Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
Trek through alpine paradise, crossing seven pristine glacial lakes in the Pir Panjal range
Overview
Widely regarded as India's most beautiful trek, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek takes you through a breathtaking alpine wonderland of seven glacial lakes, each a different shade of blue and green. Crossing four high-altitude passes (up to 4,200m), the trail winds through vast meadows carpeted with wildflowers, past thundering streams, and alongside snow-capped peaks of the Pir Panjal range. Every campsite is postcard-worthy, and the ever-changing landscape ensures no two days feel the same.
Itinerary
Srinagar to Sonamarg | Shikara Ride & Drive
Arrive in Srinagar and take a traditional Shikara ride on Dal Lake, passing floating gardens and ornate houseboats. Drive 3 hours through pine forests and Sindh River gorges to reach Sonamarg, the 'Meadow of Gold'. Attend the trek briefing, check your equipment, and enjoy the crisp mountain air of this basecamp town.
Sonamarg to Nichnai | The First Ascent
The trek begins through dense maple and pine forests, crossing the crystal-clear Nichnai stream. The trail climbs steadily past shepherd huts and grazing meadows. After a steady 5-6 hour ascent, arrive at Nichnai campsite — a lush green bowl surrounded by snow-dusted ridges. The silence here, broken only by gurgling stream water, is deeply therapeutic.
Nichnai to Vishansar Lake | Crossing Nichnai Pass
Today's highlight is crossing the Nichnai Pass (4,100m). The climb is gradual and rewarding, with the landscape opening into sweeping alpine meadows. From the pass, catch your first glimpse of the Vishansar Valley descending below. Descend to the stunning Vishansar Lake — its turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding peaks — and set up camp by its shore.
Vishansar to Gadsar | Twin Lakes & The Flower Lake
Wake up to the reflection of the Kishansar peak in the lake's still morning waters. A short hike takes you to Krishansar Lake, Vishansar's twin. Then climb to Gadsar Pass (4,200m), the highest point on the trek. The descent leads to Gadsar Lake — renowned for the thousands of alpine flowers that bloom along its banks in July and August. This is the most photogenic stretch of the entire trek.
Gadsar to Satsar | Seven Small Lakes
A relatively easy day trekking through rolling meadows to the Satsar campsite. Satsar, meaning 'seven lakes', is a collection of small interconnected water bodies scattered across a high plateau. The campsite offers magnificent views of the Harmukh massif and the distant Nanga Parbat on clear days. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby lakes.
Satsar to Gangabal Lakes | The Emerald Twins
Descend through rocky moraines and finally arrive at the Gangabal twin lakes — two stunning emerald-green lakes nestled at the base of Mount Harmukh (5,142m). This is the trekkers' last campsite and one of the most spiritually significant — the lakes are considered sacred and feature in Hindu mythology. Enjoy the final sunset on the trail, with trout rising in the lake's glassy surface.
Gangabal to Naranag | Descent & Return to Srinagar
The final day brings a steep 4-hour descent through pine forests to the Naranag village, home to an 8th-century Shiva temple. Vehicles meet you here for the drive back to Srinagar (2 hours). The trek officially ends at Srinagar, where you can freshen up before heading to the airport or extending your stay to explore the city.
What's Included & Excluded
✅ Included
- ✓Certified and experienced trek leader with knowledge of local terrain and weather
- ✓All forest permits, camping fees, and wildlife entry charges
- ✓Trek-grade tents (twin sharing), sleeping bags rated to -10°C, and insulated mats
- ✓Common camping equipment: dining tent, toilet tent, stools, and kitchen setup
- ✓Medical kit, oximeter, blood pressure monitor, and supplemental oxygen
- ✓Crampons and gaiters provided when snow crossings are anticipated
✕ Excluded
- ✕Personal trekking gear (trekking poles, backpack, trekking shoes can be rented separately)
- ✕Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking (mandatory for participation)
- ✕Any meals or accommodation in Srinagar beyond the trek dates
- ✕Personal expenses: snacks, beverages, bottled water, tips for staff
- ✕Transportation to and from Srinagar (flight, train, or bus)
- ✕Costs arising from weather disruptions, early descent, or medical evacuation
Things to Carry
Choose Your Package
Select the tier that fits your style and budget. Each package builds on the previous one.
Trek Only
For experienced trekkers who have their own gear and prefer a guided-only experience on the trail.
₹14,999
/ person
What's Included
- 🥾Certified mountain trek leader and local guide
- 🏆All trekking permits and forest entry fees
- ⛕Camping at designated campsites with basic kitchen tent
- 🩺Crampons and gaiters for snow patches (on request)
- 🧺First-aid kit, medical backup, and oxygen cylinder
Trek + Meals
Our most popular trekking package — professional guidance plus nourishing meals that keep you going.
₹24,999
/ person
What's Included
- 🥾Certified mountain trek leader and support staff
- 🏆All trekking permits and forest entry fees
- ⛕High-quality tents (twin sharing), sleeping bags, and mattresses
- 🍳Wholesome vegetarian meals from day 2 lunch to day 7 breakfast
- 🧺First-aid kit, medical backup, and oxygen cylinder
- 🎒Common camping equipment: toilet tent, dining tent, stools
All Inclusive
The complete Kashmir trekking experience — gear, meals, porters, transfers, and a Shikara ride included.
₹32,999
/ person
What's Included
- 🥾Certified mountain trek leader, guide, cook, and porter team
- 🏆All permits, insurance for staff, and forest fees
- 🏨Hotel accommodation in Sonamarg (1 night) + 5 nights camping
- 🍽️All meals from packed lunch day 1 to breakfast day 7
- 🎒Personal porter for up to 12 kg luggage (one porter per trekker)
- 🚤Shikara ride on Dal Lake + Srinagar-Sonamarg transfers
Frequently Asked Questions
How fit do I need to be for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?+
This is a moderate-grade trek. You should be able to walk 6-8 hours on undulating terrain with a 8-10 kg backpack. We recommend starting a fitness routine at least 4 weeks before the trek — focus on cardio (jogging, cycling, swimming), leg strength (squats, lunges, stair climbing), and a few long practice walks with your loaded backpack. If you can comfortably jog 5 km in under 35 minutes, you're well prepared.
What is the best time to see the wildflowers in full bloom?+
The wildflowers along the Kashmir Great Lakes trek peak during the last two weeks of July and the first half of August. This is when the Gadsar Lake area transforms into a natural garden with hundreds of species in bloom — blue poppies, forget-me-nots, potentillas, and dozens of varieties of daisies. The meadows are at their lushest green, and the weather is generally pleasant with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C.
Is there a risk of altitude sickness on this trek?+
Altitude sickness can affect anyone above 3,000m regardless of fitness level. Our itinerary includes gradual altitude gain for natural acclimatisation. The highest sleep altitude is 3,700m (Vishansar), and the highest pass is 4,200m (Gadsar Pass). Our trek leaders are trained in identifying early AMS symptoms and carry a pulse oximeter, blood pressure monitor, and supplemental oxygen. We also include Diamox in our medical kit and advise trekkers to hydrate constantly.
How cold does it get at night during the trek?+
Nighttime temperatures at campsites range from 2°C to 8°C in peak summer (July-August), and can dip to -2°C in early June or late September. We provide sleeping bags rated to -10°C which keep you warm and comfortable. You should carry thermal inners and a fleece layer to wear inside the sleeping bag. During the day, temperatures range from 12°C to 22°C, making it pleasant for trekking in a t-shirt or light jacket.
Ready to Book?
Secure your spot on this unforgettable journey. Limited seats available for upcoming departures.