What is the best time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

The ideal time is from July to early September, when the meadows are lush and lakes are vibrant.

What is the fitness level required?

A moderate to high fitness level is needed. You should be comfortable trekking 6–8 hours daily.

What is the maximum altitude reached?

The trek reaches up to 13,750 feet at Gadsar Pass.

Is the trek beginner-friendly?

It’s ideal for experienced beginners with some prior trekking experience.

Is it safe for solo travelers?

Yes, if you’re trekking with a reputed group or guide, it’s very safe

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek – Trip For Adventure

Maximum Altitude
13,750 ft
Fitness level
Moderate to High
Best season
July to September
Language
Hindi/English

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

T&C & Guidelines

Overview

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a life-changing journey through the most scenic trail of the country. This trek takes you through the turquoise lakes, alpine meadows and lush valleys of Kashmir. Thrillophilia’s Kashmir Great Lakes trek packages allow you to embark on this trek and come with every travel necessity starting from meals, accommodations, transfers, and guides.

We work with a wide network of trusted tour operators who make the journey secure. The guides are local residents and often end up taking you through detours to hidden spots, offering the best views.

Kashmir Great Lakes’ best time is between July to September with pleasant weather and meadows in full bloom. The trek spanning 7 days and 6 nights, leads you through five different valleys of the region and six alpine lakes. You cover a distance of 75 km in a duration of 6 days starting from Sonmarg and ending at Narang Village.

On the first day of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, you’ll journey to Nichnai followed by the second day of your trek, when you’ll reach the twin lakes of Vishansar and Krishansar. The next day involves crossing the challenging Gadsar Pass. As you continue your trek, you’ll pass through the beautiful Satsar Lakes, a series of seven interconnected lakes. The final stretch of the journey takes you to the Gangbal and Nundkol Lakes and concludes with a descent to Naranag.

So, book your packages from Thrillophilia to leave all your worries behind and embark on this once in a lifetime experience.

Highlights

Have an ultimate trekking adventure with the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, where you'll pass through diverse landscapes and rocky terrain to achieve great heights.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Vishansar Lake, where crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a scene straight out of a dream.
Reward yourself with the panoramic views of the two most amazing lakes of Kashmir, Gangabal and Nundkol, as you ascend to a height of 13,400 ft.
Stand high at the Gadsar Pass, the highest point of the trek at 13,800 ft., and admire the views of the snow-capped peaks.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Srinagar | Transfer to Sonamarg

Khush Aamdeed! Welcome to Srinagar, the Venice of Kashmir. Upon your arrival, reach the pick-up point, Tourist Reception Center on your own to get transferred to the campsite in Sonamarg and check-in. You can relax at the campsite or explore the beautiful town of Sonmarg and see the amazing Thajiwas Glacier, Baltal Valley, and many more attractions. After an amazing day, head back to the campsite for an overnight stay.

Transfer in Bolero, Sumo Gold or similar

Check-in at Standard Camp

1 Day | Check-in: 3:00 pm | Check-out: 8:00 am

Stay at a Standard hotel

Leisure Day: Enjoy your time at Leisure

Day 02 :

Trek from Sonamarg to Nichnai | A Walk Through The Meadows of Gold

Have a beautiful beginning of the day as you wake up with a backdrop of lush greenery. After having breakfast, pack your bags and leave for Nichnai, the Valley of Wild Flowers. You will pass via Shekdur, where you can take a stopover to have maggie and tea. Continue the journey, and after reaching the Nichnai campsite, enjoy your overnight stay.

Activity: Trek from Sonmarg to Nichnai via Shekdur

Trekking Distance: 10 km | Duration: 7-8 hours | Elevation: 11,500 ft.

Begin trekking through the picturesque Sonmarg Valley, surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks.
Continue the journey alongside the Sindh River, leading you into the meadows full of maple and pine trees.
Descend from the forested trails to Shekdur and take a moment to admire the silver birch trees and stunning surroundings.
Passing through the dense forests, you will soon reach Nichnai, where you can settle into the campsite and enjoy your overnight stay.

Check-in at Standard Camp

1 Day | Check-in: 5:00 pm | Check-out: 7:00 am

Stay at a Standard hotel

Day 03 :

Trek from Nichnai to Vishansar Lake | Admire Views of Snowcapped Mountains

Get dressed up in your comfortable clothes to begin your trek towards Vishansar Lake. As you walk along the riverbank, enjoy a gradual ascent through the meadow that will take you to the Nichnai Pass, giving panoramic views of the Sonamarg valley. Continue your journey, which will soon lead you to Vishansar Lake, a breathtaking sight with towering mountains, and enjoy your overnight stay.

Activity: Trek from Nichnai to Vishansar Lake

Trekking Distance: 12 km | Duration: 5 hours | Elevation: 12,170 ft.

Rise early to the stunning views of the surroundings and prepare yourself for an exhilarating trek towards Nichnai Pass.
Cross the river and continue hiking along its banks, soaking in the serene atmosphere and natural splendor.
Reach the majestic Nichnai Pass and marvel at the awe-inspiring vistas of snow-capped peaks that surround you.
Descend from the pass, embarking on a steep yet rewarding journey that leads you to a picturesque meadow adorned with vibrant flowers.
Continue your hike towards a flat valley, where you'll be greeted by captivating views of the Himalayan Range and the glistening Vishansar Lake.
Arrive at the campsite nestled by the tranquil waters of Vishansar Lake, where you'll spend the night under the starlit sky, surrounded by nature's beauty.

Check-in at Standard Camp

1 Day | Check-in: 5:00 pm | Check-out: 7:00 am

Stay at a Standard hotel

Day 04 :

Trek from Vishansar Lake to Gadsar Lake | Walk to the Highest Alpine Lake

After you pack up, embark on a trek to Krishansar Peak, located 500 ft. above the campsite. Then cross and reach the other side of the reservoir, where the path will lead you to Krishansar Lake, followed by a trek to Gadsar Pass, the highest point of your trek. Continue the journey towards Gadsar Lake, a lake adorned with exotic flowers on both sides. Upon arrival, report to the nearest Army Camp, and after completing the formalities, settle in your camp for an overnight stay.

Activity: Trek from Vishansar Lake to Gadsar Lake via Krishansar Lake & Gadsar Pass

Trekking Distance: 16 km | Duration: 4-5 hours | Elevation: 13,800 ft.

After you pack your bags, ascend to the majestic Krishansar Peak, standing proudly above the campsite.
From here onwards, ascend to the other side of the water reservoir, which comprises both easy and tough terrain.
Continue your trek towards Krishansar Lake before making your way to the majestic Gadsar Pass.
Have a sense of achievement as you reach the Gadsar Pass, the highest point of this trek, at a height of 13,800 ft.
Descend through a beautiful meadow adorned with vibrant flowers and serene lakes, including the enchanting Gadsar Lake.
Arriving at the calm shores of Gadsar Lake, take a moment to admire the serenity of this beautiful setting.
Complete the necessary formalities at the nearby Army Camp, and as night falls, settle in for a peaceful overnight stay by the lake.

Check-in at Standard Camp

1 Day | Check-in: 5:00 pm | Check-out: 7:00 am

Stay at a Standard hotel

Day 05 :

Trek from Gadsar Lake to Satsar Lake | Way to the Nest of Seven Small Lakes

Brace yourself for a thrilling journey through varied terrain, experiencing both flat and challenging inclines as you leave for Satsar Lake. As you ascend, enjoy a brief break at Maengandob, a region surrounded by high mountains. Upon reaching the first of Satsar Lake, get your IDs verified with the army officials and settle yourself in your camps for an overnight stay.

Activity: Trek from Gadsar Lake to Satsar Lake

Trekking Distance: 11 km | Duration: 5 hours | Elevation: 11,840 ft.

Today, enjoy a scenic walk from the army camp towards the beautiful stream.
As you leave the river valley behind, you will walk on a trail surrounded by mountains, with deep craters on your right.
Continue your trek to the first of the stunning Satsar lakes, a collection of seven small lakes nestled amidst the wilderness.
Upon reaching, get your IDs checked with the army officials as you set up camp beside the waters of the first Satsar Lake.
As night descends, enjoy your overnight stay in the beautiful surroundings.

Check-in at Standard Camp

1 Day | Check-in: 5:00 pm | Check-out: 7:00 am

Stay at a Standard hotel

Day 06 :

Trek from Satsar Lake to Gangabal Twin Lakes | Trail Leading to Foothill of Mt. Haramukh

Prepare yourself for an adventurous day as you leave the campsite and ascend to the Gangabal and Nunkol Lakes, passing through the final Satsar Lakes. On the way, admire the views surrounding the trail, along with Gujjar huts and several ridges. As you reach the summit, take-in the views of the twin lakes before continuing your trek toward the sacred lake of the Hindus, Nundkol. Conclude your trek at the beautiful Gangabal Lake, where you will settle at your camps for an overnight stay.

Activity: Trek from Satsar Lake to Gangabal Twin Lakes

Trekking Distance: 10 km | Duration: 4 hours | Elevation: 11,713 ft.

Gear up for a day that will lead you towards the Gangabal Twin Lakes, passing through the last Satsar Lake.
From here, you will ascend high at an altitude of 13,400 ft., enjoying various Gujjar huts and several ridges at different heights.
After reaching the summit, be rewarded with panoramic views of the twin lakes, Gangabal and Nundkol.
While you are there, also immerse yourself in the beauty of pristine waters connected by a stream known for its trout fishing.
Continue your journey along a sharp and rocky trail that will lead you to Nundkol, a sacred lake of Hindus.
From Nundkol, enjoy a brief trek for 20 minutes that will lead you to Gangabal, the largest alpine lake in Kashmir.
Upon reaching there, cross the bridge to settle in your camps for an overnight stay.

Check-in at Standard Camp

1 Day | Check-in: 5:00 pm | Check-out: 7:00 am

Stay at a Standard hotel

More Details about Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Know Before You Go for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Take your time adjusting to high altitudes, as the weather conditions can be different from lower areas.
Listen to your trek leaders or instructors carefully for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Carry basic medications and a first-aid kit during the tour.
Please carry a valid ID proof.
No bill will be reimbursed for any missed service/facility.
Keep your luggage minimum; the more you carry, the more you hassle.
Any personal expenses, items of personal nature, meals not mentioned, etc. will not be in part of the package.
Mobile & laptop charging points may/may not be available on campsites at a common point.
Avoid using plastic bags and maintain the ecological balance of the destinations.
It is recommended to carry enough warm clothes and the right kind of shoes for the trek.
Please note that in the event of emergencies or natural calamities, the management reserves the right to modify the trek itinerary. However, any changes due to circumstances beyond our control is not covered in the package cost.

Things To Carry for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Walking stickMandatory Item
Head torchMandatory Item
Hiking shoesMandatory Item
Back pack (50-60l)Mandatory Item
Day pack (20-30l)Mandatory Item
Caps
Warm clothes
Rain cover
Water bottle
Extra pair of socks

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Policies

Confirmation Policy

The customer receives a confirmation voucher via email within 24 hours of successful booking.

In case the preferred slots are unavailable, an alternate schedule of the customer’s preference will be arranged and a new confirmation voucher will be sent via email.

Alternatively, the customer may choose to cancel their booking before confirmation and a full refund will be processed.

Refund Policy

The applicable refund amount will be processed within 10 business days.

All applicable refunds will be done in the traveler’s Thrillophilia wallet as Thrillcash.

Cancellation Policy

If cancellation are made 30 days before the date of travel then 25.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees
If cancellation are made 15 days to 30 days before the date of travel then 50.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees
If cancellation are made 0 days to 15 days before the date of travel then 100.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees
In the event of unforeseen weather conditions, union issues, government restrictions, or any other circumstances beyond human control, certain trips or activities may be cancelled. In such cases, alternate feasible options will be provided. However, a cash refund will not be available.

Payment Terms Policy

100.0% of total tour cost will have to be paid 0 days before the date of booking

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

T&C & Guidelines