About This Tour
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most scenic Himalayan trekking experiences that leads the travellers through the spectacular landscape of the alpine region of Kashmir. The 8-day journey is rich with snow-capped mountains, colourful meadows, crystal-clear lakes, forests, streams and scenic valleys. It starts in Srinagar and then heads towards Sonamarg, the starting point of the trek. From there, one enters a thick green meadow and crosses high-altitude passes to reach a series of beautiful alpine lakes such as Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangbal. The highlight of the trek is Gadsar Pass, where trekkers get to see magnificent views of the surrounding Himalayan mountain ranges. Each day on the journey encounters various vistas, ranging from serene meadows to thick forests, rocky mountain trails to stunning high elevation lakes.
Adventure lovers, nature lovers, photographers and travellers who like to revere the nature of Kashmir outside of the conventional tourist circuit are the perfect people for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. This trek has plenty of beautiful scenery, tranquil mountain conditions and fantastic vistas along the way, making it a truly memorable experience in the Himalayas.
Trip Highlights
- Hike through the breathtaking scenery of the Himalayas in Kashmir.
- Enjoy beautiful high-altitude lakes such as Vishansar, Kishansar and Gangbal.
- Walk through colourful meadows surrounded by snow-covered mountains.
- Cross the picturesque Gadsar Pass.
- Enjoy a peaceful valley, forest and mountain stream.
- Tent camping next to the stunning scenery of the Himalayas.
- Enjoy spectacular views of the Kashmir Himalayas.
- Visit the picturesque area of Sonamarg.
- Enjoy the different viewpoints on the way.
- Take amazing shots of the landscapes of Kashmir.
- Guided trekking with local experienced guides.
Included/Exclude
Included
- Srinagar hotel accommodation (as per itinerary)
- Accommodation at the camping site during the trekking period.
- Have breakfast on the tour.
- Trekking and camping – dinner.
- Transportation according to the itinerary.
- Srinagar to Sonamarg transfer.
- Transfer to Srinagar from Naranag.
- Transfers to and from the airport (as arranged).
- Experienced local trekking guide.
- Trekking support staff.
- Camping tents and the basic camping gear.
- Overnight accommodation on sleeping bags and mattresses on the trek.
- Trekking fees and fee schedule.
- All kitchen and support staff at camp.
- Charges made by drivers, fuel and parking costs.
Exclude
- Airfare or train fares.
- Tour lunch.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, shopping and tips.
- Travel insurance.
- Individual hiking gear and gear.
- No personal porter or horse/mule charges unless otherwise specified.
- Shikara ride charges (unless mentioned in package).
- Entrance fees to monuments and sightseeing (unless mentioned ).
- Medical costs and emergency evacuation.
- Any extra touristic sightseeing not specified in the tour.
- Weather, road and/or landslide blockages or unforeseen events that result in expenses.
- Accommodation or transportation necessary because of the weather or on the route.
- Any other expenses that may be incurred due to changes in Government regulations.
- Everything that doesn't fit into one of the Inclusion categories listed above.
Tour Itinerary
Discover a carefully curated journey that covers the must-see highlights and hidden gems of India. Our itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with relaxation, giving you an authentic cultural experience while ensuring a smooth and comfortable travel schedule.
From bustling cities to serene landscapes, each day has been thoughtfully planned to provide memorable experiences, local interactions, and seamless travel across destinations.
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Day-1 Srinagar – Sonamarg – Trek to Nichinai
Arrive in Srinagar & meet with the representative. After breakfast, set off on the picturesque route to Sonamarg, where the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek starts. From Sonamarg, begin your trek through beautiful green landscapes, forests and mountain trails. As you come out of the valley, the path slowly rises to the more upland part of the alpine area. Head on up to the Nichinai campsite and take in the breathtaking mountains along the way. When you reach your camp, be sure to rest on the first day of your hike.
Overnight: Nichinai Campsite -
Day-2 Nichinai – Vishansar Lake – Kishansar Lake
Breakfast is served, and then set off for the stunning high-altitude lakes of the Kashmir Great Lakes area. The path winds through green meadows and rocky mountain areas before finally reaching the magnificent Vishansar Lake. The lake is surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the world, providing stunning views and reflections. Proceed towards Kishansar Lake, near Vishansar. Take some time to relax in the quiet before heading to the campsite.
Overnight: Vishansar/Kishansar Campsite
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Day-3 Vishansar/Kishansar – Gadsar Pass – Gadsar Lake
After breakfast, rise early for one of the toughest parts of the hike. Begin the climb towards Gadsar Pass. It gets steeper up here as you climb, but the views from the pass are worth it. Once you cross the pass, head towards the beautiful Gadsar Lake and meadows. Relax in the tranquil setting before you arrive at the campsite.
Overnight: Gadsar Campsite
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Day-4 Gadsar – Satsar Lakes
Following breakfast, head on with a scenic drive through the Kashmir Valley. The trail winds through open meadows, streams and mountain valleys. Bright colours may be seen throughout the trail in the alpine region, depending on the season. Head on to the Satsar region where a number of beautiful high-altitude lakes can be seen. Pitch a tent and relax in the tranquil ambience.
Overnight: Satsar Campsite
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Day-5 Satsar – Gangbal – Nundkol Lakes
After breakfast, start the trail to Gangbal Lake and Nundkol Lakes. The trail winds through beautiful meadows and mountain vistas; Bal is one of the most striking lakes on the Kashmir Great Lakes trail, surrounded by beautiful mountains. As you turn away from the high-altitude landscapes, you continue through meadows and forests. Follow the road downhill to reach Naranag, a local market. A tranquil Shikara ride on Dal Lake and the traditional beauty of Kashmir can be appreciated too. During this time, you can enjoy a green and colourful alpine meadow, high-altitude lakes that are accessible and trekking that can be done by fit beginners after suitable preparation and trekking guidance. But it was the long hikes that were worth it, and the marvellous scenery of the surrounding peaks. The scenery becomes dynamic as you enter Gangbal.
Gangbal is one of the most prominent lakes along the Kashmir Great Lakes route, surrounded by beautiful mountains. Continue towards Nundkol Lake and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere around the campsite.
Overnight: Gangbal/Nundkol Campsite -
Day-6 Gangbal – Naranag – Srinagar
Following breakfast, go over to the last trek towards Naranag.
As you cross from the high ground, the trail winds through meadows and forests. Walk downhill till you reach Naranag, the end of the trekking part of the tour. Meet your vehicle and drive towards Srinagar. Once you reach your destination, make a stop at the hotel and unwind after the hike.
Overnight: Srinagar
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Day-7 Srinagar – Local Sightseeing
Then, take a leisurely tour of Srinagar after breakfast. Visit some of the city's popular attractions, including the beautiful Mughal Gardens and local markets. The serenity of a Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake can also be enjoyed to explore the traditional beauty of Kashmir. Enjoy an evening at the local crafts market, where you can find interesting hand-crafted items and souvenirs of Kashmir.
Overnight: Srinagar -
Day-8 Srinagar Departure
Check out of the hotel after breakfast on the departure date. From Srinagar airport, you will be shifted to your next destination. Enjoy memorable moments in the Kashmir Great Lakes, alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes and amazing landscapes of the Himalayas. Your memorable Kashmir Great Lakes Trek 8 Days culminates in your return from Srinagar.
