The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a mesmerizing journey through the pristine and untouched beauty of the Himalayan region in India. This trek is renowned for its stunning alpine lakes, lush meadows, snow-capped mountains, and vibrant floral displays. Spanning over a week, this adventure is perfect for those seeking a combination of natural beauty, physical challenge, and a serene environment. Before setting off on this trek, it is crucial to understand all the essential details, including the best time to visit, the trek's difficulty level, and the importance of having travel insurance that covers trekking and adventure activities.
Which is the best time to go for Kashmir Great Lakes trek?
The best time to undertake the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is during the summer months, from late June to early September. During this period, the weather is relatively stable, and the meadows are in full bloom, offering a riot of colours and lush greenery. The Kashmir Great Lakes trek temperature ranges from 15°C to 20°C during the day, dropping to 0°C to 5°C at night. It is essential to pack accordingly to stay comfortable throughout the trek.
What are the trekking routes and difficulty on Kashmir Great Lakes trek?
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek covers a distance of approximately 72 kilometres and is typically completed over 7 to 9 days. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the trekking routes and their difficulty levels:
Sonamarg to Nichnai:
The trek starts from Sonamarg, winding through dense forests and lush meadows before reaching the Nichnai campsite.
Distance: 9 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Nichnai to Vishansar Lake:
This section involves crossing the Nichnai Pass at an altitude of 4,100 metres, offering breath-taking views before descending to Vishansar Lake.
Distance: 12 km
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Vishansar to Gadsar via Krishansar Lake and Gadsar Pass:
A challenging day with steep ascents, crossing Gadsar Pass at 4,200 metres, and then descending to the beautiful Gadsar Lake.
Distance: 14 km
Difficulty: Difficult
Gadsar to Satsar:
The trail passes through meadows and small streams, leading to the serene Satsar Lakes.
Distance: 12 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Satsar to Gangbal Twin Lakes via Zaj Pass:
Another high-altitude day, crossing Zaj Pass at 4,100 metres, with a steep descent to the Gangbal Twin Lakes.
Distance: 11 km
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Gangbal to Naranag:
The final leg of the trek involves descending through pine forests to reach Naranag village.
Distance: 12 km
Difficulty: Moderate
About the natural beauty and landmarks in Kashmir Great Lakes
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is famed for its unparalleled natural beauty and prominent landmarks. Here are some highlights:
Vishansar Lake:
This sapphire-blue lake is surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-covered peaks, offering a serene and picturesque setting.
Krishansar Lake:
Adjacent to Vishansar Lake, Krishansar Lake is equally stunning, with clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains.
Gadsar Lake:
Known as the ‘Valley of Flowers’, Gadsar Lake is surrounded by vibrant alpine flowers, making it a visual treat.
Satsar Lakes:
A group of seven small, interconnected lakes, Satsar offers tranquillity and is a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation.
Gangbal Twin Lakes:
These twin lakes, Gangbal and Nundkol, lie at the foothills of Mount Harmukh and are revered for their beauty and spiritual significance.
What are the safety and essential tips for Kashmir Great Lakes trek?
Safety is paramount when embarking on the Kashmir Great Lakes trek. Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
Acclimatisation:
Spend a day or two acclimatising at the base camp to prevent altitude sickness.
Hydration:
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as the high altitude can lead to dehydration.
Proper gear:
Invest in good quality trekking gear, including sturdy boots, warm clothing, and a reliable backpack.
Physical fitness:
Ensure you are in good physical condition, as the trek involves steep climbs and long walking hours.
Travel cover:
Get a comprehensive travel cover that covers trekking and adventure activities to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances.
Guide and permits:
Hire an experienced trek guide and ensure all necessary permits are obtained before starting the trek.
What are the camping and accommodation options at Kashmir Great Lakes?
Camping is the primary accommodation option on the Kashmir Great Lakes trek. Here are some tips and details about camping on this trek:
Designated campsites:
There are designated campsites at Nichnai, Vishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangbal, equipped with basic amenities.
Trekking agencies:
Several trekking agencies provide guided tours with pre-arranged camping setups, including tents, sleeping bags, and meals.
Self-camping:
For those preferring independence, carrying your own camping gear is an option, ensuring you follow Leave No Trace principles.
Which are the nearby places to explore in Kashmir Great Lakes?
After completing the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, there are several nearby places worth exploring:
Sonamarg:
Known as the ‘Meadow of Gold’, Sonamarg offers stunning landscapes and adventure activities like river rafting.
Gulmarg:
A popular hill station famous for its ski resorts, Gulmarg also offers a scenic cable car ride, the Gulmarg Gondola.
Srinagar:
The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar is famous for its beautiful Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, and houseboats.
Pahalgam:
A picturesque town known for its lush greenery, Pahalgam is a gateway to the Amarnath Yatra and offers various trekking and fishing opportunities.
Explore: Places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir
