TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy
TREK DURATION
7 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
13,160 Feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
47 KM
BASECAMP
kashmir
BEST TIME
July to September
PICKUP POINT
Kashmir
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.
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:-
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.
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 exp
erience, making you feel at ease to enjoy the trek fully and to add to the beauty of the surroundings.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Tarsar Marsar Trek is a trip of a lifetime memorable experience the beautiful scenery of Kashmir. Here are the trek route:
The safety of the Tarsar Marsar lake Trek depends on several factors, including your physical fitness, trekking experience, and preparedness.
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.
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:
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.
Qualified and Experienced Trek Leaders
High Altitude Medical First Aid Kit
Small Group Sizes
High-Quality Equipment
Tarsar Marsar Trek becomes a good choice for travellers for many reasons:
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.
Here are the essentials you need to include in your backpack for the Tarsar Marsar Lakes 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 |
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:
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.
Day 1: Reach Srinagar, Drive to Aru
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.
Day 2: Trek from Aru to Lidderwat
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.
Day 3: Trek from Lidderwat to Shekwas
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.
Day 4: Trek from Shekwas to Tarsar
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.
Day 5: Trek from Tarsar to Sundarsar
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.
Day 6: Trek from Sundersar to Marsar
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.
Day 7: Homwas to Aru and back to Srinagar
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.
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
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.
No, Tarsar and Marsar are twin alpine lakes located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, within the Aru Valley of the Kashmir Himalayas.
Geographically, they are separated by a mountain ridge but hydrologically Tarsar drains into Marsar through an underground stream system.
They are glacial in origin as they formed by the melting of snow and glaciers in the surrounding peaks.
Few myths are associated with Marsar lake as it is mysterious and cursed. Many locals believe that disturbing the lake can bring storms and calamity.
The trek usually takes 6 to 8 days, including travel from and to Srinagar.
Approximately 35–40 km round trip.
Yes, they can do. It's considered a moderate level trek for which no prior experience is necessary.
From early July to early September.
Guide is advisable due to rough terrain, permits and local support.
Yes, camping is allowed near Tarsar Lake and is part of the itinerary.
No, camping is not allowed at Marsar lake due to religious beliefs and local restrictions.
From Aru village, about 12 km from Pahalgam.
Aru, Lidderwat, Shekwas, Tarsar and Sundersar.
Typically 100–110 km, about a 3–4 hour drive.
Public transport to Pahalgam is available. After that, you can book private cabs to Aru.