Katori Sar Lake in Kashmir

The name 'Katorisar' is derived from the Hindi word ‘katori’ which means a bowl. Due to its round bowl-like shape amidst the long snow-covered peaks, lake got the name Katorisar. 

Katori sar lake is one of the lesser-known alpine lakes of Pir Panjal lakes valley. It is located in the the Girgan Valley (Seven Lakes Valley) of Poonch district in Jammu and Kashmir. Many locals believe that on the banks of these lakes, sages and saints have meditated for years and this is the reason that these lakes have such an amazing spiritual aura. People come here to distract themselves from worldly chaos and do self-introspection.

Kator isar is situated at the elevation of approx 3,810 m (12,500 ft). It is around 200-300 wide in an area. Due to being closer to the other Sar lakes (apart from 1 to 2 km), trekkers usually visit all lakes in the single trekking.

Geographically, Katorisar lake was created by glacial activities that was later filled with crystal-clear glacial water. It is situated near the other Sar lakes of valley like Bhagsar, Sukhsar, Neelsar which make a big network of lakes in the region thus the region was given a name of Pir Panjal Lakes Valley.

By starting your trekking journey from Srinagar (J&K), you first have to come to Chandimarh village, which is around 125 km away from Srinagar. From Chandimarh you can start your trekking to Katorisar (approx 52-53 km away). 

People also start their trekking from different locations like Panjtarni or Gagrian village in Poonch. From here, it takes around 4-5 days to cover the Sar Lakes, including Katorisar.

Since the Himalayan trails are full of steeps, rocky ridges and icy areas, therefore trekking is advisable for experienced trekkers. Beginners can do if they are physically fit. Proper acclimatization is necessary. You can hire ponies and local guides to help navigating area.

The weather near the Katori sar lake area is unpredictable. Sudden snowfall and rainfall happen even in the summer. Due to heavy snowfall, the lake is accessible from July to September. Temperature is usually around 12°C in the day and can drop to below 0° C at night.

On the way to Katorisar, you will cross flower valleys, green forests (mostly pine and rhododendron), waterfalls, rivers and sometimes small glaciers also. Ancient huts of shepherds and local communities and grazing animals can make your day. 

Katori sar lake campsite also offers the views of Neelsar Meadow and Bhagsar pass. The lake region is home to Himalayan wildlife like musk deer, marmots, eagles and snow leopards (rare). The beautiful flower valleys full of wildflowers like blue poppies, daisies, edelweiss, and tulips make it a heaven for nature lovers.

After being a lesser-known place for years, now the region of lakes and valleys is getting popular among the tourists. The region is full of culture, beauty and serenity, which make it an ideal place of tourism. However, due to environmental concerns and preservation for local shepherd communities, the area is limitedly accessible and only allows eco-friendly tourism.