Ultimate Tarsar Marsar Trek Guide: Experience and Tips for Hiking in Kashmir

July 17, 2024

prashanth-sarma

Stretched in the vicinity of Kashmir, the Tarsar Marsar trek is one of the most beautiful treks in India. Usually, this title is not earned without second thoughts, especially when its twin trek – Kashmir Great Lakes – is concerned. Still, the beauty of the Tarsar Marsar trek excites the trekkers and challenges them at the same time. This is a fantastic trek from the fabulous lakes to the wonderful camps and you are normally visually stunned for weeks! // This digital article will explain why people like this particular trek.

Culture

The Tarsar Marsar trek exposes you to the best about the social relations of the people of Kashmir. It covers the cultural sites of Pakistan right from the small town of Aru and goes up to other conventional cultural places. Lidderwat is one of the attractive features as you are interact with the Gujjars, which are an ethnic group of farmers and shepherds. These very warm people who own Pathani suits, these people have a lot to say and also to reveal about their incarnation culture. As for the people, do not hesitate to interact with them and get to know how they are culturally.

Flora and Fauna

It is very rewarding in terms of the views it provides due to the richness of species of the flora and fauna. July is when the snow which was accumulated on the mountains melts to supplement the water in the lakes, making water look like turquoise. It is important to note that as you hike, there are several features on land that you are bound to encounter, these include; green meadows, flowers, and fir trees. The Lidder River flows through rocks and furnishes a touching propensity to the scenic beauty of the places. Observe the fauna of the area and sometimes you can even see the Bakarwal shepherds tending the sheep.

Trekking Path

This hike which is the Tarsar Marsar trek is one of the most stunning as you traverse through different terrains which are amazing. The next stop after Aru is Lidderwat though in this journey it is more of a halt or a stop over. Further up is Shekhawas, it has the green hilly terrains, before arriving at the Tarsar, Sundersar, and Marsar lakes which are of high altitude. Every lake is beautiful in its own way as Marsar lake stays mostly covered up by clouds and can hardly be seen actually.

Ambience

One must say that the overall feel of the Tarsar Marsar trek is quite enchanting. Picture having a picnic along the fairway, the royal blue, snow fed lakes at your disposal when it is dark and only the stars are out. The beauty and uniqueness of these campsites is that they are quite isolated, and contrary to the current hiking mania, they are quiet and serene. The sun rises and sets over the lakes and observing it is really a peaceful experience and that is why the trek makes one connect with the divine self.

Difficulty Level of the Trek

It can therefore be noted that the level of difficulty of the Tarsar Marsar trek represents moderate one. It doesn’t demand the techniques that are usually applied in climbing but due to differences in altitude and the change in surface, it can be considered rather a fair one. The experience of trekking requires physical fitness then only the trekkers will be able to enjoy the experience. The distance is about 48km but is normally hiked in six to seven days. Accommodation and getting ready are vital elements in a pleasant and effective trek.

Science Behind the Tarsar Marsar Lakes

Tarsar Marsar lakes are something interesting and knowing the fact behind these lakes is good to know. These alpine lakes are sourced from the melt-water of snows thus making their water clear and the color of turquoise. The environmental conditions of high altitude and distinct weather help to cause the changes in the lakes. During summer, these waters merge with the snow that has melted into lakes creating beautiful prospect against the green vales. This way, the scenery in the fall becomes different and provides the viewers with additional important aspects of the look of lakes.

Safety Measures

Presence on the Tarsar Marsar trek must be safe, there are many risks involved. It will also be highly recommendable for trekkers to have close-to-body items of clothing, because weather in K2 can be very unpredictable and trekkers should trek in waterproof and reinforced trekking shoes. Thus, ensure that you take time and make slow movements as this also requires a lot of water intake. It may be safer to hire a guide and engage him or her to lead you up since he or she is pretty knowledgeable with the area. Always tell someone about the trekking plans and when you expected to be back.

Local Cuisine

It would unfair to visit Kashmir and not get to taste its scrumptious food; thus, food is always an option on any trek in Kashmir. During the tour, you will be able to taste specialties of the cuisine to include Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, Yakhni among others. The Gujjars may even invite you to have fresh milk or yoghurt prepared from their homes. All these tasty treats of course augment your trekking fun and adventure all the more.

Conclusion

Thus, it will be appropriate concluding the outline of the Tarsar Marsar trek as the way through some of the most picturesque terrains in India. Right from the heritage of the Gujjars to the torrents of water, falling from the heights in the form of alpine lakes, everything follows an impressive sequence. Be it a professional trekker or a lover of the nature activities- the Tarsar Marsar will certainly not be disappointing. So get your backpacks ready, tighten your trekking shoes and get set for the most beautiful trek in India.