Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek

TARSAR MARSAR LAKE TREK

Footprints in Paradise: Tarsar Marsar Trek

Duration
7 Days
Trek Altitude
13,160 feet
Destination
Kashmir
Trek Distance
47 KM
Group Size
12
Best Time
June to September

Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek Highlights:

Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek in Jammu & Kashmir with a total distance of 60 km, starting and ending at Aru. This trip will bring you to a height of 4,058 meters above sea level, which is the highest elevation you will be at on this trip. We designed a perfect trek for those who love this area and keep going there whenever they are free. However, this trek is also good for both beginners and experienced ones, as it is not hard. A sure delight to the eyes would be the Jammu and Kashmir panorama that your trip will offer. Along this walk, you will be amazed at the vibrant nature of those bluish alpine lakes. You may search for Himalayan brown bears in the reserve if it is close to the end of your trekking trip. The Tarsar Marsar Trek takes you through deep valleys that consist of blue lagoons, teeming water rivers carrying snow, big old trees, different forms of vegetation, snowy peaks, and waterfalls of different sizes and shapes. Shemali and Sundar Sar even have the same shape. Shemali looks like an almond, while Sundar Sar looks exactly like a crescent. Tarsar Lake, located in the shadow of the breathtaking panorama of Alpine meadow blossoms, is a natural jewel that has even to be severed from the body.

Why I Choose Tarsar Marsar Trek?

While you are choosing the trek Tarsar Marsar Lake you are connect with nature of beauty in kashmir with our trek leaders and watches and sees many meadows,valley,forest and lakes like:-
  • Alpine lakes: This trek have 3 alpine lakes.we are camping at the tarsar which is one of the best point of this trek. Marsar lake is a massive lake and the sundersar lake which is very similar to the bright moon.
  • Lush Meadows: It is not bad if we called a tarsar marsar trek to call with Meadow Treks.The trek has very beautiful wavy meadows that run parallel to the river side of tarsar marsar lake.
  • Campsites: The campsites of the himalaya shelter is one of the most big camps trek relatively bigger than other treks. During the Tarsar Marsar Lake trek.You will camp in the peace of nature enjoy the journey of the trek. The other day you will camp beside the Tarsar Lake.At Lidderwat,Sekiwas,and Homwas you will be camping beside rivers.
  • Beginner's Heaven: This trek is almost design for a beginners who are stared in the meadows of kashmir with our expect guidelines and faculty. We are highly recommended for beginners and at the same time Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek is the best beginners trek in india.The hikkers neither strenuous nor a simple walk through forest. it doesn't have a sharp incline or decline of the trek.

How Long The Tarsar Marsar Lake trek is:

The distance of the hike is approximately 47.8 km. Tarsar and Marsar is an awesome trip between the twin lakes of Tarsar and Marsar, which are distant from each other. This magnificent lake, lying at an altitude of about 12,000 feet (approximately 3,790 meters) above sea level, will completely captivate you with its crystal clear waters and stunning environs. Marsar Lake is an alpine lake located in the Tral valley of Anantnag district in Jammu and Kashmir, India. It lies close to the Aru valley in Pahalgam and is known for its oligotrophic waters, which are typically low in nutrient content, leading to clear water with few aquatic plants. The lake is separated by a mountain with a height of 4,000 meters (13,000 ft) from water surface of the land Tarsar Lake. Together, they are often referred to as the “twin sisters” due to their proximity and similar physical characteristics.

Best Time for The Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek:

The best time to do the Tarsar Marsar lake Trek is during the summer, as the months of June to September is considered ideal. For both times, wearing the right protection and carrying enough food and drinking water are also very important. The place also has an accommodation facility for the people for the overnight stay. This is a good idea since summer is always associated with wonderful weather, skies are usually very clear, and trails are generally accessible and in good condition. You should rather include the rainy season in your plans since trails can be splattered with heavy rainwear and become slippery to handle. Trails during the most suitable months should guarantee the most comfortable and remarkable experience, making you feel at ease to enjoy the trek fully and to add to the beauty of the surroundings.

Temperature during the Trek to Tarsar Marsar Lake:

The temperature of Tarsar Marsar Trek during the summer in the midday is almost belike15 to 20 degrees Celsius, and in the night it is almost 3 to 4 degrees Celsius. It is only the temperature when you are on the trek with the Kashmir Great lakes trek with himalaya shelter during the months of (July to September). And for the Rest of the sessions, it is almost in the minnius. The show is not melt yet while during the trek you have to see the show during the trek. You are enjoying the temperature of Tarsar Marsar Lake with our trek leaders promises Himalaya shelter life time unforgatble journey.

Difficulties You Should Face During Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek?

The Tarsar Marsar lake Trek is an enchanting journey through the heart of Kashmir’s pristine wilderness. This moderate trek spans 7 to 9 days and takes you through a landscape adorned with verdant meadows, dense forests, and the stunning alpine lakes of Tarsar and Marsar.
  • Daily Distance: On average, trekkers cover 5 km each day, except for the first and last days, which are longer. The first day from Aru to Lidderwat is 10 km, and the last day from Homwas back to Aru is 13 km, with a descent of almost 4,000 feet.
  • High Altitude: The climb goes up to about (13,000 feet) from sea level, which is where altitude-related illnesses like the acute altitude sickness begin to present. Trekkers has to acclimatize well, stay hydrated, and be able to deal with the reducing air.
  • Descent from Tarsar Pass: The terrain on the other side of Tarsar Pass has loose scree, which can be slippery and requires careful navigation.
  • Weather Conditions: The weather in the Himalayas can be unplanned, with rapid variations in temperature, rainfall, and sometimes snowfall, particularly at higher elevations. Trekkers should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions and bring proper clothing and gear to be warm and dry.
  • River Crossings: There are many river crossings throughout the trail, which can be difficult, especially during periods of severe rain when water levels increase. Trekkers should be cautious when crossing rivers and streams and use trekking poles for balance.

Near places in the Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek?

  • Aru Valley: The starting point of the trek, Aru Valley, is a picturesque destination known for its lush meadows, gushing streams, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Trekkers can explore the quaint village, enjoy horseback riding, or simply soak in the natural beauty before commencing their trek.
  • Lidderwat: At Tarsar Lake, trekkers pass through Lidderwat, a scenic camping site surrounded by dense pine forests and the gurgling Lidder River. It's an ideal spot to rest, refresh, and marvel at the pristine wilderness of Kashmir.
  • Sheeshnag Lake: Located at the base of Sheeshnag Mountain, Sheeshnag Lake is a serene alpine lake known for its emerald-green waters and breathtaking surroundings. Trekkers can catch a glimpse of this stunning lake while ascending towards Tarsar Lake.
  • Sundarsar Lake: Situated near Marsar Lake, Sundarsar Lake is another jewel of the Kashmir Great Lakes region.
  • Tarsar Pass: For more adventurous trekkers, Tarsar Pass presents an exciting side excursion. Situated at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), the pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, providing a thrilling vantage point for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
  •  Marsar Lake: While Tarsar Lake is the primary highlight of the trek, Marsar Lake.

Physical requirements for the Tarsar Marsar Lakes trek:

The Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek is a high-altitude trek in the Himalayan region of Kashmir, India. The trek route covers a distance of approximately 50 kilometres, and trekkers have to navigate through varying terrain, including steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and narrow ridges.

How to reach:

If your place is Srinagar, we can arrange a cab for you, and the charges are separate from the package as well. Part of the money from the cab will be paid by the trekkers joining the same trek. To facilitate communications, we shall create a WhatsApp group before the trek departure day. We shall share details about transportation via the group. In the same manner, the drop at the end of Srinagar trek will be made by the guide. The cab fare will always keep changing but it could be approximately 4000 rupees for an Innova or equivalent kind of vehicle in one way journey.
  1. By air:- Srinagar Airport is well-connected to all of the country's major cities. Frequent flights depart from Delhi, Jammu, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chandigarh, and Kolkata. You'll need to take a taxi from the airport to Surfraw.
  2. By road:- National Highway 1D connects Srinagar to the rest of the country. The Srinagar Bus Stand is well connected with Delhi, Chandigarh, and Jammu. You'll need to take a taxi to Surfraw.
  3. By train:- The Jammu Tawi Railway station is the most convenient stop, with frequent buses and cabs to Srinagar.

Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek Route:

The Tarsar Marsar Trek is a trip of a lifetime memorable experience the beautiful scenery of Kashmir. Here are the trek route:
  • Start at Aru Village: It all starts at Aru Village, which is just a few kilometers away from Pahalgam. It’s the starting point for the climb and is famed for its scenic beauty. Aru Village is the starting point for the Tarsar Marsar Trek. It’s a small, picturesque village located near Pahalgam in the Union Territory of Kashmir. Aru serves as the base camp for the trek, where trekkers often spend the night before beginning their journey. It’s known for its scenic beauty and is the gateway to the beautiful landscapes that await on the Tarsar Marsar Trek. 
tarsar marsar lake Start at Aru Village
  • Lidderwat: The very first is Lidderwat, a graceful meadow on the banks of the Lidder River near the Tarsar Marsar lake Trekking Route and the main campsite on this trek. It is situated by the Lidder River and is flanked by lofty peaks. This site is a place where trekkers frequently take a break and look around as they reach higher altitude lakes.
tarsar marsar lake at Lidderwat
  • Shekwas: After Lidderwat, the trail leads to Shekwas, another incredible meadow that acts as a campground. Meadow Shekwas is the most scenic campsite and often the starting point of the Tarsar Marsar Trek. It is well-known for its serene green meadows, which give one the much-needed peace and looseness one needs before reaching the alpine lakes.
Shekwas at tarsar marsar route
  • Tarsar Lake: Tarsar Lake is an almond-shaped oligotrophic alpine lake located in the Anantnag district, which is a part of the Indian state, Jammu and Kashmir. It has a blue water and stands with a silk of alpine flowers around. The lake is undoubtedly the most exquisite aspect of the Tarsar-Marsar trek and boasts jaw-dropping vistas in the nearby surroundings.
Tarsar Lake
  • Sundersar Lake:One of the highlights of this trek is the beautiful Sundersar Lake, called locally Chandrasar. The lake is shaped like a crescent moon and offers the most captivating view possible for its trekkers. It holds the pride of being a place of tranquil beauty, due to which it’s considered one of the three main peaks trekkers want to experience for a deeper understanding of Kashmir.
Sundersar Lake at tarsar and marsar route  
  • Marsar Lake: Marsar Lake is an oligotrophic alpine lake nestled in the Tral valley of the Anantnag district, near Aru Valley in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India. Often referred to as the twin sister of Tarsar Lake due to their proximity and similar characteristics, Marsar is known for its pristine beauty and elusive nature, often shrouded in clouds.
Marsar Lake  
  • Homwas: Lastly, trekkers move back to Aru through Homwas, completing the circuit. This round-trip trip allows trekkers to fully immerse themselves in the grandeur of the alpine lakes and surrounding mountains.

Is Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek safe for me?

The safety of the Tarsar Marsar lake Trek depends on several factors, including your physical fitness, trekking experience, and preparedness.
  • Physical Fitness: It occurs on rough surfaces, over huge rises, and up to 20 kilometers every day. Take a body test to check if you are strong enough to face such challenges. Doing exercises and other high-stamina sports may probably improve your fitness level.
  • Altitude Acclimatization: The Tarsar Marsar lake Trek reaches altitudes of over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), which can increase the risk of altitude-related illnesses such as altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is essential to minimize these risks. Plan your itinerary to include gradual altitude gain, stay hydrated, and be mindful of any symptoms of altitude sickness.
  • Trekking Experience: Prior trekking experience can be beneficial for tackling the challenges of the Tarsar Marsar lake Trek, including navigating through uneven terrain, river crossings, and unpredictable weather conditions.
  • Preparation and Gear: Adequate preparation and proper trekking gear are crucial for a safe trekking experience. Ensure that you have essential gear such as sturdy hiking boots, appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, trekking poles, a first aid kit, and sufficient food and water supplies.
  • Group or Guide: Consider trekking with a knowledgeable guide or in a group, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area or trekking in remote locations. Guides can provide valuable insights, assistance in navigating the trail, and ensure your safety throughout the trek.
  • Weather Conditions: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, including rainfall, wind, and even snowfall, especially at higher altitudes. Check weather forecasts before embarking on the trek and carry appropriate clothing and gear to stay warm and dry.
Ultimately, the Tarsar Marsar lake Trek can be a safe and rewarding experience for trekkers who are well-prepared, physically fit, and mindful of the potential challenges. Evaluate your readiness and take the necessary precautions to ensure a memorable and enjoyable trekking adventure.

Essential Items to Pack for the Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek?

The Tarsar Marsar Lake is a moderate trek; however, it's essential to be well-prepared for the journey. Here are some of the things that trekkers should carry for the trek and their uses:
  1. Backpack: A sturdy and comfortable backpack is essential for carrying all the necessary gear and supplies for the trek. Look for a backpack with good support, padding, and ventilation. Trekking shoes: A good pair of trekking shoes is essential for the rugged terrain and high altitudes. Look for shoes with good ankle support, waterproofing, and sturdy soles that can handle rough terrain.
  2. Warm clothes: The temperature may drop at night, and it's important to carry warm clothes like fleece jackets, thermal innerwear, and gloves to stay warm. Rain gear: The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, and it's important to carry rain gear like a waterproof jacket and pants to stay dry in case of rain. Sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun can be intense at high altitudes, and it's important to carry sunscreen with high SPF and sunglasses to protect the skin and eyes from the harsh UV rays.
  3. Water bottles: Staying hydrated is essential for trekking at high altitudes, and it's important to carry at least two water bottles and a water purification system like a water filter or tablets. Snacks: Trekking at high altitudes can be physically demanding, and it's essential to carry high-energy snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits for quick energy boosts.
  4. First aid kit: A well-stocked first aid kit with essential medicines, bandages, antiseptics, and pain relievers is crucial in case of any injury or illness on the trek. Headlamp or torch: It's important to carry a headlamp or torch for navigating in the dark.
  5. Personal toiletries: Carry personal toiletries like toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes for personal hygiene.

Trek Map of Tarsar Marsar Lake:

The Tarsar and Marsar Lakes Trek Map showcases the enchanting trail through the kashmir Himalayas, leading to the picturesque Kashmir Great Lakes trek. Meandering alongside the Tons River, the map highlights the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows, offering a captivating adventure for trekkers and nature enthusiasts alike. Credit by:- Shubham.

Why should I choose a Himalayan shelter?

Qualified and Experienced Trek Leaders
  • Every trek leader at Himalaya Shelter is not only passionate about mountains but also highly qualified. They have done intensive training such as the Basic Mountaineering Course, Advanced Mountaineering Course, Search and Rescue Course, and First Aid Course. This wide range of training prepares them with the required knowledge and experience to handle any situations that may come up while trekking.
  • Our trek leaders have been to the trails multiple times before and know the local landscapes, weather conditions, and people well. You can trust that you are in capable hands with leaders who are not only passionate about the mountains but also equipped with the necessary expertise.
High Altitude Medical First Aid Kit
  • The kit we provide consists of all necessary medical supplies and equipment for altitude trekking. From emergency first aid training to dealing with altitude-related symptoms so much more, we are ready to respond quickly to different medical situations.
  • We know the difficulties of high altitude and to avoid any risks, we carry oxygen cylinders in every trek. This equipment proves to be a lifesaver in cases of altitude sickness or emergencies, giving instant relief to trekkers.
Small Group Sizes
  • Our commitment to keeping group sizes small, with a maximum of 12 trekkers, is rooted in the belief that this approach enhances the overall safety and well-being of every participant. Thus, our trek leaders are experts who provide individual attention to each trekker and ensure incident prevention and safety protocols are followed thereby creating a more engaging and enjoyable trekking experience.
High-Quality Equipment
  • Himalaya Shelter is known for its high-quality trekking equipment and gear. From tents to safety harnesses, we make sure that all the equipment is of international safety standards and therefore reduce potential risks through the trek.

Why is Tarsar Marsar Trek be the best choice for Trekkers?

Tarsar Marsar Trek becomes a good choice for travellers for many reasons:
  • Beautiful view: This type of journey offers you a panoramic view at the end. In the kimchi scene. Snow-capped peaks, green grassy meadows, sparkling alpine lakes, and cascading waterfalls are all unique sights. Travellers not only enjoy the magnificent views of the country but also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature. Double Alpine Lakes: Moreover, the best part of this trek is exposure to two alpine lakes Tarsar and Marsar.
  • Various Landscapes: Travel through various landscapes such as trees, animals, sheep houses, high mountains and deep valleys. This allows hikers to have a beautiful, unpretentious place, while also knowing the way and also allowing them to get acquainted with the rich flora of the region.
  • Cultural Engagement: The Tarsar Marsar trek has many beautiful views but also offers a great opportunity for cultural exploration, engaging with local communities, and learning about their traditional lifestyles and hospitality. This way, people have the opportunity to have a deeper, more original and more interesting experience.
  • Adventure and solitude: A journey that combines happiness with isolation, allowing travelers to push the limits of their own courage and find a path for peace and meditation in a quiet place and region. This time of year is all about stepping out of your routine and giving yourself time and nature to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and take in new opportunities.
  • Accessibility: Among the Himalayan Treks, Tarsar Marsar Trek includes easy, and hard skills and ideal choices for beginners who are concerned about the difficulty of trekking and those who have enough experience to start trekking. If they are ready and equipped, they can begin to make this experience unforgettable, even if it is the first time.
A lot of drama awaits you on this trek because we will encounter some of the most beautiful mountains of the Himalayas. That's why this trip is one of the many ways for nature lovers to get their adrenaline pumping.

Customize Your Trek with Himalaya-Shelter:

Customizing your trip with Himalaya Shelter can enhance your hiking experience by allowing you to tailor your trip to your preferences and requirements. Here are some of the highlights you can expect when customizing your tour:
  1. Custom Itinerary: Choose your dates and duration that best fit your schedule.
  2. Service Standards: Choose the comfort and service that fit your expectations and budget .
  3. Safety Guaranteed: Benefit from the expertise of trained guides who take safety first and have a proven track record in several Himalayan regions. Enable sustainable practices by joining local teams in the stunning Himalayas.
  4. Free cancellation: of trips up to 24 hours in advance is available with the flexible booking option.
  5. Lifetime validity: If you cannot complete the trip due to unforeseen circumstances, you can rejoin the same trip at no additional cost, and it is valid for life.
With Himalaya Shelter, you can expect a trip that is not only tailored to your needs, but also responsibly managed with a focus on local development and sustainability. Visit their official website to start planning a custom tour, or contact customer service for more information. Click here to learn what a Customized Trekking program looks like.  

Tarsar Marsar Trek Itinerary

Drive: 103 km, 3-4 hrs

Altitude: 5,220 ft (1,590 m) – 7,950 feet (2,423 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents) / Guest House

Meals: Dinner

 

The journey generally begins from Srinagar for most trekkers, immediately helping you get acclimatized to the colder temperatures. Travelers are then ferried off to the small yet busy town, where you can withdraw cash from the ATM and make any important calls. Cell service is almost non-existent beyond Pahalgam, and no ATMs are ahead. From Phalgam to Aru, there are two routes one from the Anantnag and the other one from the Bhijbera, Bhijbera is the popular Tourist route
you will see apple trees, walnut trees, and apricot trees along the way, The final stop for the day is the trek base camp at Aru, a wonderful village at the Lidder river bank. The route offers magnificent views of apple orchards, tiny hamlets, and the river on another side. When you reach the Aru Valley campsite you are greeted with hot tea and evening snacks

Trek: 10 km, 6-7 hrs

Altitude: 7,950 feet (2,423 m) – 9,150 ft (2,788 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

 

On the second day, the trek sets out for the first leg from Aru to Lidderwat, located in the Lidderwat valley. The ascent is not too steep, from 7,950 ft. to 9,131 ft. It is ideal to set a tone for the next legs ahead and to get people into practice for the adventures that await. The trek takes you through a scenic melody of lush clouds above and wet green meadows down below. The views are dotted with alpine trees and flowering shrubs throughout the grassy meadows.

After a slightly tiring, 7-hour long trek, the first milestone is sighted, and the campsite welcomes you for the night’s rest and much-needed food. A picture-perfect location for chats, the mountains invite you for tea along with long and heartfelt conversations with fellow travelers.

 

Trek: 6 km, 5 hrs

Altitude: 9,150 ft (2,788 m) – 11,000 ft (3,352 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

 

The third morning welcomes you to a different perspective of a morning in the mountains. The slightly overcast sky and views remain clear enough to see distant smudges of slight rainfall. As you prepare to move ahead and onward, you can enjoy panoramic views around Lidderwat. The next leg from Lidderwat to Shekwas is a light, 6 km trek that finishes by early afternoon, just in time for a comforting lunch. This is another moderate trek, with Shekhwas perched at 11,000 ft., where we gain an altitude of 1850 ft.

What captures eyes and thoughts is the magnificent way nature changes itself every few kilometers up there in the mountains. Half an hour into the trek, you are greeted with a dense alpine forest of mountain pines, spattered with small and wide clearings. The Lidder river remains almost a constant companion, allowing plenty of refills for your trusty water bottle.

Very soon, another landscape shift occurs. Just as the forest clears, travelers are welcomed to an almost overwhelming sight of valleys and mountain sides intertwining into each other, lined with freshwater streams. As you walk through the convergence of valleys, a steeper ascent tires you. The path takes you through the final stretch of the leg to Shekwas, where the next campsite lies. Shekwas is a sight to behold, offering panoramic views of peaks in the distance, with a meadow surrounding them in contrast, dotted with small local hamlets consisting of low, thatched-roofed huts.

Since travelers have the whole evening free, it is advised to go around to enjoy the fresh winds and explore the area around the campsite. After spending a little time basking in the glory of nature, you can get back to the campsite for dinner and rest.

Trek: 4 km, 3-4 hrs

Altitude: 11,000 ft (3,352 m) – 12,500 ft (3,810 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

 

Day 4 of the trek takes you to the jewel of Tarsar lake that awaits you after a 5 km trek.

Begin the morning with a hot and refreshing breakfast and pack up for moving on to the Tarsar lake, leaving behind Shekwas and its lush meadows.

Two hours into the trek, you reach another hilltop that offers a teaser of the majestic lake, ridged from three sides. The real adventure begins here as you cross a stream with the help of boulders that line it to ascend to the lake and the campsite that awaits on a vast grassy meadow beside it.

Bask in the views of that almond-shaped lake as you forget to breathe, and life starts washing away into a distant dream, and all that feels left is what beauty lies in front of your eyes. Cradled by higher grounds and hills on three sides, the serene and calm lake has a life of its own as it overflows and breathes its water slowly into the Lidder river.

Have a fulfilling lunch while lapping up the unparalleled views of the lake and then scout the lakeside, watching the day almost melt into the darkness of the night.

The journey onward is steeper and lined with more boulders on the way. You gain a height of 1,500 ft. to reach the Tarsar lake, perched at 12,500 ft., in 5 hours of trekking. The terrain is moderate, but the ascent remains continuous. As you cross a humped hill and a few ridges, you realize that the entire trek is adrenaline-rich and full of spectacular views. There is no end to the magnificent sights of grassy patches, dense trees, and distant mountains, all blending in to enrich one’s soul.

 

 

Trek: 6 km, 5 hrs

Altitude: 12,500 ft (3,810 m) – 13,100 ft (3,993 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

 

The following day is another exotic experience, as you wake up to find daylight filling the views. The next leg up is the final part of the ascent, leading to the smaller Sundarsar lake. This leg is 6 km long, gaining an altitude of 600ft to a total height of 13,100 ft. This is the most challenging part of the entire trek due to the steep incline at the beginning to reach the lake Tarsar’s pass. Difficult yet highly rewarding because once you arrive at the pass, you are blinded by the most heavenly and stunning view of the lake from the other side.

As you move on, you find yourself descending along a gurgling mountain brook with small local settlements and mountain sheep dotting the area. The charm of that panoramic picture frame just washes away all the tardiness and prepares travelers for another, slightly different surprise. As soon as you cross the valley after the descent, another mountain fold reveals an expansive meadowy patch, but this one is covered throughout with flowers. The bright hues of flowers shining in the sunlight act as the perfect contrast to the dense green hues of the grassland.

Once you come back from the overwhelming amazingness of the natural beauty, move on to another quick adventure, crossing another boulder-laden trail taking you over a stream to the lakeside. A flat patch acts as a campsite, where you can retire after exploring the lakeside.

Trek: 11 km, 7 hrs

Altitude: 13,100 ft (3,993 m) – 13,400 ft (Marsar) – 11,500 ft (Homwas) (3,505 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

 

This is the last, most crucial leg of the trek, but in no way does it let your excitement diminish. You can anticipate climbing boulders on a tricky trail that leads to Marsar, which could be clad with snow.

The trek to Marsar is 9 km long and can take you just a little over 7 hours to complete. The altitude change is not much, beginning at 12900 ft from Sundarsar, rising to 13,200 ft. at the ridge top, and descending to 11,500 ft at the Marsar lake.

Due to the possibility of snow and ice, this part of the terrain can be slippery. Make your way through the Sundarsar lake’s shore, and reach the trail that leads to the rocky part ahead that creates the pass.

Make your way to the top of the ridge, where you are greeted with the calm and serene blueness of the lake Marsar ahead. Crystal clear snow melts from the mountainside feeding the lake’s waters present themselves as you look around, devouring the charm of nature. Starting with the deep blue of the waters and the heavenly whites of the distant snow to the lush and dense green of the Dachigam forest ahead of the lake.

Descended from the ridge top, making way through small patches of flat grounds, crossing small and lovely brooks littered in the path. Finally, the Marsar lake hits you like a breath of fresh air, offering unparalleled views of the mountains.

 

Marsar to Homwas

After spending some time there and letting the enchanting beauty sink in, start back for Sundarsar, a 40-minute journey through a shorter, similarly terrain trail pass. After a brief rest at Sundarsar, the trek’s final leg begins, on to Homwas.

The morning trek can be tiring, but the delinquency may set in later as you make your way into the Jagmargi valley. Move on to the Tarsar pass, and take an adjoining route to Homwas. This entire trek lasts less than 3 hours and does not take as much time and effort since it is a gradual descent to Homwas.

Retired for the night at Homwas, full of experiences to share with fellow travelers and to listen to the stories that they have to share.

 

Trek: 13 km, 6-7 hrs

Drive: 104 km, 3-4 hrs

Altitude: 11,500 ft (3,505 m) – 7,950 feet (2,423 m) – 5,220 ft (1,590 m)

Meals: Breakfast

 

The next morning hits with a mix of emotions as you feel the excitement of what has been accomplished, the dreaminess of the heavenly sights, and the heaviness in the heart on bidding the beautiful lakes adieu. Pack up for the last quick stretch to Aru, where a brief stop gives you a final chance to say goodbye to the magnificent mountains and to collect fond and loving memories of the lakes. Travelers are then ferried back to Pahalgam and on to Srinagar.

Upcoming Treks

  • June 22, 2025 open
  • June 29, 2025 open

  • July 6, 2025 open
  • July 13, 2025 open
  • July 20, 2025 open
  • July 27, 2025 open

  • August 3, 2025 open
  • August 10, 2025 open
  • August 17, 2025 open
  • August 24, 2025 open
  • August 31, 2025 open

  • September 7, 2025 open

FAQ's about Tarsar Marsar Trek

  • Mobile network is available till Pahalgam
  • In Aru BSNL tower exists but often does not work
  • No network is available beyond Aru
  • By end of 2022 Jio may become available in and around Aru, as network line is being laid

While it is possible to do the Tarsar Marsar trek solo, it is recommended to trek with a guide or in a group for safety purposes, especially if you are not familiar with the trail or the region.

The best time to undertake the Tarsar Marsar trek is from June to September when the weather is pleasant and the trail is accessible. In the month of September, you may see a spectacular Wild Flower blooming in the Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek.

While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is recommended to have a moderate level of fitness and some trekking experience due to the moderate difficulty level of the trail.

The height of Tarsar Marsar Trek is approximately 13,000 feet (3,962 meters) above sea level.

The safety of the Tarsar Marsar Trek depends on several factors including weather conditions, individual fitness levels & adherence to safety guidelines. It is always recommended to trek with experienced guides, carry necessary equipment & stay updated on weather forecasts. This trek can be a safe and enjoyable experience.

Tarsar Lake is located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in the beautiful and scenic Dachigam National Park, which is about 24 kilometers from Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir.

Trek Inclusions
  1. Transport support from Srinagr to Srinagar
  2. Pick-up location: Nishat Garden, Srinagar
  3. All vegetarian meals starting from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day
  4. Professional Guide, Cook and Support staff
  5. First-Aid kit with Oximeter and Portable Oxygen Cylinder
  6. Kitchen tents, common tents, toilet tents with portable toilet seats
  7. Rent for camping equipment like Clean sleeping bags and foam mattresses, Good quality ‘A’ shaped or dome tents, Camping stools, Table and Crampons and gaiters if required
  8. Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
  9. Porter and mule support to carry camping equipment and personal luggage
  10. Accommodation throughout the trek on a triple-sharing basis
  11. Guesthouse accommodation on the first and second last day on a triple-sharing basis
  12. All applicable taxes
Exclusions
  1. Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
  2. Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above
  3. Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions
  4. Accommodation in Srinagar
  5. Adventure Insurance
  6. Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, roadblocks etc
  7. Porter and mule support to carry personal Luggage can be arranged at an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day (weighing up to 12 kg)
  8. Please carry a lunch box for packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythenes and Aluminium foils. Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱