Loction
Jammu Kashmir
Average Trekking
72 km
Duration
8 Days
Difficulty
Moderate To Difficult
Altitude
13,759 Ft
Get in touch with our trek Experts
10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs | GMT +5:30
Monday - Saturday | Sunday Closed
Fixed Departure Dates
November 2024
01
02
03
04
06
Starting Dates
01 Fri
08 Fri
15 Fri
22 Fri
29 Fri
End Dates
05 Tue
12 Tue
19 Tue
26 Fri
01 Thu
Seat Available
December 2024
01
02
03
04
05
Starting Dates
01 Sun
08 Sun
15 Sun
22 Sun
29 Sun
End Dates
05 Thu
12 Thu
19 Thu
26 Thu
02 Thu
Seat Available
January 2025
01
02
03
04
05
Starting Dates
01 Wed
08 Wed
15 Wed
22 Wed
29 Wed
End Dates
05 Sun
12 Sun
19 Sun
26 Sun
02 Sun
Seat Available
February 2025
01
02
03
04
Starting Dates
01 Sat
08 Sat
15 Sat
22 Sat
End Dates
05 Wed
12 Wed
19 Wed
29 Wed
Seat Available
March 2025
01
02
03
04
05
Starting Dates
01 Sat
08 Sat
15 Sat
22 Sat
29 Sat
End Dates
05 Wed
12 Wed
19 Wed
26 Wed
02 Wed
Seat Available
- +5% GST (goods and services tax).
- Services Rishikesh to Rishikesh.
- Reporting Time: 6:00 a.m. Drop Time:6:30 pm to 7:30 pm (Timings are subject to change based on weather and road conditions). Please reach Rishikesh a day before to avoid any delays.
- Insurance 210
- Transport 1,600
₹17,310
₹15,500 with Addons and GST included
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Location
Jammu Kashmir
-
Average Trekking
72 Km
-
Duration
8 Days
-
Difficulty
Moderate to Difficult
-
Altitude
13,759 Ft
Trek Overview
Trek Name: KASHMIR GREAT LAKES TREK
Days: 7
Adventure Type: Trekking
Base Camp: KASHMIR GREAT LAKES
Season:Summer | Autumn |
Month:March | April | May | September | October | November |
Distance: 72 Km.
Trail Type: Circle trail | Camping in various locations, starting and ending at the same point.
Country: India
Altitude: 13,000 Ft.
Grade: Moderate to Difficult
Stay: Hotel and teahouse
Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg & Eggs)
Highlights:
- USD 107 +5% GST for Non-Indians and OCI card holders
- +5% GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Highlights
Spectacular Lakes: The trek takes you to seven majestic alpine lakes—Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangbal, and Nundkol—each with crystal-clear waters and surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Lush Green Meadows: The trail passes through lush meadows like Nichnai, Gadsar, and Satsar, which are carpeted with vibrant wildflowers in summer and are a sight to behold.
Majestic Peaks: The trek offers panoramic views of the towering peaks of the Greater Himalayas, including Harmukh and Mount Vishnu, which add to the surreal beauty of the trek.
Scenic Valleys: The trek features beautiful valleys like the Nichnai Valley and Gadsar Valley, along with thrilling river crossings that enhance the adventure.
Biodiversity: The trek passes through diverse ecosystems, where you can spot rare Himalayan flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard, marmots, and various bird species.
Isolated Beauty: The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is relatively untouched and isolated, offering a serene and tranquil experience away from the crowds
Safety Tips
Physical Fitness: The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is moderately difficult, requiring good physical fitness. Prepare with regular cardio exercises, leg strength training, and endurance-building activities.
Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is crucial as the trek reaches altitudes of over 13,000 feet. Spend a day or two in Srinagar or Sonamarg to acclimate before starting the trek.
Altitude Awareness: Be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea. If symptoms persist, descend immediately and consult your guide.
Weather Preparedness: The weather in Kashmir can be unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden rain, cold winds, and even snow, and carry appropriate gear.
Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and keep your energy levels up with nutritious snacks. Avoid consuming alcohol or smoking during the trek.
Follow the Guide’s Instructions: The terrain can be challenging and the weather unpredictable. Always listen to your guide’s instructions and stay with the group.
Respect Local Culture and Environment: Kashmir has a rich cultural heritage. Be respectful of the local culture, traditions, and environment. Avoid littering, respect wildlife, and follow “Leave No Trace” principles.
River Crossings: Some sections of the trek involve river crossings. Use proper footwear, follow your guide’s advice, and ensure your backpack is waterproofed or securely covered.
Photography Tips: The landscape is stunning, but also be mindful of battery life as cold weather can drain batteries quickly. Keep your electronics warm and carry extra batteries if needed.
Who can participate
- Age; 10 years +.
- First-timers can apply.
- The climber must be fit and have sufficient stamina to cover a 4 km distance in 35 minutes without stress.
- Foreigners are not permitted on this journey. Indians with any Indian Id like a Passport, Adhaar, Driving license or Pan card are allowed.
Itinerary
- Quick Itinerary
- Detailed Itneray
Day-1: Arrive At Shitkadi camp
- Altitude: 2,600 m/ 8,500 ft.
- Drive Distance: 90 km from Srinagar | approx 3 hrs.
Day-2: Shitkadi camp To Nichinai Via Shekdur
- Altitude:
Nichinai 3,500 m/ 11,500 ft.
Shekdur 3,350 m/ 11,000 ft. - Trek Distance: 11 km | 8 hrs.
- Altitude Gain: 900 m/ 3,000 ft.
Day-3: Nichinai To Vishansar Lake via Nichinai pass
- Altitude:
Vishansar 3,650 m/ 12,000 ft
Nichinai pass 4,000 m/ 13,100 ft. - Trek Distance: 12 km | 7 hr.
Day-4: Acclimatization + Rest Day (Conditions Apply)
- You may visit Kishansar Lake, which is approximately 1 and a half km from our campsite.
- If weather is not good we will use acclimatization day at Vishansar or else move towards our next campsite, rest day can be used at Gangbal camp site.
Day-5: Vishansar Lake To Gadsar Lake Via Gadsar Pass
- Altitude:
Gadsar 3,350 m/ 11,000 ft
Gadsar pass 4,200 m/ 13,750 ft. - Trek Distance:14 km | 10 hrs.
Day-6: Gadsar To Satsar
- Altitude: 3,650 m/ 12000 ft.
- Distance: 9 km | 6 hrs.
Day-7: Satsar To Gangabal Twin Lakes Via Zaj Pass
- Altitude:
Gangabal 3,500 m/ 11,500 ft
Zaj pass 3,950 m/ 13,000 ft. - Trek Distance: 11 km | Duration: 6 hours approx.
Day-8: Gangabal To Naranag, Drive To Srinagar
- Altitude: 2,250 m/ 7,450 ft.
- Trek Distance: 15 km | 7 hrs approx.
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
- Day 6
- Day 7
- Day 8
Drive from Srinagar to Sonamarg
- Drive Distance:90Km
- DRIVE DURATION :3Hr
Start your drive from Srinagar in the afternoon. It is a three hour drive and the cost of the drive is not included in the package. Though if booked in advance, we can arrange your pickup from a pre-decided location.
Sonamarg to Nichani via Shekdar
- TREK DISTANCE :11 KM
- ALTITUDE GAIN : 7,500 to 11,500 ft
- TREK DURATION: 7-8HR
Wakeup in the beautiful hill station of Sonamarg, Sonamarg, located in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. During ancient times the very place acted as a gateway on the ancient Silk Road, connecting Kashmir with Tibet. After you have your breakfast we will leave for the first day of our trek. The trek trail will take you through some of the best scenic beauties of the forest. Trees like Maple, Pine, and Bhoj cover the forests and are a treat for the eyes. Walking for some half an hour you will get to an army check-post where you have to submit your ID cards and photocopies. Walking through the forests you will reach Shitkadi and it will take around two and a half hours for you to reach Shekdur from there. Shekdur is a beautiful campsite location where you can enjoy some good time clicking pictures and relaxing your body for the trek ahead. You can also munch on some protein bars and quick eateries. From there we just need to follow the stream of Nichnai and will be welcomed by the valleys, choose a flat land and pitch your tents, enjoy the lunch served and now you can enjoy nature for the day.
Nichnai to Vishansar Lake
- TREK DISTANCE : 12 KM
- ALTITUDE GAIN : 11,500 to 13,100 FT
- TREK DURATION: 8-9hr
Start your trek by trekking towards Nichani pass. At the top point of the pass you may get a mobile network following further you no network will be available. There will be a descent to reach Vishansar. After reaching the Vishansar campsite lunch will be offered, you can visit the lake which is just a few minutes walk from the campsite. It is the first lake of the trek and definitely a memorable one. Lake also offers fishing activities which you may do after taking the permission from Srinagar Fishing Department. You can also watch the reflection of Kishnasar peak on the lake. You can watch the shades of the lake changing according to the colour of the sky during the entire day.
Acclimatisation and Rest Day ( Conditions Apply)
- TREK DISTANCE : 7 KM
You may or may not visit Krishansar lake which is forty-five minutes away from the campsite. Though if the weather is not favourable we will use the day for acclimatisation and may move our campsite to Gangbal.
Vishansar lake to Gadsar via Gadsar Pass
- TREK DISTANCE : 14KM
- ALTITUDE GAIN : 12,000 to 13,750FT
- TREK DURATION : 8-10 hr.
Start your trek early in the morning to witness the beautiful views on your way and click some of the best pictures. You will follow a trail which passes from Vishansar to Gadsar, via Gadsar pass which also stands as the highest point of our trek. You can also see small lakes and snow capped mountain ranges. You will find snow on the pass and the other side from where you will descend. On your way down you will spot Yamsar lake and one other nameless lake. You will be welcomed by blue and purple iris flowers before seeing the actual beauty of the Gadsar lake. The lake is picturesque and one can make a wallpaper out of the view they see, one side of the lake is covered in blues and purples and the other in the snow the lake shines brightly in between the two. The campsite is 1.5-2 hours away from the lake. There will be another army checkpoint where you have to share your ID proofs. By the time your ID proofs are under observation, enjoy your packed lunch and soak in the views.
Bhagwabasa T Roopkund And Back To Bedni Bugyal
- TREK DISTANCE : 12 KM
- ALTITUDE GAIN : 14,117 to 15,755FT
- TREK DURATION: 8-10hr
The gradient for the day is mostly moderate barring the first one and half hours of steep ascent. Post that, it is a level walk all the way up to the next campsite.
The landscape on today’s trail stands in sharp contrast to the river valleys we have been trekking through till now. The terrain is rugged, desolate and captivating in its isolation. Meadows are scant and are marked by scattered patches of white flowers. Boulders and rocky terrain dominate the landscape with an occasional brook cutting through them.
We will be crossing an army camp today as well where our original ID cards will be collected, checked and recorded before letting us cross. Rolling grasslands once again take over the terrain beyond the army camp. Ten minutes away lay the first of the Satsar Lakes. Satsar is actually a group of seven inter-connected lakes situated in a narrow alpine valley stretching north to south. The lakes drain out into the Wangath Nallah which is a tributary of the Sindh.
Big and picturesque in its greenery and backdrop of the mountains, we will be setting up camp here for the day
Patar Nachauni To Lohajung Via Bedni And Wan
- TREK DISTANCE : 15 KM
- ALTITUDE LOSS : 12,818 to 7,662 FT
- TREK DURATION: 10-12 Hr
Today you will trek back to your base camp village Lohajung you will cross the same path which you had crossed 2-3 days before after reaching the river bed you’ll trek towards Wan village also known as ‘Ran ka Dhar’ after spending some time amidst the beauty of Wan village you will descend towards the road where you’ll be welcomed by a prearranged vehicle from there it will take you around 45 minutes to reach Lohajung.
Return To Rishikesh From Lohajung
- DRIVE DISTANCE : 260KM
DRIVE DURATION : 10-11HR
Marking the end of your adventurous journey!!
After a yummy and nutrition rich breakfast you’ll finally bid your final bye to the beautiful village of Lohajung, but you are not going alone a bag full of memories is coming with you too
Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 90 beats per minute).
Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 70 – 90, SYSTOLIC 100 – 140 mm Hg).
Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute).
Should not have Liver and kidney issues.
Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc.
No pacemaker implant.
People with Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek.
If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.
- Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when they join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and the Ministry Of Tourism (MOT).
- Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before the trek departure date.
- This service is exclusive to Indian government employees and is applicable only for treks within India.
- Do mail at info@trekthehimalayas to apply and mention your booked trek date and trek name.
- Junior trekkers (below 15 years) should have a company of parents/guardians.
- Trekkers between 15 to 18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/guardian.
- Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form
How To Reach
Pick-Up Information
- Pick-up location: Nishat Garden near the Parking Area, Srinagar.
- Once you have reached Srinagar, TMV will manage the rest of your travel arrangements, if you have opted for TTH’s pick-up service, you can select this option during the booking process by adding it as an add-on.
- Do reach Srinagar one day before your trek date for a safer side.
- Pick-up Place & Time: Nishat Garden near the Parking Area, Srinagar 12:00 noon.
Options to Reach Srinagar
1. If you are planning to fly to Srinagar which is well connected to all major airports in India, you can reach the Nishat Garden in appx 1 hr via taxi from the airport (approx 20 Km).
2. If you’re coming by train, there are two railway stations.
- Jammu railway station is about 260 km away and takes around 8 hours by bus.
- Udhampur is 200 km away and from there, it is a 6-hour bus journey to Srinagar.
3. If you are taking a bus from Jammu, then you have multiple options to take. There are two gates outside Jammu ISBT. You will get shared cabs from both of these gates.
4. If you are reaching the Railway Station, the share cabs to Srinagar will cost between Rs 700 to Rs 1000.
5. Shared cabs are more from the Jammu ISBT compared to the Railway Station. You can travel from the Railway station to the bus stand. The fare of the bus will be Rs 10. The auto will charge around Rs 80 to 120.
Drop-Off Information
- The designated drop-off point is Nishat Garden near the parking area, Srinagar 6 pm.
- If you have to make any arrangements for further travel from Srinagar, do it the next day.
- TMV offers comfortable transportation through Tempo Traveler, Bolero, or equivalent vehicles. If you wish to upgrade your mode of transportation, please contact your trek coordinator for further assistance.
Cost Terms
- Inclusion & Exclusion
- Canellation Policy
Inclusion
1. Insurance is Mandatory.
2. Accommodation (as per the itinerary):
- Camping while the trek (Twin sharing basis).
3. Meals (Veg + Egg):
- Meals while on trek (Veg & Egg).
- Day1 dinner to day8 lunch.
4. Support:
- 1 Versatile base camp manager handles communication and deploys extra manpower in emergencies.
- 1 Mountaineering & First aid qualified professional trek Leader.
- 1 Experienced high-altitude chef.
- Local experienced guides (Number of guides depending on the group size).
- Enough support staff.
5. Trek equipment:
- Sleeping bag, Sleeping liners (if required), mattresses, and Utensils.
- 3 men all season trekker tent (twin sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent.
- Camping stool, Walkie talkie.
- Ropes, Helmet, Ice axe, Harness, Gaiters & crampons (if required).
6. First aid:
- Medical kit,Stretcher,Oxygen cylinder,Blood pressure monitor,Oximeter,Stethoscope.
7. Mules/porters to carry the central luggage.
8. Clock room facility available at the base camp for additional luggage.
9. All necessary permits and entry fees, up to the amount charged for Indian.
10. Services from Sonamarg to Naranga.
11. Trek Completion Certificate.
Exclusion
1. Food during the transit.
2. Any kind of personal expenses.
3. Mule or porter to carry personal luggage.
4. Emergency evacuation, hospitalization charge, etc.
We get that a travel and adventure enthusiast like you will be as bumped about cancelling a trek as us but we also understand that you may have to cancel the trek for any unforeseen reason and therefore the Cancellation Service of The Mountain Vibes does not return the advance amount paid by the trekkers instead we provide a voucher for the exact amount which is equivalent to the amount paid by you.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Terms & Conditions for the cash voucher:
- You can book any other trek of your choice with The Mountain Vibes including the one you cancelled at any other given point of time with the voucher.
- The voucher is only valid for treks directly booked with The Mountain Vibes
- Your Voucher will be valid for 24 months starting from the month you got your trek cancelled.
- To redeem the Voucher text us on our official TMV number or TMV e-mail id.
- The Mountain Vibes holds the right to add or remove any of the terms and conditions without notifying.
Trek Essentials
- Personal Equipment
- Equipment provided by TMV
- Basic Gear
- Cloths
- HEALTH SKIN-CARE KIT
- Personal Utilities
• An identity card-original (MANDATORY)
• Bagpack and Rain cover(50-60 liter )
• Day pack And Rain cover (if you hire mule or porter)
• 1liter of Water Bottle
•Slipper and TrekKing Shoes (Waterprof is Preferred)
•LED Torch/Headlamp(With extra batteries)
•Poncho, Raincoat or Umbrella any one is must.(Poncho is preferred, since it is light weighted)
• 2 pairs of Quick Dry T-shirt and Trek Pants (DENIM ARE NOT RECOMMENDED FOR TREKS)
• 1 pairs of T-SHIRTS for (Full Sleeves or Half Sleeves)
• 3 Pair of Cotton Socks And 2 Pair of Woollen Socks
• 2 weater OR 1 Fleece Jacket
• Thermals (1 is must 2 if going on a long trek)
• Sun Cap, Scarf, Light Towel, Snow Gloves
• Woolen Cap or Balaclava that cover Your ears (For the protection from coldwaves)
• UV sunglasses
• Carry few plastic bags incase your clothes get wet.
• Wind sheeter, Snow Jackets, One Down Feather Jacket (Carry any one from the mentioned)
• Personal Toilet kit, Toilet Paper, Sanitizer, Tooth Brush and Paste
• Lip balm , Cold Creame , Mistiriser and Sun Screen Lotion(SPF 40)
•Personal Medicine Kit (With basic First Aid kit and your regular medicine)
•Anti Fungal Creame : Carry an Anti Fungle Creame if you are sensitive to Sweating and prone to skin irritations around genital or groin area due to lack of bathing.
Sunscreen | 1 Nos |
Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |
KASHMIR GREAT LAKES TREK location in Map
Trek Essentials
Backpack with rain cover | (50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
Day pack with rain cover | 20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electoral/ors |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 2 Half sleeves |
Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Pair |
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 2 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece Pant | 1 Nos |
Waterproof gloves | 1 Pair |
Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Sun Cap | 1 Nos |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | 1 Nos. |
Buff / Neck-gaiters | 1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen |
Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle, good grip) |
Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (TTH provides when required) |
Micro spikes | 1 Pair (TTH provides when required) |
Sunscreen | 1 Nos |
Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |
Frequently Asked Question(FAQ)
We do camping throughout the trek. We provide twin sharing tent all season tent .
During trekking day time is always pleasant as temperature stay between 15C-22C throughout the season. At night time, temperature varies between 8 C to 0 C. Our morning, evening and nights are quite cold so you need to be prepared by wearing layers around camp. In early July, high chances of getting snow at Nichnai Pass and Gadsar pass and around. From July mid to August, almost snow melts by July end. And then around August end to September mid expected night temperature around 4 C to 0 C and one can expect snowfall around 2nd week of September. Do expect light shower around evening time.
Pick-up location is TRC: Nishad Garden in Srinagar at 12:00 Noon, TTH will take care of your further travel arrangements.
Options to Reach Srinagar: We advise you to reach Srinagar one day before trek date and by flight only. Better to avoid road route.
If you are planning to take a bus, you can reach ISBT in Srinagar from any major city. It will take 1 hour to reach Nishad garden from ISBT.
If you are planning to fly to Srinagar which is well connected to all major airports in India, you can reach TRC within 20 to 25 minutes via taxi.
If you’re coming by train, there are two railway stations.
Reporting point is Nishad Garden in Srinagar and Reporting time is 12:00 noon on trek date.
We always share driver and vehicle number 1 days prior the trek date, so you can call him on your arrival if you’re having problem with finding vehicle.
You can take out transport service; do contact your trek coordinator to book transport service. We use Sumo/Bolero/Max/Tavera or equivalent (shared by 6/7 people). We arrange vehicle depending on availability and final batch size.
Best time to do Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is July, August and September 2nd week. One can see lush green meadows, alpine lakes and beautiful colourful flowers. To enjoy it’s beauty, it is advisable to plan this trek July and August month. In September time one can see green meadows turning brown and flowers also changes its colour, but still this change in scenery is pleasing to watch.
Yes, we recommend KGL trek to first timer as well as experienced one. Make sure that you should have good fitness. People suffering from Bronchitis, Asthma, High blood pressure, Epilepsy (got faints), TB , Heart problem or on higher BMI side are strictly not allowed to go on any Himalayan trek. Apart from this if you had any medical history, please let us know.
No network while trekking. Idea, Airtel and BSNL networks available in Sonamarg and after that you will not get any network during the trek. Only post-paid connection works in Kashmir.
There isn’t any charging point on KGL trek. And you need to rely on your power bank or batteries.
Yes, it is necessary. It is additional support which helps you reduce tiredness and give you strength and balance.
VALLEY OF FLOWER TREK PACKAGE
Batch – November – 2023
Batch – December – 2023
Batch – January – 2023