Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (KGL)

5 (1 Review)
Srinagar
Gadsar Lake area, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Vishansar Kishansar region, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek gangabal to naranag, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Dal lake, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Sonamarg Kashmir, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
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From: ₹ 18,999
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Duration

7 Days 6 Nights

Cancellation

No Cancel

Group Size

12 people

Languages

English, Hindi

About this activity

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most beautiful treks in India. Located in the Kashmir Himalayas, this journey takes you through alpine meadows, snow-covered mountain passes, and a chain of stunning high-altitude lakes. Over seven days, trekkers cross scenic valleys and discover some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas.

The trail begins near Sonamarg, often called the Meadow of Gold. As you move deeper into the mountains, the scenery keeps changing. You will walk through maple forests, green meadows, rocky ridges, and high-altitude passes. 

The highlight of the trek is visiting the famous alpine lakes, including Vishansar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Satsar Lakes, Gangabal Lake, and Nundkol Lake. Each lake has its own colour and character, reflecting the surrounding snow peaks.

This trek is not just about landscapes. Along the way, you will also see traditional shepherd settlements, grazing sheep, and peaceful Himalayan valleys that feel untouched by modern life. During summer, the meadows are covered with wildflowers, and the lakes appear in beautiful shades of blue and turquoise.

With every day of trekking, the views become more rewarding. Wide mountain panoramas, glacier-fed streams, and peaceful lakes make this trek truly unforgettable. For nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek offers the perfect combination of adventure, beauty, and Himalayan serenity.

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Quick Facts About the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

  • Region: Kashmir Himalayas, Jammu & Kashmir
  • Start Point: Sonamarg
  • End Point: Naranag Village
  • Duration: 7 Days
  • Trek Distance: Approx. 70-75 km
  • Maximum Altitude: Gadsar Pass – approx. 13,800 ft
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Best Time: July to September
  • Accommodation: Tented camping during the trek
  • Temperature Range:
    • Day: 10°C to 18°C
    • Night: 0°C to 8°C

Best Time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is best done during the summer and early autumn months when the trails are open and the alpine lakes are accessible.

July to August – Peak Trekking Season

  • Meadows are full of colourful wildflowers.
  • Lakes appear bright blue due to melting glaciers.
  • The weather is pleasant for trekking during the day.
  • This is the most popular time to visit the region.

September – Clear Views & Fewer Crowds

  • The monsoon clouds begin to clear.
  • Trails become quieter with fewer trekkers.
  • Mountain views are often clearer during this time.

Note: Weather in the Himalayas can change quickly, so trekkers should carry proper warm clothing and rain protection.

How to Reach Srinagar

By Air

The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh. From the airport, you can reach the meeting point in Srinagar city easily by taxi.

By Train

The closest major railway station is Jammu Tawi, around 260 km from Srinagar. From Jammu, travellers can take a bus or taxi to reach Srinagar.

By Road

Srinagar is well connected by road with Jammu and other major cities of North India. Buses and taxis operate regularly on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Package by Himtrek – ₹18,999

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Kashmir Himalayas with Himtrek’s Kashmir Great Lakes Trek package priced at ₹18,999 per person.

This 7-day trekking adventure takes you across alpine meadows, high mountain passes, and some of the most stunning glacial lakes in the Himalayas. The journey includes comfortable camping arrangements, experienced trek leaders, and all essential trek logistics to ensure a safe and memorable experience.

Trekkers will explore famous locations such as Nichnai Pass, Vishansar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Satsar Lakes, and Gangabal Lake while enjoying panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and vast valleys.

For more information or booking details, feel free to contact the Himtrek team.

Legends and Stories of the Kashmir Great Lakes

The region around the Kashmir Great Lakes is deeply connected with local traditions and folklore. Many locals believe that these lakes are sacred and have spiritual significance.

Gangabal Lake is often associated with Lord Shiva and is considered one of the holy lakes in Kashmir. Pilgrims sometimes visit this lake during special religious occasions.

The name Vishansar is also linked to ancient myths, and local shepherds believe the lake holds spiritual energy. According to stories passed down for generations, the mountains and lakes are protected by natural spirits of the valley.

While these stories are part of local culture, they add a sense of mystery and charm to the entire trekking experience.

Preparation Tips for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

  • Maintain basic fitness before attempting the trek.
  • Carry proper trekking shoes with a good grip.
  • Pack warm layers, gloves, and rain protection.
  • Stay hydrated throughout the trek.
  • Walk at a steady pace and avoid rushing at high altitude.

Highlights

  • Trek across the famous Kashmir alpine lake circuit in the Himalayas.
  • Visit breathtaking lakes, including Vishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangabal, and Nundkol.
  • Cross scenic Nichnai Pass and Gadsar Pass, offering wide Himalayan views.
  • Walk through lush meadows filled with wildflowers and grazing sheep.
  • Experience peaceful camping beside high-altitude lakes.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Kashmir Himalayan ranges.
  • Witness changing landscapes every day - forests, valleys, rocky passes, and lakes.
  • Experience the traditional lifestyle of local shepherd communities in the region.

Included/Excluded

  • Accommodation in tented camps during the trek with basic camping logistics (tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, dining tent and toilet tent).
  • Meals provided from Day 1 dinner through Day 7 breakfast, usually vegetarian with tea/coffee and light snacks included at trek campsites.
  • Qualified trek leader and support staff guiding you throughout the trek, with necessary permits and camping charges taken care of by the organizer.
  • Safety and basic first-aid equipment (first-aid kit, oximeter, oxygen cylinder where provided) as part of trekking support.
  • Forest permits and camping fees included so you don’t have to arrange them separately.
  • 5% GST.
  • Transport from Srinagar to the trek start point (e.g., Sonamarg) and from Naranag back to Srinagar is not included unless you choose the optional service at extra cost (≈ ₹2000).
  • Personal expenses such as snacks outside provided meals, bottled water, hot drinks, and any purchases during the trek.
  • Travel to/from your home city (flights/train/bus) and meals during transit are not included.
  • Personal gear and equipment like trekking shoes, clothing, backpacks, rain gear, and cutlery are not covered by the trek fee.
  • Travel or medical insurance, porter fees for personal backpack carriage, and costs due to unforeseen delays/evacuation or force-majeure situations are excluded.

Itinerary

  • Arrive in Srinagar and meet the trek team.
  • Begin a scenic drive to Sonamarg, also known as the Meadow of Gold.
  • The drive follows the beautiful Sindh River with views of valleys and mountains.
  • Reach Sonamarg and attend a detailed trek briefing by the trek leader.
  • Check your trekking gear, prepare essentials, and hydrate properly.
  • Spend time exploring the surrounding meadows and acclimatising to the altitude.
  • Overnight camping at Sonamarg.

  • Begin trekking from Sonamarg along the river valley trail.
  • The trail gradually enters forest sections with maple and pine trees.
  • Walk through scenic meadows and cross small mountain streams.
  • Enjoy views of the surrounding valleys and alpine landscapes.
  • Gradually ascend towards the Nichnai region.
  • Reach Nichnai campsite and settle into the camp.
  • Overnight stay in tents at Nichnai.

  • Start the day with a gradual climb toward Nichnai Pass.
  • From the pass, enjoy wide panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Descend through rocky terrain and grassy alpine slopes.
  • Cross several small streams along the way.
  • Continue trekking toward the stunning Vishansar Valley.
  • Reach the famous Vishansar Lake, known for its turquoise water.
  • Set up camp near the lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  • Overnight camping near Vishansar Lake.

  • Begin the day by trekking across open alpine meadows.
  • Gradually climb toward Gadsar Pass, the highest point of the trek.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and valleys.
  • Descend slowly toward the Gadsar Lake basin.
  • Reach the beautiful Gadsar Lake, surrounded by mountains.
  • Set up camp near the lake and enjoy the peaceful alpine environment.
  • Overnight stay in tents at Gadsar.

  • Begin trekking through rolling mountain trails and alpine terrain.
  • Cross rocky sections and open grasslands.
  • Reach the Satsar region, known for its group of alpine lakes.
  • The name Satsar means “seven lakes,” though the number may vary with water levels.
  • Enjoy lunch while admiring distant snow-covered peaks.
  • Spend the evening relaxing near the lakes.
  • Overnight camping at Satsar.

  • Begin the trek with a gradual climb across high alpine trails.
  • Walk through open meadows and rocky sections.
  • Get the first views of Gangabal and Nundkol Lakes below the mountains.
  • Descend slowly toward the Gangabal campsite.
  • Reach the beautiful Gangabal Lake, one of the largest lakes on the trek.
  • Enjoy sunset views reflecting on the lake surface.
  • Overnight camping beside Gangabal Lake.

  • Begin the final day of trekking toward Naranag village.
  • Descend through scenic valleys and forest trails.
  • Walk along shepherd routes used by local herders.
  • Enjoy the last views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Reach Naranag Village, marking the end of the trek.
  • From here, trekkers can arrange transport back to Srinagar.

Frequently asked questions

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is considered moderate. It is suitable for beginners with good fitness as well as experienced trekkers.

The highest point of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is Gadsar Pass, which reaches approximately 13,800 ft.

Yes, beginners can attempt this trek if they prepare with basic cardio fitness and stamina training.

Yes, all meals during the trekking days are provided by the Himtrek support team.

Yes, trekkers stay in tented camps at designated campsites during the entire trek.

Activity's Location

Srinagar
From: ₹ 18,999

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    Harsh Ranjan

    Member Since 2025