KASHMIR GREAT LAKES (KGL)
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All About It
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- Difficulty - Moderate
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, of 07 Nights & 08 Days, covers the high altitude famous lakes of Kashmir, which are Vishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangabal. The trek, which is graded as a difficult trek, keeps throwing constant challenges before you while treating you to the most spectacular sceneries you will ever come across. The trekking route crosses lush meadows, bubbling streams, snowclad majestic mountain peaks and mountain passes.
The trek starts from Nichnai Valley, the route to which is dotted with pine trees, pastures, glacier streams & mountain peaks. From Nichnai Valley, Vishansar Lake, the first Alpine Lake in the trek, followed by Kishansar Lake, which is adjoined by an enormous meadow. From there, the trekking route continues to Gadsar Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,300 meters. From here, you are treated to splendid views of Mt. Nanga Parbat. The next stop is Satsar Lake. From Satsar Lake, you will make your way to Gangabal campsite, while crossing the Zaji Pass & enjoying the views of Mt. Harmukh at 5,000 meters on the way. From Gangabal, the descent begins up to Narang Valley & then drive to Srinagar.
Throughout the trekking tour, you will be at an elevation of 2000-4000 meters. During the course of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, you will have the wonderful opportunity of observing the rich flora & fauna of the northwestern Himalayan region. The Harmukh Peak, at a height of 5,400 meters, will arouse both awe & inspiration in you. However, the best part about the trek is the lakes themselves, which almost magically change their colours from clear at dawn to sea green to light blue to inky blue by evening. It will be an experience that you will cherish for a long time.
Day 1 - Srinagar
4 Hours)
- The group will assemble at Srinagar.
- After brief introduction conducted by your trek leader sharing all the necessary details about what the trekking excursion entails, we will start driving from Srinagar to reach Sonamarg where Shitkari village serves as the ideal base camp for the Kashmir great lakes trek.
*Note: It’s important that you carry your ID proof, original as well as 2 photocopies as you will need to submit these documents at the army check post.
Day 2 - Nichnai
8 hours)
- After early morning breakfast, we will head out towards Nichnai which is our campsite.
- The entire trail is gives you a slice f paradise that is Kashmir. Maple and pine trees line the trail and as you gradually ascend, the stunning landscape of the entire Sonamarg Valley comes into view. Streams of water flow relentlessly, giving way to lush green meadows of Shekdur, adorned by small peaks and surrounded by Bhoj trees, making it a breathtaking stop to take a breather and marvel at the wonder of nature.
- Following the flow of water of Nichnai stream, we will reach at our campsite where we will have dinner and spend the night.
Day 3 - Sonamarg valley
7 hours)
- After early morning breakfast, we will head towards the scenic Vishansar lake. The lake holds utmost importance for Kashmiri pandits and it’s surrounding landscape of alpine forests and gorges filled with small glaciers make it a fascinating spot for trekkers.
- The Nichnai pass lies behind the twin peaks that stand proudly in the backdrop of your campsite. Nestled at the foot of the mountains, you will see a lake coming into view. As you ascend gradually into the meadows, the pass will finally come into the view providing you a stunning view of Sonamarg valley.
- After witnessing the magic of this pass, you will start your descend with the view of flowery meadows and rivers in the backdrop. Soon, you will see a waterfall cascading from a mountain cliff and after trekking for a while a new stream will come into view. We will set up our camps in the open space with the Vishansar lake in the backdrop.
- Rest of the day is at leisure but you can indulge in any fun activity you like. Dinner followed by an overnight stay in the campsite.
Day 4 - Kishansar
5 hours )
- After morning tea and breakfast, we will embark on to our next stop.
- Nestled at an altitude of 500ft above the the Kishansar lake lies just above Vishansar lake. The blend of stunning landscapes of green meadows and crystal blue lakes make this a sight to behold. Soon, you will see the ridge that is Gadsar Pass coming into view. After strolling for a while longer, you will see a small lake which would be the Yamsar lake which has mythological significance associated with the god of death, Yama in hinduism. As you move forward and the base of snow covered cliffs come into view, you would see a pristine lake and that would be Gadsar lake.
- After enjoying the beautiful view, we will walk a bit further and then set up our campsite,
- Dinner followed by overnight stay in camps.
Day 5 - Gadsar
6 hours)
- After having our morning tea and breakfast, we will leave the campsite to head towards our next stop Satsar camp which is nestled s at 12,000ft and is a collection of seven lakes, majority of which you can see depending on the season.
- You will be traversing through lush green forests with rivers and valley below you. After traversing through terrains with majestic mountains in your view, you will soon see a ridge that is the gateway to Satsar, beyond which lies the 3rd line of defense from the LOC as well as the Satsar Army camp.
- We will set up our campsite a few meters away from here and enjoy the serenity and peace.
- Dinner followed by overnight stay in camps.
Day 6 - Satsar
6 hours
- Post-breakfast, we will head out for our trekking expedition that consists of ascends and descends.
- The trail is full of surprises, with countless ridges and nameless lakes. After traversing through all of them, you will finally reach the biggest lake among them all which is Gangabal with Nundkol just by its side. The Nundkhol lake is nestled at the base of the Harmukh peak where the Harmukh glacier hangs on the edges of the mountain.
- We will set up our campsite here at Nundkol and spend the night after having dinner.
Day 7 - Gangabal
6 hours) | Drive to Srinagar
- Post breakfast, we will start our descent from the Gangabal campsite. You will see green canopies lining the trail and you will start to see traces of civilization.
- The meadows give way to wooden huts and Naranag slowly comes in sight at around 8500ft giving way to Naranag road. We will drive back to Srinagar from here.
- Upon reaching Srinagar(06.30-07.30), the group will dissemble.
- End of Tour.
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We at Offbeat Compass believe Adventure is the soul of the Invention. We live and plan to make you experience the Movement of the fist at 4:00 AM to unzip the tent, Hiking through the jungles & mountains, Meeting locals and new culture. Offbeat compass is a treasure after discovery. It will have you shaking with fear, explode with laughter & offer you a sideways look at the world. Navigating your way through the remote wonders of the earth with an experience of exploration & leading thousands of nature lovers with years of travel industry work experience has what made two average guys start Offbeat Compass.
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Inclusions
Accommodation: 6 Nights Tented Accommodation on a triple sharing basis.
Meals: All veg meals from day Day 1st Dinner to Day 7th Breakfast.
Snacks: Morning / Evening Tea / Coffee with light snacks.
Camping logistics: Tent, Sleeping bags, Mattresses, Dining tent, Toilet tent, Sitting Stools.
Trek Leader: Qualified and Experienced Trek leader and support staff.
Permits: All necessary fees and permits.
Safety Equipment: Basic First Aid kit with Oximeter and Oxygen Cylinder.
Trek Leader with Local Guides
Exclusions
Transportation from Srinagar TRC – Sitkari / Naranag – Srinagar TRCIf you wish to avail of our transportation service, then the extra cost will be 1800 per person. The transportation cost is to and fro. The pickup and drop place will be Srinagar
Any expenses of personal nature.
Meals during transit.
Insurance of any kind (650 per person.)
Any fees and permits (for non-Indians).
Unscheduled delay due to a landslide.
Cost Escalation due to “Force Majeure and Evacuation charges”.
Anything not mentioned explicitly in the above program.
Offloading/Porter Service (2,800/- Per Bag)
Cost of any Extra Day / Buffer day if used ( 2000 INR )
Policy and more
- No cancellations will be taken over call or whatsApp msg. Please reply in email with payment receipt that you have received at the time of booking.
- No Show . No refund.
- If remaining payment is not received 7 days before the event start date, Your slot is assumed to be cancelled.
- Incase of government orders, harsh weather conditions , protests , landslides or any other unforeseen circumstances , we work out the best possible alternate plans or trips/treks. At times even certain activities are cancelled , the organisation provides the best alternate but no refunds are provided.
- If a trek or trip cannot be completed due to natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh etc.). No refund would be provided.
- Any extra expense coming due to any natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh, Train Cancellations etc.), Will be beared by customer. Offbeat Compass will not be liable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this Kashmir Great Lakes trek meant for?
This is a 7-day long trek in Kashmir. It’s insanely beautiful. The days are longer so you need to be in good shape to opt for this trek. This trek can be opted by anyone with good physical fitness and an urge to see the beauty of Heaven on Earth Kashmir.
What is the best time for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
The best time to do Kashmir great lakes trek is from July to the end of September. During this time, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek provides a lifetime adventure experience. The trekkers will able to explore picturizing views of Valleys, mountain passes, alpine lakes, glaciers, meadows, and cascading waterfalls with exotic wildflower beds. The route of Kashmir’s great lakes trek remains under the large scale of snow till mid of June.
Basically the best time to do trekking in Kashmir is from 15 May onwards but for the Great lakes trek, the perfect time is July to the end of Sep. During the month of June, the great lakes trekking trail is partially covered with snow, and the view is much different when compared to the remaining summertime. The trek can be performed during June also but needs crampons and some previous experience of high altitude trekking.
I am solo traveller,Can i join?
yes, you certainly can join. We often get many solo trekker/traveler on our trips and definitely you will find some likeminded people on the trip. Our objective is that we complete the trek/travel as a team. So, we always motivate people to come together and help each other.
How and when will your team coordinate with me?
We make a WhatsApp group of all the participants, besides, two days before the event and share all the necessary details in it.
When will I get trip/trek details?
Usually, An heads-up email with trip details such as things to carry, contact details of Trek Leaders, meeting details and the Do’s & don’ts will be communicated via both Email/WhatsApp within 3 days prior to the trip.
Are smoking and drinking allowed?
No, Smoking and drinking are strictly prohibited.
I am first time trekker/traveler,Will the Trek/Travel be Difficult for Me?
We always believe in exploring our limits. Every Trek/Trip organized by Offbeat Compass would have Trek/Trip Captains, who would help you motivate you in difficult times on the trek/trip. Also, we have shared the itinerary in a form of a virtual trek/trip which would give you basic idea of the difficulty level of the trek/trip, which will help you in decision making.
Or Talk to our Experts,If joining the trek : +91 9866502095
I am Women/Girl.Is the Trek/Trip safe for Me?
Yes, We always make sure that we take proper precaution in regards of girl’s safety. We have female Trek/Trip Captains who have explored every trek/trip, Offbeat Compass has, in regards of the facilities, sanity and safety of a female trekkers/travelers.
Group Size?
- 5 to 17 Members
- We require a minimum of 5 participant to confirm the event
- If in case, we fail to obtain the required minimum number of participants. We would initiate full refund or transfer to another event for the same departure date. (Option of transfer shall be subject to payment/refund of balance amount if any)
Can you tell us about Accommodation?
Depending on the availability- Dormitories: Ideally a big room where people sleep in sleeping bags/Blankets (Mats are provided) . There will be separate rooms for girls and guys.
Washrooms: Yes, Available at Home Stay. Please note: it’s a place in the middle of nowhere, so during the trek, NO restrooms are accessible (one has to be dependent on natural resources).
How difficult is Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
When we are talking about the Kashmir great lakes trek difficulty, the trek has been rated as a Moderate trek. Considering all the major factors to rate trek like the type of terrain, altitude, steepness in route, climatic conditions, distance, and the duration of the trek. This highest altitude of Kashmir’s great lakes trek route is at Nichnai Pass 4130 meters above sea level and the toughest route and terrain of the trek is from Satsar to Gangabal Lake.
Kashmir great lakes trek is a moderate trek and 30 Percent of the trek is normal to walk over the beautiful meadows and Valleys. The trek doesn’t need any advanced mountaineering skills and gears like an ice ax, crampons, and harness.
The Great Lakes trek is a moderate difficult trek and on every Himalayan trek mental and physical strength is needed. If workout is already in your schedule that will surely help you to remain fit during the trek. Beginners and experienced trekkers must add walking plus running for 6 to10 km a day in your schedule. On an average trekkers will cover 6 to 7 km during this trek. The route of the trek is touching the valleys, passes and vast meadows with scenic view of mountains. The route is located in between the elevation of 3500 to 4000 m above sea level. Great lakes trek is an awesome lifetime trekking experience in the Himalayas of Kashmir. The trek can be too difficult for those who are totally new to trekking and not physically prepared.
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