Trekking in Kashmir offers a variety of options, categorized into short and long treks, catering to diverse preferences. For those seeking to infuse their family vacations with a dash of adventure, the shorter treks are ideal. Notable one-day treks include the Gulmarg to Khilanmarg, a 5 km trek leading to the pristine Alpathar Lake, an additional 8 km away. Alternatively, the trek from Gulmarg to Ningel Nallah and the 12 km trek from Pahalgam to the picturesque Aru Valley provide accessible, family-friendly adventures.
Similarly, the trek from Sonamarg to the enchanting Thajwas Glacier is perfect for beginners and families. Meanwhile, for those with a penchant for more extended explorations, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, commencing from Sonamarg, is a highlight, encompassing the stunning lakes of Gangbal, Vishansar, and Kishansar. Additionally, the challenging Aur-Kolhoi Glacier Trek, which starts in Pahalgam, beckons adventure enthusiasts to its pristine vistas.
Kashmir Known as the “Paradise on Earth”, Kashmir justifies its identity with the astounding beauty which you can experience while trekking in Kashmir. The land has retained its old-world charm, enabling you to time-travel into the beautiful world of poetry and music nestled in the Himalayas. Along with the enchanting beauty of the mountains, the Himalayas also serve as an adventurous outing option for thrill enthusiasts who want to test their mettle. While the summer treks promise a mesmerizing sojourn into the mountains, the winter treks are everything you desire if you are a snow enthusiast and/or thrill seeker.
Kashmir’s beauty is nothing short of a masterpiece painted by nature’s most gifted hand. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, it boasts a breathtaking landscape that captivates all who are fortunate enough to behold it. The pristine valleys, draped in vibrant wildflowers and towering pine forests, give way to emerald meadows that seem to stretch into eternity. Crystal-clear lakes, like mirrors reflecting the heavens, punctuate the land, while majestic snow-clad peaks crown the horizon, standing as sentinels to this ethereal realm. It is a land of contrasts, where the delicate fragrance of saffron mingles with the invigorating mountain air, and where the tranquility of serene lakes is mirrored in the warmth and resilience of its people. Kashmir’s beauty is a harmony of the elements, a symphony of colors, and a testament to nature’s artistry that etches itself indelibly into the soul of those fortunate enough to experience it.
Here are some of the best treks in Kashmir
Kashmir is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and it offers several fantastic trekking opportunities for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Here are some of the best places for trekking in Kashmir:
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most famous and spectacular trekking routes in the Kashmir region of India. This trek takes you through a mesmerizing landscape, dotted with a series of high-altitude alpine lakes, each possessing its unique charm. The trek typically covers multiple lakes, including Gangbal Lake, Satsar Lake, Vishansar Lake, Krishansar Lake, and Gadsar Lake, each offering breathtaking vistas and a tranquil, serene atmosphere.
The trek commences from the Sonamarg base, where trekkers begin their journey through lush meadows, dense forests, and alpine meadows. As you ascend, the landscape transforms, revealing the pristine beauty of these high-altitude lakes, often surrounded by snow-clad peaks. The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is known for its ever-changing scenery, with the colors of the lakes and the surrounding meadows shifting with the seasons, from vibrant greens to icy blues and snowy whites.
Location: Srinagar, Vishansar, Gangabal, Naranag, Satsar, Gudsar and more.
Altitude: 4191metres/13,750 feet (Gadsar Pass).
Duration: 7-9 days.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Tarsar Marsar Trek
The Tarsar Marsar Trek, nestled in the scenic Kashmir Valley, is a trekker’s paradise. Starting from the quaint village of Aru near Pahalgam, this easy-level trek unfolds through breathtaking landscapes, featuring alpine meadows and dense forests that pave the way to two stunning high-altitude lakes. Tarsar Lake, set amidst lush meadows, and Marsar Lake, renowned for its serene tranquility, are the crowning jewels of this trek. With fewer fellow trekkers compared to more popular routes, Tarsar Marsar offers a serene and intimate communion with the unspoiled beauty of the Kashmir Himalayas.
The Tarsar Marsar Trek is best undertaken during the summer months when the region comes alive with blooming wildflowers, vibrant meadows, and clear skies. Trekkers will also have the chance to interact with the local Gujjar and Bakarwal communities and experience the warm hospitality and unique culture of the Kashmiri people. For those who seek a quieter, less crowded trekking experience without compromising on the natural grandeur, the Tarsar Marsar Trek stands as a captivating choice. The twin lakes and their pristine waters ensure that you have an unwinding experience in the lap of nature. Trekking by the twin lakes is an experience to behold as it is an ideal place for you to visit for a laid-back sojourn into the mountains to explore the calm side of the mighty Himalayas.
Location: 5 km from Sundarsar.
Altitude: 4114.8m/13,500 feet.
Duration: 7 days.
Difficulty level: Easy.
Naranag Mahlish Trek
The Naranag-Mahlish Trek is a hidden gem in the Kashmir Valley, offering a captivating and lesser-traveled trekking experience. Starting from the historic Naranag village, which boasts ancient temples, this trek takes you through pristine alpine meadows, dense pine forests, and tranquil meandering streams. The highlight of this journey is reaching the serene Mahlish Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, where trekkers can camp in tranquility. This moderate-level trek is a great choice for those who seek a more secluded and peaceful Himalayan adventure, away from the bustling crowds of more popular trekking destinations in the region.
The trek passes through thick pine forests, allowing you to experience a walk in the lush greenery that the trek offers to delight nature lovers. The best part about the trek is its different return route which allows you to explore more of Kashmir. The Naranag-Mahlish Trek is typically best enjoyed during the summer months when the landscapes are adorned with colorful wildflowers and lush greenery. Trekkers will also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region and interact with local communities along the way, making it an enriching and visually stunning journey.
Location: Naranag-Trunkhol-Gangabal-Naranag.
Altitude: 3800m/12467.192ft.
Duration: 6 days.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Naranag Gangabal Trek
The Naranag-Gangabal Trek in the Kashmir Valley is a captivating journey for trekkers seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration. Commencing from the historic village of Naranag, known for its ancient temples, this moderate-level trek leads adventurers through scenic alpine meadows, lush forests, and serene valleys. Trekking to Gangabal Lake promises a delightful sojourn across the meadows of Naranag, which are captivating for nature lovers as well as photography enthusiasts.
The crowning jewel of the Naranag-Gangabal Trek is the Gangabal Lake, a pristine high-altitude gem surrounded by majestic peaks, offering trekkers a serene camping spot amidst vibrant wildflowers during the summer months. This trek combines the allure of unspoiled natural beauty with opportunities to engage with local communities, making it a culturally enriching and visually stunning adventure. With its moderate difficulty level, this trek is accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned hikers, making it a top choice for those looking to explore the serene beauty of the Kashmir region.
Location: Naranag-Trunkhol-Butsheru-Gangabal-Naranag.
Altitude: 3600m/11811.02ft.
Duration: 5 days.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Kolahoi Glacier Trek
The Kolahoi Glacier Trek is an extraordinary adventure in the heart of the Kashmir Valley. Named after the majestic Kolahoi Peak, this trek offers a mesmerizing journey through alpine meadows, dense pine forests, and rugged terrains. The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly the Kolahoi Glacier itself, an awe-inspiring mass of ice surrounded by soaring peaks. Trekkers often camp near the glacier, with views that seem straight out of a dream.
Kolahoi Glacier Trek is considered to be moderately challenging, attracting experienced trekkers who are seeking the thrill of a high-altitude expedition. The trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and wilderness, providing a rare opportunity to experience the unspoiled landscapes of the Kashmir Himalayas. The best time to embark on this adventure is during the summer months when the weather is milder and the scenery comes alive with vibrant wildflowers and glistening glaciers, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Location: The 5km long hanging glacier is located just below the Kolahoi Mountain and above the Lidder Valley.
Altitude: 3840.48/12,600 feet.
Duration: 5 days.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Aharbal Kousarnag Trek
The Aharbal-Kounsarnag Trek is a remarkable journey in the Kashmir Valley, characterized by its lush landscapes and serene high-altitude lakes. The trek kicks off from the picturesque Aharbal waterfall, known as the “Niagara of Kashmir,” offering a refreshing start to the adventure. Trekkers then weave their way through dense forests, verdant meadows, and pristine valleys, with the ultimate destination being the enchanting Kounsarnag Lake. The trek starts from Aharbal waterfall the main tourist attraction in Shopian known as the Apple Bowl of Jammu and Kashmir.
Kounsarnag Lake, with its crystal-clear waters nestled amidst snow-clad peaks, provides trekkers with a tranquil spot for camping and reflection. The Aharbal-Kounsarnag Trek is of moderate difficulty, suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers. It offers a chance to experience the untouched beauty of the Kashmir region, adorned with colorful wildflowers during the summer months.
Location: Srinagar, Aharbal, Kungwattan, Mahinag, Kounsarnag, Kungwattan, Aharbal, Srinagar
Altitude: 2266 m
Duration: 7 Days
Difficulty level: Easy
Kashmir Alpine Lakes Trek
Taking you to the high-altitude lakes nestled in the Himalayas is the Kashmir Alpine Lakes Trek. The trek promises a sojourn to the most majestic lakes in the mystifying land, including the Dal Lake in Srinagar.
Trekking in Kashmir to these lakes promises a rejuvenating trail into popular as well as unexplored lakes, namely Vishansar Lake, Krishnasar Lake, Yamsar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Satsar Lake, Nandkol and Gangabal Lake and many more. Trekking in Kashmir to these pristine lakes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it promises to help you build lifelong memories as you set off in the mountains.
Location: Sonamarg.
Altitude: 4140 metres/13582.68.
Duration: 15 days.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
