Kashmir Alpine Lakes Trek

Overview

Kashmir Alpine Lakes Trek

The Kashmir Alpine Lakes Trek also known as the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most popular treks in the Kashmir valley that unwrap the serene beauty of the Kashmir region secluded within the mountains. It is one of the treks in the Indian Himalayan region that whirls along the tracks to some of the high altitude lakes of India that glisters in the midst of vast alpine meadows, which are dotted with colourful orchids. The trek is a potpourri of alpine high altitude fresh water glacier lakes that consist of Vishnasar Lake, Krishnasar Lake, Yamsar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Satsar Lake, Nandkol and Gangabal Lake. The trek stretches from an elevation of 2,723 meters, in Sonamarg, which is often dubbed as the “meadows of gold”, to an elevation of 4,300 meters, in Lul Gul pass. The Kashmir Alpine Lakes Trek is approximately 5 days of knackered knees and tortured toes BUT worth the challenge.

A pulsating escape for the demented travellers, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek commences from Sonamarg, which is located at an altitude of 2,723 meters and leads to the floor of Nichnai Pass at an elevation of 3,500 meters. The easy climb passes through several shepherds’ settlements and meadows dotted with colourful orchids. Further, the trail proceeds to Vishansar Lake en route to Kolahoi base camp at 4,140 meters and Lidderwat at 3,050 meters. As you get closer to the Kolahoi glacier the track becomes harder and the terrain rugged, but the increasingly spectacular views of the Kolahoi Peak urge you on. From here the trek heads to Gadsar Lake via the Gadsar Pass and passes through an untamed terrain. Moving deep into the Kashmir valley the trek leads to Megandob, a meadow that offers a bird’s-eye view down the Sindh valley to the upper reaches of the Vale of Kashmir. Thence the trekking trail in the Kashmir Valley climbs up to Gaj Pass, from where one can get enchanting views of the Gaganbal and Nundkol Lakes. The sacred peak of Harimukh rises above the lake, making it a divine experience. It is said that pilgrimages to the base of Harimukh and Gaganbal long preceded the Amarnath Yatra.