Overview
Experience the raw beauty of Kashmir with Ishrat Adventures on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. This trail, often regarded as one of the most breathtaking treks in India, takes you through pristine alpine lakes, lush meadows, and picturesque landscapes framed by snow-clad peaks. As you journey across seven majestic lakes, each more stunning than the last, you’ll encounter serene valleys, crystal-clear streams, and unique flora and fauna that make this trek a true haven for nature lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a nature enthusiast, this trek promises an unforgettable adventure that immerses you in the untouched beauty of Kashmir.
Trekking Season
- Best Months: July to September
- Weather: During this period, the weather is generally mild and the routes are accessible, with clear views of the landscapes and lakes.
Included
- Meals: All meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner, provided with a focus on nutritious vegetarian dishes without repetition.
- Accommodation: Camp accommodations on all nights with high-quality tents on a double-sharing basis, including sleeping bags, sleeping mattresses, and dining tents.
- Trekking Team: Experienced trek leaders, guides, and cooks with mountaineering expertise.
- Medical Support: First aid supplies, oxygen cylinders, and other essential mountain medical provisions.
- Permits and Passes: All required trekking permits and passes.
Excluded
- Lunch on the First Day: Not included; participants are advised to arrange this on their own.
- Personal Expenses: Costs related to personal items, including snacks, beverages, or other personal items.
- Anything Not Listed in Inclusions: Any additional services not specifically mentioned in the inclusion list.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar and Drive to Sonamarg
Meet your guide and fellow trekkers in Srinagar. After a briefing session, a scenic drive will bring you to Sonamarg, where you’ll settle into your accommodation. Enjoy the evening relaxing in Sonamarg’s stunning landscapes.
Day 2: Sonamarg to Nichnai (Altitude: 11,500 ft | Duration: 6-7 hours)
Begin the trek with a gentle ascent, crossing lush meadows and pine forests. The trail opens up into expansive valleys with distant snow-covered peaks. Camp at Nichnai, where you’ll enjoy a warm meal under the starry sky.
Day 3: Nichnai to Vishansar Lake (Altitude: 12,000 ft | Duration: 5-6 hours)
This leg includes a climb to the Nichnai Pass (13,500 ft), offering panoramic views. Descend to Vishansar Lake, a stunning alpine lake framed by rugged mountains.
Day 4: Acclimatization and Exploration at Vishansar
Spend a restful day acclimatizing, with opportunities to explore around Vishansar Lake. Capture the reflections of mountains in the lake’s crystal-clear waters and unwind amidst nature’s beauty.
Day 5: Vishansar to Gadsar Lake (Altitude: 13,750 ft | Duration: 5-7 hours)
Today’s trek includes another high-altitude pass, offering views of both Vishansar and Kishansar Lakes. Reach Gadsar Lake, known as the “lake of flowers,” and camp nearby.
Day 6: Gadsar to Satsar (Altitude: 12,000 ft | Duration: 5-6 hours)
Trek through high-altitude meadows and across streams to reach Satsar, a collection of seven lakes. The landscape is mesmerizing, with varying hues of green, blue, and white.
Day 7: Satsar to Gangbal Twin Lakes (Altitude: 11,500 ft | Duration: 6-7 hours)
Journey toward the iconic Gangbal and Nundkol lakes at the foothills of Mount Harmukh. Camp by the lakeside, surrounded by towering mountains and scenic landscapes.
Day 8: Gangbal to Naranag and Drive Back to Srinagar (Duration: 5-6 hours trek + 2-hour drive)
Descend towards Naranag, with views of beautiful pine forests and valleys. A vehicle awaits at Naranag to take you back to Srinagar, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.