The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of India’s most scenic Himalayan treks, taking you through vast alpine meadows, mountain passes, glacial lakes and dramatic Himalayan landscapes.
The route passes through some of Kashmir’s most beautiful high-altitude lakes, including Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangabal and Nundkol. Every day brings a change in scenery, from lush green meadows and flowing streams to rocky mountain passes and expansive alpine valleys.
The trek is physically demanding, with several long walking days, steep ascents and descents, river crossings and sustained movement at high altitude. The highest point is Gadsar Pass at approximately 4,200 metres.
Kashmir Great Lakes is suitable for fit trekkers who enjoy long days in the mountains and are comfortable walking on varied terrain. Previous trekking experience is strongly recommended, along with adequate preparation and a willingness to adapt to changing mountain weather.
Note: Prices mentioned are applicable for Indian passport holders. For foreign passport holders, the cost may vary. Please connect with the Boots & Crampons team for clarity.
Note: An indemnity document will be shared before the trek. Signing it is mandatory.
Begin the journey with a scenic drive from Srinagar to Shitkadi in Sonamarg, passing through Kashmiri villages, green farmlands and the Sindh River valley. On arrival, settle into the campsite and take time to acclimatise. The trek leader will conduct a briefing covering the route, safety guidelines and preparations for the trek. Enjoy dinner at the campsite and rest for the night.
Drive: approximately 3-4 hours
After breakfast, begin trekking towards Nichnai through pine forests, open meadows and mountain streams. The trail ascends gradually towards the Tabletop area, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Continue through alpine terrain to reach Nichnai campsite, where you will spend the night.
Trek: approximately 9–11 km | Walking time: 6–7 hours
Begin the day with an ascent towards Nichnai Pass, followed by a descent into the beautiful Vishansar Valley. The trail crosses alpine meadows and open mountain terrain before reaching Vishansar Lake, surrounded by towering peaks and rolling grasslands. Settle into camp near the lake and enjoy the mountain scenery.
Trek: approximately 12–13 km | Walking time: 6–7 hours
This is one of the most challenging days of the trek. Ascend towards Gadsar Pass, the highest point of the route, with panoramic views of Vishansar and Kishansar Lakes. Descend through rocky terrain and alpine meadows towards Gadsar Lake. After reaching the campsite, rest and recover from the day’s demanding walk.
Trek: approximately 14–16 km | Walking time: 7–8 hours
Continue towards Satsar through rolling meadows, mountain streams and undulating terrain. The trail passes through a landscape dotted with small alpine lakes before reaching Satsar, a group of lakes set amid expansive mountain meadows. Arrive at camp and enjoy a quieter evening in the mountains.
Trek: approximately 10–12 km | Walking time: 5–6 hours
Today’s route crosses rocky sections and ascends towards Zajibal Pass. From the higher trail, enjoy views of Gangabal and Nundkol Lakes beneath the imposing slopes of Mount Harmukh. Descend towards the twin lakes and settle into camp near Nundkol Lake, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Trek: approximately 9–10 km | Walking time: 6–8 hours
Begin the final descent from the Gangabal area towards Naranag. The trail passes through meadows and forested sections before descending steeply towards the village. On reaching Naranag, board the vehicle for the return journey to Srinagar. The trek concludes on arrival.
Trek: approximately 13 km | Walking time: 6–7 hours | Drive to Srinagar: approximately 3–4 hours
Accommodation
Camping in good-quality tents on a twin-sharing basis during the trekking days.
Sleeping bags and designated campsite facilities.
Meals
Meals during the trek, starting from dinner on Day 1 until breakfast on the final trekking day, as specified in the itinerary.
Nutritious vegetarian meals, including breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, soup and dinner.
Morning and evening tea or other hot beverages during the trek.
Trek Leadership and Support Staff
Experienced Boots & Crampons trek leaders and guides.
Dedicated support staff, including cooks, kitchen helpers and campsite staff.
Porters or mules for carrying camping equipment and group supplies.
Camping and Safety Equipment
Expedition tents, sleeping mattresses and dining tents.
Kitchen equipment and cooking supplies.
First-aid medical kit, as specified in the final safety plan.
Permits and Fees
Required forest permits, trekking permits and camping fees, as applicable to Indian passport holders.
Applicable government charges included in the package.
Additional Benefits
Exclusive participant discount on Fast&Up nutrition products, where applicable.
Trek completion certificate, where applicable.
Travel and Transportation Outside the Trek Itinerary
Travel expenses from your hometown to Srinagar and return.
Transportation between Srinagar, Sonamarg and Naranag, unless specifically included in the final package.
Any transportation not expressly mentioned under Inclusions.
Personal Equipment and Gear
Personal trekking shoes, trekking poles, clothing and other individual trekking equipment.
Personal luggage offloading or porter services, which may be arranged at an additional cost.
Personal Expenses
Bottled water, personal snacks, beverages and individual purchases.
Personal toiletries, medication and other personal supplies.
Laundry, telephone calls, tips and gratuities.
Insurance and Medical Expenses
Personal travel and trekking insurance.
Emergency evacuation, rescue and helicopter services.
Medical treatment, hospitalisation and expenses beyond the basic first-aid provision.
Additional Expenses and Delays
Hotel accommodation or meals outside the stated itinerary.
Additional accommodation, meals or transportation arising from weather delays, road closures or changes to the itinerary.
Costs resulting from a participant’s early exit from the trek.
Additional costs associated with a buffer day, if applicable under the booking terms.
General Exclusions
Any service, facility or expense not explicitly mentioned under Inclusions.
At Boots & Crampons, preparation is not optional. The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek involves long walking days, steep ascents and descents, high mountain passes, and changing weather conditions. Good physical fitness and preparation are essential to completing the trek safely and comfortably.
Physical Fitness
Begin a regular fitness routine at least 4–6 weeks before the trek.
Build cardiovascular endurance through jogging, cycling, brisk walking, or swimming.
Practise uphill walking and stair climbing to prepare for sustained ascents.
Include squats, lunges, and core exercises to strengthen your legs and improve stability.
Previous Experience
Previous trekking experience is recommended, particularly on trails involving long walking days and significant elevation gain.
Be prepared to walk for approximately 5–8 hours a day over uneven and rocky terrain.
Mental Preparation
Be prepared for changing weather, basic campsite facilities, and long days on the trail.
Maintain a positive attitude and follow your trek leader’s instructions throughout the trek.
Acclimatisation and Health
Allow your body to adjust gradually to the increasing altitude.
Stay hydrated, eat properly, and get adequate rest.
Inform the trek leader immediately if you experience symptoms such as persistent headaches, dizziness, nausea, or unusual breathlessness.
Final Preparation
Carry suitable trekking shoes, layered clothing, rain protection, and other essentials mentioned in the packing list.
Check your personal equipment before departure and ensure it is suitable for high-altitude trekking.
Follow all pre-trek instructions and attend the scheduled briefing.
Proper preparation increases not just your chances of success, but also your safety and enjoyment in the mountains.
For rental bookings and additional equipment support, visit our contracted business partner — Summit Yak Official Website
The trek includes well-defined mountain trails, alpine meadows, rocky sections, river crossings and high mountain passes. Some sections have steep ascents and descents, particularly around Gadsar Pass and Zajibal Pass.
The highest point is Gadsar Pass at approximately 4,200 metres above sea level.
It is generally considered a moderate to difficult trek because of its long walking days, sustained altitude, steep ascents and descents, and varied terrain. Good physical fitness and prior trekking experience are strongly recommended.
The itinerary is planned for 7 days, including the drive from Srinagar to Sonamarg and the return from Naranag to Srinagar. The actual trekking distance is approximately 70–75 km, depending on the route and campsite locations.
July to September is the usual trekking season. Conditions vary throughout the season, and the final operating window depends on weather, trail accessibility and local permissions.
You should be comfortable walking for approximately 5–8 hours a day over consecutive days, including uphill and downhill sections. Regular cardio, strength training and practice hikes before departure are recommended.
Previous trekking experience is strongly recommended. First-time trekkers should have a good level of fitness and should prepare adequately for long days at altitude.
Essential items include sturdy trekking shoes, warm layers, rain protection, trekking poles, a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, a headlamp and personal medication. Refer to the Things to Pack section for the complete checklist.
Water is available from streams and other natural sources along parts of the route. Water should be treated before drinking. Carry a reusable bottle and follow the trek leader’s instructions regarding water collection and purification.
Accommodation is in camping tents at designated campsites. Hotel accommodation in Srinagar is not included unless specifically mentioned in the final package.
Meals are included during the trek as specified in the package, generally covering breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, soup, dinner and hot beverages. Confirm the exact meal schedule and whether meals during the road transfers are included.
Mobile connectivity can be limited or unavailable in several sections of the route. Inform family members about the itinerary before departure and follow the trek leader’s communication instructions.
Trekking and forest permissions may be required. Boots & Crampons will advise on the applicable permits and documentation for the departure. Foreign passport holders may have different requirements and charges.
The planned route includes the major lakes, but the trek leader may modify the itinerary because of weather, trail conditions, local restrictions or safety concerns.
The itinerary may be modified or delayed if conditions become unsafe. Any additional accommodation, transport or other expenses arising from delays will be handled according to the booking terms.
A dedicated WhatsApp group will be created after registration for preparation and coordination. Online briefing sessions may be arranged to explain the itinerary, equipment requirements and participant queries. Confirm the arrangements with the operations team.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most scenic trails in the Indian Himalayas — rich in alpine lakes, towering peaks, and diverse landscapes. Good preparation and pacing make this trek a rewarding experience for fit and enthusiastic trekkers.
Boots & Crampons staff of highly trained professional guides is here to make your journey as safe and secure as possible. All of our trekking guides are medically certified and have abundant experience using their training in mountainous environments.
Our safety standards are based on the experiences of our founder, managing risk in some of the world’s most hostile environments.
While we advise our trekkers to carry light, our guides are always prepared with:
Be it queries about the trek, customization or anything else, our team is eager to assist you.
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