Tulian Lake Trek

The Tulian Lake Trek is classified as an easy to moderate difficulty level trek. It leans more towards the easy side as there are no technical climbs or extremely challenging traverses through glaciers or mountains.

During the Tulian Lake Trek, you will encounter occasional steep climbs through forests and meadows. On the second day of the trek, when you start your journey from Tulian Valley to Tulian Lake, you will encounter a steep ascent through boulders and rocks, which may pose a slight challenge, especially for first-time trekkers.

Unlike other treks in Kashmir, the Tulian Lake Trek remains open for a comparatively longer period, allowing trekkers to embark on it anytime from May to October. Each season offers a unique perspective of the forests, meadows, and lakes along the trail.

During May and June, the trek is partially covered with snow, and Tulian Lake may be completely frozen. Some sections of the trail may be slippery due to snow. By the end of June, you can witness spectacular flower blooms in the meadows and forests.

During the monsoon months, the Himalayan mountains and clouds will engage in an enchanting game of hide and seek, mesmerizing you with their stunning display. Occasional showers are expected, which may make the last part of the trek slightly tricky, but heavy rainfall is rare in this region.

In September and October, particularly towards the end of September, the green meadows transform into a golden brown hue, signalling the arrival of autumn in the mountains. If you appreciate the vibrant colors of autumn, October is the ideal time to embark on this trek.

By Flight:

Take a flight to Srinagar and then proceed to Pahalgam by cab.

By Train:

You can arrive at either the Jammu Railway Station or the Udhampur Railway Station. Jammu Railway Station is 285 km from Pahalgam, while Udhampur Railway Station is 217 km away. Although Udhampur Railway Station is relatively closer, better connectivity to Jammu is available from major cities in India.

From Jammu/Udhampur, hire a taxi to reach Pahalgam.

By Road:

Government buses operate directly from Delhi and Chandigarh to Pahalgam. You can book a ticket and embark on this long yet thrilling journey. Alternatively, if you are already in Srinagar, you can book a cab or opt for a self-drive car to reach Pahalgam, which is 96 km away.

Let's start from the very beginning, as the Tulian Lake Trek commences from the famous tourist destination of Pahalgam. Pahalgam is a stunning town in Kashmir, highly sought after by trekkers, adventure enthusiasts, tourists, and also pilgrims embarking on the Amarnath Yatra.

Pahalgam:

It is an ancient Himalayan village in Kashmir, with its history dating back to some ancient Hindu scriptures. We will delve into these fascinating stories later.

In recent times, Pahalgam has become renowned for its picturesque views, lush green meadows, and beautiful forests. During the winter, many tourists flock to Pahalgam to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. The town boasts a 9-hole golf course, offering golf enthusiasts a paradise-like experience.

The name 'Pahalgam' is derived from the Kashmiri words "Puheyl," meaning shepherd, and "goam," meaning village. Therefore, Pahalgam translates to the village of shepherds, which accurately reflects its origins.

According to ancient Hindu Scriptures, Lord Shiva left his Nandi (bull) here before entering the Amarnath Cave. In the local language, Nandi is called "Bail," hence why this place was formerly known as "Bailgaon," meaning the Village of Bull. There are indeed many intriguing facts about this single village, isn't it?

Baisaran Meadows:-

After a short hike from Pahalgam, you reach the beautiful vast open meadows called "Baisaran Bugyal." While we won't venture into this bugyal due to the crowds it attracts during peak vacation seasons, we will pass by it. The magnificence and beauty of the Baisaran valley are sure to mesmerize you.

This place is also known as the mini Switzerland of India. Personally, I find it disappointing when the Himalayan Mountain range is compared with any other mountain range. What is the need to express the beauty of our country by referencing some remote part of a foreign land? Is any foreign mountain range as divine as the Himalayas? The answer is simply "no." Is any other country in the world as diverse and culturally rich as our Bharat? Obviously "no." Then why make comparisons? The colonial communities may have left our country long ago, but we are still grappling with the lingering impacts of the colonial mindset.

Anyway, let's get back to the point and continue our journey towards Tulian Lake.

Interacting with Shepherds:

Due to its lush green meadows and nutritious grasslands, Pahalgam and its surrounding area are home to many shepherd families. They arrive here in the spring season to graze their flocks of sheep and goats, setting up small huts and tents. They stay until pre-winter, as the excessive snow and cold make it untenable to stay there during winters. Therefore, before the onset of winter, the shepherds descend from the mountains with their flocks and return to their respective villages.

If you get a chance, try to spend some time with the shepherds, known as "Bakharwals." The Bakharwals of Kashmir lead very challenging lives, yet they always remain joyful and welcoming. Listening to their stories and observing their lifestyle will surely inspire you.

Geography of the Tulian Lake:

Tulian Lake is a high-altitude alpine lake located at an altitude of 12,087 ft (3,684 m) in the Himalayas. The figure-eight shaped lake resembles the 'Damru' of Lord Shiva, symbolizing the infinity of the universe.

The initial part of the trek winds through pine forests, eventually leading to alpine meadows. The first-day campsite will be alongside the riverbank in one of these open meadows, surrounded by rocks. The climb on the second day will mainly involve navigating through rocks and boulders, eventually leading to the spectacular Tulian Lake. If the weather permits, you may even spot distant glaciers during this trek.

The beautiful mountains surround the lake situated in the majestic Himalayan range. Its surprising color and unparalleled beauty can be fully experienced firsthand.

Flora and Fauna in the Tulian Lake Trek:

During the trek, you may encounter trees such as Cedrus Deodara, Cedrus Indica, Pinus griffithii, Pyrus lanata, Abies pindrow, along with many other rare species of plants.

There are also numerous wild animals and birds that you may spot here, including birds like the Egyptian Vulture, European Roller, Tytler's Leaf Warbler, and animals like the Kashmir Stag, Musk Deer, Asiatic Ibex, Himalayan Serow, Common Leopard, Asiatic Black Bear, Himalayan Brown Bear, Golden Marmot, and a few others.

In Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your trekking experience. If you're a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, you can choose our personalized tailor-made trekking program. I will have a customized trek exclusively designed for me, with transportation, accommodation, meals, and any other premium facilities tailored to my specific requirements. You will not add any other participants to your group. Choosing a customized trek will enable you to fully enjoy the trek with your loved ones. Click here to learn what a customized trekking program looks like.

Inclusions

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 that will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst on the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.

Pahalgam to Pahalgam

Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals. ( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek.
Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.

Exclusions

Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC.
Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day.
Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
Anything apart from inclusions
Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.