Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, Kashmir
XploreTheDreams presents the legendary Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, one of India’s most beautiful high-altitude Himalayan adventures.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (KGL) takes you across breathtaking alpine meadows, dramatic mountain passes, and seven stunning glacial lakes, each more beautiful than the last.
Journey Highlights
Witness iconic lakes like Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangbal, and Nundkol, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and vast green valleys.
The trek offers ever-changing landscapes — from lush grasslands to rocky mountain ridges — making every day visually spectacular.
Who Is This Trek For?
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is ideal for trekkers with good fitness who are ready for a moderately challenging multi-day Himalayan expedition.
- Total Duration: 7 days – 6 nights
- Maximum Altitude: 13,750 ft approx.
- Best Season: July – September
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Why Choose Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
1. Seven Alpine Lakes
Experience a chain of pristine high-altitude lakes in one single trek.
2. High Mountain Passes
Cross thrilling passes with panoramic Himalayan views.
3. Vast Meadows
Walk through endless green grasslands often compared to Switzerland.
4. Ever-Changing Landscapes
Each day brings a completely new scenery and terrain.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a dream journey for mountain lovers seeking dramatic scenery and unforgettable alpine beauty.
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Itinerary (7 Days – 6 Nights)
Arrive in Srinagar and drive to Sonamarg (approx. 3 hours).
Meet trek team, briefing session, and overnight stay in campsite/hotel.
Begin trek from Sonamarg through dense pine forests.
Gradual ascent towards Nichnai campsite via Shekdur meadows.
Overnight camping in scenic valley.
Cross Nichnai Pass with panoramic Himalayan views.
Descend towards the beautiful Vishansar Lake.
Camp near the lakeside surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Trek towards Krishansar Lake and continue to Gadsar Pass.
Enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery and high-altitude lakes.
Camp near Gadsar Lake.
Walk across lush meadows dotted with wildflowers.
Explore the group of Satsar Lakes nestled between mountains.
Overnight camping near Satsar.
Cross Zaj Pass and descend towards twin lakes – Gangbal & Nundkol.
Witness the majestic Mount Harmukh towering above the lakes.
Final night camping beside the pristine lakes.
Descend through scenic trails to Naranag village.
Drive back to Srinagar marking the end of the trek.
Departure with unforgettable memories of Kashmir Great Lakes.
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Cost Details (Kashmir | 7D/6N)
- Srinagar pickup & drop (if opted)
- All internal transport (Srinagar – Sonamarg / Naranag – Srinagar)
- All meals during the trek (Day 1 dinner to Day 7 breakfast)
- Accommodation in tents during the trek
- Experienced trek leader & certified local guide
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, mats)
- Porter support for common luggage
- First aid & basic medical kit
- Forest permits & environmental fees
- Kitchen tent & dining setup during trek
- Support staff (cook & helpers)
- Flights / train tickets to & from Srinagar
- Personal trekking gear & clothing
- Porter for personal backpack (if required)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal expenses (snacks, tips, laundry, calls)
- Emergency evacuation / rescue costs (if required)
- Any additional stay beyond itinerary
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Frequently Asked Questions – Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek usually starts from Sonamarg and ends at Naranag, both accessible by road from Srinagar.
The total trekking distance is approximately 70–75 km, covered over 7 days through alpine meadows and mountain passes.
The trek reaches a maximum altitude of around 4,200 meters (13,750 ft) at Gadsar Pass.
The trek is considered moderate and is suitable for fit beginners with prior trekking experience or good physical preparation.
The best time is from July to September when the snow has melted, meadows are lush green, and alpine lakes are fully accessible.
The trek covers seven major alpine lakes including Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar (group of lakes), Gangbal, and Nundkol.
Yes, since the trek crosses high mountain passes above 4,000 meters, proper acclimatization, hydration, and gradual ascent are important.
Accommodation is provided in twin-sharing tents at scenic campsites near alpine lakes and meadows throughout the trek.
The trek is famous for its chain of seven pristine alpine lakes, dramatic mountain passes, vast green meadows, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery that changes every day.
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Essentials & Rental Gear
- Rucksack (60–70L with rain cover)
- High-ankle waterproof trekking shoes (strong grip required)
- Thermal inner layers (2–3 pairs)
- Fleece jacket & heavy insulated down jacket
- Waterproof / windproof outer shell
- Trekking pants (3 quick-dry pairs recommended)
- Woollen cap, insulated gloves & buff
- 5–6 pairs of warm socks
- UV sunglasses, sunscreen & lip balm (SPF 50+)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Reusable water bottles / hydration bladder (minimum 2–3L capacity)
- Personal medicines & valid government ID
- Trekking Shoes – ₹600
- Heavy Down Jacket – ₹800
- Trekking Poles – ₹300
- Backpack (60–70L) – ₹500
- Rain Poncho – ₹250
- Sleeping Bag (sub-zero grade) – ₹600
Down Jacket
Shoes
Pole
Backpack
