The High Adventure from Ladakh to Jammu & Kashmir

XploreTheDreams invites you to take on the extraordinary Warwan Valley Trek — the most exquisite and dramatic trek in India. There is no other trek that matches its silence, remoteness, or raw natural grandeur.

This trek delivers both awe and adventure in equal measure. Even for Kashmir — known for its breathtaking beauty — Warwan Valley stands apart. It’s a part of the region that even most locals have never laid eyes on, hidden beyond rugged passes and desolate ridges.

The Journey of Contrasts

The crossover trail into Warwan Valley begins in Trans-Himalayan terrain near Panikhar in Ladakh. The first part of the trek is marked by stark, purplish mountains and barren beauty. As you move forward, the landscape transforms — oases, deltas, wildflower meadows, and glaciers appear in surreal harmony.

As the trail gradually enters Kashmir, the dramatic change in scenery — from arid desert mountains to lush meadows and forested valleys — feels almost unreal. The descent into Warwan feels like crossing worlds.

The Ultimate Adventure

The thrill of this trek peaks during the Bracken Glacier crossing — a 2 km stretch that tests your endurance and focus. You’ll navigate crevasses, moraine fields, and narrow overhangs perched above gushing rivers. The climb to the pass is long and demanding, but the reward — stepping into the majestic Warwan Valley — is unmatched.

This is not a trek for everyone. Each day can stretch up to 20 km of walking through challenging terrain. Preparation and high-altitude experience are necessary, but for those daring enough, it becomes an expedition of a lifetime.

Why Warwan Valley is Exceptional

It’s a true Himalayan crossover — from barren Ladakh to verdant Kashmir.
Features diverse terrain: glaciers, alpine meadows, river deltas, and thick forests.
Offers a completely isolated experience — far from tourist routes.
Combines adventure, beauty, and pure wilderness like no other Indian trek.

Every step on the Warwan Valley Trek feels like a discovery — of landscapes, solitude, and self. If there’s one trek that defines high adventure in the Indian Himalayas, this is it.

Trek Itinerary

Day 1 – Drive from Srinagar to Panikhar (10,700 ft) +

Drive Distance: 185 km | Duration: 10 hours

Pick up point: Sheikh Feroze Tours & Travels, Sathu, Barbara Shah Chowk, near Flourmill, Srinagar | Pick-up time: 5:00 AM

Please note: You come to Sheikh Feroze on Day 0 to collect your rentals and submit cloakroom at 5pm.

Day 2 – Trek from Panikhar to Denora +

Trek Distance: 14 km | Duration: 8 hours

Altitude Gain: 10,700 ft → 12,375 ft

Difficulty: Moderate. Continuously but gradually ascending trail as you trek alongside the river—a small river crossing just before entering the Delta region.

Day 3 – Trek from Denora to Kalapari +

Trek Distance: 2 km | Duration: 2.5–3 hours

Altitude Gain: 12,375 ft → 12,850 ft

Difficulty: Easy-Moderate. A few river crossings from Denora campsite and gradual ascent. Take an acclimatisation hike to the glacial lake.

Day 4 – Trek from Kalapari to Kaintal via Lomvilad Pass +

Trek Distance: 22 km | Duration: 13–14 hours

Altitude: 12,850 ft → 11,550 ft via 14,495 ft

Difficulty: Difficult. The most challenging and adventurous day of the trek. Initial ascent to reach the alpine lake followed by a glacier walk led to a steep ascent to the pass. A gently sloping, snowy 30 minutes walk brings you to a sharp descent and a series of switchbacks, followed by a 2 km walk on the Bracken glacier. Trek through rocky moraines for over 3 hours before finally reaching a steady path leading to the campsite in the Kaintal meadows.

Day 5 – Trek from Kaintal to Humpet +

Trek Distance: 17 km | Duration: 7–8 hours

Altitude Loss: 11,550 ft → 11,120 ft

Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult. Long walks on the vast expanse of meadows, with few easy river crossings in between. The trail goes through slight overhangs and ascent as your approach the bend taking you to Humpet.

Day 6 – Trek from Humpet to Sukhnai +

Trek Distance: 15 km | Duration: 7–8 hours

Altitude Loss: 11,120 ft → 9,320 ft

Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult. The initial climb was followed by continuous descent for about 3.5 hours. There are times, for brief moments, the trail hangs directly over small landslides and tricky sections that lead to the river. This is followed by an undulating trail which culminates in another descent for a couple of hours.

Day 7 – Trek from Sukhnai to Basmina and drive to Srinagar +

Trek Distance: 14.5 km | Trek Duration: 6–7 hours

Altitude Loss: 9,320 ft → 5,200 ft

Difficulty: Moderate. The trail gently descends and ascends throughout the day. You will reach Srinagar by 8-9 pm at the latest.

Day 8 – Buffer Day +

Buffer day will be used either before or after the pass crossing.

No charges will be levied by Indiahikes for this buffer day as it is in-built into the itinerary.

Please plan your travel back to your city from Srinagar on the 9th day of the trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will happen if my trek gets cancelled at the last minute? +

If cancelled within 9 days before the trek, no cash refund is provided but you may get a 10-20% voucher valid for one year. For cancellations 10-14 days prior, 50% of the trek fee is deducted with voucher options available. It’s recommended to purchase trek insurance for emergency situations.

Can I find a phone network on the trek? +

Mobile network is available only in Srinagar and Sonamarg. During the trek itself, there is no network connectivity. Only postpaid connections (Airtel, Jio, BSNL) work in Kashmir – prepaid SIM cards do not work. Inform your family beforehand about limited communication.

Can a beginner do this trek? +

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is moderate to difficult and not recommended for absolute beginners. However, exceptionally fit first-timers with proper training can attempt it. You should be able to run 5 km in 32-35 minutes. Prior trekking experience is highly recommended.

Is it safe to trek in Kashmir? +

Yes, Kashmir is safe for trekking. The route is monitored by the Indian Army and tourism has increased in recent years. Trek with reputable operators, stay in groups, carry valid ID proof at all times, and check security conditions before starting your trek.

Why is the buffer day required? +

A buffer day is essential for unpredictable Himalayan weather, landslides, or extra acclimatization time. It provides flexibility and safety, ensuring trekkers can complete the journey without stress. If unused, it can be used to explore Srinagar or nearby lakes.

I am more than 55 years old. Can I do this trek? +

The maximum recommended age is 55 years, but this can be higher depending on your fitness level. You must pass a fitness test (5 km run in 35-38 minutes) and may need to submit a treadmill test. Consult your doctor before attempting the trek.

Is Offloading available on this trek? +

Yes, offloading services are available where porters carry your backpack (maximum 10 kg). Charges vary by operator but typically range from Rs 1,500-2,500. Book in advance to ensure availability.

Can I keep the extra luggage at the basecamp? +

Yes, cloakroom facilities are available in Srinagar where you can store excess luggage during the trek. Do not leave valuables or important documents. The luggage will be returned at the end of your trek.