KASHMIR GREAT Lake Trek Information
The Kashmir Great Lakes (KGL) trek is one of the most breathtaking high-altitude treks in the Kashmir Valley, reaching a maximum altitude of 4,206 meters (13,800 feet). This trek offers an unparalleled experience of exploring the raw and untouched beauty of Kashmir’s alpine landscapes.
This 7-day moderate to difficult trek is perfect for seasoned trekkers and fit beginners looking for a challenge. The trek takes you through a dreamlike landscape of pristine alpine lakes, lush meadows, and towering snow-clad peaks. Each day unfolds a new scenery, making every step of the journey feel surreal.
Each lake on this trek—Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangbal—has its own unique story, with reflections so clear they feel like portals to another world. Walking through the meadows of Kashmir, dotted with wildflowers and grazing horses, feels like stepping into a postcard.
Why Choose the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
+ Trek through seven stunning alpine lakes, each more mesmerizing than the last
+ Witness dramatic landscapes, from lush meadows to rocky passes in one single trail
+ Cross the Gadsar Pass (4,206m), the highest point of the trek, offering breathtaking panoramic views
+ Experience the true untouched beauty of Kashmir, away from crowds and chaos
+ A must-do trek for those who seek serenity, adventure, and a deep connection with nature
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
7 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
13,800 ft (4,206 m)
SUITABLE FOR
10 to 60 years
TREK DISTANCE
70 kms
STATE
Jammu & Kashmir
STAY TYPE
Tents
BEST SEASON
Summer & Autumn
At Yaarana Adventures we are building a community for travellers, trekkers, climbers, mountaineers, snowboarders, paragliders and extreme adventurers. We run a special project called #Testyourlimits where we invite our community to climb some Beginner, Semi-technical and Technical Mountains with us.
We’re Just Like You
Coming from the plains, we understand the challenges and excitement of doing a Himalayan trek. We’ve been in your shoes!
Shared Passion
Our love for mountains unites us. We’ve experienced the thrill of trekking in the Himalayas and want to share that passion with you.
Personalized Instruction
Our friendly trek leaders are here to guide you with patience and care, making sure you feel comfortable as you progress the trek.
Passion for Learning
Learning is our top priority. We’re eager to share our knowledge and experience to help you become the trekker you aspire to be.
Future Adventures Together
At Yaarana Adventures, we look forward to future adventures, creating even more unforgettable experiences together!
Join the Yaarana Adventures family and let’s explore the Himalayas together!
DAY 1: ARRIVAL & TRANSFER TO SONMARG CAMPSITE
Please reach Srinagar Ghat no 1 by 12 pm. Upon arrival in Srinagar, our representative will welcome and embark you on a scenic drive to Sonmarg, the gateway to the stunning Kashmir Great Lakes trek. Enjoy refreshments on arrival at the campsite and soak in the stunning views of the lush green meadows and snow-capped peaks. Spend the day acclimatizing, exploring the surroundings, and preparing for the adventure ahead. In the evening, attend a briefing session covering trek details, safety guidelines, and mountain etiquettes. Overnight stay in tents at Sonmarg.
DAY 2: TREK FROM SONMARG TO NICHNAI
The trek begins with a gradual ascent through dense pine forests, followed by a steep climb to the scenic meadows of Shekdur. As we move forward, you’ll witness breathtaking views of the Thajiwas Glacier before entering the valley of Nichnai, our campsite for the night.
Trek Distance – 11 km | Altitude Gain – 7,800 ft to 11,500 ft | Duration – 6-7 hrs
DAY 3: TREK FROM NICHNAI TO VISHANSAR LAKE
Our Day 3 begins with a climb to Nichnai Pass (13,100 ft), offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. From here, we descend into a valley filled with vibrant wildflowers, leading to the mesmerizing Vishansar Lake, one of the first high-altitude lakes of the trek. Spend the evening by the lake, capturing stunning reflections of the mountains.
Trek Distance – 12 km | Altitude Gain – 11,500 ft to 12,000 ft (via 13,100 ft pass) | Duration – 6-7 hrs
DAY 4: TREK FROM VISHANSAR TO GADSAR VIA KRISHANSAR & GADSAR PASS
One of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the trek! We pass the pristine Krishansar Lake before ascending Gadsar Pass (13,800 ft), the highest point of the trek. From the summit, enjoy awe-inspiring views of the twin lakes. We then descend into a lush valley leading to the enchanting Gadsar Lake, where we camp overnight.
Trek Distance – 14 km | Altitude Gain – 12,000 ft to 12,500 ft (via 13,800 ft pass) | Duration – 7-8 hrs
DAY 5: TREK FROM GADSAR TO SATSAR LAKES
Our today’s trek also begins with a gradual ascent, trekking through scenic meadows and rocky terrain. We will pass through an army checkpoint before reaching the Satsar Lakes, a collection of small interconnected alpine lakes. Spend the evening exploring the lakes and resting at the campsite.
Trek Distance – 9 km | Altitude Gain – 12,500 ft to 12,000 ft | Duration – 5-6 hrs
DAY 6: TREK FROM SATSAR TO GANGBAL LAKES VIA ZAJ PASS
The trek begins with a steep climb to Zaj Pass (13,400 ft), offering stunning views of the Harmukh Peak. After crossing the pass, descend towards the pristine twin lakes of Nundkol and Gangbal, nestled at the base of Mount Harmukh. We shall Camp beside the serene waters and enjoy our last night in the wilderness.
Trek Distance – 11 km | Altitude Gain – 12,000 ft to 11,500 ft (via 13,400 ft pass) | Duration – 6-7 hrs
DAY 7: DESCEND FROM GANGBAL TO NARANAG & DRIVE TO SRINAGAR
On the final day, we descend through dense pine forests and meadows towards Naranag village. The descent is steep but scenic, with views of vast landscapes along the way. Reach Naranag by afternoon, where vehicles will be waiting to drive us back to Srinagar, marking the end of our adventure.
Trek Distance – 12 km | Altitude Loss – 11,500 ft to 7,450 ft | Duration – 5-6 hrs
DAY 8: BUFFER DAY
If the buffer day is used, you have to pay us Rs 2,000 per day. The money will be collected by the Trek Leader only if we use the buffer day.
- Double sharing dome tents
- 3 meals every day (veg and egg)
- Trekking equipment: temperature-rated sleeping bags, mattress
- Kitchen tent & toilet tent
- Alpine dining tent
- All necessary trekking and forest permits
- First aid medical kit
- Mountaineering qualified and professional trek leader, local guide, and staff
- Transportation from and to Srinagar
- Breakfast & Lunch on Day 1 & Lunch & Dinner on Day 7
- Any expense of personal nature
- Food during the transit
- Mules or porters to carry personal luggage
- Any emergency evacuation charges
- Post-trek accommodation
- Anything not Mentioned in Trek Inclusions
- 50-60 ltrs rucksack with rain cover
- Trekking pole
- Water bottle/hydration pack
- Personal medical kit and first-aid
- Energy bars and dry fruits
- 4 full sleeves t-shirts
- 1 fleece full sleeves t-shirt
- 1 fleece jacket
- 1 down feather/holofoil jacket
- 1 wind & waterproof jacket & pant
- Thermal inners (up and down)
- 3 trek pants
- Waterproof gloves
- Poncho
- Trekking shoes
- Sunscreen SPF 50+, moisturizer, lip balm
- Toilet papers and wipes
- Head torch
- Sun cap
- Woolen cap
- Neck gaiters
- UV protected sunglasses
- 1 floaters/flip-flops
- Cotton socks
- Woollen socks
- Gaiters
- Notepad, pencil or pen
We highly recommend arriving in Srinagar a day early to help your body acclimatise and reduce the risk of AMS.
Via Flight: The easiest way to reach Srinagar is by taking a direct flight to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR) from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chandigarh. From the airport, you can take a cab to the city center.
Via Road: You can take a bus or shared cab from Jammu to Srinagar. JKSRTC operates regular buses. The journey takes around 8-10 hours via NH44.
Via Train: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi (JAT). From Jammu, you can take a cab or bus to Srinagar.
Local Travel: Upon reaching Srinagar, take a cab or auto to the Tourist Reception Center, Rajbagh, which is the common meeting point.
During the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, toilet facilities are typically basic and designed to minimize environmental impact. Here’s what you can expect:
Toilet Tents at Campsites : At Yaarana Adventures, we set up portable toilet tents at each campsite. These tents provide privacy and are equipped with dry pit systems, where a pit is dug into the ground. After use, trekkers cover their waste with soil, promoting hygiene and environmental sustainability.
Eco-Friendly Practices : Trekkers are encouraged to use biodegradable toiletries, such as soap and toilet paper, to reduce environmental impact. It’s advisable to avoid non-degradable items like wet wipes.
Mid-Trek Facilities : Along the trekking route, there are generally no permanent toilet facilities. Trekkers should plan to use the facilities at campsites before setting out each day.
Personal Hygiene : Carrying personal hygiene kits, including hand sanitizers and biodegradable toilet paper, is recommended. This ensures cleanliness and comfort throughout the trek.
By adhering to these practices, trekkers can maintain personal hygiene while preserving the pristine environment of the Kashmir Great Lakes region.
- We highly recommend arriving in Srinagar a day early to help your body acclimatise and reduce the risk of AMS.
- It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo ID for entry at forest check posts on the trek.
- Please carry a copy of your medical certificate and disclaimer form.
- There are no facilities to take a photocopy at Sonmarg. Please don’t leave this till the end.
- Please note that prepaid SIM cards do not work in Kashmir.
- If you wish to acclimatize better, you can reach Srinagar a day before the trek. Do let us know if you need help in accommodation.
- Pick-up place and time: Ghat Number 1, Dal Lake.
- On Day 1, please reach Srinagar by 9:30 AM.
- On Day 7, you’ll reach Srinagar between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM. You can book your travel any time after 9 PM.
7 Days | 6 Nights : INR 22,000/-
Come, walk through the breathtaking Kashmir Great Lakes and soak in nature’s beauty. Let’s make this adventure happen together!
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