The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a premier high-altitude trek situated in the Indian Himalayas, offering an unparalleled experience of the pristine beauty of Kashmir's rugged terrain. Stretching over approximately 70-75 kilometers, this trek takes you through a series of mesmerizing alpine lakes, lush meadows, and snow-capped peaks. Beginning in the lush meadows of Sonamarg and ending near Srinagar, it traverses high mountain passes and remote valleys, showcasing some of the most spectacular scenery in the region. The trek is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including glacial lakes like Vishansar, Krishansar, and Gangbal, and its varied ecosystems, ranging from dense forests to barren mountain tops. It is considered a challenging trek due to its high altitudes and strenuous terrain, but it

Highlights of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:

The only trek in Kashmir for trekkers to explore five stunning lakes at a high altitude.
Experience of once in a lifetime with vintage memories to cherish.
Witness the high mountain passes and the snow patches feeding the lakes. View of milky white iceberg floating on the inky blue lake surface.
Mesmerize with the views from small hamlets and lights through the steep ascend of the trek.
Trekking through innumerable meadows, snow-clad glaciers and pinnacles passes, rocky barren lands, struggling streams.

Basic Details of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:

Grade: Moderate to Difficult
Altitude: Max. Altitude at Gadsar pass at 4191 m.
Temperature: One can expect the temperature to range from 25 degree Celsius during the day and drop down to as low as 5 degree Celsius during the night. Do note that due to wind chills, it can feel a lot colder especially during evenings and nights
Trek Duration: 7 days/ 6 nights
Trek Season: July – September
Base Camp: Sitkari

How to reach Kashmir great lakes trek Basecamp?

Our base camp is Sonamarg which is at a distance of 90 kms from Srinagar which takes approximately 3-4 hours.

Reaching Srinagar via Train:

One can take a train to Jammu and then make a taxi/bus ride to Srinagar. Srinagar is connected to the National Highway to the rest of the country.

Reaching Srinagar via air:

One can take a direct flight to Srinagar from Delhi or Mumbai to avoid the stopover at Jammu. The nearest airport is the Sheikh ul Alam airport also known as the Srinagar airport.

Detailed Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Arrival: Arrive at Srinagar Airport.
Transfer: Transfer to your hotel or houseboat in Srinagar.
Accommodation: Check-in and relax.
Evening: Enjoy a Shikara ride on Dal Lake and explore local markets.
Dinner: Dinner at the hotel or houseboat.

Day 2: Srinagar to Sonamarg

Morning: Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer: Drive to Sonamarg (approximately 2-3 hours).
Accommodation: Check-in at a guesthouse or camp in Sonamarg.
Afternoon: Prepare for the trek and get acclimatized.
Evening: Briefing about the trek and dinner.

Day 3: Sonamarg to Vishansar Lake

Morning: Start the trek from Sonamarg to Vishansar Lake (approximately 4-6 hours of trekking).
Accommodation: Camp by Vishansar Lake.
Afternoon: Settle into camp and enjoy the lake's scenic beauty.
Evening: Relax and have dinner.

Day 4: Vishansar Lake to Gadsar Lake

Morning: Trek to Gadsar Lake (approximately 60 hours), crossing the Gadsar Pass.
Accommodation: Camp by Gadsar Lake.
Afternoon: Enjoy the tranquil environment and explore around the lake.
Evening: Dinner at the campsite.

Day 5: Gadsar Lake to Satsar Lake

Morning: Trek from Gadsar Lake to Satsar Lake (approximately 5-6 hours).
Accommodation: Camp by Satsar Lake.
Afternoon: Relax and explore the area around Satsar Lake.
Evening: Dinner at the campsite.

Day 6: Satsar to Gangabal Lakes

Morning: Trek to Gangabal Lake (approximately 6-7 hours), crossing the Mathwaal Pass.
Accommodation: Camp by Gangabal Lake.
Afternoon: Rest and enjoy the scenic surroundings of Gangabal Lake.
Evening: Dinner at the campsite.

Day 7: Gangabal Lake to Srinagar

Morning: Trek from Gangabal Lake to Naranag (approximately 4-5 hours), then drive back to Srinagar.
Accommodation: Check-in at your hotel or houseboat in Srinagar.
Afternoon: Free time to explore Srinagar or relax.
Dinner: Farewell dinner at the hotel or houseboat.

Important Note:

Permits: Ensure you have the necessary permits for the trek.
Gear: Bring suitable trekking gear, including waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, and warm layers.
Fitness: The trek involves challenging terrain; a good level of fitness is required.
Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness

6 Nights 7 Days Available on request

Inclusions/Exclusions

What we'll give/What we won't

What is included in the tour

Transport in Cars from srinagar to Basecamp and Basecamp to srinagar
Accommodation in Tents
sleeping bags minus 15
Sleeping Mattresses
Basic Medical / First Aid and Oxygen Cylinder
Daily meals (Breakfast Lunch and Dinner) both veg / non veg (day out refreshments)
Passes and Permits
Load ferrying on Ponies
Staff (Guide/Trek Leader Cook and Helpers)
Completion Certificates

What is NOT included in the tour

GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
Any emergency evacuation charges
Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.
Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
Mules or porters to carry personal luggage.

Things to Carry

Footwear and Backpack

Trekking shoes with ankle support
Backpack with rain cover
Daypack with rain cover

Warm Layers and Clothing

Warm layers (Padded jackets)
3 layers for spring, summer, and monsoon treks (1 woolen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
4 layers for autumn treks (1 woolen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
5 layers for winter treks (1 pair of thermals, 1 woolen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)

Accessories

Sunglasses
Sun cap, preferably with flaps
Waterproof gloves
Balaclava
Woolen socks (2-3 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)
Headlamp
Trekking pole
Rain jacket + pants / poncho

Toiletries

Sunscreen
Moisturiser
Light towel
Lip balm or vaseline
Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on our treks)
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
Trash bags (Carry out all your waste and leave no trace behind)

Personal First Aid Kit

Here are some common medicines typically required or used during adventure trips. However, it’s important to consult your doctor before taking any medication:

Antiseptic wipes or water syringe for wound cleaning
Butterfly bandages for small cuts
Cotton, elastic bandages, and sterile gauze pads for larger wounds
Latex gloves for handling bleeding wounds
Medication for diarrhea (upset stomach)
Medication for cold, flu, fever, and headaches
Painkillers
Oral rehydration solution (ORS) pouches
Quick pain relief spray for external use
Any personal medication prescribed by your doctor
Diamox or similar medication for high altitude sickness
Bug repellent
Nutritious energy bars and non-alcoholic drinks

Cancellation Policy

To ensure a seamless experience, we recommend booking your adventure at least two months in advance. Should the need arise to cancel your trek or adventure activity, we kindly request written notification. Cancellation charges will apply from the date we receive your written advice.

We understand the frustration of cancellations, but rest assured, we are committed to facilitating your next adventure with us.

We offer a cancellation policy that is fair, practical, and convenient for our customers.

Cancellation by Participant: If a participant wishes to cancel their booking for any reason, they must notify [Treks and Trails] in writing/email as soon as possible. The following cancellation charges will apply:

Cancellation between 15-29 days prior to the trek departure date: 75% of the total trek cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
Cancellation between 7-14 days of the trek departure date: 50% of the total trek cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
Cancellation between 1-6 days of the trek departure date: 100% of the total trek cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
No Show: Participants who do not show up for the trek without prior intimation will be considered as a ‘No Show’. In such cases, 100% of the total trek cost will be charged as cancellation fees.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the best time recommended for the trek?

Best time to go for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is during June – September.

2. How difficult is the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek in comparison is easy to moderate difficulty with another high altitude trek.

3. How much distance do we have to trek each day?

On an average, we cover roughly 10-14kms between our camping stations.

4. What will happen if a trek is extended?

Beyond our controllable reasons when the trek is extended, then additional charges tend to be applied.

5. Who will be our lead guide person?

Lead guide person is certified & experienced personnel. These guides are locally sourced and have other team members including local guides, cook, helpers, and porters.

6. Is this trek safe for girls?

Our treks are planned with a male: female ratio. As an organizer, we make sure that their tents are shared only with other female trekkers.

7. Many people in a tent?

Our tents are all three person tents.

8. What is the level of fitness expected from the trekkers?

Good physical and mental fitness is expected to complete the Trek. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is ideal for beginners to familiarize themselves with similar high altitude treks.

9. Typical Food menu during a trek?

We make sure that wholesome and nutritious breakfast, lunch and evening snacks are served. We believe and serve only vegetarian food as it is easy to digest and preferable in high altitudes.

10. What if we encounter a medical emergency?

We are trained to manage emergencies in high altitudes. Our lead guide is professional and experienced. Our team do carry emergency first aid kits and oxygen cylinder.

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