Warwan Valley Trek 2025 | Itinerary, highlights, Best season

Warvan valley trek is a moderate to difficult trek. Counting a distance of around 78-80 Km, the participants usually cover about 12-15 Km each day. With a height of up to 14,495 feet, the trek requires high altitude hiking and excellent physical shape. The route includes challenging segments such as glaciers, steep lines and demanding climbing.

The journey starts in the hamlet of Inshan, which is 150 kilometers away from Srinagar. The walk travels beside the Warren River's banks and through lush stands of fir, pine, and deodar trees. It takes around 7-8 days to finish the walk to Warwan Valley, which is rated as fairly challenging. The path travels over around 80 kilometers and through several mountain peaks, such as the Margan Top and the Sonamoush Pass. Along with being a physical challenge, the trip offers a chance to take in stunning natural scenery. The distance from Pahalgam to Warwan Valley is approximately 120 kilometers. The distance from Kishtwar to Warwan Valley is approximately 40 kilometers. The distance from Anantnag to Warwan Valley is approximately 110 kilometers.

The Warwan Valley typically experiences cold winters with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are milder with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, making it an ideal time for lush green landscapes.

Throughout the trekking path, there are several historic temples and shrines in the Warwan Valley, which is likewise renowned for its extensive cultural legacy. The Machail Mata temple, a shrine to the Hindu goddess Durga, is the most well-known of them. The temple is located on a mountainside and is accessible from Gulabgarh, a tiny village close to the Warwan Valley, by a hard hike that takes around 30 kilometers. Warwan Valley is renowned for its kind and welcoming residents, in addition to its natural and cultural splendor. The Gujjars, Bakarwals, and Dogras, three ethnic groups that have been present in the valley for generations, are among the many ethnic groupings that call it home. In the isolated areas of the valley, these people's distinctive cultures and ways of life are still practiced. Trek to Warwan Valley has become a well-liked tourist activity in recent years, drawing visitors from all over the world. The valley is famed for its exquisite regional food, which includes delicacies like rajma rice, Kashmiri pulao, and rogan josh, as well as a variety of adventure sports including trekking, camping, and rock climbing.

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 Panikhar

Drive: 185 km, 7-8 hrs

Altitude: 5,200 ft (1,585 m) – 10,700 ft (3,261 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Dinner

You will start early in the morning from Srinagar and drive to Panikhar, which is located at a distance of around 220 km, approximately taking 8 to 9 hours to reach Panikhar. Initially, the drive will take you to Sonamarg along the beautiful view of the Indus River. Then, from Sonamarg, you proceed to Zoji La Pass, situated at an altitude of around 3,528 meters. After crossing the pass, you will pass through Dras and Kargil.

If you want to purchase something, then Kargil is the last place where you can buy your essential items. After the drive, you will reach your destination, Panikhar.

Day 2: Trek from Panikhar to Denora

Trek: 12-13 km, 8 hrs

Altitude: 10,700 ft (3,261 m) – 12,375 ft (3,772 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

After breakfast, you will start trekking towards Denora, located at an altitude of around 11,200 feet above sea level. The trek mostly follows the alongside of the river, involving a gradual ascent through meadows and forests, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You will cover a distance of around 14 km and reach Denora by late afternoon. Before reaching the campsite, you have to cross the stream. The campsite is near the river, surrounded by a wide range of mountains and meadows.

Day 3: Trek from Denora to Kalapari

Trek: 3 km, 2-3 hrs

Altitude: 12,375 ft (3,772 m) – 12,850 ft (3,917 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

The trek starts with crossing streams; take off your shoes and be ready for the cold water, which numbs your feet. The trek involves crossing the 14,100 feet Marpo La Pass, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. You will descend through a beautiful valley and reach the campsite at Kalahari, located at an altitude of around 12,800 feet above sea level. Today’s distance is shorter than the other days; you can take an acclimatization walk to the glacial lake.

Day 4: Trek from Kalapari to Kaintal via Lomvilad Pass

Trek: 17 km, 12-13 hrs

Altitude: 12,850 ft (3,917 m) – 14,500 ft (4,420 m) – 11,550 ft (3,520 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

Start your day with the beauty of mountains and enjoy breakfast. Begin your trek, following moderate to difficult trails with narrow ridges, long moraine sections, and steep descents. The trail starts at the Kalapari campsite and consists of asymmetrical boulders and moraines. The trek involves crossing the 14,500 feet Kalichik La Pass, offering stunning views of the Nun and Kun peaks. Descend through a beautiful valley and reach the campsite at Kaintal.

Day 5: Trek from Kaintal to Humpet

Trek: 17 km, 8 hrs

Altitude: 11,550 ft (3,520 m) – 11,120 ft (3,389 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

The trek starts with a continuous ascent and descent alongside the river, opening up the beautiful landscape of the Warwan Valley. You will cross several small streams and reach the campsite at Sukhnai, located at an altitude of around 11,400 feet above sea level.

Day 6: Trek from Humpet to Sukhnai

Trek: 14 km, 8 hrs

Altitude: 11,120 ft (3,389 m) – 9,320 ft (2,841 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

The trek leads towards Sukhnai Valley, a beautiful area with lots of plant species, The trail starts with an ascent and a 4-hour descent, then continues to the junction where a river merges with Kaintal Nala, leading to Sheeshnag Lake The trail continues through the exotic Warwan Valley, crossing overhangings and gaining a stunning view of Sukhnai. The village takes 2 hours to reach, passing through farms with short fences.

Day 7: Trek from Sukhnai to Basmina/Chaudraiman

Trek: 16-17 km, 6-7 hrs

Altitude: 9,320 ft (2,841 m) – 8,350 ft (2,545 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

Start your last day of the Warwan Valley trek with an eye-catching view of grasslands and the Marwah River. Today’s trek involves a gradual descent through the beautiful Warwan Valley. You will cross several small streams; the trail from Sukhnai to Bashmina is moderate compared to other days. After a couple of hours, you will see the beautiful Rekenwas village, where you can meet local people and interact with them. The people of this village are very welcoming. Then, reach the campsite at Bashmina, located at an altitude of around 10,000 feet above sea level.

Day 8: Buffer Day

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

This day is kept as a buffer day to accommodate any unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather or any other reasons that may cause delays in the trek

Day 9: Drive from Basmina/Chaudraiman to Srinagar

Drive: 155 km, 7-8 hrs

Altitude: 8,350 ft (2,545 m) – 5,200 ft (1,585 m)

Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner

After breakfast, you will start your journey back to Srinagar. You will drive through the beautiful landscapes of the Warwan Valley and reach Srinagar by late afternoon. You will spend the night in a hotel in Srinagar.

The optimal time for embarking on the Warwan Valley trek is from the second week of July to the first week of September. Prior to July, traversing the Valley becomes exceedingly challenging due to the prevailing snow conditions both before the pass and on the glacier. The snow accumulation makes the route impassable, posing difficulties for trekkers. As the trek progresses into the first week of September, the weather starts to cool down, and there’s a possibility of heavy snowfall. This shift in weather conditions can further complicate the journey. Hence, it’s crucial to plan the trek during this specific window when the weather is relatively stable, and the trail is more manageable. However, venturing on this trek after September is not recommended. The weather becomes even colder compared to August and early September. Barglass becomes a rare occurrence, and crossing rivers becomes significantly more challenging. The streams become difficult to navigate, and the chilling temperatures can lead to an uncomfortable experience, with the risk of trekkers losing sensation in their feet while crossing rivers or streams. Therefore, it is advisable to plan the Warwan Valley trek within the recommended timeframe to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

The cost of the trek can vary depending on the tour operator and the specific inclusions you desire. Numerous companies offer different pricing based on the range of services they provide. Several factors influence the overall cost, including the number of participants, the quality of equipment, the menu for meals, the mode of transportation, the required trekking permits, and the experience level of the staff. In our opinion, when embarking on any trek, your first priority should be safety and health. We prioritize providing 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 aim to enhance your trekking experience by taking care of essential logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the breathtaking views of Mother Nature without concerns about the basics of the trek.

The Warwan Valley Trek is neither short nor easy, encompassing a journey from the arid mountains of Kargil to the lush and beautiful high-altitude meadows of Kashmir. The trek involves traversing the challenging terrain of Lomvilas Pass. While crossing this pass may not be excessively difficult, it presents challenges, particularly due to its surroundings and the presence of the Bracken Glacier. Given the diverse and challenging conditions encountered during the trek, it is crucial to be well-prepared with the appropriate equipment. The following types of equipment are essential for a trek of this nature: High-Quality Trekking Boots: Sturdy, high-ankle boots with excellent ankle support and waterproof features. Appropriate Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers Insulating layers for warmth Waterproof and windproof outer layers Quick-drying trekking pants Insulated jacket for colder temperatures Backpack: A durable, spacious backpack with proper straps and compartments. Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag suitable for low temperatures encountered during the trek. Trekking Poles: Essential for maintaining balance, especially on challenging terrains. Camping Tent: A sturdy and weather-resistant tent designed for difficult conditions. Cooking Equipment: Lightweight cooking stove, utensils, and cookware. Navigation Tools: Map, compass, and GPS device to navigate through complex routes. Headlamp/Flashlight: A reliable light source for visibility during early mornings or late evenings. First Aid Kit: A comprehensive medical kit including essential medications. Water Filtration System: Water purifiers or water purification tablets for safe drinking water. Climbing Gear (if applicable): Harness, carabiners, and other climbing equipment for technical sections. Rope: Depending on the trek, a length of rope for various purposes, including river crossings or steep ascents/descents. Gaiters: Protective covers worn over boots to prevent snow, water, or debris from entering. Crampons: Essential for icy or snowy terrains to provide traction. Ice Axe: If trekking in icy or glacier conditions, an ice axe for additional stability. Helmet: Protection for the head, particularly in rocky or glaciated areas. Portable Oxygen Cylinder (for high-altitude treks): Necessary for treks at very high altitudes. Thermals: Insulating layers to keep warm in cold conditions. Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Protection from harsh sunlight and UV rays. Emergency Shelter: Lightweight emergency shelter like a bivy or space blanket.

Highlights of Warwan Valley Trek: Scenic Diversity: Experience a clear-cut contrast in the scenery of the route while traversing from the dry mountains of Kargil to the lush and green meadows of the Warwan Valley. Lomvilas Pass: Encounter the challenging terrain of Lomvilas Pass, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings Bracken Glacier: Experience the awe-inspiring presence of the Bracken Glacier, adding an element of adventure and difficulty to the trek. Cultural Exploration: Visit remote villages along the route, interacting with the local Gujjar and Bakarwal communities, and gaining insights into their unique culture and way of life. Flora and Fauna: Witness a diverse range of flora and fauna, including alpine flowers, and coniferous forests, and the opportunity to spot Himalayan wildlife. River Crossings. Charming Villages: Explore charming villages like Kyas, Marwah, and Warwan. Camping at High Altitudes: Camp at an altitude of 14,000 feet providing a unique camping experience amid stunning natural surroundings. Sheeshnag Lake: Photography Opportunities: Remote and Untouched Beauty: Challenging Terrain: Encounter challenging terrains, making the trek suitable for experienced trekkers seeking a more demanding and adventurous experience. Glacial Streams:

The trek typically spans 7 to 8 days, commencing from Panikhar and concluding at Basmina, covering a distance of approximately 78 km. Each day involves hiking distances of 10 to 12 km, taking around 6 to 7 hours to complete. Before planning this trip, you must consider one or two buffer days. These will help you reduce exhaustion, especially on days when you have to trek around 16 km.

Warwan Valley trek is considered a moderate-to-challenge trek that unfolds across diverse landscapes, leading adventurers from the dry mountains of Kargil to the lush greeny high-altitude meadows of Kashmir. On day 3 of the trek, you will encounter a challenging hike where you need to cross a trail near a lake. This segment requires careful consideration due to loose rocks, a scree trail, moraines, and glacier walk. Exercise caution, especially with crevasses and the potential for avalanches originating from the nearby mountain during this third-day hike. For the rest of the days be careful while crossing streams.

Warwan Valley is located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu & Kashmir.

The average temperature during the Warwan Valley trek is 15 to 20°C during the daytime and 8 to 12°C at night.

The starting point of the Warwan Valley trek is Panikhar, accessible via the Srinagar–Leh National Highway- NH1. The total distance of 264 km to Panikhar, passing through Sonmarg, Zojila Pass (11,575 ft), Drass, and Kargil, can be covered in approximately 8 to 9 hours.

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

The last ATM is available only at Kargil.

There is no option available for rental equipment 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 at Panikhar Homestay. After Panikhar, there is no electricity available until the completion of your trek.

The below documents are mandatory for the Warwan Valley Trek:- Id with address proof with Xerox ( Adhar Card, Driving license, Voter ID card, etc.) Medical Fitness certificate issued by an MBBS doctor (Private or Government) Permission letter/trekking permission authorized by the local administration. Trek insurance Note:- For non-Indian nationals, Visa and Passport copies are required in place of ID with address proof.

You can obtain trekking permission at the Kargil Tourism Office. It is mandatory to email (kargiltourism123@gmail.com) them with all the required details at least 15 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, this trek is safe for women.

The nearest hospital to the Warwan Valley trek is located in Kargil.

Beginners can do this trek in the case if they have a good fitness level, otherwise, it is not suggested for beginners.

The Warwan Valley Trek reaches an altitude of 14,500 feet at Lomvilas Pass.

This trek begins in Panikhar, Kashmir, and traverses through Denora, Kalapari, Kaintal, Humpet, and Sukhnai before concluding at Basmina.

The Warwan Valley trek covers a distance of approximately 78 km with a suggested itinerary of 7 to 8 days. However, it is recommended to plan for an additional 2 days to reduce the daily hiking distance to 16 km, allowing for a more pace and a better opportunity to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the trek.

There are minimal chances of snowfall from July to September, while in other months, the valley is often covered in snow. Typically, this trek remains closed throughout the year except during the monsoon season, due to the challenging trail conditions caused by heavy snowfall. Also, it is impossible to make 100% accurate predictions about the weather in the mountains.

In this trek, it is essential to have high-quality trekking boots with excellent ankle support, a Vibram sole, and waterproof features. Water-resistant shoes are not recommended for this trek.

Below are the medicines you should keep in your personal first aid kit:- 1: Diamox – 10 tablets (to prevent AMS) 2: Crocin – 6 tablets (fever) 3: Avomine – 4 tablets (motion sickness) 4: Avil 25mg – 4 tablets (allergies) 5: Combiflam – 4 tablets (Pain killer) 6: Disprin – 6 tablets (headache) 7: Norflox TZ & Lomofen– 6 tablets each (diarrhea) 8: Digene – 10 tablets (acidity) 9: Omez/ Rantadine – 10 tablets (antacids) 10: Crepe bandage – 3 to 5 meters 11: Gauze – 1 small roll 12: Band-aid – 10 strips 13: Cotton – 1 small roll 14: ORS – 10 packets 15: Betadine or any antiseptic cream 16: Moov spray (aches, & sprains) 17: Scissors 18: Hot Water Bag

Getting fit for a tough trek requires a combination of cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and mental preparation. Here are some tips:- Cardiovascular Endurance: Outdoor- Running: Incorporate running into your routine to build stamina. Start with shorter distances and gradually increase. Cycling and Swimming: These are excellent low-impact alternatives to enhance cardiovascular fitness. Hiking: Include uphill hikes to simulate trekking conditions. Indoor- Burpee Mountain Climbers Jumping jack High knees Jump Rope Squat Butt kicks Strength Training: Leg Exercises: Focus on squats, lunges, and calf raises to strengthen your leg muscles. Core Workouts: Strengthen your core with exercises like planks and Russian twists. Upper Body Strength: Include exercises like push-ups and pull-ups for overall strength. Flexibility and Balance: Yoga: Improve flexibility and balance through yoga, which can also help prevent injuries. Balance Exercises: Practice exercises that enhance stability, such as single-leg stands. Mental Preparation: Mental Toughness: Train your mind to handle challenges and stay positive during difficult situations. Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation can aid focus and resilience. Interval Training: High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Include HIIT sessions to simulate the varied intensity of trekking. Gradual Progression: Start Early: Begin your fitness routine well in advance of the trek. Gradual Increase: Progressively increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.

Prepare for trekking by focusing on physical and mental readiness. Running, cardio exercises, and mental preparation are crucial. Understand the concept of layering for clothing, opting for quick-dry fabrics. Essential items include a medical kit, biodegradable soaps, and snacks. Invest in a hydration bag for regular treks to maintain consistent water intake and prevent dehydration. For more details visit the link- https://himalayashelter.com/blogs/how-to-prepare-for-a-trek-in-the-himalayas/

The trek is classified as moderately difficult, suitable for those with prior high-altitude trekking experience and strong physical stamina. It includes steep climbs, glacier crossings, and river passages.

The trek covers a distance of approximately 78 to 84 kilometers, with daily trails averaging around 20 kilometers.

Participants will witness a striking transformation—from Ladakh’s barren mountain terrain to Kashmir’s lush greenery, adorned with meadows, glacial valleys, and charming villages.

Adventurers have the chance to see fascinating creatures, including golden marmots, wagtails, and other unique Himalayan wildlife, especially in the valley meadows.

Notable glaciers along the route include the Kaintal Glacier and the Bracken Glacier, which are mesmerizing highlights.

The trek is best undertaken between July and August when the valley is accessible, as other times of the year are snow-covered.

To manage the demanding trails, trekkers should follow a training routine emphasizing stamina, strength, and flexibility for at least six to eight weeks before the trek.

This trail stands out for its pristine beauty, diverse landscapes, and the sense of solitude it offers due to limited commercial activity, making it perfect for seasoned trekkers seeking extraordinary escapades.

The trek involves challenging terrains, including steep ascents and river crossings. It's recommended to follow a fitness regime focusing on endurance, strength, and flexibility for at least 6-8 weeks before the trek.

Yes, trekkersWhat kind of wildlife can be spotted during the trek?
need to obtain permits as the trek passes through sensitive regions in Jammu and Kashmir. These permits can usually be arranged by your trekking agency.

Trekkers might encounter golden marmots, wagtails, and other unique Himalayan wildlife along the trail, especially in the meadows and valleys.

Accommodation is typically in tents provided by us. These are set up at designated campsites along the route.

Inclusions

Transport support from Srinagar to 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
Accommodation in Srinagar
Adventure Insurance
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 Moderate - Difficult			TREK DURATION 9 days
	HIGHEST ALTITUDE 14,495 feet			GROUP SIZE 6-8 People
	TOTAL TREK DISTANCE 80			BASECAMP kashmir
	BEST TIME July to August			PICKUP POINT Kashmir

Warwan Valley Trek

Trek Fee

₹ 39000

$ 600

Warwan Valley Trek

Trek Fee

$600

₹39000 _{/Per person}

Difficulty Level of Warwan Valley Trek

How to Reach Warwan Valley

Weather conditions of Warwan Valley

Nearby Places to Visit in Warwan Valley Trek

Why Choose Himalaya Shelter for this trek?

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