Warwan Valley Trek:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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 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:

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.

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:-

1. Id with address proof with Xerox ( Adhar Card, Driving license, Voter ID card, etc.)
2. Medical Fitness certificate issued by an MBBS doctor (Private or Government)
3. Permission letter/trekking permission authorized by the local administration.
4. 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/