Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
An iconic Himalayan trek across alpine meadows and seven breathtaking glacial lakes in Kashmir.
Overview & About
Kashmir is often called “Paradise on Earth”, and the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is perhaps the best way to experience why. This iconic trail takes you across lush green meadows, alpine valleys, and seven breathtakingly beautiful glacial lakes – each one more magical than the last.
As you trek, you’ll witness the surreal beauty of Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangbal, and Nundkol lakes, all cradled by snow-covered peaks and flowering meadows. This trek isn’t just about scenic beauty—it’s a spiritual journey, a soul-refreshing escape into nature’s masterpiece.
Whether you’re a passionate trekker, a nature photographer, or just someone seeking to disconnect and feel alive, the Kashmir Great Lakes trek will stay etched in your memory forever.
Highlights
- Witness 7 stunning alpine lakes, each with a unique color and charm
- Camp beside turquoise waters with reflections of towering peaks
- Traverse flower-filled meadows, ridges, pine forests, and boulder sections
- Interact with Gujjar shepherds and experience authentic Kashmiri culture
- Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers
- A complete off-grid experience with limited mobile connectivity
Best Time to Visit
The best window to do this trek is July to early September. During this time, the snow has melted enough to clear the trails, wildflowers bloom across the meadows, and the lakes are at their most vibrant. Days are pleasantly cool, while nights can get quite cold at higher camps.
Difficulty Level
The trek is moderate to difficult due to the long walking hours (6–9 hrs daily), multiple ascents and descents, and high altitude. It’s best suited for people with prior trekking experience or those with a good level of fitness. Daily elevation changes can be intense, but are manageable with the right mindset and preparation.
Starting Point
Srinagar → Shitkadi (Sonamarg)
Ending Point
Naranag → Srinagar
Temperature Range
5°C to 18°C
Total Trek Distance
~75 km
Trek Highlights
Explore 7 stunning alpine lakes — Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangbal & Nundkol
Camp beside turquoise glacial lakes with mountain reflections
Cross high-altitude passes like Nichnai Pass & Gadsar Pass
Walk through flower-filled meadows and vast alpine valleys
Experience remote Himalayan wilderness with minimal network
Interact with Gujjar shepherd communities
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive in Srinagar and drive to Sonamarg.
- Scenic drive through Kashmir valley
- Reach Sonamarg (Meadow of Gold)
- Acclimatization and briefing
- Overnight stay
Start trekking through forests and meadows.
- Gradual ascent through pine forests
- Reach Shekdur ridge
- Continue to Nichnai campsite
- Overnight stay
Cross your first high-altitude pass.
- Ascend Nichnai Pass
- Panoramic valley views
- Descend to Vishansar Lake
- Camp near the lake
Rest and explore nearby lakes.
- Visit Krishansar Lake
- Optional ridge hike
- Acclimatization day
- Overnight stay
The toughest and most scenic day.
- Cross Gadsar Pass (highest point)
- View multiple lakes from top
- Descend to Gadsar Lake
- Camp in meadows
Traverse alpine terrain.
- Walk through rugged terrain
- Stream crossings
- Reach Satsar lake cluster
- Overnight stay
Another rewarding high pass day.
- Ascend Zaj Pass
- View Gangbal & Nundkol lakes
- Descend to Gangbal campsite
- Overnight stay
Final descent and return.
- Trek down through pine forests
- Reach Naranag
- Drive back to Srinagar
- Trip concludes
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Accommodation in camps (twin sharing)
- All meals during trek
- Trek equipment — tents, sleeping bags, kitchen setup
- Trek leader, guides, and support staff
- Permits and forest entry fees
- Medical kit, oxygen cylinder
- Mules/porters for common luggage
- Transportation as per itinerary
What's Excluded
- Meals during travel
- Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Personal trekking gear
- Anything not mentioned above
Things to Carry
Gear on Rent
Shoes
Jacket
Trekpent
Poncho
Trek Pole
Head Torch
Photo Gallery
Booking & Refund Policy
| Cancellation Time | Refund |
|---|---|
| More than 30 days before departure | 90% refund |
| 15 to 30 days before departure | 70% refund |
| 7 to 14 days before departure | 50% refund |
| Less than 7 days before departure | No refund |
Select Your Departure
Choose your preferred batch and confirm availability before making payment.
Pay the Booking Amount
Pay 30% advance to confirm your seat. Balance should be cleared before departure.
Fill Trekker Form
Submit health, emergency contact, and fitness details shared after booking.
Receive Trek Briefing
You’ll receive meeting point, contact details, packing list, and final instructions before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
It is recommended for fit beginners or experienced trekkers.
What is the best time for this trek?
July to early September.
How difficult is the trek?
Moderate to difficult due to long trekking hours and altitude.
Are all 7 lakes visible?
Yes, depending on weather and route progression.
