Can a beginner do Kashmir Great Lakes?

Jammu and Kashmir trek

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Seven days, a string of alpine lakes, some of India's finest trekking

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek runs from Sonamarg to Naranag over about 72 km, crossing passes up to about 13,700 ft past lakes like Vishansar, Krishansar and Gangabal. It is moderate to difficult, takes about 7 days from Srinagar, and is open roughly July to September.

Max altitude: About 13,700 ft at Gadsar Pass
Duration: About 7 days from Srinagar
Difficulty: Moderate-difficult
Best time: July to September
Base: Sonamarg
Getting there: Srinagar airport, about 2.5 hours by road to Sonamarg

Kashmir Great Lakes trek: Krishansar Lake

Why people pick Kashmir Great Lakes

Twin lakes, turquoise water and wide meadows almost every day
Three high passes with long, rewarding views
Ends near Gangabal, below Mt Harmukh

Route, day by day

The usual shape of the trek. Exact camps and timings vary by operator and conditions.

Drive and settle in at the start.

Climb through maple and pine forest to open meadows.

First pass and the first big lake.

The highest pass, with Krishansar and Gadsar lakes.

Walk through army checkpoints and lake country.

The final lakes below Mt Harmukh.

A steep descent, then the drive to Srinagar.

Fitness

Moderate to difficult. Long days, prior high-altitude trek experience recommended.

What to carry

Trekking shoes with ankle support, broken in
Three warm layers and a waterproof jacket
Headlamp, sunglasses and sunscreen
Two water bottles
Personal medicines and a small first aid kit
Original photo ID

Before you book

Carry original photo ID for army checkpoints on the trail. Weather at the passes can turn fast.

Kashmir Great Lakes questions

It is better as a second or third trek. Beginners with strong fitness do complete it, but the daily distances are long.

Add a few days near Kashmir Great Lakes

Jammu & Kashmir

Kashmir

Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam, the trip that photographs itself

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