Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Name: Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
Brand: Himalaya Shelter
Price: 20500 INR
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (1235 reviews)

Though each day of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (KGL) is a special day in itself, we are defining some of the main attractions during the trek. Here are the alpine lakes, enchanting meadows, mountain peaks and high altitude passes that are located on the trek route.

1. Seven Alpine Lakes During the Trek:

After crossing the Nichinai pass, beautiful lakes can be seen every day. Vishansar and Krishnansar come after crossing the Nichinai pass, Gadsar and Satsar Lake are visible after crossing the Gadsar pass and Gangbal and Nandkul lakes are visible after crossing the Zaj Pass. Apart from this, many small lakes are visible along with these big lakes. These lakes are very important for Kashmiri Hindus as well as the shepherds living here, aquatic animals of the lake and wild animals and birds living around.

Their water is clean and drinkable. During the night halt, for food and other needs, we supply water from these huge freshwater lakes but without spreading any dirt and pollution. Such a large surface of these lakes presents a beautiful view with beautiful reflections of the surrounding peaks which really captivates the heart of the trekkers. All these lakes change color depending on the sun, clouds and time of the day.

Moreover, all the lakes are surrounded by lush green meadows; hence, it becomes an ideal place for the local shepherds to graze their flock of sheep and goats. Away from the lake we also get to see the camps of the shepherds whose lifestyle makes our trekking experience even better and we understand the difference between camping for a few days and camping for a few months. During winters the lake freezes and when summers and monsoons arrive, the lush green meadows around the lake present a truly amazing sight. At this time the water of the lake becomes clear although some pieces of ice are still seen floating. All the names of lakes visible during the trek are mentioned below-

Vishansar Lake
Krishnasar or Kisanasar Lake
Gadsar Lake
Satsar Lake
Gangabal Lake
Nundkol Lake
Dal Sar Lake

Vishansar Lake: The Calm Lake of Vishnu

Vishansar Lake is one of the calmest glacial lakes in the Great Himalayas region. As the name refers, “Vishnu Sar” is derived from the Sanskrit words which mean “Lake of Vishnu”, a Hindu God. The lake itself sits at an altitude of 3,710 meters. This lake was created by glaciers a few decades ago.

Over time, it is maintained by melting snow from nearby mountains and when the water of lake overflows, the strem eventually joins the Kishanganga River. People around the area has deep belief that Lord Vishnu blessed this lake and many sages, saints and monkeys used to meditate nearby the lake.

Krishansar Lake: A Green Jewel of the Mountains

Krishansar Lake is also a glacial lake, which is very close to Vishansar Lake but this lake sits at slightly higher altitude of about 3,800 meters. The lake is surrounded by high mountains and lush green valleys and the interesting thing about this lake is its colour which shines green like an emerald gem. In all seasons, the lake is frozen except in summers. In summers the lake and its surroundings are full of life with vivid flowers and animals. The local belief is that it is a divine lake and the water heals and gives wisdom.

Gadsar Lake: The Beautiful Lake of Flowers

Gadsar Lake is famous as the “Lake of Flowers”, because the lake is surrounded by colourful wild flowers, and the lake also gives shelter to countless fish, as the name of the lake also means “Lakes of Fishes”. It is also a glacial lake which sits at an altitude of 3,600 meters, and the stream flow goes down and joins the Gadsar River. In the local legends, the lake is the “Gateway to Heaven”.

Satsar Lakes: Seven Lakes of Wonder

Satsar Lakes, as the name suggests, is a group of seven lakes; all the lakes sit at an altitude of 3,600 meters, and these lakes are also formed by glaciers. The local belief is that the seven lakes represent the seven stages of life. Each lake is unique in its own way, although together they form a unique formation.

Gangabal Lake: A Sacred Lake of Spirituality

Gangabal Lake is known as the Ganges of Kashmir. It is also a glacial lake, which sits at an altitude of 3,570 meters above sea level. This is a sacred lake which offers holy baths, and the overflow stream goes down from the mountains and valleys, which merge into the Sindh River. Gangabal Lake is one of the holiest and most respected lakes in the Hindu community.

Nundkol Lake: A Quiet, Peaceful Gem

Nundkol Lake is also formed by a melting glacier and sits at an altitude of 3,500 meters. It is very close and similar to Gangabal Lake, although it is quite small and peaceful. This makes it a perfect place for meditation. The streams of the lake join the Gangabal Lake when the water overflows.

Dal Sar Lake: A Hidden Treasure

Dal Sar Lake is also formed by melting glaciers like the others, but this lake is very untouched, which makes it very quiet, and it is surrounded by rugged landscapes. Dal Sar, which means “Guardian Lake”, according to local legends, the lake protects the nearby areas from every disaster and the outer world.

Day 1: Drive from Srinagar to Gagangir
Day 2: Trek from Sonmarg camp to Nichinai Camp
Day 3: Trek from Nichinai to Vishnusar & Kishansar Lakes via Nichinai Pass
Day 4: Trek form Vishanasar Lake to Gadsar via Gadsar pass
Day 5: Trek from Gadsar to Satsar
Day 6: Trek from Satsar to Gangabal Lake and Nund Kol Lake via Zaj Pass
Day 7: Trek from Gangabal lake to Naranag & Drive to Srinagar
Day 8: Buffer day (You have to pay us Rs. 2829 INR per day (Plus 5% GST) if you use the buffer day.)

In Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your trekking experience. Whether you're a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made trekking program.

This customized trek will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals, and any other premium facilities you may need during the trek. No other participants will be added to your group. Choosing a customized trek will enable you to fully enjoy the trek with your loved ones

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (KGL) route map showcases the enchanting trail through the kashmir Himalayas, leading to the picturesque trek. The map highlights the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows, offering a captivating adventure for trekkers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Kashmir Great Lake trek is a moderate to difficult trek. This trek demands a long day of walking so be prepared mentally as well as physically. You have to cover 75 km in just 7 days. Here are some of the challenges and factors that make it a moderate to difficult trek in terms of difficulty.

1. Long Hiking distance in each day (10-12 km on average, 8-9 hrs).

During the Trek, trekkers have to walk about 12 kms per day, which can be difficult for some trekkers. This long journey feature of this trek is great for experienced trekkers but can be challenging for beginners. This daily long journey cannot be reduced because all the alpine lakes are located at a certain distance from each other and the passes that come during the trekking require almost a full day of hiking program to cross them and rest after that, otherwise more than two days will have to be included to cross each pass and a new alpine lake will be seen every two days. In this case, the total trek duration directly doubles and the total cost of the package will also increase a lot.

2. The entire route has several steep ascents and descents.

In Kashmir Great Lakes, you will be hiking up and down every day. While these ascents and descents help in acclimatization, but the trail takes you to 13,100 ft (Nichinai Pass) on the second day itself which increases the chances of AMS and breathing problems more than acclimatization.

3. Crossing three difficult passes.

Though the passes are naturally ascended and then descended, but these passes during the trek are described separately due to their special nature.

Nichinai Pass (Continuous Ascent):

The starting point of the Trek is Shitkadi Point located near Sonmarg and from Shitkadi to Nichinai Camp is a 6 to 7 hour trek for acclimatization, however gaining more than 900 m of altitude in a single day may be a bit difficult for beginners. Next day trekkers have to climb up to Nichinai Pass and gain more than 1200 m of altitude in these two days. Some trekkers may be affected by AMS at Nichinai pass but to minimize this effect we do not stay for long at this point and immediately descend down the valley towards Vishansar Lake.

Gadsar Pass (Challenging Climb):

This is the toughest part of the trek and has to be crossed on the fourth day of the trek. The climb is of about 40 degrees and takes about 2 to 3 hours to cross. This is where the physical fitness of the trekkers is really tested. Also, problems like breathing problems and AMS are most common in this part as trekkers reach a height of 4,210 m. However, by the fourth day you will be acclimatized to a great extent, so there is no need to panic too much.

Zaj Pass (Boulder section with undefined trails):

This is the second-last day of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. On the way to Zaj Pass, you have to cross boulders, and you will find a 40-minute long section filled with huge boulders. Also, there is no path, so overall it creates a great challenge that can be tiring for some trekkers. If you're not at your wits' end or mentally prepared, it can be even more difficult for you.

Monsoon season is the best time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes Trail as the region receives very minimal amount of rainfall during monsoon season. Here is a detailed description of how this trek will be in different months of monsoon-

In July:

Most people prefer to do this Trek in July as it is cloudless and the surroundings are more visible. By July, the snow on the passes melts to a large extent and the valleys below the passes are colourful with a variety of flowers blooming.

In August:

In August it is preferred for those who like to trek with light drizzling rain. By this time, the monsoons have fully arrived in the valley and one can enjoy shower type rains many times during the trek.

The surrounding valleys look like a paradise when the blooming flowers and the soft green grasslands are covered with a light mist and you will be so excited to see this that you will start thinking of staying here for a longer time. You will find some frozen pieces of ice in the lakes. The mountains and lakes naturally look very dramatic at this time.

In September:

If you go for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek in the month of September, then you are probably one of those trekkers who love to enjoy the clear blue skies, cool weather and the spectacular reflection of the mountains in the lakes. In this month, the clouds clear and you can see the reflection of the clear sky in the lakes, which makes the lakes even more clear and sparkling.

The whole view will make you feel refreshed and prove to be heart touching. Though the trek is open only till mid-September, after that the snow starts falling on the passes, making the trail almost impossible for mules to walk on, the supplies of logistics and camping equipment are carried through these mules.

Reaching the base camp of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is easy, and you have several options to choose from based on your preference and convenience. Here's a simple guide to help you figure out the best way to reach the base camp:

By Air

The nearest airport to the base camp is Srinagar International Airport (also known as Sheikh ul-Alam Airport). This airport is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Once you land at the airport, you can either take a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle (depending on your budget) to Sonamarg, which is the starting point of the Kashmir lake trek.

The drive from Srinagar Airport to Sonamarg is about 80 kilometers and usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, but this can vary depending on the weather and road conditions.

By Road

If you prefer a road trip, Sonamarg is easily accessible by road from Srinagar. It is about 80 kilometers away, and the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours. You can either drive yourself or hire a taxi from Srinagar. The route is totally scenic and offers breathtaking views of the Kashmir Valley. So, you can enjoy a pleasant drive with your companions. But road conditions and traffic might affect your travel time, so check it frequently.

By Railway

The nearest railway station to the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, which is in Jammu. And, Jammu is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, so you can easily catch a train from anywhere in India to reach Jammu. Once you arrive in Jammu, you have two options to reach the base camp: you can either take a direct bus or hire a taxi to drive you to Sonamarg. The journey by road from Jammu to Sonamarg will take a few hours.

From July to mid-September, the weather is most favorable for trekking in the narrow trails. In July, you will experience warmer temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C during the day and cooler nights around 5°C to 10°C. The snow on the higher mountains still remains, while the meadows below are in full bloom with vibrant summer flowers.

Then, by August, temperatures cool down slightly, ranging from 12°C to 18°C during the day and 4°C to 8°C at night. The flowers begin to fade as the weather becomes cooler, but the misty surroundings will create a magical atmosphere for you.

And when September begins, the temperatures drop further to 10°C to 15°C during the day and 2°C to 5°C at night. The weather is crisp, with clear skies. Though snow begins to cover the higher reaches, and this marks the end of the trekking season.

When trekking the Kashmir Great Lakes, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some important safety factors to keep in mind during the high-altitude trekking:

Take It Slow: The trek takes you to high altitudes, reaching up to 13,715 feet. This can put trekkers at risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). So, it is essential to allow your body time to acclimatize by taking it slow and staying hydrated. You must avoid rushing, especially on the first few days, and take rest days if necessary. If you feel symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it is important to descend to lower altitudes and seek medical help.
Check Weather Conditions: The weather in the Kashmir region can be unpredictable, especially in higher altitudes. So it is better to be prepared for sudden temperature drops, rain, or even snow, depending on the season. You must wear the right clothing—layered clothing, waterproof jackets, and sturdy trekking shoes to walk safely. Kindly check the weather forecast before heading out and plan your monsoon trek.
Guides and Support Team: It is highly recommended to trek with experienced guides and a support team from the Himalaya Shelter who are familiar with the trail, the terrain, and how to respond to emergencies. They can help navigate difficult areas easily and keep you safe from potential risks such as landslides, sudden weather changes, or tricky terrain.
KGL Trekking Equipment: Proper gear is crucial for your safety. So, when you are about to start, double check that you have high-quality trekking poles, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a good sleeping bag for colder nights. Your equipment should be well-tested, especially for rain or snow, as the weather can flip anytime.
Take Snacks and Drink Enough Water: Water sources along the Kashmir trek are clean and fresh, but always carry your own water bottle and snacks. As dehydration can lead to fatigue and AMS, so drink plenty of water during the hike. It is also recommended to always eat high-energy foods like nuts, fruits, and energy bars to keep your energy up.

Here are the essentials you need to include in your backpack for the 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

**Mandatory Backpacking List for Kashmir Great Lakes**

To overcome the difficulty level of KGL Trek, it requires strong cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and overall fitness. Incorporate these exercises into your routine to increase strength, stability, and stamina, which will help you tackle the difficult terrain of the trail at high altitudes.

Trek Package 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 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 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.

Transport support from Srinagr to Srinagar ( Pick-up location: Nishat Garden, Srinagar )
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 600 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.