The Bodpathri Lake trek

A spectacular trek through magnificant himalayan meadows

Duration
7 Days
Trek Altitude
13,100 ft
Destination
Kashmir
Trek Distance
50 km
Group Size
Maximum 12 People
Best Time
July to September

Bodpathri Lakes Trek Overview:

Their is a lesser-known and offbeat trek in Kashmir called the Bodpathri Lakes Trek. Previously known only to locals, this trek has begun to attract interest from trekkers, adventure enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature lovers alike in recent years.

The Bodpathri Lakes Trek is undeniably one of the most beautiful treks in Kashmir. The vast, breathtaking meadows encountered here are scarcely matched elsewhere in the world. Some of these meadows are so stunning that upon reaching them, you'll feel as if you've stepped into a world of endless green carpets.

This trek encompasses six exquisite alpine lakes of Kashmir, varying in size from small to expansive. Each of these lakes is enveloped by the majestic Himalayan mountains. Completing this trek will leave you with a profound sense of the special blessings bestowed upon the land of Kashmir by Mother Nature.

 

Difficulty Level of the Bodpathri Lakes Trek:

If you've completed the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, you might find the Bodpathri Lakes Trek comparatively easier. As a general review, the Bodpathri Lakes Trek is considered moderately difficult. First-time trekkers may find it challenging due to the long walking distances and traversing through some tough sections of the trek.

The initial climb on the first day is pleasant and easy. However, in the subsequent days, you'll encounter some steep ascents and descents, cover long distances on foot, and occasionally traverse through boulders. Rainfall can further add to the difficulty of this trek.

Therefore, we advise embarking on the Bodpathri Lakes Trek if you've previously completed any Himalayan treks. However, if you're a first-time trekker with good physical and mental stamina, you can still undertake the trek. To prepare for the Bodpathri Lakes Trek, we recommend starting a practice regimen of running and walking long distances at least two months before the trek. Daily yoga practice, especially Surya Namaskar, can greatly enhance your physical and mental endurance.

 

Best Time to do the Bodptathri Lakes Trek:

Thanks to the Pir Panjal Mountain Range, the Kashmir Valley falls within the rain shadow area. While other Himalayan states experience heavy rainfall, the Kashmir Valley receives comparatively lower and more pleasant rainfall. Therefore, the ideal time for all treks in Kashmir remains almost the same.

The months of July to September are considered ideal for the Pir Panjal Lakes Trek, with generally pleasant weather. In early July and early September, you may witness spectacular wildflowers blooming in the meadows. However, in recent years, snowfall and rainfall patterns have become unpredictable, somewhat affecting the cycle of flower blooming. By late September, the weather can turn cold and windy, with chances of light snowfall, which may impact the trek.

 

Main Attractions of the Bodpathri Lakes Trek:

The Bodpathri Lakes trek is indeed one of the most beautiful treks in Kashmir. From the very first day when you start your trek to the last day bidding farewell to the beautiful Himalayan trails, the Bodpathri Lakes Trek will captivate you with its stunning landscapes.

During the Bodpathri Lakes trek, you'll encounter some of the vastest and most beautiful alpine meadows in the Himalayas. Certain sections of the trek will feel like scenes from an animated movie.

Most of the time, you'll be hiking far away from civilization, amidst remote Himalayan mountains. Along the way, you may come across picturesque stone and wood shelters used by local shepherds. Witnessing thousands of sheep grazing across the endless meadows will be a spectacular sight. Additionally, you'll be mesmerized by the lakeside and riverside campsites.

It's advisable to avoid using headphones and loudspeakers in the embrace of Mother Nature, allowing you to tune into the enlightening music of the Himalayas.

 

Geography of the Bodpathri Lakes Trek:

The Bodpathri Lakes Trek is situated in the Pir Panjal mountain range of Kashmir, commencing from the small village named Doodhpathri in the Budgam district of Jammu & Kashmir.

This trek primarily traverses through meadows, although the first day involves trekking through Himalayan forests. The highest altitude you'll encounter during the Bodpathri Lakes Trek is 13,060 feet. There are certain areas characterized by boulders along the route. Throughout the trek, you'll need to cross the beautiful Dudhganga River and some stunning Himalayan streams to reach your next destinations and alpine lakes, the primary attractions of this trek.

 

Lakes of Bodpathri Lakes Treks:

  1. Pamsar
  2. Bodsar
  3. Tratsar/Lokutsar
  4. Damamsar
  5. Navkansar I
  6. Navkansar II


From where does the Bodpathri Lakes Trek Start and how to reach there:

The Bodpathri Lakes Trek begins at a place called Doodhpathri, which has an intriguing story associated with it. Legend has it that long ago, a saint arrived at this location and, when it was time for his daily prayers, he searched for water for cleansing purposes but couldn't find any. So, he dug a hole with his stick, and to his surprise, milk emerged from that hole. The saint politely requested Mother Nature that he needed water to cleanse his body, not milk. Upon hearing this, the milk miraculously turned into water. In Hindi, milk is called 'doodh,' hence this place got its name "Doodhpathri."

Doodhpathri is easily accessible from Srinagar. You can hire a taxi from Srinagar Airport or the railway station to reach Doodhpathri. Depending on the route taken and traffic conditions, it typically takes around 2-3 hours to reach Doodhpathri.

 

Customize your Trek with Himalaya Shelter:

In Himalaya Shelter, 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. Content Credits: Dhruv Upadhyaya

Bodpathri Lakes Trek Itinerary

Drive: 55 km, 2-3 hrs

Altitude: 5,200 ft (1,585 m) – 8,900 ft (2,712 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Dinner

Trek: 6-7 km, 5-6 hrs

Altitude: 8,900 ft (2,712 m) – 10,600 ft (3,230 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

 

Commence your trek from Doodhpathri towards Dishkal. The trail meanders through a diverse landscape, taking you through enchanting forests, open meadows, and alongside babbling streams. after reaching the campsite stay overnight there

Trek: 4-5 km, 4 hrs

Altitude: 10,600 ft (3,230 m) – 11,525 ft (3,513 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

 

On Day 3, you’ll continue your trek from Dishkal to Ashtaar Valley, immersing yourself further in the stunning landscapes of Kashmir. Once you arrive in Ashtaar Valley, take some time to explore the area. Wander through the meadows, take in the panoramic views, and soak in the tranquility.

Trek: 7 km, 5-6 hrs

Altitude: 11,525 ft (3,513 m) – 12,515 ft (3,815 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

 

Begin your trek from Ashtaar Valley towards Gurwansar. The trail might lead through varying terrain, including meadows, forested sections, and possibly rocky stretches. Stay attentive to trail markers or signs. As you near Gurwansar, the landscape may shift, revealing new and captivating views after reaching the campsite stay overnight there

 

Trek: 9 km, 6-7 hrs

Altitude: 12,515 ft (3,815 m) – 13,060 ft (3,981 m) – 12,620 ft (3,847 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

 

Start your day with a nourishing breakfast then Begin your trek from Gurwansar towards Pamsar Lake and then onward to Duriem. The trail may lead through varying terrain, including meadows, rocky sections, and possibly forested stretches. Reach Pamsar Lake, which is likely to be a scenic highlight of the day. then continue your trek towards Duriem

 

Trek: 10-11 km, 7-8 hrs

Altitude: 12,620 ft (3,847 m) – 13,000 ft (3,962 m) – 12,545 ft (3,824 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

 

Begin your trek from Duriem towards Bodsar Lake, after reaching take some time to enjoy the serene beauty of the lake, surrounded by the grandeur of the mountains. Proceed towards Trastar Lake, another stunning body of water. Continue your trek towards Navkansar I & II, which are likely to offer breathtaking vistas. Reach Damamsar Lake, which is likely to be a highlight of the day. Then after that will reach to campsite and stay overnight there

Trek: 11 km, 5-6 hrs

Drive: 80 km, 3 hrs

Altitude: 12,545 ft (3,824 m) – 10,080 ft (3,072 ft) – 5,200 ft (1,585 m)

Meals: Breakfast

 

Begin your trek from Gadtar towards Tosamaidan. The trail may offer several picturesque spots that are perfect for taking breaks. Pause at these viewpoints, rest near streams, and appreciate the beauty of nature. After reaching Tosamaidan, prepare to leave for Srinagar. The drive via Sitaran is likely to offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

FAQs

The Maximum Altitude of this trek is approximately 13,100 ft

This Trek is Situated in Kashmir

Minimum 7 Days

Yes! We will provide you cloakroom to keep your extra luggage if you do not want to carry extra luggage while trekking at FREE OF COST

It is a Moderate Trek!

July to September is the best time to do this trek!

Jogging is the best exercise for stamina and you can add Yoga and Suryanamashkar for flexibility the combination of these two will help you in this trek very well!

If you Customize your trek you get the flexibility to adjust your schedule or route if needed. If you prefer a more private experience, a customized trek can provide that. You have the ability to choose the level of service and amenities that you want during your trek, from basic camping to more luxurious accommodations. By customizing your trek, you can take into account safety considerations like acclimatization, rest days, and gradual altitude gains to ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.

I have been doing treks with Himalaya Shelter for the last two years and they are awesome people with pure humbleness.“

Writes Priyesh.

We at Himalaya Shelter consider our trekkers part of our community, a family of sorts and really understand the efforts that you put into taking that much-needed break and setting off to the mountains. Some of you may wait for months and even a year to plan out that perfect excursion. That’s why we want it to be “a perfect excursion” for you.

Our testimonials (read below) are a testament to our service-oriented mindset.

We take safety into great consideration and ensure our team is trained to handle emergency situations.

For a better experience, we provide accommodation on Twin Sharing throughout the trek. With most trekking operators you would get triple or even quad sharing accommodation.

Our Accommodation will have attached washrooms

 

Furthermore, we provide the essential safety gear for your trek –

Without any additional charges.

We pamper you with great food which keeps you going on the trek. (On our google maps out of 300 reviews over 80 Trekkers mention great food😋)

We do not outsource services to ensure topmost quality throughout your journey. We use our own fleet of Vehicles to ferry you to the base camp and return.

Mostly time from July to September the weather is rainy as usual!

Inclusions
  1. Transport support from Srinagr to Srinagar
  2. Pick-up location: Nishat Garden, Srinagar
  3. All vegetarian meals starting from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day
  4. Professional Guide, Cook and Support staff
  5. First-Aid kit with Oximeter and Portable Oxygen Cylinder
  6. Kitchen tents, common tents, toilet tents with portable toilet seats
  7. 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
  8. Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
  9. Porter and mule support to carry camping equipment and personal luggage
  10. Accommodation throughout the trek on a triple-sharing basis
  11. Guesthouse accommodation on the first and second last day on a triple-sharing basis
  12. All applicable taxes
Exclusions
  1. Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
  2. Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above
  3. Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions
  4. Accommodation in Srinagar
  5. Adventure Insurance
  6. Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, roadblocks etc
  7. 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)
  8. 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. 🌱