TREK HIGHLIGHTS
Scenic Alpine Lakes: Encounter a series of stunning high-altitude on your Great Lakes Kashmir trek including Vishansar Lake, Krishansar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Satsar Lakes, and Gangbal Twin Lakes. Each lake has its own unique charm, surrounded by pristine landscapes and towering peaks.
High Mountain Passes: The great Kashmir lake trek crosses several high mountain passes such as Nichnai Pass and Gadsar Pass (13,750 feet / 4,191 meters), offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. These passes provide a thrilling sense of achievement and breathtaking vistas.
Rich Flora and Fauna: Trek through diverse ecosystems of great lakes in Kashmir ranging from lush meadows adorned with wildflowers to rugged terrain dotted with alpine vegetation. Keep an eye out for Himalayan wildlife such as ibex, marmots, and a variety of bird species.
Spectacular Mountain Views: Enjoy stunning views of snow-capped peaks including Mount Harmukh, the highest peak in the region. The trek offers ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture the grandeur of the Himalayas.
Challenging Terrain: The lake trek in Kashmir is a mix of moderate to difficult terrain with steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and narrow trails. It provides a great challenge for trekking enthusiasts seeking adventure and exploration in the Himalayas.
Campsite Charm: Camp each night beside serene lakes or in picturesque meadows, surrounded by towering peaks under the starlit sky. The tranquility and beauty of the campsites add to the overall experience of the trek.
Seasonal Variations: Experience the changing landscapes and colors throughout the trekking season, from vibrant green meadows in early summer to golden autumn hues. Each season offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of Kashmir Valley.
QUICK FACTS
Trek Start & End Location - Srinagar to Naranag
Trek Duration - 8 Days/ 7Nights
Trek Difficulty - Easy to Moderate
Trek Height - 13,750 feet/ 4,191 meters
Age Group Required - Between 16 to 45 Years
TREK OVERVIEW
Trek Altitude: The Great Kashmir Lake trek Ranges from 7,000 feet (2,134 meters) to 13,750 feet (4,191 meters).
Trek Difficulty: KGL trek offers moderate to difficult terrain due to high altitude and some steep ascents and descents.
Trek Distance: Approximately 72-75 kilometers (depending on the exact route taken).
Trek Hours: 5-8 hours of trekking each day, depending on the pace and fitness level.
DAY WISE ITINERARY
Day 1 - Arrival in Srinagar
Altitude: 5,200 feet (1,585 meters)
Activity: As you begin your great Kashmir lake trek you will arrive in Srinagar, meet your trekking group, and transfer to a hotel or guesthouse—orientation and briefing about the trek.
Meals: Dinner included.
Upon arrival in Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, on the first day of the trek, you'll be greeted by the serene beauty of Dal Lake and the Mughal Gardens. Embark on a scenic drive from Srinagar to Sonamarg, a journey that takes approximately 3 hours. Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold," offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and serves as the starting point for your trek. Trekkers have to acclimatize and explore the local market before camping overnight in Sonamarg.
Day 2 - Srinagar to Sonamarg; Trek to Nichnai
Altitude: Sonamarg (7,800 feet / 2,377 meters); Nichnai (11,500 feet / 3,505 meters)
Trek Distance: 9 kilometers
Trek Hours: 6-7 hours
Activity: Drive from Srinagar to Sonamarg (2 hours). Begin trek from Sonamarg through meadows and pine forests to Nichnai.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner included.
Begin your trek from Sonamarg to Nichnai, covering a distance of about 11 kilometers. The beautiful trek winds through dense turquoise alpine lakes and forests and opens up to expansive meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers. Nichnai, situated at an altitude of 3,509 meters, provides a picturesque campsite surrounded by towering mountains.
Day 3 - Nichnai to Vishansar Lake
Altitude: Vishansar Lake (12,000 feet / 3,658 meters)
Trek Distance: 12 kilometers
Trek Hours: 6-7 hours
Activity: Trek through rocky terrain with a gradual ascent towards Vishansar Lake, passing by beautiful streams and meadows.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner included
Today Great Lakes Kashmir trek takes you from Nichnai to Vishansar Lake, a distance of approximately 12 kilometers. Traverse Nichnai Pass (4,150 meters) and soak in breathtaking views of the Amarnath Valley and the surrounding peaks. Camp near the serene Vishansar Lake, nestled amidst alpine meadows at an elevation of 3,780 meters.
Day 4 - Vishansar Lake to Gadsar Lake via Kishansar lake
Altitude: Gadsar Lake (12,000 feet / 3,658 meters)
Trek Distance: 11 kilometers
Trek Hours: 6-7 hours
Activity: Trek to Vishansar and Kishansar lakes, then to Gadsar Lake, two lakes connecting passes through meadows and a steep ascent to Gadsar Pass (13,750 feet / 4,191 meters).
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner included.
Embark on a challenging trek from Vishansar Lake to Gadsar Lake via Gadsar Pass (4,080 meters). Cover a distance of about 15 kilometers through rocky terrain and high-altitude meadows. Gadsar Lake, with its deep blue waters reflecting the surrounding mountains, offers a tranquil setting for overnight camping.
Day 5 - Gadsar Lake to Satsar Lakes
Altitude: Satsar Lakes (12,000 feet / 3,658 meters)
Trek Distance: 12 kilometers
Trek Hours: 6-7 hours
Activity: Trek across Gadsar Valley, descending to Satsar Lakes, passing by several alpine lakes.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner included.
Trek from Gadsar Lake to the Satsar Lakes, a chain of seven interconnected lakes nestled amidst rolling meadows. Enjoy a scenic route spanning approximately 12 kilometers, adorned with alpine flowers and occasional patches of snow. Camp near one of the Satsar Lakes and soak in the serene beauty of this untouched wilderness.
Day 6 - Satsar Lakes to Gangbal Twin Lakes
Altitude: Gangbal Lake (11,500 feet / 3,505 meters)
Trek Distance: 10 kilometers
Trek Hours: 6-7 hours
Activity: Trek through rocky terrain and meadows to reach Gangbal Lake, enjoying views of Mount Haramukh.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner included.
Continue your journey towards Gangbal Twin Lakes, covering a distance of about 10 kilometers. Cross Zaj Pass (4,100 meters) and marvel at panoramic views of Gangbal and Nundkol Lakes, surrounded by high-altitude meadows. Camp overnight near the tranquil waters of Gangbal Twin Lakes.
Day 7 - Gangbal Twin Lakes to Naranag; Drive to Srinagar
Altitude: Naranag (7,450 feet / 2,271 meters)
Trek Distance: 11 kilometers
Trek Hours: 5-6 hours
Activity: Descend through forests and meadows to Naranag village. Drive back to Srinagar.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch included; dinner in Srinagar not included.
Descend from Gangbal Twin Lakes people trek up from Naranag, passing through dense forests and ancient temples. Enjoy the cultural richness of Naranag, known for its historic temples dating back centuries. Drive back to Srinagar, approximately 2 hours away, and relax in your hotel for the night.
Day 8 - Departure from Srinagar
Activity: Depart from Srinagar for onward journey.
Depending on your departure time, you may have the opportunity to explore more of Srinagar or indulge in last-minute shopping at local markets. Transfer to Srinagar airport for your onward journey, concluding your memorable Kashmir Great Lakes trekking adventure.
Notes:
Accommodation: Camping in tents during the trek. Basic lodges or guest houses may be available at some campsites.
Permits: Required for the trek, usually arranged by the trekking company in your Kashmir Great Lakes Trek package.
Weather: July to September is the best time for this KGL trek, with mild daytime temperatures and cool nights.
WE ASSURE YOU OF OUR BEST SERVICE
SEND ENQUIRYINCLUDES/ EXCLUDES
Price Includes
- Accommodation: Tented accommodation during the trek as per itinerary(tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats).
- Meals: All meals during the trek (nutritious and hygienic meals prepared by trekking staff).
- Transportation: Transfer from Srinagar to Sonamarg and return by road.
- Trekking Staff: Experienced trekking guide, and support staff including cooks, helpers, and porters (as necessary).
- Permits and Fees: Entry fees, permits, and camping charges in the trekking area. Safety Equipment: First aid kit.
- Health & Safety: First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
- Miscellaneous: Kitchen and dining tents.
Price Excludes
- GST 5% (Mandatory): Goods and Services Tax (GST) at 5% is applicable and mandatory on the KGL trek cost.
- Personal Expenses: Expenses for personal items like beverages, snacks, phone calls, laundry, etc are not covered in the Kashmir Great Lakes trek package.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance covers medical expenses, evacuation, and trip cancellation.
- Additional Meals: Meals not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., meals in Srinagar and Sonamarg before and after the trek).
- Porterage: Personal porter services for carrying extra luggage or personal belongings during the trek.
- Tips: Tips and gratuities for trekking staff (optional but customary).
- Any Additional Costs: Kashmir Great Lakes trek costs arise due to unforeseen circumstances like bad weather, natural calamities, roadblocks, etc.
- Personal Gear: Trekking gear and equipment (e.g., trekking shoes, warm clothing, backpack, etc.) are typically not included and should be brought or rented separately.
- Any Items Not Specifically Mentioned: Any other items or services not explicitly mentioned as included in the trek itinerary.
- It's essential to clarify these details with your chosen trekking agency or tour operator to ensure a clear understanding of what is provided and what you need to arrange independently for a smooth and enjoyable trekking experience in the Kashmir Great Lakes region.
CONFIRMATION POLICY
- Within a day of a successful booking, the client gets a voucher of the confirmation through email.
- If the preferred slots are not available, an alternative schedule will be arranged according to the preference of the customer, and a new voucher of confirmation will be sent through email.
- Alternatively, before confirmation, the customer can decide to cancel their booking, and a complete refund will be issued.
CANCELLATION POLICY
- Cancellations made in between 45 days of the start date of the trip will be assessed a cancellation fee of 25% of the total tour cost.
- Cancellations made between 15-30 days of the trip’s start date will be charged 50% of the total tour cost as cancellation fees.
- If you cancel within 0-15 days of the trip’s start date, you will be charged 100% of the entire tour cost as cancellation fees.
- In the event of bad weather or government restrictions, any trips or events may be cancelled. In such a case, the operators will do all possible to give a viable alternative. However, a cash refund is not available on this item.
REFUND POLICY
If you select a refund after canceling your trek, the refund amount will be deposited into the payment account that you had used while making payment to us. It will take ten to twelve working days.
ENQUIRY
ABOUT US
Why MadTrek ?
We prefer to do things differently keeping in mind safety, comfort & pleasure of our trekkers at highest priority. We strongly believe in preserving the brilliance we proudly call our home & do not welcome anyone who litters around & doesn’t respect the notion of loving nature so it can love you back.
Exceptional Reviews
With more than 1,000 people joining our tours annually, we have a proven track record of providing quality trips that exceed our guests’ expectations. You can read reviews on Tripadvisor, Facebook, and on our website.
Highly Acclaimed Guides
Our absolute commitment is to hire and train the best guides in the industry. Our philosophy is that our guides, gear, food and logistics comprise our services that a guest will get to experience, and the guides are the most important ingredient! We never compromise on that..