Tulian Lake Trek

Tulian Lake Trek

6 Lakh+

Satisfied Trekkers

16+

Years of Experiance

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Quick Information

Trek Duration

5 Days

Trek Difficulty

Easy

Trek Group Size

private max

Trek Distance

32 km

Trek Max Altitude

12,140 Feet

Trek Region

kashmir

Trek Pickup

Kashmir

Best Season

Winter

Best Time

July, September

Trek Basecamp

kashmir

GST Fee

5%

Tulian Lake Trek Overview

The Tulian Lake Trek near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir is renowned for its heavenly beauty, boasting the astonishing Himalayan range, high-altitude snow-capped mountains, vast meadows, lush green forests, high-altitude alpine lakes, and a unique cultural heritage that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

In recent years, treks such as the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek, and Pir Panjal Lakes Trek have gained popularity among trekkers and mountaineers seeking adventurous experiences in the Kashmir Himalayas. However, despite its breathtaking beauty, Tulian Lake has not yet garnered as much popularity as other treks in Kashmir.

Tulian Lake, nestled amidst the high-altitude Himalayan mountains within the Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary of Kashmir, is a pristine alpine lake. The Tulian Lake Trek commences from Pahalgam, itself a famous tourist destination in Kashmir. The trek spans 16 kilometers, leading through picturesque Himalayan forests, meadows, and challenging sections with boulders, culminating in the serene beauty of Tulian Lake.

While Tulian Lake is indeed situated at a high altitude in the Himalayas, it is not as challenging or lengthy as the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. Moreover, it is an ideal trek for those seeking a shorter adventure, typically completed in 3 to 4 days with a moderate difficulty level.

Although some adventure enthusiasts attempt to complete the Tulian Lake Trek in a single day or two, we recommend taking 3 to 4 days to fully immerse yourself in the trek's beauty and embrace the divine ambiance offered by the Himalayas. Join us on this captivating journey to explore the stunning Tulian Lake. 

More Information

Tulian Lake Short Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Srinagar to Ganesh Bal and then start trekking to Deno Valley.
Day 2: Trek from Deno Valley to Kanimol.
Day 3: Trek from Kanimool to Tulian Valley
Day 4: Trek from Tulian Valley to Tulian Lake and back to Tulian Valley campsite
Day 5: Trek from Tulian Valley to Ganesh Bal and drive back to Srinagar
Day 6: Buffer Day

Tulian Lake Trek Itinerary

  • The Drive distance is 90 Km
  • Drive duration is 2-3 hours
  • Trek distance is 4-5 km
  • Altitude gain is 6,975 to 8,254 ft
  • After 4 km of trekking, in Deno Valley, you will see the waterfall.
  • The Trek distance is 6 -7 km trek duration 6 -7 hours Altitude Gain 8,254 ft to 9,504 ft.
  • Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
  • Meals: Lunch + Evening snacks + Dinner
  • There will a view of Baisaran Mini Switzerland and you will encounter pine trees.
  • Trek distance 4 -5 km
  • Trek duration 5-6 hours
  • Altitude Gain 9,504 to 10,568 ft.
  • Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
  • Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening snacks + Dinner
  • Ascent of 6- 7km.

Be mentally and physically prepared to ascend all day, today is lake day. Tulian Lake is at a distance of 2 km from the campsite. The last stretch has boulders and scree. however, as you reach on top, the secret of the summit is revealed – Tulian Lake emerges! Turquoise waters and the 8-shaped lake signify infinity. A surreal landscape, we have lunch here and then start descending towards the valley to our campsite.

  • Trek distance 4-5 km
  • Trek duration 4 to 6 hour
  • Altitude Gain 10,568 ft to 12,087 ft
  • Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Ascend bolder of 6km.

Today we went back to the campsite after watching the endless beauty of Tulian Lake.

  • Trek distance 7.5 km
  • Trek duration 5 to 6 hours
  • Altitude Loss 10,567 ft to 7,017 ft.

Buffer Day: You have to pay us Rs. 3300 INR per day (Plus 5% GST) if you use the buffer day. The money will be collected by the Trek Leader only if we use the buffer day.

Customize Your Tulian Lake Trek With Himalaya Shelter (HS)

Looking for a perfect summit in Uttarakhand? Aancha Top Trek is a beautiful hidden gem. Plan your Aancha Top Trek with us and make your journey comfortable. Our team provides the best trekking facilities in the Himalayan region. Whether you are a beginner or experienced trekker, we plan the itinerary according to you.

Himalaya Shelter (HS) provides customized trekking services. We can plan the trek as per your requirements. We believe in offering the best trekking services to all our clients. Our company also works for small groups. You can plan the Aancha Top Trek with your friends and family. Himalaya Shelter works with the locals to offer the best and rawest Himalayan experience.

Difficulty Level of the 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.

Best Time To do Tulian Lake Trek

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.

From where does the Tulian Lake Trek start and How to reach there

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.

Mandatory Backpacking List for Tulian Lake Trek

Mandatory Backpacking List for Aancha Top Trek

Mandatory Backpacking List for Aancha Top Trek

 

Clothing and Backpack

Get a good backpack (50 L) with a rain cover. Look for a bag that can provide you good back support. Pack 4 quick-dry t-shirts and 2 trekking pants. Get a pair of thermals (upper and lower) for night. Pack a fleece jacket or woolen sweater as a mid-layer. Get a waterproof wind breaker for sudden rain and chilly winds. For winter trekking, get a good down jacket. Now pack a woolen beanie and a balaclava. Get two pairs of gloves (woolen and waterproof). You should also pack a suncap for the daytime.

Footwear

You should look for good quality trekking shoes. Your shoes must be waterproof and provide good ankle support. Do not wear a new pair of shoes on the trek. Your feet must be familiar with the shoes. Now pack 4 pairs of trekking socks and 2 pairs of woolen socks. Pack a pair of comfortable slippers or sandals for the campsite.

Personal Care

For personal care items, start packing with your toiletries. Get a small zipper pouch and pack all the toiletries. Now look for a quick-dry towel and a toilet roll. You should also pack hand sanitizer and moisturizer. Pack a sunscreen that can protect your face from sunburn. You can also pack some snacks for the trek.

Maximize the Tulian Lake Trek Experience with a Good Physical Fitness

Physical Fitness Preparation for Trek:

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

Overview

Overview

Foundation

Foundation

Strength Building

Strength Building

Power & Stamina

Power & Stamina

Endurance & Recovery

Endurance & Recovery

 

Main Attractions of the Tulian Lake Trek

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 Himalayan 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.

Inclusions & Exclusions

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.

Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱

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From

₹16500 $250

per person