Nafran Valley Trek 2025 | Itinerary, highlights, Best season

The Nafran Valley Trek in Kashmir, India, provides a moderately challenging adventure, blending captivating scenery, diverse terrains, and an immersive exploration of the nomadic Gujjar culture. Scenic Meadows: Nafran Valley is renowned for its extensive green meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers during the summer, creating a serene environment ideal for trekking and camping enthusiasts. Alpine Lakes: Nestled in the mountainous Nafran Valley, you'll discover two pristine alpine lakes – Harbhagwan Lake and Harnag Lake. These clear, reflective waters amid the peaks offer peaceful retreats for relaxation and stunning photography. Kolahoi Glacier: A majestic spectacle in Nafran Valley, the Kolahoi Glacier stands tall as a towering ice formation. Trekkers can appreciate its grandeur, observing intricate ice formations and listening to the captivating sounds of the ever-moving glacier. Seclusion and Tranquility: Nafran Valley maintains its natural allure, steering clear of mass tourism. This seclusion provides trekkers with a calm and peaceful environment, allowing them to fully appreciate the valley's natural beauty, away from the hustle of more popular trekking spots.

The Nafran Valley Trek falls within the moderate to difficult range, suitable for individuals with good fitness and some trekking background. Not recommended for beginners, this trek presents a gratifying challenge amidst stunning landscapes. Key factors contributing to its difficulty include:

Elevation: Scaling a peak of 14,127 ft (4,305 meters) demands acclimatization for those new to high altitudes.
Length: Covering about 40 kilometers in a 7-day itinerary, the trek requires endurance and stamina.
Terrain: The path navigates diverse landscapes, involving both uphill and downhill stretches, with some steep sections demanding careful traversal.
Fitness Level: Participants must be at ease with extended walks on uneven ground, and lugging a backpack for several hours daily.

The best time to embark on the Nafran Valley Trek is from the month of June to September, offering the most favorable weather conditions for trekking. During this period, temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C in the daytime and fall 8°C to 12°C in the night, providing an ideal climate to explore the stunning landscapes. The meadows are in full bloom, enhancing the scenic beauty of the trek. In July, the weather warms up further, maintaining temperatures between 20°C to 25°C. Although there is a possibility of light and brief rain, it typically doesn't disrupt the trekking experience. August stands out as the peak season for Nafran Valley Trek, featuring warm and sunny weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This month showcases the meadows in their full splendor, adorned with a riot of colors from blooming wildflowers. As September unfolds, temperatures start to cool down, ranging from 5°C to 15°C. While the meadows retain their greenery, the wildflowers gradually fade, signaling the end of the trekking season. This transitional period offers a unique charm as nature undergoes subtle transformations. Overall, planning a visit during these months ensures an enjoyable and visually stunning experience in Nafran Valley.

Qualified and Experienced Trek Leaders

Every trek leader at Himalaya Shelter is not only passionate about mountains but also highly qualified. They have done intensive training such as Basic Mountaineering Course, Advanced Mountaineering Course, Search and Rescue Course, and First Aid Course. This wide range of training prepares them with the required knowledge and experience to handle any situations that may come up while trekking.
Our trek leaders have been to the trails multiple times before and know the local landscapes, weather conditions, and people well. You can trust that you are in capable hands with leaders who are not only passionate about the mountains but also equipped with the necessary expertise.

High Altitude Medical First Aid Kit

The kit we provide consists of all necessary medical supplies and equipment for altitude trekking. From emergency first aid training to dealing with altitude-related symptoms so much more, we are ready to respond quickly to different medical situations.
We know the difficulties of high altitude and to avoid any risks, we carry oxygen cylinders in every trek. This equipment proves to be a lifesaver in cases of altitude sickness or emergencies, giving instant relief to trekkers.

Small Group Sizes

Our commitment to keeping group sizes small, with a maximum of 12 trekkers, is rooted in the belief that this approach enhances the overall safety and well-being of every participant. Thus making our trek leaders experts who provide individual attention to each trekker and ensure incident prevention and safety protocols are followed thereby creating a more engaging and enjoyable trekking experience.

High-Quality Equipment

Himalaya Shelter is known for its high-quality trekking equipment and gear. From tents to safety harnesses, we make sure that all the equipment is of international safety standards and therefore reduce potential risks through the trek.

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. Click here to learn what a Customized Trekking program looks like.

Day 1: Drive from Srinagar to Aru

Drive: 110 km, 4 hrs

Altitude: 5,200 ft (1,585 m) – 7,920 ft (2,414 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Dinner

Pick-up will be early, ideally around 7-8 AM, Begin your road trip from Srinagar to Aru. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, covering a distance of around 102 kilometers. Enjoy the scenic drive through the lush Kashmir Valley and alongside the Lidder River. Reach Aru in the late afternoon or early evening then accommodation in the campsite

Day 2: Drive to Mondlan and trek to Bhaj Marg

Drive: 6 km, 20-30 mins

Trek: 7 km, 6 hrs

Altitude: 7,920 ft (2,414 m) – 10,300 ft (3,140 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

Begin your journey by driving from Aru to Mondlan. and Mondlan will be a starting point for your trekking from Mondlan to Bhaj Margi. This part of the journey will take you through beautiful landscapes, forests, and possibly some small villages. After reaching Bhaj Marg will stay overnight there

Day 3: Trek from Bhaj Marg to Nafran Valley

Trek: 9 km, 7 hrs

Altitude: 10,300 ft (3,140 m) – 11,355 ft (3,461 m) – 11,319 ft (3,450 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

Start our day early by waking up in Bhaj Margi. Start your trek from Bhaj Margi towards Nafran Valley. The trek will involve navigating through beautiful landscapes and ascending Arram Pathri Ridge. As you ascend Arram Pathri Ridge, be prepared for a challenging yet rewarding climb. Take your time, stay hydrated, and enjoy the panoramic views. Eventually, you’ll arrive at the next campsite in Nafran Valley

Day 4: Trek from Nafran Valley to Harnag Valley

Trek: 5 km, 4-5 hrs

Altitude: 11,319 ft (3,450 m) – 12,500 ft (3,810 m) – 12,100 ft (3,688 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

Start your day early in Nafran Valley with a wholesome breakfast to fuel up for the challenging trek ahead. trek from Nafran Valley to Harnag Lake via Harnag Pass. This portion of the journey will take you through high-altitude terrain, so be prepared for varying conditions. the ascent towards Harnag Pass. This part of the trek can be physically demanding due to the altitude gain and steep terrain. Reach Harnag Lake, a beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by mountains. This is likely your destination for the day.

Day 5: Trek from Harnag Lake to Harbhagwan Lake and back to Harnag Lake

Trek: 9 km, 8-9 hrs

Altitude: 12,100 ft (3,688 m) – 13,700 ft (4,175 m) – 12,100 ft (3,688 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

Start your trek from Harnag Lake towards Harbhagwan Lake. This part of the journey will lead you deeper into the mountainous terrain. Have a lunch by the shores of Harbhagwan Lake. Relax and savor your meal while taking in the serene surroundings. then Return to your campsite at Harnag Lake

Day 6: Trek from Harnag Lake to Arram Pathri

Trek: 7 km, 5-6 hrs

Altitude: 12,100 ft (3,688 m) – 11,480 ft (3,500 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

Commence your trek from Harnag Lake towards Arram Pathri. You’ll retrace some of the routes you took previously. Enjoy a packed lunch and a well-deserved break. Reach Arram Pathri, which will be your camping or resting

spot for the night.

Day 7: Trek from Arram Pathri to Aru and Drive backl to Srinagar

Trek: 8 km, 5-6 hrs

Altitude: 11,480 ft (3,500 m) – 7,920 ft (2,414 m) Drive to 5,200 ft (1,585 m)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

Start your trek from Arram Pathri Finish your lunch at Aru and relax for a while before driving back from Aru to Srinagar

Nafran Valley Trek is located in the Pahalgam district. It is a little west of Kashmir. The trek starts from Mondlan, which is 10 km from Pahalgam town.

Nafran Valley Trek is a moderate-to-challenge trek. it has some steep ascents and you need to have good fitness conditions for this trek

The total distance of the Nafran Valley Trek is approximately 40km

The network is available till Srinagar from there, The network is incomplete and almost non-existent. and only post-paid SIM cards will work in Kashmir.

The optimal time for the Nafran Valley Trek is from July to September. During this period, the region enjoys favorable weather conditions, providing an ideal setting for a truly enjoyable trekking experience.

The following documents are mandatory for the Nafran Valley Trek: ID with address proof along with a photocopy (Aadhar Card, Driver’s License, Voter ID card, etc.) Medical fitness certificate issued by an MBBS doctor (private or government) Permission letter/trekking authorization issued by the local administration. Trek insurance

The cost of the Nafran trek can vary, typically ranging from 12,000/- to 18,000/- per person. This variation depends on the tour operator and the specific inclusions you desire. Various companies offer different pricing structures based on the range of services they provide. In our view, safety and health should be your foremost priorities when undertaking any trek. We prioritize delivering hassle-free services, including bag offloading, luxurious campsites, top-quality equipment, highly trained trek leaders, hygienic food, and a basic First Aid Kit. These services are designed to elevate your trekking experience by managing essential logistics, enabling you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of Mother Nature without worrying about the fundamental aspects of the trek.

The following types of equipment are essential for the Nafran Valley Trek:- 1. High-Quality Trekking Boots: Sturdy, high-ankle boots with excellent ankle support and waterproof features. 2. Appropriate Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers Insulating layers for warmth Waterproof and windproof outer layers Quick-drying trekking pants Insulated jacket for colder temperatures 3. Backpack: A durable, spacious backpack with proper straps and compartments. 4. Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag suitable for low temperatures encountered during the trek. 5. Trekking Poles: Essential for maintaining balance, especially on challenging terrains. 6. Camping Tent: A sturdy and weather-resistant tent designed for difficult conditions. 7. Cooking Equipment: Lightweight cooking stove, utensils, and cookware. 8. Navigation Tools: Map, compass, and GPS device to navigate through complex routes. 9. Headlamp/Flashlight: A reliable light source for visibility during early mornings or late evenings. 10. First Aid Kit: A comprehensive medical kit including essential medications. 11. Water Filtration System: Water purifiers or water purification tablets for safe drinking water. 12. Climbing Gear (if applicable): Harness, carabiners, and other climbing equipment for technical sections. 13. Rope: Depending on the trek, a length of rope for various purposes, including river crossings or steep ascents/descents. 14. Gaiters: Protective covers worn over boots to prevent snow, water, or debris from entering. 15. Crampons: Essential for icy or snowy terrains to provide traction. 16. Ice Axe: If trekking in icy or glacier conditions, an ice axe for additional stability. 17. Helmet: Protection for the head, particularly in rocky or glaciated areas. 18. Portable Oxygen Cylinder (for high-altitude treks): Necessary for treks at very high altitudes. 19. Thermals: Insulating layers to keep warm in cold conditions. 20. Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Protection from harsh sunlight and UV rays. 21. Emergency Shelter: Lightweight emergency shelter like a bivy or space blanket.” This comprehensive list ensures you are well-prepared for the challenges and varying conditions encountered during the Nafran Valley Trek.

The average temperature during the Nafran Valley trek ranges from 18 to 25°C during the daytime and 10 to 15°C at night.

The starting point of the Nafran Valley Trek is Aru village. The distance from Srinagar to Aru village is 112 km. You can hire a taxi from Pahalgam village or rent a car for a self-drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam. From Pahalgam, Aru Valley is just 12 km away, and it takes around 45 minutes to reach there from the main market in Pahalgam, with Union Taxi services being the available option.

No, you will not have any mobile network coverage during the Nafran Valley trek. After Aru Valley, there is no network coverage until the second-to-last day of the trek. It is advisable to inform your family or friends before embarking on the trek.

The last ATM is only available in Pahalgam.

No option for rental equipment is available on this trek, so it is advisable to bring all the necessary gear on your own.

Charging facilities for electricity are only available on the first day of the trek in Pahalgam. After Pahalgam, there is no electricity available until the completion of your trek.

You can obtain trekking permission from the Srinagar Tourism Office. It is mandatory to provide them with all the required details at least 2 days before starting your trek. The necessary details include the agency name, number of participants, trek insurance for all trekkers, and ID with address proof, etc. If you are undertaking this trek independently, you must be certified with a Basic Mountaineering Course from any reputable organization and must have a local guide with you.

Yes, the Nafran Valley trek is safe for women.

For the Nafran Valley trek, it is crucial to equip yourself with high-quality trekking boots that offer excellent ankle support, feature a Vibram sole for enhanced traction, and are waterproof. It is advised to avoid water-resistant shoes for this trek.

Below is a list of medicines you should keep in your personal first aid kit:- Diamox – 10 tablets (for AMS prevention) Crocin – 6 tablets (for fever) Avomine – 4 tablets (for motion sickness) Avil 25mg – 4 tablets (for allergies) Combiflam – 4 tablets (Painkiller) Disprin – 6 tablets (for headache) Norflox TZ & Lomofen – 6 tablets each (for diarrhea) Digene – 10 tablets (for acidity) Omez/Rantadine – 10 tablets (antacids) Crepe bandage – 3 to 5 meters Gauze – 1 small roll Band-aid – 10 strips Cotton – 1 small roll ORS – 10 packets Betadine or any antiseptic cream Moov spray (for aches and sprains) Scissors Hot Water Bag” This comprehensive list covers a range of health concerns and ensures you are well-prepared for various situations during the trek.

The maximum altitude of the Nafran Valley Trek is 13,700 feet.

The nearest hospital to the Nafran Valley trek is located in Pahalgam.

Inclusions

Pick-up location: Nishat Garden, Srinagar
Pick-up location: Nishat Garden, Srinagar
All vegetarian meals starting from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day
Professional Guide, Cook and Support staff
First-Aid kit with Oximeter and Portable Oxygen Cylinder
Kitchen tents, common tents, toilet tents with portable toilet seats
Rent for camping equipment like Clean sleeping bags and foam mattresses, Good quality ‘A’ shaped or dome tents, Camping stools, Table and Crampons and gaiters if required
Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
Porter and mule support to carry camping equipment and personal luggage
Accommodation throughout the trek on a triple-sharing basis
All applicable taxes

Exclusions

Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above
Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions
Adventure Insurance
Accommodation in Srinagar
Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, roadblocks etc
Porter and mule support to carry personal Luggage can be arranged at an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day (weighing up to 12 kg)
Please carry a lunch box for packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythenes and Aluminium foils. Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya.

	TREK DIFFICULTY Easy			TREK DURATION 7 days
	HIGHEST ALTITUDE 13,700 Feet			GROUP SIZE 12 People
	TOTAL TREK DISTANCE 40 KM			BASECAMP kashmir
	BEST TIME July to September			PICKUP POINT Kashmir

Nafran Valley Trek

Trek Fee

₹ 17500

$ 300