Name: Sonamarg
Rating: 4.6

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, Sonamarg Overview

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is an eight-day trek that takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote areas of the Kashmir Valley. The trek starts from Sonamarg, which is situated at an altitude of 7,800 feet. From there, you will trek through dense forests, beautiful meadows, and high-altitude lakes.

The entire trail is a huge experience to witness the varied ecological zones of Himalayas. Starting with temperate forests of pine and spruces, firs and deodars to vast lush green meadows and grasslands, the entire trek is accompanied by snow clad peaks and pristine blue lakes. The gushing streams, rocky terrains and the rustic villages will make this trip all the more unique and memorable. The trek is for those, who want to explore the hidden valleys and nature's raw beauty of Kashmir, which are not accessible via motorable roads.

1. Nichnai Pass

Trekking through the beautiful Nichnai Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 13,500 feet. You can get a view of the beautiful Nichnai Lake from the pass and an hour of trekking from the pass will (Read More)take you to a magnificent waterfall that also serves as a luncheon spot.

2. Gadsar Pass

Exploring the Gadsar Lake, which is also known as the "Lake of Flowers” is a part of this trek. This is one of the most difficult treks as the pass is situated at almost 16000 feet above sea lev (Read More)el. The primary attraction of the lake is the floating icebergs that serve as an attraction to several tourists.

3. Gangabal Lake

Enjoying the beautiful views of Gangabal Lake, which is situated at an altitude of 11,500 feet is one of the main highlights of this trek. This lake is a pilgrimage site for the Kashmiri Hindus and is (Read More) considered to be one of the abodes of Shiva.

4. Nundkol Lake

Situated in the Ganderbal district of Kashmir, Nundkol Lake is one of the hidden gems of this place. Visitors are mesmerized by the flora and fauna found around this lake. The Nundkol Lake is also fam (Read More)ous for brown trouts, however, only licensed anglers are permitted to fish.

5. Vishansar Lake, Sonamarg

A little outside Sonamarg, Vishansar Lake is an alpine high altitude oligotrophic lake. At an altitude of 3710 m, it is a sparkling blue lake surrounded by lush green meadow, alpine flowers and white (Read More)and silver mountains at a tantalizing distance. Popular as the Lake of Vishnu, the Vishansar Lake is known for the many species of fish it houses, especially the brown tout.

Krishnasar Lake is located in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, at an altitude of 3,710 meters above sea level. The lake is one of the highest-altitude lakes in the Kashmir Valley and is pa (Read More)rt of the famous trekking route known as the Great Lakes Trek. This pristine waterbody is surrounded by lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and dense forests, this lake is a popular tourist destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and photographers alike.

How to Reach

The nearest airport to Sonamarg is the Srinagar International Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach Sonamarg. If you are traveling by train, the nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, from there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Sonamarg.

Itinerary for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Arrive in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.
Check into a houseboat on Dal Lake for a unique experience.
Relax and acclimatize to the altitude.
Explore Mughal Gardens and enjoy a Shikara ride on Dal Lake.

Day 2: Drive to Sonamarg (2,740 m)

Begin your journey towards Sonamarg, the Meadow of Gold.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas during the scenic drive.
Explore Thajiwas Glacier and take a short acclimatization hike.
Overnight stay in Sonamarg.

Day 3: Trek from Sonamarg to Nichnai (3,500 m)

Start your trek through lush meadows and dense forests.
Pass through Shekdur and continue to Nichnai.
Set up camp near the stream for an overnight stay.
Experience the tranquility of the mountains.

Day 4: Trek from Nichnai to Vishansar Lake (4,090 m)

Trek to the stunning Vishansar Lake.
Pass through Nichnai Pass with panoramic views of the Great Lakes.
Set up camp near the Vishansar Lake for the night.

Day 5: Trek to Krishansar Lake (3,801 m) and then to Gadsar (4,000 m)

Visit Krishansar Lake in the morning.
Trek towards Gadsar, passing Gadsar Pass.
Explore the picturesque Gadsar Lake and camp nearby.

Day 6: Trek from Gadsar to Satsar Lakes (3,657 m)

Trek through alpine meadows and reach the Satsar Lakes.
Enjoy the serenity of multiple lakes surrounded by mountains.
Set up camp near Satsar Lakes for the night.

Day 7: Trek to Gangbal Twin Lakes (3,570 m)

Trek to Gangbal Twin Lakes, known for their pristine beauty.
Explore the surroundings and relax by the lakes.
Camp overnight near Gangbal Lakes.

Day 8: Trek to Naranag and Departure

Trek down to Naranag, passing through meadows and forests.
Explore the ancient Naranag temple.
Depart from Naranag for Srinagar, marking the end of the trek.

This itinerary provides a glimpse of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, a challenging and rewarding journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the region. Adjustments to the schedule may be necessary based on weather conditions and individual trekking pace. Ensure you have the required permits for the trek, and consider hiring a local guide for a safer and more enriching experience.