Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Start Point: Srinagar
End Point: Shiktkadi Campsite
By Drive: 90 Kms approx 3 Hrs
Altitude Gain: 3300 Ft.

The Kashmir Great Lakes expedition begins with a journey from Srinagar to Shitkadi Village, located at an elevation of 2,600 m (8,500 ft) near Sonamarg. This 90 km drive takes approximately three hours and offers breathtaking views of lush green fields, expansive meadows, and the Sindh River flowing alongside the road. Shitkadi Village serves as the starting point for your trek and is surrounded by majestic peaks including Kolahoi, Amarnath Peak, Tribal, and Machoi, along with the stunning Machoi Glacier. Upon arriving at the Shitkadi Campsite near the Sindh River, you'll have the entire evening to relax and soak in the serene surroundings. Since there are no shops in the area, it's essential to pack all your necessary supplies. Remember to carry a valid identification document along with two copies, as these will be needed at the military checkpoint. In the evening, a briefing session will be conducted to prepare you for the trek ahead. Afterward, enjoy an early dinner and unwind at your campsite, gearing up for the exciting adventures that await you the following day. This tranquil first day is a perfect introduction to the stunning scenery and peaceful ambiance of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek.

Note: Ensure to reach Srinagar pickup point by 12 Pm.

Overnight stay in Trekking Tents Meals: Tea Snacks, Dinner Only

Start Point: Shitkadi Campsite
End Point: Nichnai Campsite
By Trek: 11 Kms approx 7-8 Hrs
Altitude Gain: 3000 Ft.

The day two trek will commence from Shitkadi Camp to Nichinai, passing through Shekdur (Table Top). The altitudes reach 3,500 m (11,500 ft) at Nichinai and 3,350 m (11,000 ft) at Shekdur. This stretch covers 11 km and typically takes around 8 hours, with a total elevation gain of 900 m (3,000 ft). After a hearty breakfast, the trek begins, guiding you through lush forests filled with Maple, Pine, and Bhoj trees, punctuated by beautiful meadows. A quick stop at an army check post, about thirty minutes into the trek, requires submitting ID proofs and rewards you with stunning views of the Sonamarg Valley and the Thajiwas Glacier. The hike continues for 2.5 hours through thick pine woods until you reach the enchanting Shekdur. Here, you can take a well-deserved break under the shade of Bhoj trees, enjoying a simple yet satisfying meal of instant noodles or a freshly cooked omelet at local dhaba direct pay. This picturesque setting, with its breathtaking views, is a dream for photographers eager to capture the beauty around them. From Shekdur, the trail follows the Nichinai River. You’ll climb for about three hours before experiencing a mild descent lasting an hour, leading into a gradual ascent to Nichinai. Along the way, you’ll pass through Silver Birch forests, where sunlight filters through the dense canopy, creating a beautiful interplay of light and shadow. After exiting the Birch trees, the path descends into a valley that marks the beginning of Nichinai. On the right side of the river, the trail offers glimpses of distant, snow-capped peaks. Initially, the path is uneven and rocky, which may pose challenges for mules. However, as you progress, the terrain evolves into lush green expanses and broad meadows. Approaching Nichinai, the valley opens up, surrounded by towering mountains. The Nichinai campsite awaits, nestled in a serene setting. Here, we will set up camp amidst majestic twin peaks capped with snow, vibrant green meadows, and the soothing sound of a gentle river, providing the perfect retreat after a fulfilling day of trekking. From Nichnai you can have an amazing night sky view and this can be one of the coldest places during the trek.
Overnight stay in Trekking Tents Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner

Start Point: Nichnai Campsite
End Point: VIshansar Lake VIa Nichnai Pass:
By Trek: 12-13 Kms approx 7-8 Hrs
Altitude Gain: 1600 Ft.

On the third day of your trek, you will set out early, usually between 7 and 8 am, heading towards the stunning Vishansar Lake, which is the first of the Great Lakes on your route. The hike begins with a gentle walk through Kashmir's breathtaking alpine meadows and rolling slopes. Starting from the Nichinai campsite, you'll make your way towards the prominent Nichinai Pass, where the trail initially slopes gently. About 30 minutes into the journey, you’ll cross a bubbling brook, guiding trekkers to the left. The path then steadily ascends for the next hour, leading you to Nichinai Pass, which stands at an elevation of 13,100 feet—the highest point of the day. From this vantage point, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Sonamarg Valley and the majestic Himalayan peaks nearby. It's also the last place where you may catch a mobile signal from BSNL. After descending from Nichinai Pass, you’ll enter a vast and enchanting meadow. The transition from rugged terrain to lush grassy fields is truly captivating, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. As you approach Vishansar Lake, a river flows gently through the meadow, creating a serene atmosphere. After about an hour of descending, the trail will level out into a broad meadow where two streams converge. You’ll want to follow the left side of the larger stream and prepare for a refreshing yet chilly stream crossing as you get closer to the lake. Vishansar Lake is situated slightly higher, approximately 0.5 km from the campsite, nestled at the base of four towering mountains. The beauty of the lake is mesmerizing, with its surface reflecting the impressive peaks nearby. Throughout the day, the lake’s color shifts—from a colorless surface at sunrise to a vibrant aquamarine blue at noon, eventually turning a greenish-blue as dusk settles in. If you’re trekking in July, the lake may still be frozen. The Vishansar campsite offers a spacious open area suitable for games like volleyball or cricket, though keep an eye out for local dogs. We will also have an opportunity to visit Kishansar Lake, rest of the evening at leisure, free for your own activities.
Overnight stay in Trekking Tents Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner

Day four is designated as a buffer day and will be utilized only in the event of bad weather, such as rain or if the Gadsar Pass is deemed impassable. We will wait for a day and attempt to cross the Gadsar Pass the following day, hoping for clearer weather. If conditions do not improve, we will have to return from Vishansar. Throughout the entire trek, the Gadsar Pass is the only section that cannot be crossed in rainy or adverse weather conditions. Please note that " THE TRAVEL FOOT" does not charge any additional fees for using this buffer day, and therefore any trekkers should not request a refund if the buffer day is not used.
Overnight stay in trekking Tents Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Start Point: Vishansar Lake
End Point: Gadsar via Gadsar Pass
By Trek: 14 Kms approx 9-10 Hrs
Highest Altitude: 13750 Ft.

Our adventure begins with an early morning as we set off from Vishansar Lake to Gadsar Lake, navigating through the Gadsar Pass, the highest point of our trek. The trek starts with a steep rise from Vishansar, offering stunning views as we climb. As we ascend, we catch our first glimpse of Kishansar Lake, its serene waters sparkling at the mountain's base. After about 1.5 hours of uphill trekking, we spot the ridge ahead, and after another 45 minutes of effort, we’re rewarded with a breathtaking view of both Vishansar and Kishansar Lakes. This mesmerizing sight will stay with us as we continue onward to the Gadsar Pass. At an altitude of 13,750 feet, the Gadsar Pass serves as the pinnacle of our trek. Once we reach the summit, we are greeted by an awe-inspiring panorama: on one side, snow-capped Himalayan peaks stretch into the distance, while on the other, a stunning valley with tranquil lakes unfolds below. Take a moment to soak in the incredible views before moving on. As we descend steeply from the mountain pass, we arrive at Yamsar Lake, another peaceful oasis that many hikers overlook. Beyond the lake, the trail winds through lush meadows bursting with vibrant wildflowers. This narrow valley is adorned with green grass and offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains, making it a truly enchanting passage. Continuing along the trail, we discover Gadsar Lake, perched at a striking elevation of 12,000 feet. This beautiful alpine lake is embraced by towering, snow-clad mountains, serving as a highlight of our trek. The scenery here is a magical contrast, where snow-laden boulders tumble into the lake on one side, while a vivid array of wildflowers blooms on the other, creating an enchanting atmosphere. We'll set up camp for the night near the army camp in Gadsar, a hidden treasure often missed by hikers. If you choose to pitch your tent here, please remember to leave the area just as pristine as you found it. As we descend, the valley opens up to reveal another beautiful blue lake to our left. Along the way, we’ll spot shepherd cabins scattered throughout the valley, guiding us toward the Gadsar Army Camp. Upon arrival, please ensure you have your identification documents ready for verification. The camp’s walkie-talkies will connect us with their main base, and obtaining permission to proceed might take around 2-3 hours. Today's hike combines steep ascents, descents, and leisurely strolls through meadows, making it one of the most scenic and rewarding segments of our entire journey. Don't forget to carry a packed lunch to keep your energy up throughout the trek.
Overnight stay in trekking Tents Meals: Breakfast, packed Lunch and Dinner

Note: If buffer day is not utilized this will be our day 4 of the trek.

Start Point: Gadsar
End Point: Satsar
By Trek: 9 Kms approx 5-6 Hrs
Altitude Gain: 1000 Ft.

On Day six, we will start on a 9 km trek from Gadsar to Satsar, which will take approximately 5-6 hours and elevate you to an altitude of 3,650 m (12,000 ft). The trail is a vibrant showcase of wildflowers in full bloom, offering a feast for the eyes. As we trek, we will pass through a military checkpoint where you'll need to verify your identification. The adventure begins with a gentle descent lasting about an hour, leading you to a stream. After crossing the stream, the terrain becomes steeper, and you'll ascend roughly 1,100 feet over a challenging three-hour climb. As you progress, the trees gradually give way, presenting stunning views of the valley below, adorned with winding rivers and lush greenery. Once you reach an altitude of 11,500 feet, the ascent changes into a sideways traverse that veers left, guiding you away from the river valley. Upon leaving the valley, you'll find yourself in the expansive grassland known as Maegandob, surrounded by towering mountains. Along the path, you may notice some indentations to your right. Shortly after, the first of the Satsar Lakes will come into view. The name 'Satsar' is derived from ‘Sat’ (seven) and ‘Sar’ (lake), referring to the group of seven interconnected lakes. Depending on the season, you might catch sight of four or five of these stunning lakes, which are known for their bright emerald-blue colors that shift beautifully throughout the day. After a brief crossing over a small bridge, you’ll encounter a third military checkpoint, where another identification verification is necessary. Once cleared, a short, leisurely 10-minute walk will lead you to the first Satsar Lake, nestled in a peaceful valley framed by two towering mountains, creating a strikingly beautiful setting. In the afternoon, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Satsar Twin Lakes, also called Mengen Top. These lakes are about 1.3 hours apart and offer spectacular photo opportunities and a chance to relax. As evening falls, find a quiet spot by the lakeside to set up your camp and soak in the serene atmosphere. When night comes, take time to unwind and get a restful night's sleep, recharging for a fulfilling day of adventure ahead.
Overnight stay in Trekking Tents Meals: Breakfast, Hot Lunch and Dinner

Start Point: Satsar
End Point: Gangbal via Zaj Pass
By Trek: 11 Kms approx 6 -7 Hrs
Highest Altitude: 13000 Ft.

The final stretch of the trek to the breathtaking Gangabal and Nandkol Lakes takes you through the Zaj Pass. This portion of the journey offers stunning views of high-altitude lakes, Mt. Harmukh, and its glacier, ensuring an unforgettable experience. The hike begins on a rugged path that takes about an hour to navigate before ascending gradually to the Zaj Pass. From this viewpoint, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of four lakes and the majestic Mt. Harmukh alongside its impressive glacier. After soaking in the scenery, the trail takes a steep descent down to Gangabal Lake, eventually leading to the campsite by the shores of Nandkol Lake. The varied landscape features a mix of gradual inclines, sharp climbs, and downhill sections, interspersed with undulating trails. A 30-minute ascent from the Satsar campsite brings you to the last and largest lake in the Satsar series, surrounded by a rugged terrain dotted with boulders. The trail then gently slopes down for about 30 minutes to the edge of the forest. To the right, a steep incline rises, while the lushness of the forest on the left contrasts sharply with the barren rocky path. After this descent, the trail begins a steep and winding climb up to the top of a ridge. Two additional ridges await, keeping the landscape rugged and largely devoid of vegetation. The ascent to the third and final ridge takes roughly two hours, reaching an elevation of 13,000 feet. From the summit, the dazzling vistas unfold, revealing a pair of lakes connected by a babbling brook, creating a magical ambiance. A closer look reveals two more lakes, making a total of four. Notably, Gangabal Lake is the largest among them, with Nandkol Lake nearby. From the ridge, the path plunges sharply down about 1,400 feet to the stunning Gangabal Lakes. A wooden bridge spans a stream, allowing access to the tranquil Nandkol campsite, set amidst vibrant flora and stunning mountain scenery. The serene Nandkol Lake serves as the ideal overnight stop, favored by both adventure enthusiasts and locals alike. However, its popularity has earned it the designation of a Green Trails Hotspot, partly due to the lingering debris left behind by campers. Discovering the Natural Beauty of Gangabal and Nandkol Lakes Just a short 20-minute walk from Nandkol, Gangabal Lake is accompanied by a gentle stream. To ensure safety, it's advised to bypass the lower stream crossings and take the trail leading to Gangabal, where a sturdy wooden bridge ensures a secure passage. As one of the largest lakes on this trekking route, Gangabal provides a leisurely hour-long circuit around its peaceful shores. The lake's brilliant blue water, set against a dramatic backdrop, makes for an unforgettable experience. Conclude your day by setting up camp at Nandkol, enjoying the serene atmosphere, and preparing for the final leg of your journey.
Overnight stay in trekking tents Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Start Point: Gangabal
End Point: Srinagar via Naranag
By Trek: 16-18 Kms approx 8-9 Hrs
By Driver Naranag to Srinagar: 60 Kms approx 2 Hrs

The final part of the trek from Gangabal to Naranag involves a downhill descent. While the path slopes downward, the steep sections can be challenging and may strain your knees, so be prepared. The journey begins with a gradual descent along a ridge, following a stream toward the pine forest. Approximately 30 minutes into your trek, you'll find that mobile phone reception (Airtel) becomes available, allowing you to inform family and friends of your safe progress. As the ridge ends, the path opens up into a spacious meadow. Take a moment to turn around and enjoy the breathtaking view of Harmukh Peak, which stands majestically in the distance. Continuing on the trek for about an hour, the landscape changes as you enter a forest area filled with tall, closely packed pine trees. Signs of human presence start to appear, with rustic log cabins scattered throughout the landscape. The trail meanders through the woods for several kilometers, maintaining a relatively consistent elevation. Upon reaching the midpoint of the trail, the path inclines more steeply and then transitions into a sudden downward slope. Here, the trail becomes muddier and is lined with dense pine trees. We come across the final Army Checkpoint. The final stretch of 4 kilometers presents a challenging descent of over 3,000 feet, testing your stamina and stability. During this portion of the journey, you may encounter fellow hikers making their way from Naranag to Gangabal. As you approach the end of the hike, Naranag village gradually comes into view. The last stretch is steep, but you will eventually find a stone-lined path that leads you directly into the charming village. Transportation will be provided to take you back to Srinagar, and you can expect to arrive between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM. Make sure to plan your next journey accordingly and book any reservations for after 8 PM. This marks the conclusion of your amazing trek, leaving you with lasting memories of the stunning scenery in Kashmir.
Note: We should ensure to reach naranag before 2 pm to board are vehicles to Srinagar.
No Accommodation Meals Breakfast Only