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One of India’s most breathtaking treks is the one to the Kashmir Great Lakes. Without a doubt. It supports Kashmir’s fabled reputation as heaven on earth.
This is a result of the trek’s larger-than-life backdrop. The location is 75 kilometers northeast of Srinagar. A 360-degree vista of untamed, rough mountains, undulating meadows, and blue alpine lakes may be seen every day. Additionally, there are five quite different valleys and more than six of these lakes for you to explore.
It is a six-day, moderately demanding walk because of the variety of terrain. This indicates that there are lengthy hiking days with difficult exit points and steep ascents and descents. It is not appropriate for a novice who has never experienced a high-altitude trip.
However, the difficulties are worthwhile. With a new alpine lake to look forward to, every day is picture-perfect. The snow patches that feed these lakes enhance their beauty of the lakes. They are seen slipping into the lakes from the ridged slopes. On the lake’s deep blue top, milky white icebergs rarely float.
Then there are the Kashmiri meadows. There are numerous meadows in a day, and they are available in every size and shape.
Every other trek feels like a movie on a little screen after this one. However, Kashmir Great Lakes is an IMAX 3D experience because of how grand the trek is. Put this trek on your bucket list if you haven’t already!
You can also visit Bhrigu lake trek for another lake trekking experience.
Points to keep in mind:
Due to a government order in Kashmir, only a very small number of spots are available for the Kashmir Great Lakes trek. This has raised interest in the trek. For this reason, a unique cancellation policy just for this expedition. It’s made to make it easier for hikers to make an early decision regarding their hike.
Indiahikes and the forest department need these records for legal reasons.
You won’t be able to trek without any of these.
Government-issued photo: Identification cards, both original and copy. Both an Aadhar card and a passport are acceptable. The forest department needs this for your identity.
certification of health: A practicing doctor must fill out the first section. You must fill out the second section. The forest department won’t authorize your excursion without the medical certificate.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek requires a certain level of fitness, just like most treks. You can look at our plan right here for an example workout program. If you are physically healthy, 15–30 days of focused training should be more than enough. Although the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a lengthy hike, beginners can join with ease. Trekking requires a lot of mental toughness and the capacity to push yourself, regardless of physical fitness.
Places to visit
1. View of Twin Lakes
Standing above 13,400 feet, you may take in the view of the twin lakes Gangbal and Nundkol which are close to Satsar Pass. And as you continue on your journey, you are pleasantly delighted to find a campsite near the immaculate Nundkol Lake.
2. The meadows’ lush carpet
The trek’s greenery is what gives it its attractiveness. A stunning scene is created by a thick, cozy carpet of rich green and colorful wildflowers. It makes sense why it is one of the hikes that photographers suggest the most.
3. The difficult Gadsar pass
The highest point on this walk is the Gadsar pass, at 13,800 feet. From here, the Kishansar and Vishnusar lakes are both well visible. Be prepared; climbing to the top of the Gadsar Pass may take you longer than two hours.
4. Take a scenic journey from Sonmarg to Srinagar
With this 90-minute trip, the atmosphere of the Kashmir Great Lakes is introduced. The route keeps your curiosity alive while giving you a preview of what’s to come. On the route, you may see a few Himalayan high peaks covered in snow.
5. Glacier Sighting
The enormous Harmukh peak, which towers over Nundkol Lake, dwarfs you. The mountains’ rugged edges are encircled by the beautiful white Harmukh glaciers. The Peak, Lake, and Glaciers are all set for the ideal photograph.
6. The Perilous Departure
You must prepare for the downward slope’s steep plunge by bracing yourself. From Gangabal (11,500 feet) to Naranag (7,450 feet), a day-long climb will leave you with sore toes, knees, and hearts that you’ll want to return to the highlands and never leave.
Where the stay will be?
As soon as you arrive in Srinagar, you will be taken by car to Sonmarg, where you will stay among the locals in a cozy homestay or guest house called Shikari. You will spend the night in cozy alpine dome tents while on the journey. Two persons can use a 3-man tent that Adventure-Pulse provides. We can arrange for you to stay in a single tent for an additional fee. This provides you plenty of room inside the tent to store your belongings and move around. When you stay in a tent for the first time, you might feel a little uneasy, but it will get easier, and once the walk is over, you’ll miss the tent.