The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is known as India’s most beautiful trek through the mountains at a higher elevation, a 72-kilometer trek that makes these mountains milder and look more like an expansive, high-definition fairyland. The trek starts at Shitkadi in Sonmarg (golden meadows) and ends at the ancient ruins of Naranag (8th-century). The trek has the same rhythm every day; every 24 hours, you cross a significant pass of a major mountain, like the Gadsar Pass (4,206 m), and at the end of that day, you have discovered a new lake in a different valley. You would encounter many of the best alpine lakes in the world within the scope of the exact trek; for example, the twin trout-filled Vishansar and Kishansar lakes, as well as Gadsar Lake (with icebergs at the surface) and Gangabal (a glacier-fed lake) at the base of Mount Harmukh. The views and sounds of the turquoise waters and the wildflowers in the meadows (margs) were visually stunning, with lots of Himalayan marmots whistling back and forth at about the same frequency as you were looking at them. The ideal time to trek this area is from July to September, when the entire area is lush and accessible. While other areas are blocked by the rains, KGL is lush and accessible, which is typically the best time of year to visit. Therefore, if you are going on a trek that has a moderate level of difficulty and offers world-class beauty, you will want to put KGL on your bucket list.
Tip info
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Bus, Train Airlines
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2-15
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4,200 m (13,800 ft)
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Campsite
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Moderate to difficult
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Srinagar
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July to September
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Eco-Tour, Hiking
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Hindi, English
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All meals during the trek
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Forest Department & Trekking permit
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65
Overview
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful treks in India. Nestled in the breathtaking valleys of Kashmir, this high-altitude trek takes you through lush green meadows, alpine forests, snow-covered mountain passes, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning Himalayan landscapes.
Known for its unmatched beauty, the trek features a series of pristine alpine lakes, each with its own unique charm and color. From the emerald waters of Vishansar and Krishansar to the majestic Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangbal lakes, every day on this trek feels like walking through a postcard.
Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Kashmir Himalayas.
