise when the blooming flowers and the soft green grasslands are covered with a light mist and you will be so excited to see this that you will start thinking of staying here for a longer time. You will find some frozen pieces of ice in the lakes. The mountains and lakes naturally look very dramatic at this time.

• In September:

  If you go for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek in the month of September, then you are probably one of those trekkers who love to enjoy the clear blue skies, cool weather and the spectacular reflection of the mountains in the lakes. In this month, the clouds clear and you can see the reflection of the clear sky in the lakes, which makes the lakes even more clear and sparkling. The whole view will make you feel refreshed and prove to be heart touching. Though the trek is open only till mid-September, after that the snow starts falling on the passes, making the trail almost impossible for mules to walk on, the supplies of logistics and camping equipment are carried through these mules.

How to Reach the Base camp of Kashmir Great Lakes trek?

• By Flight: The closest airport for the trek is Srinagar International Airport which is popularly called Sheikh ul-Alam Airport. Srinagar Airport connectivity is not restricted to local flights but also gets routes from major cities of India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore among others. From the airport you can take a taxi or hack-metered taxi, or a pre-arranged shuttle service, depending on your budget, to reach Sonamarg, which is 80 kilometers away. Srinagar Airport to Sonamarg trip over the road takes around 3–4 hours to cover (depends on traffic and weather conditions).
• By Road: Sonamarg is accessible by road from Srinagar, which is approximately 80 km away. Either you have to drive to Sonamarg yourself or hire a taxi from Srinagar. This route offers scenic views of Kashmir Valley and usually takes about 3 to 4 hours to the basecamp of the Great Lakes Trek, depending on the kind of road conditions
• by Train: The nearest railway station from Kashmir Great Lakes is the Jammu Tawi Railway Station, located in Jammu well know for his name Jammu Tawi, and well-connected to major cities across India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and others. From Jammu, you can either take a direct bus or taxi to the basecamp of the trek.

Weather During the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:

In July, you will be able to observe how the trek is its best. Moreover, you can see the snow still at the higher sides of the mountains, but at the same time, you will be able to see the meadows at the fullest bloom and the green color here and there. The trek starts in the early July and it is only in this time that the trekkers are able to see snow-covered landscape accompanied with fresh summer flowers as the foreground.

The temperatures during this time are warmer than in August, making the nights more comfortable during camping. By late August, the temperatures begin to drop, and the flowers begin to wither as the cold sets. However, the trek can still continue well into the second week of September before the snow starts to take over the higher reaches again, and winter comes knocking at the doors.

Planning this trek during the right time of the year allows trekkers to enjoy the landscape in its full glory, making it a truly immersive experience.

Safety Factors During the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:

The safety of the Kashmir Great Lake Trek is dependent on a number of factors, including your physical fitness, hiking experience, preparation and so on.

• Physical Fitness:

  It occurs on hard surfaces, across massive rises, and distances ranging from 12 to 15 kilometers every day during the Trek. Take a body test to see if you're quiet enough to handle such obstacles. Exercise and other high-intensity sports may help you increase your fitness Level.

• Altitude Acclimatization:

  The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek reaches elevations of over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), which raises the risk of altitude-related diseases such as  altitude sickness. Proper acclimation is required to reduce these potential risks. Plan your itinerary to include a gradual altitude climb, stay hydrated, and be aware of any signs of altitude sickness.

• Trekking Experience:

  Your earlier trekking experience will make you equipped with the skills necessary to be conquered the Trek, obstacles like slopes, rapid crossings, and unpredictable weather conditions.

• Preparation and Gear:

  Achieving high standards of preparation and involving the correct hiking outfit before the trek to Kashmir Great Lakes are the key actions, taking account of safety conditions. Make sure you have the necessary equipment with you to be able to face the discomfort of bad weather conditions, such as quality hiking boots, sufficient clothing for changing weather, walking poles, first aid kit and enough food and water.

• Certified Guide:

  It is best if you accompany the trek with a competent guide or a group especially if you are not so familiar with the area and are trekking in a remote area. Smugglers can impart valued informations, lead you through the route and see that you are secure during your journey.

• Weather Conditions:

  This weather may seem peculiar, but if it happens in high-altitude sections of the Trek. Nichniai Pass, Table Top, Gadsar Pass, Zaj Pass, etc, are some high altitude places where you can face bad weather conditions. It may involve such things as rain, wind, and even snow falling. While preparing for the Trek, make sure to check the weather forecast and get the right clothing and other necessary items such as waterproof clothes and rainwear, to help you remain dry and warm during the day.

  It will be an excellent and satisfying adventure for trekkers who are physically perfect, fully prepared and not casual to the possible dangers. What are your preparedness levels and accordingly, practice the safety procedures to enjoy the one-of-a kind adventure of your life.

Backpacking for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Here are the essentials you need to include in your backpack for the trek-

Essentials	Descriptions	Included/Excluded in Package (T&C)
Food	High-energy foods not heavy in weight. energy bars, fruited meat rolls, freeze-dried beverages, and snacks	Included
Water	Hydration systems or water bottles are useful for providing sufficient water during the trek. Especially on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek	Included
Sleepwear	Sleeping bags for cold temperatures and commonly used in areas that have a rating of sub-zero.	Included
Shelter	Tents or portable shelters because of the weather while in the course of a camping activity.	Included
Clothing	Outfits that ensure you are warm in Himalayan Treks. Appropriate weather apparels such as moisture transporting warmer wears, and raincoats. Be fully prepared with essential clothing when going on a Himalayan trek.	Excluded
Cooking Kit	Small and light weight stoves and fuel, cooking vessels and utensils.	Included
Guide	The guide's profile includes activities such as leadership, safety, information sharing, pace setting, encouragement, environmental stewardship, logistics coordination, and clear communication	Included
Survival Equipment	Mainly consists of a First-Aid-Kit, rope, oxygen cylinders, and other gear useful in an emergency circumstance	Included
Navigation	Tools like maps in details, compass, or any GPS devices for the purpose of providing navigation or even planning of routes	Included
Personal Medications	Trekkers should carry personal medications and inform the guide about any diseases before starting the trek.	Excluded
Flashlight	Portable lights such as headlamps or torches for when it is at night or any other poorly illuminated environment.	Included

Preparation for a Good Physical Fitness:

To overcome the difficulty level of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, it requires strong cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and overall fitness. Incorporate these exercises into your routine to increase strength, stability, and stamina, which will help you tackle the difficult terrain of the trail at high altitudes.

1. Lower Body Exercises:

• Squats:

  

  • Target Body Parts: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves.
  • Benefits: Strengthens lower body for climbing and descending; stabilizes uneven terrain.
  • How-to: Stand feet shoulder-width apart. Lower into a squat, keeping your back straight, then return to standing.

• Lunges:

  

  • Target Body Parts: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves.
  • Benefits: Improves balance and stability on rocky trails; enhances flexibility.
  • How-to: Step forward with one foot, lowering your body until both knees are bent at 90 degrees. Push back to start and alternate legs.

2. Upper Body Exercises:

• Push-Ups:

  

  • Target Body Parts: Chest, shoulders, triceps, core.
  • Benefits: Strengthens upper body for backpack support and improves posture.
  • How-to: Start in a plank position, lower your chest to the ground, then push back up, keeping your core engaged.

• Pull-Ups/Bodyweight Rows:

  

  • Target Body Parts: Back, biceps, shoulders.
  • Benefits: Enhances posture and reduces back strain; strengthens muscles for carrying a backpack.
  • How-to: For pull-ups, grip a bar and pull yourself up until your chin is above it. For rows, use a low bar or TRX straps.

3. Core Exercises:

• Planks:

  

  • Target Body Parts: Abdominals, obliques, lower back.
  • Benefits: Improves stability and balance; reduces back pain.
  • How-to: Hold a plank position with elbows under shoulders and body in a straight line.

• Russian Twists:

  

  • Target Body Parts: Obliques, abdominals, lower back.
  • Benefits: Enhances rotational stability and core strength.
  • How-to: Sit with knees bent, lean back slightly, and twist your torso side to side.

4. Full Body/Cardiovascular Exercises:

• Mountain Climbers:

  

  • Target Body Parts: Core, shoulders, chest, legs.
  • Benefits: Improves cardiovascular endurance and agility.
  • How-to: In a plank position, alternate bringing knees to chest in a running motion.

• Burpees:

  

  • Target Body Parts: Full body.
  • Benefits: Boosts cardiovascular endurance, strength, and agility.
  • How-to: Perform a squat, jump to a plank, do a push-up, return to squat, and jump up.

5. Additional Tips:

• Consistency & Form: Maintain proper technique and gradually increase intensity.
• Recovery & Flexibility: Allow muscle recovery, and stretch before and after workouts.
• Balance Training: Incorporate strength exercises like deadlifts for overall balance and endurance.

Regularly performing these exercises will build the necessary strength and stamina for a successful trekking experience. Good fitness is crucial for tackling the challenges of the Trek and fully appreciating the adventure it offers.

Trek Route Map of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek route map showcases the enchanting trail through the kashmir Himalayas, leading to the picturesque trek. The map highlights the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows, offering a captivating adventure for trekkers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Itinerary

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Photos

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