Photo 1 of Sinthan Top & Alpine Lakes Trek
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Sinthan Top & Alpine Lakes Trek

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01/06
LocationKishtwar - Breng Valley
Duration4 days
Max Altitude12450 ft
Distance20 km
GradeModerate
Overview

A Look at the Trek

Perched on the border dividing the lush Breng Valley in Anantnag from the rugged Kishtwar region of Jammu, Sinthan Top (12,450 ft) is one of Kashmir's best-kept secrets. Known for its year-round snow patches, undulating emerald alpine ridges, and crystal-clear glacial streams, Sinthan Top offers one of the most breathtaking 360-degree viewpoints in the entire Northern Himalayas.

Starting from the serene forest sanctuary of Daksum, the trek ascends past whispering streams and nomadic Gujjar-Bakerwal settlements towards the high-altitude pass. The summit reveals stunning perspectives of both Jammu's rugged mountains and Kashmir's verdant valleys, with trails extending towards hidden alpine tarns and high ridges.

Highlights

  • 360-Degree Panoramic Pass SummitExperience standing on a high mountain divide with unobstructed views of both the Kashmir Valley and the Pir Panjal ranges of Kishtwar.
  • Snow Thrills & Alpine RidgesEnjoy fresh snow even in early summer months and hike across sweeping ridgelines surrounded by jagged peaks.
  • Daksum Forest SanctuaryTrek through the untouched, dense pine, deodar, and birch woodlands of Daksum filled with gushing trout streams.
  • Offbeat & Uncrowded ParadiseA pristine, crowd-free alternative to mainstream Kashmir trails with pure wilderness and authentic local culture.

Quick Facts

Base CampSrinagar / Daksum
SeasonSummer, Autumn
MonthsMay | June | July | August | September | October
Rail HeadJammu Tawi (240 km) or Udhampur Railway Station
AirportSheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar (105 km)
Trail TypePass & Alpine Ridge Trail | Ascends from lush coniferous forests of Daksum into high wind-swept pass and alpine tarns
Day by Day

The Itinerary

A carefully crafted journey ensuring you experience the best of the landscape while acclimatizing safely.

01

Drive from Srinagar to Daksum via Anantnag & Kokernag

Morning pickup from Srinagar Airport / Dal Lake (85 km, 2.5 - 3 hrs).
Scenic drive through south Kashmir apple orchards, visiting the freshwater springs of Achabal and Kokernag botanical gardens.
Arrive at the idyllic forest haven of Daksum (7,800 ft), check into guesthouse/campsite.
Acclimatization walk through pine forests along the Bringhi River.
02

Trek from Daksum to Chingam Alpine Base

Commence the scenic uphill hike leaving the tree line behind (8 km, 4-5 hrs).
Pass traditional wooden Gujjar huts and sheep pastures.
Camp at Chingam meadow base (10,200 ft) surrounded by alpine slopes and cascading waterfalls.
Evening campfire and stargazing under pollution-free mountain skies.
03

Summit Push to Sinthan Top (12,450 ft) & Alpine Tarn Exploration

Early morning ascent towards the Sinthan Top pass (12,450 ft, 6 km, 3.5 hrs).
Reach the pass and soak in the jaw-dropping 360-degree Himalayan panorama spanning Jammu and Kashmir.
Hike along the panoramic ridge to explore secluded glacial ponds and snow viewpoints.
Descend back to Daksum campsite for a celebratory evening dinner.
04

Daksum to Srinagar via Martand Sun Temple & Departure

Post breakfast, board vehicles for the return journey to Srinagar (85 km, 3 hrs).
Stop to explore the magnificent 8th-century stone ruins of Martand Sun Temple near Anantnag.
Drop-off at Srinagar Airport or Dal Lake by 3:00 PM.
Preparation

Eligibility & Fitness

High altitude treks require a baseline of physical fitness. Review the criteria below and check your readiness.

Age RequirementMinimum 9 years. Ideal for beginners, nature photographers, and mountain enthusiasts.
Fitness Criteria
  • Ability to walk 6-8 km per day with moderate uphill sections.
  • Basic physical fitness.
Health & Awareness
  • Stable blood pressure and heart health.
  • No severe respiratory issues.

Calculate Your BMI

Logistics

How to Reach

Details on arriving at the base camp and meeting points.

Meeting Point

Srinagar Airport (SXR) / TRC Ground Srinagar at 9:00 AM on Day 1

Drop Off

Srinagar Airport / City Centre by 3:00 PM on Day 4

Travel Options

  • 01Direct flights to Srinagar from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chandigarh.
  • 02Train to Jammu Tawi / Udhampur, followed by taxi to Srinagar or Daksum.
  • 03Road travel via NH44 connecting Jammu to Srinagar.
Pricing

Cost Terms

What is included and excluded in the expedition cost.

Inclusions

  • Accommodation: Quality guesthouses/homestays in Daksum and alpine dome tents.
  • Meals: All vegetarian meals (plus eggs) from Day 1 lunch to Day 4 breakfast.
  • Certified Kashmiri mountain guide and camp logistics.
  • Camping gear (tents, sub-zero sleeping bags, foam mattresses).
  • All area entry permits and local road taxes.

Exclusions

  • Flights / Trains to Srinagar.
  • Personal equipment and porter offloading fees.
  • Personal expenses and insurance.
Equipment

Trek Essentials

A comprehensive packing list to ensure you are well-prepared for the expedition.

Basic Gear

40-50L Backpack with rain cover
Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support
Warm thermals, fleece jacket, and waterproof windcheater
Sun protection (polarized sunglasses, wide-brim hat, sunscreen SPF 50+)
Refillable water bottles and energy bars
Policies

Cancellation Terms

Review our cancellation policies and refund options before booking.

Prior to 20 days

  • 5% deduction
  • 100% credit voucher

Between 19 and 10 days

  • 30% deduction
  • 80% credit voucher

Less than 10 days

  • No cash refund
  • 20% credit voucher

Emergency Cases

Full voucher issued in case of flight cancellations or unexpected regional advisories.

Important Notes

  • 01Flexible rescheduling allowed with 7 days advance notice.

FAQ

Know before you go
Yes, the Breng Valley, Daksum, and Sinthan Top regions are very peaceful, scenic, and welcoming with active tourism infrastructure and local hospitality.
Snow remains visible at Sinthan Top throughout April, May, and June, and fresh winter snowfall begins by late October.
The highest point reached on this trek is 12,450 feet at the Sinthan Top pass.
Sinthan Top & Alpine Lakes Trek Trek | Xplore The Dreams