Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

The best time to book the Kashmir Great Lakes trek package is from Summer to monsoon, from June to October. During this time, especially in the summers, the landscapes are pristine and vibrant, offering the trekkers a fresh and bright journey. This trek is considered to be monsoon-friendly, so despite the slipper tracks and occasional showers, you are sure to have a memorable experience here during these times. The temperatures range from 20-15 degrees in the morning, and they can drop to sub-zero temperatures in the evening at higher altitudes.

The Great Lakes trek in Kashmir covers around 6 lakes spread across the entire trail of 72 kilometres.

1. Vishnusar- This is the first lake that you will encounter on your trek route. Placed in the laps of the great Himalayan peaks, it offers picturesque views that can excite the travellers to look forward to the rest of the trek.

2. Krishnasar- This is the second lake that you will encounter on the trail. Situated next to the Vishnusar lake, it provides panoramic views of the entire valley that can captivate the trekkers.

3. Gadsar- Also known as the Yamsar Lake, this is one of the most magnificent lakes that you will come across with our Kashmir Great Lakes trek package. Translating to the lake of fishes in Kashmiri, it also bears two nicknames- the Lake of the Demon, and the Lake of Death.

4. Satsar- Located in the Satsar Valley, the Satsar Lake is a collection of seven interconnected water bodies. It provides brilliant views of the Kashmir valley, amidst the Himalayan majesty.

5. Gangabal and Nundkol- Also known as the twin lakes, these mark the final lakes on the Great Lakes trek. Literally speaking, Gangabal translates to the lake of Ganga, and Nundkol translates to the lake of Nandi, and both of them are situated at the base of Mt. Haramukh.

The price of trekking to Kashmir Great Lakes can cost you around INR 13,000 to INR 20,000 per person. The final cost of the package further depends on the inclusions as well as the types of facilities. From the type of accommodation to the travel assistance, various factors affect the overall price of the Kashmir Great lakes trekking package. 

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek covers the captivating seven lakes, stunning snow-clad mountains and the beautiful valleys of maples, pine, etc. in 8 days. You will trek to the different heights on different days and will trek to the highest altitude of 13,800 ft above sea level.

Day to day height reached on this trek is as follows:

• Sonmarg to Nichnai: 7,800 ft to 11,500 ft
• Nichnai to Vishnasar lake: 11,500 ft to 12,000 ft
• Vishnasar to Gadsar via Kishansar lake and Gadsar Pass: 12,000 ft to 12,500 ft via 13,800 ft (highest point)
• Gadsar to Satsar: 12,500 ft to 12,000 ft
• Satsar to Gangabal twin lakes: 12,000 ft to 11,500 ft
• Gangabal to Naranag: 11,500 ft to 7,450 ft

Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a mesmerizing trekking expedition of approximately 72kms that a trekker covers in a period of 7 days. The expedition starts from Sonmarg, ends at Narang and requires trekking of up to 13 Km in a day.

Day to day distance covered is as follows:

• Sonamarg to Nichnai: 10 km
• Nichnai to Vishansar Lake: 13 km
• Vishansar to Gadsar: 11 km
• Gadsar to Satsar: 12 km
• Satsar to Gangabal Twin lakes: 9 km
• Gangabal to Naranag: 12 km

The difficulty level of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is moderate to difficult. However, beginners or people with less experience can also take part in this trek. There are certain trails that test your mental and physical strength, however, the scenery that you will encounter here is worth the stress. It is suggested to start preparing at least three months before commencing the trek.

The difficulty level of this trek is moderate, so for those of you who lead a sedentary lifestyle or have a 9 to 5 desk job, it is necessary to undergo some physical training to prepare for the trek. Start training at least a month before the trek starts. Work out leg and calf muscles, as you will spend a lot of time walking and climbing on the trail. The training should focus on endurance and strength workouts to make your body accustomed to the arduous journey. You should also consult your doctor if you have any physical ailments and get medications accordingly.

Yes, you can go for the Great Lakes trek in Kashmir in June. Marking the summer season, you can experience hot days and chilly nights in June, and there remains a possibility of rain and fog as well. The weather in Kashmir, especially at the higher altitudes is unpredictable, so it is safer to undertake the journey with proper precautions. On the brighter side, this period is safe, especially for the first timers, and you can witness the landscapes blanketed in colourful blooms and vibrant greenery.

You need to have a minimum of 7-10 days in hand for completing the Kashmir Great Lakes trek itinerary. Thrillophilia offers this trek with a duration of 7 days and 6 nights, at affordable prices and with impeccable services.The trek is around a week long, leaving you with one-two days more for resting, and exploring Srinagar and Sonmag which are considered to be two of the most popular Kashmiri cities.

Proper preparations are important, especially for the travellers embarking upon the Kashmir Great Lakes trek. As the difficulty level of this trek is moderate to difficult, you need to ensure your physical fitness, stamina, strength, and endurance levels.

1. Start exercising regularly, at least three months before the trek. 

2. Practise climbing stairs, running, and walking regularly. 

3. Smoke less so that you have an increased stamina while walking, and do not get tired easily.

4. If you have any physical ailments, it is important to consult your doctor before undertaking the trek. 

5. You can also ask your doctor for any suggestions to improve your physical fitness.

6. Pack your clothes, essential gears and equipment properly, so that you do not face any inconvenience during this trek.

Make sure to carry warm and comfortable clothing as temperature can drop, pack good quality trekking shoes, slippers and extra pair of socks. It’s advisable to carry sunscreen lotion or any other skin moisturisers as the sun at the top can be harsh. Water bottles and energy bars/snacks are advisable. A Flashlight (with spare batteries) will help once the sun goes down and it’s always smart to carry insect repellent and emergency medical kit.

Good quality and sturdy trekking shoes that cover your ankles. Refrain from using sport shoes for your own safety and the trails are uneven and tricky hence requiring good grip trekking shoes. If you are buying new shoes for your trek, please remember to use them for at least a month before you commence your holiday.

• From staying in the sight of your group to following all the rules and regulations, you are required to follow various guidelines to enjoy the best of your trekking experience. 
• Do not litter or dispose of garbage without consulting first, you will be passing through various reserved areas where littering is prohibited. 
• Make sure that your shoes fit properly, have proper grip and are waterproof as this can act as a really big factor for your whole journey. 
• Pack some snacks which are rich in protein, like energy bars, dry fruits and others.

Here is the list of other best Himalayan treks that you can book via Thrillophilia:

1. Kedarkantha Trek
2. Sar Pass Trek
3. Prashar Lake Trek
4. Everest Base Camp Trek
5. Singalila Trek
6. Tholung Trek
7. Green Lake Trek