Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (8 Days / 7 Nights)
Kashmir
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All About It
- 8 Days 7 Nights
- Difficulty - Easy
About Kashmir Great Lakes Trek - Treks in Himalaya
(Sonamarg-Vishansar-Naranag Trek)
Kashmir is full of unparalleled beauty, postcard-perfect scenes. Our trek in Kashmir traverses some of the hidden jewels in the Kashmiri mountain cape of the pristine alpine high altitude lakes of Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar. Nundkol and Gangbal. Now you know the reason for the trek named as the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek circuit is recommended, if you are looking for green meadows filled with colorful wildflowers, natural color changing water lakes, meandering streams and amazing Himalayan views.
Our trek trail follows the ancient routes taken by the Gujjars – The nomadic shepherds of Kashmir. Starting from the famous hill station in Sonamarg, our trekkers are delighted with breathtaking views of rugged snow-capped mountains, colorful grasslands, and trout filled crystal clear lakes. The trek in both terms physically and mentally challenging with the highest pass to be crossed being at 1491m with rocky terrain. Trekkers need to be physically fit and should have a penchant for the Himalayan remoteness to enjoy the trek.
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: 8 days/ 7 nights
- Trek Season: July – September
- Base Camp: Sitkari
Highlights
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.
Private Vehicle
Tents
Dinner
Start early from Srinagar and drive to Sonamarg (approx. 3-4 hours drive). Explore the picturesque town of Sonamarg, known as the “Meadow of Gold.” Keep your ID proof with you in the original and two photocopies. We will need them to check at the Army Check Post. Overnight stay in tents at (Shitkadi Village)
Meals – Dinner
Private Vehicle
Tents
All Meals
Begin your trek from Sonamarg to Nichnai. • En route, pass through lush green meadows and dense pine forests. • You can also enjoy a spectacular view of the Sonmarg Valley and the Thajiwas Glacier Set up camp at Nichnai for overnight stay.
Meals – All meals
Private Vehicle
Tents
All Meals
In the morning, we will start our trek from Nichnai to Vishansar Lake. Witness stunning views of the surrounding mountains and meadows. Camp near Vishansar Lake for the night.
Meals – all meals
Private Vehicle
Tents
All Meals
Note – The use of acclimatization day is subject to change to weather conditions. If in case the weather is bad and trekking is not possible then there will be a buffer or rest day in that condition. If the weather remains absolutely fine, then in that condition buffer or rest day will not be used and will move forward to the next campsite.
Private Vehicle
Tents
All Meals
We will start our trek early in the morning from Vishansar Lake to Gadsar via Kishansar lake and Gadsar Pass. Marvel at the beauty of multiple alpine lakes along the way. From the pass, pass through a flowery meadow and some of the picturesque lakes; Yamsar is one of these lakes. Overnight Stay at Gadsar lake.
Meals – all meals
Private Vehicle
Tents
All Meals
Your day will begin with a walk from the camp towards the stream. Mengen top is also known for Stasar twin lakes. Overnight stay at Satsar lake.
Meals – all meals
Private Vehicle
Tents
All Meals
Trek from Satsar Lakes to Gangabal Twin Lakes. Enjoy the serenity of the Gangabal and Nundkol lakes. Overnight stay in Nandkhol
Meals – all meals
Private Vehicle
Tents
All Meals
Begin your trek from the Gangabal campsite and you will be walking down the trail until you reach Naranag. From Narnag you will drive to Srinagar with an estimated arrival time of 6:30 pm. Depending on your flight/train schedule, spend some time exploring Srinagar or do last-minute souvenir shopping. Depart from Srinagar with wonderful memories of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.
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Reviews
Shibani Goutam
I have planned many trips before with various travel agents and I must say you are one of the best Trek planner/Trek leads I have had the pleasure to interact with. We thank you very much for all your work and dedication to make this trip happen! Thanks to Satish and nikhil to complete the trek before sun burn .
Saloni Patil
Had my best time in Sandhan Valley trek even our guides were friendly, fantastic, showcasing expertise.I must highlight the remarkable quality of the meals provided during our trek.Highly recommended! your company and guide to anyone seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Akshay Badiya
I recently embarked on a trek with treks and trails, and the experience exceeded my expectations. The trek leaders were not only knowledgeable but also exceptionally friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere throughout the journey. Their expertise shone through, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trek.
Puneet Kadapatti
Did Kalsubai Trek with the TNT team(Sunny/Sagar and Neha)
Met them on the Kasara Train and the moment we all gathered I had a Vibe this treks gonna be Awesome,
Utkarsh Kumbhare
The trek leaders have good experience and are very helpful during trek with all the necessary details that one need to know.
I would suggest to carry minimum luggage as possible as the trek is demanding with high endurance so keeping the luggage at minimum only essentials like water, energy bars and drinks, will help you once the 75% bar of the trek is done😅....also would be nice if you practice cardio beforehand atleast 15-20 days if you don't go to gym, it will really aid you.
Overall a very good experience with treks and trails.
Inclusions
What is included in the tour
- Stay is included on all days of the trek (from Srinagar to Srinagar). You will be staying in tents on a triple sharing basis.
- Transport charges from Srinagar to Srinagar and return.
- All meals from on Day 1 to tea and coffee on Day 8 are included. Meals are simple, nutritious and vegetarian.
- All the trek equipment will be included like a sleeping bag, kitchen & dining tent, utensils, mattress, tent, toilet tent, and crampon (if needed).
- First aid medical kits, oxygen cylinder and stretcher.
- All fuel charges, toll taxes and needed forest entry fees along with permits.
- Mountaineering qualified and professional trek leader, guide, cook and support staff.
Exclusions
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
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
HOW TO REACH
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.
Policy and Terms
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.
Frequest Questions
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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