Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Region
Kashmir

Duration
8 days

Max. Altitude
13750 ft.

Trek Distance
75 kms

Grade
Moderate to difficult
Fixed Departures
July - 2026
- 16 July - 23 July
- Open
- 24 July - 1 Aug
- Open
August - 2026
- 3 Aug - 10 Aug
- Open
- 11 Aug - 18 Aug
- Open
- 19 Aug - 26 Aug
- Open
- 28 Aug - 04 Sept
- Open
September - 2026
- 6 Sept - 13 Sept
- Open
₹20500
Highlights
- Services Srinagar to Naranag.
- Pickup & Drop Location (if transport opted) : Nishat Garden
- Pickup : 12:00 PM | Drop : 06:30 PM–07:30 PM (weather/road dependent) Keep a buffer day and arrive a day early to avoid delays.
- Please note that prepaid sim cards do not work in Kashmir.
- Don’t forget your original ID proof and 2 photocopies.
Add-ons
- Insurance
- Rs. 320/- Per Person
- Transport
- Rs 1700/- Per Person
- Offload
- Rs 4600/- Per Person
Add on information
- Insurance is mandatory.
- It is available for Indian citizens only.
- Non-Indians have to take insurance on their own.
- The cancellation policy will be implemented in accordance with the trek cancellation policy.
- Transportation: Srinagar to Sonamarg & return is optional.
- Choose add-ons during booking. If missed, you can contact us to book the same.
- Book transportation at least 10 days before the trek.
- Cancellation 6 or more days before the start of the trip results in a 100% cash refund.
- Cancellation less than 4 days from the start of the trip results in a 50% cash refund.
- Cancellations made on the trip date are not eligible for a refund.
- Backpack offload is optional.
- Choose add-ons during booking. If missed, you can contact us to book the same.
- Book off-load at least 10 days before the trek.
- For offline bookings at the base camp, a variable convenience fee may apply. (It differs from trek to trek)
- Offload can't weigh more than 10kg. Offload should have a waterproof cover. Suitcases/trolleys will not be allowed.
- In the event that you choose to cancel your trek prior to the departure date, you will receive a full refund.
- Note : The bag weight should not exceed 10 kg.
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Overview
- Trek Name : Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
- Days : 8
- Adventure : Trekking
- Base Camp : Sonamarg
- Season : Monsoon
- Months : July | August
- Country : India
- Altitude : 13750 FT
- Grade : Moderate to Difficult
- Trail Type : Cross over trail | Start in one valley, traverse the pass, and ends in another valley.
- Food : Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg & Eggs)
- Location : Kashmir
- Distance : 75 km
- Rail Head : Jammu
- Stay : Camping (Twin sharing)
- Airport: Srinagar (sheikh ul-alam international)
Why is Kashmir Great Lakes a Must-Do Trek?
- The trek has the most picture- perfect settings you will ever witness. The golden reflections of the mountains in the lake, the colorful carpets of wildflowers and the rugged landscapes make it a paradise for everyone.
- The trail is also home to diverse flora and fauna. You'll encounter a wide variety of vibrant blooming flowers like daisies and blue poppies as well as wildlife and migratory birds.
- Trekking through the vast meadows during this trek feels like walking through living paintings. The valleys, gurgling streams, and lush meadows dotted with shepherd huts paint a postcard-perfect landscape.
- As you trek, the scenery transitions between rolling green hills and slightly rocky terrains. It also offers you panoramic vistas of snow- capped Himalayan peaks.
- Kashmir Great Lakes Trek takes you through the most beautiful lakes in Kashmir, surrounded with towering mountains and rolling vast meadows.
- During the trek you will explore five major glacial lakes of Kashmir, including Gadsar, Vishansar, Krishansar, Nundkol and Gangabal. Apart from these five you will come across few other serene glacial lakes and cascading waterfalls during the trek which are equally beautiful.
Major attraction of the Kashmir Great Lakes
- Standing at these passes, you’re not just looking at the scenery, you are also a part of it, surrounded by nature’s grandeur, with a perspective so rare and incredible that it leaves you utterly spellbound. Beyond these high-altitude wonders, the trek showcases the unmatchable beauty of Kashmir, often referred to as “paradise on earth.” The vast meadows you traverse are unlike any other, endless green cozy carpets filled with colorful wildflowers. Each step immerses you in different landscapes from the lush valleys to the alpine settings that feel surreal. The campsites on each day are equally amazing, nearby the beautiful water bodies and surrounded with vast mountains. The sight of the glistening lakes, each with its unique character, such as the twin lakes of Gangabal and Nundkol, or the turquoise hues of Vishansar and Krishansar, reflecting the sky and the surrounding peaks, is a visual treat like no other.
- While the beauty of this place is undeniable, it’s important to remember that preserving it is essential. The biggest uniqueness we can offer is maintaining the uniqueness and ensuring that we leave no trace behind, no garbage, no disruption to the environment. As much as this beauty is a gift, it’s also fragile, and the less we spoil it, the more future generations can witness the untouched serenity of the Kashmir Great Lakes.
- What makes it a unique trek is the wide spreading variety of landscapes it offers, something you won’t find on most of the treks. From lush green meadows dotted with wildflowers to serene alpine lakes mirroring the grandeur of snow-clad peaks, KGL is a visual masterpiece and one of the best treks in India.
Eligiblity for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
- Age Requirement : Minimum 14 years
- First-timers are welcome, though prior trekking experience is preferred. Good fitness is a must.
- Fitness Criteria :
- The Trekker should have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance by jogging in 30 minutes without stress or 10 km of distance in 70 minutes without stress
- If the trekker prefers cycling he/ she should be able to cycle 18 km of distance in 50 minutes.
- If the trekker wants to carry a backpack then he/she should be able to carry a 10-12 kg backpack. If opt Off-load option then the trekker should be able to carry 3-5 kg backpack.
- If a trekker's BMI is more or less than the normal range (18-27), please consult our Trek Coordinator before booking.
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Itinerary
01. Arrive At Shitkadi camp
- Altitude: 2,600 m/ 8,500 ft.
- Drive Distance: 90 km from Srinagar | approx 3 hrs.
02. Shitkadi camp To Nichinai Via Shekdur
- Altitude:
- Nichinai 3,500 m/ 11,500 ft.
- Shekdur 3,350 m/ 11,000 ft.
- Trek Distance: 11 km | 8 hrs.
- Altitude Gain: 900 m/ 3,000 ft.
03. Nichinai To Vishansar Lake via Nichinai pass
- Altitude:
- Vishansar 3,650 m/ 12,000 ft
- Nichinai pass 4,000 m/ 13,100 ft.
- Trek Distance: 12 km | 7 hr.
04. Acclimatization + Rest Day (Conditions Apply)
- You may visit Kishansar Lake, which is approximately 1 and a half km from our campsite.
- If weather is not good we will use acclimatization day at Vishansar or else move towards our next campsite, rest day can be used at Gangbal camp site.
05. Vishansar Lake To Gadsar Lake Via Gadsar Pass
- Altitude:
- Gadsar 3,350 m/ 11,000 ft
- Gadsar pass 4,200 m/ 13,750 ft.
- Trek Distance:14 km | 10 hrs.
06. Gadsar To Satsar
- Altitude: 3,650 m/ 12000 ft.
- Distance: 9 km | 6 hrs.
07. Satsar To Gangabal Twin Lakes Via Zaj Pass
- Altitude:
- Gangabal 3,500 m/ 11,500 ft
- Zaj pass 3,950 m/ 13,000 ft.
- Trek Distance: 11 km | Duration: 6 hours approx.
08. Gangabal To Naranag, Drive To Srinagar
- Altitude: 2,250 m/ 7,450 ft.
- Trek Distance: 15 km | 7 hrs approx.
- Please note that prepaid sim cards do not work in Kashmir.
- Don’t forget your ID proof in original and 2 photocopies.
Arrive At Shitkadi camp
- Altitude : 2,600 m/ 8,500 ft.
- Drive Distance : 90 km from Srinagar | approx 3 hrs.
- If booked in advance, WTM can arrange pickup from Nishant Garden, at 12 pm.
- Our campsite is near the Sindh River (Shitkadi Village)
- Since there are no shops around ensure that you have all that you need already
- Remember to carry your ID proof in original and 2 photocopies as we have to submit them at the army check post.
Shitkadi camp To Nichinai Via Shekdur
- Altitude :
- Nichinai 3,500 m/ 11,500 ft.
- Shekdur 3,350 m/ 11,000 ft.
- Trek Distance : 11 km | 8 hrs.
Nichinai To Vishansar Lake via Nichinai pass
- Altitude :
- Vishansar 3,650 m/ 12,000 ft
- Nichinai pass 4,000 m/ 13,100 ft.
- Trek Distance : 12 km | 7 hr.
Acclimatization + Rest Day (Conditions Apply)
Vishansar Lake To Gadsar Lake Via Gadsar Pass
- Altitude :
- Gadsar 3,350 m/ 11,000 ft
- Gadsar pass 4,200 m/ 13,750 ft.
- Trek Distance : 14 km | 10 hrs.
- We start the trek earlier than usual.
- The trail passes from Vishansar To Gadsar via Gadsar Pass, the highest point of the trek.
- From Vishansar, the trail takes a steep ascent to Gadsar Pass.
- We can spot the Kishansar Lake on the way.
- From the Gadasr Pass to the campsite, we descend gradually.
- We can spot the Gadsar Lake en route.
- You might also spot the glacier of the Gadsar Lake.
- After the Gadsar Lake, we will reach the campsite in two hours.
- Just a few minutes before our campsite, we will have another army checkpoint and we will have to share our IDs.
- A packed lunch will be provided during the trek.
Gadsar To Satsar
- Altitude : 3,650 m/ 12000 ft.
- Distance : 9 km | 6 hrs.
Satsar To Gangabal Twin Lakes Via Zaj Pass
- Altitude:
- Gangabal 3,500 m/ 11,500 ft
- Zaj pass 3,950 m/ 13,000 ft.
- Trek Distance : 11 km | Duration: 6 hours approx.
Gangabal To Naranag, Drive To Srinagar
- Altitude : 2,250 m/ 7,450 ft.
- Trek Distance : 15 km | 7 hrs approx.
Health Awareness
- Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 100 beats per minute).
- Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 75 – 85, SYSTOLIC 100 - 130 mm Hg).
- Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute).
- Should not have Liver and kidney issues.
- Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc.
- No pacemaker implant.
- People with Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek.
- If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.
Important Links
How to Reach:
Pick-Up Information
- Pick-up location : Nishat Garden near the Parking Area, Srinagar.
- Once you have reached Srinagar, WTM will manage the rest of your travel arrangements, if you have opted for WTM's pick-up service, you can select this option during the booking process by adding it as an add-on.
- Do reach Srinagar one day before your trek date for a safer side.
- Pick-up Place & Time : Nishat Garden near the Parking Area, Srinagar 10:00 am
Options to Reach Srinagar
- 1. If you are planning to fly to Srinagar which is well connected to all major airports in India, you can reach the Nishat Garden in appx 1 hr via taxi from the airport (approx 20 Km).
- 2. If you’re coming by train, there are two railway stations.
- Jammu railway station is about 260 km away and takes around 8 hours by bus.
- Udhampur is 200 km away and from there, it is a 6-hour bus journey to Srinagar.
- 3. If you are taking a bus from Jammu, then you have multiple options to take. There are two gates outside Jammu ISBT. You will get shared cabs from both of these gates.
- 4. If you are reaching the Railway Station, the share cabs to Srinagar will cost between Rs 800 to Rs 1000.
- 5. Shared cabs are more from the Jammu ISBT compared to the Railway Station. You can travel from the Railway station to the bus stand. The fare of the bus will be Rs 10. The auto will charge around Rs 80 to 120.
Drop-Off Information
- The designated drop-off point is Nishat Garden near the parking area, Srinagar 6 pm.
- If you have to make any arrangements for further travel from Srinagar, do it the next day.
- WTM offers comfortable transportation through Tempo Traveler, Bolero, or equivalent vehicles.
Cost Terms
1. Accommodation (as per the itinerary)
- Day 1 to Day 7 Accommodation in twin-sharing tents while on the trek.
2. Meals (Veg + Egg)
- All meals from Dinner on Day 1 to Day 8 Pack Lunch (As per itinerary).
3. Support
- A versatile base camp manager who ensures clear communication and swiftly deploys additional manpower during emergencies.
- 1 Mountaineering & First Aid Certified Expedition Leader
- 1 Experienced High-Altitude Chef
- Local Guides (Number based on group size)
- Sufficient Support Staff for logistics and safety
4. Trek Equipment
- Sleeping bag, sleeping liner, mattress and utensils.
- 3-person all-season trekking tents on a twin-sharing basis
- Kitchen tent, dining tent, and toilet tent
- Camping stools and walkie-talkies
- Technical gear: ropes, helmets, ice axes, harnesses, gaiters, and micro spikes (if required)
5. First Aid
- First aid kit
- Stretcher
- Oxygen cylinder
- Blood pressure monitor
- Oximeter
- Stethoscope
6. Load Support
- Porters to carry central/common luggage such as camping gear, food supplies, and equipment.
7. Permits & Entry Fees
- All required permits and entry fees included (up to the amount charged for Indian nationals).
8. Trek Completion Certificate
- Certificate of Completion provided by WTM
- Insurance (For non-Indian Nationals, NRI or OCI card holders).
- Food during the transit.
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Mule or porter to carry personal luggage.
- Emergency evacuation, hospitalization charge, etc.
- Any extra costs incurred due to extension/change of the itinerary due to natural calamities roadblocks, vehicle breakdown, etc. factors beyond our control
- Transportation from Srinagar to Shitkadi camp and Naranag to Srinagar.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusion.
Trek Essentials
| Backpack with rain cover | (40 – 50 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
| Day pack with rain cover | 20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
| Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
| Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
| Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ORS |
| Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
| T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 2 Full & 2 Half sleeves |
| Fleece T-shirt | Min. 2 Nos |
| Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
| Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
| Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
| Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Pair |
| Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 2-3 Nos |
| Fleece Pant | 1 Nos |
| Waterproof gloves | Not required |
| Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
| Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
| Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
| Sun cap | 1 Nos. (One that covers the neck as well) |
| Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
| Balaclava | 1 Nos |
| Buff / Neck-gaiters | 2 Nos. |
| Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
| Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle with good grip) |
| Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
| Cotton socks | Min 6 pairs |
| Woollen socks | 2-3 pairs |
| Gaiters | 1 Pair (WTM provides when required) |
| Micro spikes | 1 Pair (WTM provides when required) |
| Sunscreen cream | 1 Nos |
| Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
| Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
| Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
| Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
| Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
| Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
| Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |
Cancellation Terms
Refund Options
- 5% deduction of trek fee
- 100% trek fee cash voucher for any trip until six months from the date of last trek.
- Transfer your trek (any trek, any date) to your friend
Refund Options
- 30% deduction of trek fee
- 100% trek fee cash voucher for same trip till one year
- 85% trek fee cash voucher for any trip till one year
Refund Options
- 50% deduction of trek fee
- 80% trek fee cash voucher for same trip till six months.
- Book the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch
- Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend
Refund Options
- No cash refund
- 20% trek fee cash voucher for the same trip until six months.
Itinerary and Modifications
- WTM reserves the right to modify, shorten, or cancel any part of the Trip due to transportation delays, weather, health emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances including Force Majeure.
Cancellations and Refunds
- No refunds or vouchers, partial or otherwise, shall be provided for voluntary withdrawal, non-utilisation of services, or removal from the Trip.
- If WTM cancels the Trip before arrival at the designated pick-up point due to unforeseen circumstances or Force Majeure, the Participant may choose from:
- An alternate Trip/date.
- A credit voucher valid for one (1) year.
- Transfer to another Trip, with cost differences payable by the Participant.
- If the Trip is abandoned post-arrival at the designated pick-up point, no cash refund or voucher shall be issued. The Trek Again Policy may apply at WTM’s discretion.
- WTM shall not be liable for any associated travel costs such as flights, accommodation, or visa fees.
Force Majeure
- Events beyond its control including but not limited to earthquakes, landslides, strikes, curfews, war, pandemic, government restrictions, heavy rainfall or snowfall, windstorms, road blockages, trail disruption, or withdrawal of permits, WTM shall not be held liable for any cancellation, delay, or service modification caused by Force Majeure.
FAQ’S
The best time for the KGL trek is from July to September. During this period, the weather is relatively stable, and the meadows are in full bloom with vibrant flowers. The snow on the higher passes has melted, making the trail accessible, while the lakes are at their most pristine and reflective appearances.
The KGL trek is considered moderately difficult. It requires good physical fitness as the trail involves long walking hours, steep ascents, descents, and high-altitude passes. While prior trekking experience is helpful, beginners with good preparation can also complete this trek successfully.
There is no power source on the entire trail. You may carry additional power banks.
To do the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, you need to have good stamina and basic fitness, as the trek involves walking for long hours at high altitudes. It’s important that your body is well-prepared to handle the distance and the thin air.
Yes, we recommend KGL trek to first timer as well as experienced one. Make sure that you should have good fitness. People suffering from Bronchitis, Asthma, High blood pressure, Epilepsy (got faints), TB , Heart problem or on higher BMI side are strictly not allowed to go on any Himalayan trek. However, it is always better to have a local guide as there are high chances of losing the trail.
The KGL trek is unique for its combination of natural beauty and cultural charm. Unlike other Himalayan treks, it offers a rare opportunity to witness multiple alpine lakes, each with its own story and surrounded by unique landscapes. The trek also takes you through quaint Kashmiri villages, offering glimpses of the local lifestyle and warm hospitality.
Weather during the KGL trek can be unpredictable, so always be prepared. During the day, temperatures range from 15–20°C, making it pleasant for trekking. However, nights can get chilly, dropping to 2–5°C or even lower at higher altitudes. It’s essential to pack layers, including a down jacket, thermal wear, and waterproof gear, as rain showers are common in the region.











