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Drive from Srinagar to the base camp at Shitkadi Sonamarg. At Sonamarg, afternoon acclimatization walk.
Meals: D
Accommodation: Camp
A gradual ascend takes us into the valley of Nichnai via famous tabletop that gives a· panoramic view of a chain of mountains that include Thajwas Mountain range and Bear Valley. The Nichnai Valley is known as the valley of wildflowers. We camp in the flowery meadows of Nichnai.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Camp
We ascend into the Kishansar/Vishansar Valley—a beautiful valley with two lakes resting soothingly before two lofty mountain peaks. The lakes abound with colourful trout fish. Both of these lakes have a religious significance and they drain into Kishanganga River that meanders through Gurez valley.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Camp
We enter into the Gadsar Valley over Gadsar pass. The pass gives a wide view of both Kishansar/Vishansar valley on one side and the Gadsar valley on the other. Enchant yourself with long wavy meadows dotted with multi-coloured flowers. The Gadsar Valley is famous for its lake and sinking watersand. We pitch the tents beside a shimmering canal that comes out of the Gadsar Lake. Legends say the water and fish from the Gadsar Lake have healing powers.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Camp
On the fifth day of the trek, the trail becomes mild and relaxing with a repetition· of mild ascends and desceds through large meadows that stretch along a succession of a fascinating mountain range. We camp for the night in this enchanting valley.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Camp
The sixth day takes us over Zajibal pass. The pass cuts Satsar Valley and Gangabal Valley. We cover a mild gradient that leads us to the Nundkol Lake lying judiciously at the foot of Harmukh. The Harmukh, the lake and the reflection of the Harmukh in the lake make it majestic.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Camp
Drive to Srinagar [70 km] On the last day of the trek, we descend into the Naranag valley. The same day we will drive to Srinagar.
Meals: B, L
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Itineraries shown are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. The operators reserve the right to change expedition / trek / package dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which the operator or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. The operator reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.
*for 15 pax
Challenging, diverse, and breathtakingly beautiful, the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a high effort, high-reward adventure. The trail is relatively quiet compared to other Himalaya routes, meaning you’ll be able to enjoy large sections of the trek in total peace. This trek offers unparalleled views of the great lakes, making it the best option for hikers looking to see them.
Be warned, the weather in this region is unpredictable. One day it will be blisteringly hot, the next it will be cold with high winds and rain. Because of this, it's necessary to have various types of clothing.
The Great Lakes trek will take you past several Army checkpoints so make sure you've got your identity documents with you.
There are numerous types of terrain on the trail, so stretching exercises, endurance exercises, climbing stairs, and half an hour of running every day are all good ways to prepare.
You may consider taking Diamox a day before the trip to aid in acclimatization, but consult your doctor before taking it.
If you face any emergency during an adventure in Kashmir, keep the following contact details handy.
- Police- 100
- Fire- 101/132
- Ambulance- 102/108
- Police headquarters in Srinagar- 0194-2443022-23
- Police control room in Srinagar- 0194-2452092/2455883/2481628-32/2482624
- Women helpline- 1091
- CRPF Madadgaar Helpline- 14111
- Jammu and Kashmir Tourism helpline- 95607-88884
- Tourist reception center Srinagar- 95960-98882
The Great Lakes Trek can be classified as a moderate to difficult trek. The trek duration is 8 hours on average each day, which can become physically arduous and straining. The trails are steep and require high strength and fitness. However, with a dedicated amount of training and guidance, anybody can embark on the trip and witness the unmatched splendor of Kashmir.
The enchanting Satsar Lakes, a group of seven lakes, is the prime attraction of the Great Lakes Trek. But besides these seven lakes, the Great Lakes Trek oversees many other majestic alpine lakes with their turquoise blue waters and serene ambiance. They are the Vishansar lake, Krishansar lake, the twin lakes- Gangabal and Nundkol, Yamsar lake, the nameless lake (during the descent from Gadsar Pass), and the Gadsar lake.
Yes, it is safe to trek in Kashmir as long as you keep in mind some pointers and follow the directives of the tour guide or your trek leader. While in the base camp, do not stray from your group, stay in places permissible for tourists, and avoid going to downtown areas.
Even though in Kashmir itself, both these treks offer their own unique scenery, making it difficult to choose one over another. The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a popular choice among trekkers, whereas the Tarsar Marsar Trek is more remote and secluded. The former has rocky trails and varied landscapes, but the latter offers a very diverse range of green.
However, the KGL trek is a moderate to difficult trek, whereas the latter is a moderate trek. Depending on your physical resilience as a trekker, you can decide which trek you want to do first.
You need a government photo ID proof (Aadhaar card, Passport, Driving license), a signed copy of the declaration certificate, and a medical certificate (both originals and photocopies of all the documents) for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.