Trip Info for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
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Cab, Mini Bus
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Camping Tents
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4,191 metres
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Srinagar
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July-September
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Trekking, Hiking
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All meals during the trek
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English, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi, Spanish, French
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Moderate to Difficult
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2-15
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14
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55
Overview
The Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek by Panda Tours and Travels is one of the most scenic and rewarding high-altitude treks in the Indian Himalayas, taking you through a breathtaking landscape of alpine lakes, lush meadows, snow-covered passes, and dramatic mountain backdrops. This 6 Nights / 7 Days Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, ideal for trekkers seeking an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Starting from the green meadows of Sonamarg, the trek unfolds through iconic locations such as Nichnai Valley, Vishansar Lake, Gadsar Pass, Satsar Lakes, and the majestic Gangbal–Nundkol basin, set beneath the towering presence of Mount Harmukh. Each day presents changing terrains—from gentle valley walks and wildflower-filled meadows to challenging mountain passes and pristine alpine lakes.
Designed with proper acclimatization, expert guidance, comfortable camping, and nutritious meals, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is suitable for fit beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The journey concludes at Naranag, followed by a scenic drive back to Srinagar, leaving you with lifelong memories of one of India’s most iconic trekking adventures.
Highlights
- Pickup & drop at Srinagar International Airport
- Iconic Alpine Lakes Route
- Spectacular Mountain Passes
- Unmatched Mt. Harmukh Views
- Expert-Guided Camping Experience
Itinerary
Begin your Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek with a scenic drive from Srinagar to Sonamarg, the starting point of this iconic Himalayan adventure. Enjoy stunning views of alpine meadows, flowing rivers, and snow-capped mountains along the way.
After reaching Sonamarg, check in at the base camp and spend time acclimatizing to the altitude with a short guided walk around the campsite. This easy hike helps your body adjust while allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of the region.
The evening is reserved for fun base camp activities, team interactions, trek briefing, and gear checks. Enjoy dinner under the stars and rest well for the trekking days ahead.
Overnight stay: Base Camp (Sonamarg)
Day two of the Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek begins with an early start from the Sonamarg base camp as you trek towards the beautiful Nichnai Valley. The trail gradually ascends through lush meadows, pine forests, and small mountain streams, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
The trek covers a distance of approximately 11–12 kilometers and takes around 6–7 hours to complete, including short breaks. You will cross the Nichnai Pass en route, located at an altitude of around 13,100 feet (4,000 meters), which offers panoramic Himalayan views before descending into the wide green bowl of Nichnai Valley.
Upon reaching the Nichnai Campsite at an altitude of approximately 11,500 feet (3,500 meters), take time to explore the valley, relax, and soak in the serene alpine surroundings. Dinner is served at the campsite, followed by an overnight stay under the stars.
Trek Distance: ~11–12 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Highest Altitude: ~13,100 ft (Nichnai Pass)
Overnight Altitude: ~11,500 ft (Nichnai Campsite)
Day three of the Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most scenic and challenging days of the journey. Start early from Nichnai Valley and begin the steady ascent towards the treacherous Nichnai Pass, navigating steep trails, rocky sections, and alpine terrain.
The climb rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and vast mountain landscapes. After crossing Nichnai Pass, located at an altitude of approximately 13,100 feet (4,000 meters), descend gradually into the stunning Vishansar Valley, known for its rolling meadows and crystal-clear streams.
Continue trekking towards the mesmerizing Vishansar Lake, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes on the Kashmir Great Lakes route. Spend time exploring the lakeside, capturing reflections of surrounding peaks, and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Reach the Vishansar Campsite, situated near the lake at an altitude of around 12,300 feet (3,750 meters), where you will camp for the night amidst untouched Himalayan beauty.
Trek Distance: ~10–11 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Highest Altitude: ~13,100 ft (Nichnai Pass)
Overnight Altitude: ~12,300 ft (Vishansar Campsite)
Day four of the Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek begins with an early start from Vishansar Campsite. After breakfast, pack up your gear and begin the ascent towards the legendary Gadsar Pass, one of the highest and most scenic passes on the trek.
The trail climbs steadily through alpine terrain, offering breathtaking views as you gain altitude. From Gadsar Pass, located at approximately 13,800 feet (4,200 meters), witness the spectacular panoramic view of the famous twin lakes – Vishansar and Krishansar, a highlight moment of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.
After spending time at the pass, descend carefully towards the vibrant meadows of Gadsar Valley, known for its wildflowers and expansive landscapes. Continue trekking to reach the Gadsar Campsite, where you can relax and soak in the serenity of the high-altitude surroundings.
Trek Distance: ~10–12 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Highest Altitude: ~13,800 ft (Gadsar Pass)
Overnight Altitude: ~11,800 ft (Gadsar Campsite)
Day five of the Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek offers a relatively gentle and scenic walk through vast alpine valleys. After breakfast at Gadsar Campsite, begin your gradual trek across rolling meadows carpeted with vibrant wildflowers, making this one of the most visually rewarding days of the journey.
The trail passes through open landscapes with panoramic mountain views and leads you towards the enchanting Satsar Lake, a cluster of high-altitude alpine lakes set amidst rugged terrain. Spend time exploring the lakeside, capturing photographs, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Continue towards the Satsar Campsite, located near the lakes at high altitude, where you can explore the area, relax, and soak in the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
Trek Distance: ~9–10 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Highest Altitude: ~12,000 ft
Overnight Altitude: ~12,000 ft (Satsar Campsite)
Day six of the Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is widely considered the most spectacular part of the entire journey. Begin the trek from Satsar Campsite, gradually ascending through rugged high-altitude terrain toward the final alpine basin beneath the mighty Mount Harmukh.
As you cross the pass and descend, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the twin alpine lakes—Nundkol Lake and Gangbal Lake—set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Harmukh, one of Kashmir’s most revered peaks. This unforgettable viewpoint is a signature highlight of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.
Continue descending towards Gangbal Valley, reaching the serene Gangbal Campsite located near the shores of the lake. Spend the rest of the day relaxing, exploring the surroundings, and soaking in the unmatched beauty of this pristine high-altitude landscape.
Trek Distance: ~11–12 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Highest Altitude: ~13,000 ft
Overnight Altitude: ~11,500 ft (Gangbal Campsite)
The final day of the Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek begins early at Gangbal Campsite. After breakfast, pack your gear and start the long descent towards Naranag, marking the concluding stretch of this iconic Himalayan trek.
The trail descends through alpine meadows, pine forests, and scenic valleys, gradually leading you back to civilization. This section offers peaceful surroundings and time to reflect on the unforgettable journey through Kashmir’s high-altitude landscapes.
Upon reaching Naranag, meet your pre-arranged vehicle and begin the scenic drive back to Srinagar, where the trek officially concludes. Arrive in Srinagar by evening with incredible memories of alpine lakes, mountain passes, and one of India’s most beautiful trekking routes.
Trek Distance: ~12–13 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Drive Duration: ~2–3 hours (Naranag to Srinagar)
Tour Concludes with Sweet Memories
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to Airport(in our own vehicle)
- Welcome with Flower-Greetings
- All Meals, Veg/ Non Veg
- Accommodation in tented camps during the trek with basic camping logistics
- Safety and Basic First Aid Equipments (First Aid Kit, Oxygen Cylinder, Oximeter etc)
- Forest Permits
- Qualified Trek Leader and Support Staff
The Cost Excludes
- Flight Tickets / Train Tickets
- Additional meals other than included in packages
- Additional personal expenses other than included in packages
- Personal gear and equipment like trekking shoes, clothing, backpacks
- Travel or Medical Insurance
- Anything not included in Inclusions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) By Clients
The Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a 6 Nights 7 Days high-altitude Himalayan trek that takes you through pristine alpine lakes, lush meadows, and scenic mountain passes in Kashmir.
The best time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is from July to September, when the trails are accessible and the alpine lakes are at their most vibrant.
The Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is suitable for fit beginners with basic trekking experience, as it involves long walking hours and moderate to challenging terrain.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is considered moderate to difficult, with daily hikes of 6–8 hours and altitudes reaching over 13,000 feet.
The Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek covers famous alpine lakes such as Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Nundkol, and Gangbal Lake.
The package typically includes guided trekking, camping accommodation, meals during the trek, permits, support staff, and basic medical assistance.
Yes, permits are required for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, and these are usually arranged by the trek operator as part of the package.
Participants should have good physical fitness, stamina for long walks, and prior preparation such as cardio training before attempting the Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.
Yes, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is safe when done with certified guides, proper acclimatization, and experienced support staff.
To prepare for the Epic Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, start fitness training at least 4–6 weeks in advance, focus on endurance, and carry proper trekking gear.
