Tarsar Marsar Trek

Trek Difficulty

Moderate-Difficult

Trek Duration

7 Days/ 6 Nights

Highest Altitude

13,779 ft

Suitable For

12-62 years

An Easy to Moderate Trek

Among all the treks in Kashmir, Tarsar Marsar Trek stands tall. The trek has a cluster of 3 beautiful alpine lakes, long lush meadows, mighty mountains, and the Lidder River. The trek gives the possibility of lake camping on the Tarsar Lake and the grand view from Marsar Lake Ridge. The trek is best suggested for beginners and is done in 7 days which includes a day for acclimatization at Aru. It is best done between June and October.

This trek starts at Aru Valley – a quaint valley 112 km off Srinagar – and falls in the vicinity of the famous Kolahoi Glacier. The trek is 48km long with a mix of ascends and descends. The famous twin lakes of this trek are Tarsar and Marsar Lakes. They are one of the largest alpine lakes of Kashmir and have stunning beauty. At Tarsar Lake, the campsite is just at the lake with a magnificent view of this lake from your camp. Enjoy your evening exploring this lake.

The Trek is best done in 7 days with one day as acclimatization at Aru Valley. In 6 days of walking, this trek goes over the varied landscape of Kashmir, making it the best highlight of Kashmir’s eternal natural beauty. This trek is best recommended for beginners.

Experience the most beautiful trek: Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Trek Fee

Original price was: ₹14,000.00.Current price is: ₹13,250.00.

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    What are the Highlights of the Trek?

    Fixed Departure

    Date Status
    22 June 2024   Open
    23 June 2024   Open
    29 June 2024   Open
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    01 Oct 2024   Open
    02 Oct 2024   Open
    03 Oct 2024   Open
    04 Oct 2024   Open
    05 Oct 2024   Open
    06 Oct 2024   Open

    Tarsar Marsar Trek Package & Cost

    Trek Cost13250/ Per Person.
    Transportation1800/ Per Person.
    Offloading/ Porter Service2800/ Per Bag.
    Insurance650 Per Person.

    To Customize the Trek or for Group Discount: Contact Us

    This package includes all the essentials required. It includes camping gear, mountaineering staff, all meals, all-mountain medicine, passes and permits, etc. The Trek cost is 13250/ which includes all the necessary equipment during the trek. Avail the group discount with Cliffhangers by booking for 4 or more for any of our fixed departure dates. We organize customized and private groups both for budget and premium treks.

    Tarsar Marsar Trek – A Detailed Itinerary

    • Altitude: 2,426m
    • Time taken:3.5 hours drive

    The drive is around 4 hours. Pahalgam is around 100 km from Srinagar and then a further 12 km up is Aru Valley. Aru is arguably the best valley and hamlet in Kashmir. This village has remained the base camp for some of the fascinating treks that include the Tarsar Marsar Trek.

    While driving towards Aru, you will see the breathtaking Kashmir valley. The ride goes via NH1 Highway and meets Lidder River before Pahalgam. You will be driving through the famous Pahalgam. You will take a left towards Aru and it’s an easy uphill drive that drops down to the beautiful Lidder rives coming from Tarsar Lake which you will in the coming days.

    At Aru, our campsite will be fixed to welcome you with a welcome drink. You will meet your trek leader there who will give a brief about your trek and journey ahead. Around 7 you will be served dinner in the middle of this fascinating valley.

    • Altitude: 2,426 m to 2,780 m
    • Time taken:6 hours
    • Distance: 11km

    The gradient of the day is easy, however, there is a long walk of around 11 km. For only the first 30 minutes there is a gradual ascend into the jungle.

    The trail of the trek starts with the jungle for about 5 km. The jungle is thick and at a few places opens wide giving way to the shepherd houses and deep gorges in the distance towards your left. The jungle is full of birds, and you will see the trail frequented by shepherds and ponymen.

    After the jungle walk, the trail opens onto a vast wavy meadow. The meadow is far stretching with a couple of river crossings. In the middle of this meadow walk, you will be walking just beside the river Lidder. The river dances and flows delightfully.

    The grass of the meadow just goes to the bank of the river. You can relax and rest for some time at any of these beautiful locations on the way. Fill your water bottles with this clean glacial water that comes right from Tarsar Lake. This Lidder River will be your travel partner until Tarsar Lake.

    While walking for some time, you will see a triangular wooden hut towards your left. Cross the bridge that goes towards the meadow surrounding the hut. You will see your campsite ready for you. You will be welcomed with evening snacks and drinks. This camping site is called Lidderwat.

    • Altitude: 2,780 m 3,360 m
    • Time taken: 5 hours
    • Distance: 6km

    The day starts with an ascend and takes you to the higher ground from where you get a wider view of the entire Lidderwat Valley. The grade of the day is easy. Shortly after your first climb, the trail merges into the forest. You will be walking through the jungle and parallel to the Lidder River.

    The trail then opens out into the long stretches of meadow walk. You will have to cross the river over a log bridge. The valley is full of wildflowers and grass. You will reach a Homwas where the river meets the meadow, relax, and enjoy the gorgeous beauty here. On your way, you will see shepherd houses and a cluster of Silver Birch.

    Just before you reach Shekwas there is a boulder section. Be careful with your steps. You will be traversing this section with care, the boulders and big and at times wet with the water that flows below them. Just after the boulder section is the campsite for the night.

    • Altitude: 3,360 m to 3,790 m
    • Time taken: 5 hours
    • Distance: 5km

    Post breakfast, you will be heading towards Tarsar Lake. The gradient of the day is moderate. The trail is dominated by the boulder and rocky section. You will be walking on the boulders and in between the thin trail of boulders. The river runs beside you towards your right. The boulder section almost ends at the river crossing. The bride is of wood and slim, however, the crossing is short.

    The trail then has a short gradual ascend and you will meet the shepherd house. The family most of the time welcomes the trekkers. The shepherds roam around this place with their flock. The trail is then a succession of small ascends and descends. The walk in the middle of the meadow is surrounded by mountains. Tarsar Lake altitude is the highest you will go on this day.

    Once the meadows finish, you will see yourself walking towards the ever-gorgeous alpine lake of Kashmir. Tarsar Lake is almond-shaped and one of the prettiest lakes in Kashmir. You will feel the thrill of seeing this lake, it is so mesmerizing that you will not stop before thronging around this lake the moment you see it. The lake is so famous that sometimes this trek is called Tarsar Lake Trek.

    The campsite will be ready here for the night stay.

    • Altitude: 3,790 m to 3,945 m
    • Time taken: 5 hours
    • Distance: 5 km

    The gradient of the day is moderate. The trail starts with a sharp ascend for around an hour to the Tarsar Pass. The ridge is just parallel to the lake which takes you to the other side of Tarsar Valley. Once you have reached the top of the ridge, you get a fascinating view of Tarsar Lake. All the pics that you have seen of Tarsar Lake with a wider view are from this top. All the trekkers stop here for pictures and videos and rest for some time. The descent from this ridge is equally sharp, be careful with your steps and trail.

    Book here the pristine trek of Kashmir: Warwan Valley Trek

    After you have descended there is a boulder crossing and thereafter you enter into a terrific, beautiful meadow that connects Shekiwas to Sundersar. The meadow has been named Silent Valley owing to its calmness. It has lush grass in between the two mountain stretches. The land is filled with small river streams and water ponds. After the meadow, there is a short ascend and descend that will take you to your Sundersar campsite.

    • Altitude: 3,945 m to 3,505 m via Marsar Ridge 4020 m
    • Time taken:7 hours
    • Distance: 9km

    From your campsite, you will reach within half an hour the stunning Sundersar Lake. The lake is small and exquisite with the small mountains surrounding it from three sides. The lake is glacial and circular. To visit Marsar Lake, you will have to go round to the Sundersar Lake and ascend a ridge. It takes half an hour to climb that till you reach a flat land and within minutes you are beholding the eternal Marsar Lake, placed there in all the calmness and beauty. The lake is wide and enticing. You will see this lake from the vantage point where you get the view of an entire lake. Enjoy the view of the lake, and take pictures and videos to capture this moment. This is also the highest altitude point of the entire trek. You will be standing at an altitude of around 4020m. After seeing Marsar, you will take the same route back via Sundersar Lake and descend towards Homwas. The trail is through the meadow and boulder section. Most of this trial is a repeat of

    • Altitude: 3,505 m to 2,426 m
    • Time taken:6 hours
    • Distance: 13km

    This is the last day of the trek. The trail is long and that which you have already traversed in the first two days of your trek from Aru. The trail will go to Aru via Lidderwat and follow the same route. The trek ends at Aru, the way it starts. From Aru, take a cab that drops you at Srinagar.

    What Are The Inclusions & Exclusions

    Inclusions

    • All meals. Breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, dinner. We provide nutritious veg food and try not to repeat the dishes. 
    • Camp stay on all nights in high-quality tents on a double-sharing basis. Sleeping bags, sleeping mattresses, and dining tents.
    • Mountaineering experienced trek leaders, guides, and experienced cooks. 
    • All the mountain medicine includes first aid, oxygen cylinder, etc. 
    • Passes and permits.

    Exclusions

    • Lunch on the first day. 
    • Personal expenses.
    • Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusion list.
    If you wish to avail of our transportation service, then the extra cost will be 1800 per person. The transportation cost is to and fro. The pickup and drop place will be Srinagar. Offloading charges: In case you want us to carry your backpack, the cost per bag is Rs 2800/ per bag. The maximum weight allowed is 10kg. Please note that only a proper trekking backpack will be allowed to offload. No trolly or suitcase will be allowed to offload. We strictly follow to adequately place the load on our ponies. The maximum weight on each pony will be 40kg as recommended by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department.

    Best Time For Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Trek In June

    It is an ideal time for trekking, given the pleasant weather and clear routes.  there are chances of seeing snow on the ground if you do this trek in June. There is some snow this month. The last days of June are better for Tarsar Marsar Trek as you see the best of vast valleys, bubbling streams, and mountains here.

    The alpine lakes have melted by now and you can soak in their beauty. The temperature hovers between 10-15°C and may drop a bit at night. Some cotton clothes in your spacious backpack are really needed to wear during daytime.

    Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Trek In July

    The monsoon season commences in northern India but not in Kashmir. A little rainfall can be experienced but it does not rain cats and dogs in July. You will see the routes packed during this month as it is one of the peak seasons for Tarsar Marsar trek.

    The temperature goes up a little to 20°C sometimes but fluctuates at nightime. The climate is warm and sunny with clear skies. The meadows, mountains, vistas are crystal-clear too. Lakes have melted completely by now. Carry rain-coats to keep yourself dry and pack everything in a waterproof backpack.

    Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Trek In August

    August is again a wonderful time for Tarsar Marsar trek and can be done without any hustles. You see greenery all around. The mercury level again drops down a little bit coming to 15°C maximum.

    The pleasant weather is the main reason for the crowds seen on the routes. You can also do some sightseeing on your buffer day either in Srinagar or in Aru Valley. All the outdoor activities like river rafting, paragliding are accessible and can be done safely.

    Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Trek In September

    The autumn season begins from September and lasts till October end. The climate gets a bit dry and cold as winter is about to come. The temperature sometimes drops in minus up to -5°C and snowfall is experienced in high-altitude regions.

    It is important to be prepared for such situations. Other than this, the whole panorama turns golden with leaves changing colours too. The transition in September in Kashmir Valley is mind-boggling. 
    You can plan Tarsar Marsar trek in September with Cliffhangers India at an affordable price.

    Difficulty Level Of Tarsar Marsar trek

    Tarsar Marsar Trek

    It is an easy to moderate trek with a total distance of 50km around, and the highest Tarsar altitude of the trek is around 4000m. The highest altitude point of the trek is around 4000m which you will reach while ascending the Marsar Ridge.

    The total altitude gain of the trek is around 1600m. However, you will not be gaining this height in one day. You will be ascending Marsar Ridge on the 5th day of the trek.

    By this time your body is well acclimated to the altitude.The terrain of the trek is easy to moderate. It starts with half an hour ascending, then goes into the jungle for the next 5 km around, and then a meadow walk.

    The walk is easy, and the trail follows small ups and downs. 
    The trek has a boulder section just around your Shekiwas campsite. The day you will trek to Tarsar Lake, you will have to cover the boulder section.

    The Boulder section comes on your next day as well, as you move from Tarsar to Sundersar Lake. There are river crossings as well. A couple of log bridges are placed over water streams. 

    The most difficult ascend in the entire trek is the Tarsar Ridge. This you will be ascending in the morning as you move from Tarsar camp. The ridge is around 150m in height and is sharp. It equally has a sharp descent on the other side.

    Lakes On Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Campsites On The Trek

    Aru: the base camp of the trek, Aru is also a camping spot where you can spend some time and get acclimated before starting the trek. The valley has vast landscapes, having numerous places to pitch a camp and relax for the night. Choose a flat place and don’t leave any trash when you move away. 

    Lidderwat Campsite: this is one of the favourite places of trekkers on Tarsar Marsar trek due to the grassy landscapes here. You can set up your tents here and then a barefoot walk on the plains soothes you. The meadows here will make you forget the distance you would walk away. 

    Tarsar Lake: It serves as one of the best campsites on Tarsar Marsar trek as you get to reside by the shores of the lake, in the very proximity of it. Relaxing with the view of one of the astounding lakes of Kashmir, you will serenity in every body part. Imagine being out in nature with such a scenic view. It is ethereal in every way. 

    Marsar Lake: The other significant one of the twin lakes, Marsar Lake is another breathtaking locale, offering ideal places for camping. 

    The ‘killer’ lake of the trek is suitable for relaxing for the night and being rejuvenated for the next day. One thing to keep in mind is to get every camping gear you might need here like sturdy tents, sleeping bags and mats and other stuff. Dress properly with enough layers as it is an alpine lake and temperature is quite low here.

    Essential Information For Your Trek

    Tarsar Marsar Trek

    How To Reach Base Camp?

    By Air: This is the quickest way to reach Kashmir. The nearest airport in Jammu and Kashmir is Srinagar Airport where you will get scheduled flights regularly. Whether you are from Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi or any major Indian city, you can book in advance to come to Srinagar. Once you land at the airport, you can easily reach the city via a cab or taxi. The same mode of transportations is used in reaching the Aru valley from here.

    By Train: Jammu Tawi station is the only one accessible to reach Jammu . regular trains operate from cities and from Jammu, Srinagar is 270 kilometres for which bus would be a convenient option.

    By Road: 100 kms separates Srinagar from Pahalgam and then covering 12 kilometres more takes you to your base camp,that is, Aru. You can either hire a cab or share one with other trekkers. The roads are very well connected, and you will see orchards of different fruits like apples, walnuts etc. on your way.

    Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Things To Carry On Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Proper Clothing: it doesn’t matter which month you choose, you must carry woollen clothes like thermals, jackets, trekking pants and sturdy boots. If it is summer, it is advisable to carry some full-sleeved cotton clothes. Some accessories would be gloves, beanies, socks etc. and a rain-coat. 

    Essentials Items: some things are clearly non-negotiable such as a reusable water bottle, some power snacks, sunscreen, mosquitos and insect repellent, moisturiser.

    Electronic Gadgets: a power bank, portable charger, satellite phone and a GPS and a camera if you are really into photography. 

    Trekking & Camping Gears: you must have a trekking axe, tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats etc. 

    Medicines: a first-aid kit, your personal medicines if any and some basic medicines like that of headaches, stomachaches, vomiting etc.

    Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Fitness Tips & Importance For Trek

    The fit trekkers are the best trekkers. This statement should be your motivation before undertaking the Tarsar Marsar trek. You are already aware of the difficulty level and the challenges it poses. But that does not mean it is not doable. Lakhs of people have done it without any problem and the main reason for that is their fitness level. 

    You must be healthy and disease-free to do this trek. You should start preparing for it prior to the D-day. Start jogging initially and then you can move up to doing some light exercises to strengthen your upper body, core and legs. A good cardio-vascular health and body endurance is crucial. Eat healthy protein-rich food and don’t fill up your body with garbage like fast foods everyday. This is the hardest part but will benefit you a lot. 

    Some other things to keep this fitness level intact throughout your trek would be drinking plenty of water even when you are not thirsty. Dehydration can really disturb your plans.  Lastly, acclimatisation is the unmissable part. You can’t afford getting exposed to headaches, stomach aches and vomiting in your trek. 

    Even if unfortunately, due to any reason, you get uncomfortable in the trekking process, Cliffhangers India team would be there to get you out safely from there. 

    Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Photography Spots On Tarsar Marsar Trek

    The stunning lakes: Tarsar Lake, Marsar Lake, Sundersar Lake are very magical and a picture in front of these lakes with your arms open is a must. The lake accepts you and so do you. The lakes against the snow-laden mountains in the backdrop forms the perfect setting for a postcard perfect shot. 

    Wildlife: you come across rich biodiversity such as animals like Himalayan Marmots, ibex, and some bird species. You can click them in their natural habitat. 

    Campsites views: while camping, you will see horse, sheeps grazing in the vistas of little settlements of Gujjars. A raw picture of the arena won’t need any filters to make it instagramable. They are just stunning naturally. 

    Lastly, be respectful and don’t snapshot any locals without their permission. These are basic manners which you should follow when clicking photos. Don’t harm your surroundings in any way while doing so. 

    Tarsar Marsar Trek

    Facts About Tarsar Marsar Trek

    The Life and Death: The names of the alpine lakes Tarsar Marsar are loosely translated as Tar and Mar which means life and death. Engage in a conversation about the local anecdotes regarding the such namings of the lakes. Another highlight of the trek, Sundersar lake is also called as Chandrasar due to its shape like a crescent-moon.

    Nomads: Aru is its base camp but the actual trek begins from Lidderwat campsite. This area forms the home of cultural nomads called as Gujjars. They mostly do the work of poultry like keeping cattles and selling their milk and wool. But you don’t come across them throughout the year. They are here from July to September and then move down to Jammu after september. They don’t have a permanent home.

    The connection of Dal lake: The stunning Marsar Lake is connected to the mighty Dal lake of Srinagar as its runoff. Dachigam National Park lies between these two lakes. One of the main attractions of Tarsar Marsar trek, Marsar lake is smaller in size but is a sight to behold. You will be blown away by its bluish waters and captivating beauty.

    What Trekker's Like & Dislike About The Trek

    Likes

    • Shekwas campsites: it is a place where three valleys are at a crossroads and it is a rare event and literally makes you wonder about its scenic views. On top of it are the rivers running through these valleys. The best part about it is its vast vistas and just casually walking on the grass bare feet. You will walk miles mindlessly without even noticing how far you have come. It is that satisfying. The view of the Kashmir Valley from the top is worth anything. You will believe in the line that Heaven lies in Kashmir when you see the view from here. Sunsets and sunrises are the most mesmerising time here. 

    • The Bed Of Flowers at Jagmargi: One of the remote locations of the trek, the whole plain is a bed of vibrant flowers. It lies about some distance  where you reach one hour before the Sundersar Lake. The scenic views here look like a movie on a screen. It is that dreamy. You will come across some friendly ships here whom you can pet gently and then won’t move at all. There are just grazing there in the vast grassland.  

    • Proximity of the Lakes: when you camp on the three prominent lakes of this trek, you are quite close to it, like by its shore. It enhances the overall experience. The place is even intimate nowadays where you can go for a slow stroll along the edges, do some meditation and have the most peaceful time ever. It edges out Kashmir Great Lakes trek in this aspect. 

    Dislikes

    • What not to like about this trek. You can’t find a single thing that you won’t appreciate here. It is absolutely flawless. 

    • Tarsar Marsar is arguably the most stunning trek of India, offering a close insight into Kashmir, a piece of heaven on earth. 

    Why Choose Cliffhangers For Tarsar Marsar Trek?

    Tarsar Marsar Trek
    • Experienced Trek guides: Cliffhangers India has the well qualified trek guides that ensure safety during the trek. We provide the knowledge of every single thing which is mentioned in the itinerary.
    • Safety: The first priority of our company is safety for trekkers. In order to ensure emergencies during the trek, we provide high safety standards, essential equipment, medical support, and well-trained staff.
    • Hiking Equipment: We provide the best quality of trekking equipment like sleeping bags, waterproof tents, hiking poles and other trekking instruments. This offers the trekkers a pleasant and comfortable journey.
    • Affordable Pricing: Our company provides the best prices for their customers; the packages include all the necessary details which are included in the trek packages so that the trekkers can plan their itinerary according to their budget.
    • Excellently Planned Itinerary: We expertly plan the trek, accounting for the degree of difficulty, the need for acclimatisation, the trekking routes, and the breathtaking scenery. This guarantees a satisfying and enjoyable experience for all.

    • Educational Appeal: Our trek leaders regularly incorporate information about the local flora, wildlife, and geography into the hikes, making them educational. This adds a more rewarding and educational element to the walk.

    Is Tarsar Marsar Trek Safe?

    This is the most frequently asked question from the trekkers. They all want to know how safe is Tarsar Trek is. It is an easy to moderate trek with the total distance of 50km around, and the highest tarsar altitude of the trek is around 4000m.

    Here are some of the important points related to the safety of the trek.

    The Terrain: The terrain of the trek is easy to moderate. It starts with half an hour ascending, then goes into the jungle for the next 5 km around, and then a meadow walk. The walk is easy, and the trail follows small ups and downs. The trek has a boulder section just around your Shekiwas campsite. The day you will trek to Tarsar Lake, you will have to cover the boulder section. Boulder section comes on your next day as well, as you move from Tarsar to Sundersar Lake.

    There are river crossings as well. A couple of log bridges are placed over water streams. The most difficult ascend in the entire trek is the Tarsar Ridge. This you will be ascending in the morning as you move from Tarsar camp. The ridge is around 150m in height and is sharp. It equally has a sharp descent on the other side. The first and the last day of the trek long.

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    FAQ's

    This trek is located in Aru – a village 12 km from Pahalgam Kashmir. Tarsar Marsar are two lakes that people trek to see. They are among the best alpine lakes here in Kashmir. These Lakes are situated in the Anantnag district of Kashmir, and both of the lakes are near Pahalgam. Tarsar Lake location is exactly 25km from Aru.
    You can enjoy swimming only if you are a pro swimmer. You must be very careful and thoughtful while swimming there as they are alpine lakes and in a very sensitive environment. The water of these lakes is cold so one must be prepared for the ice-cold water.
    October is the last month in which you can do this trek. After October this trek gets closed because of heavy snowfall. So yes, you can do the trek in October too. Cliffhangers conduct this trek until October. However, the best time is June to September.
    Tarsar Marsar is the only summer trek in Kashmir that opens as early as May. So June is the best month to do this trek. You will be mesmerized to see the lushness of the meadows and the chunks of snow floating in its alpine lakes. The landscape is full of snow-capped mountains and the breeze of summer.
    September is one of the best months for this trek. The temperature is pleasant, and it has the least chances of rainfall. You can finish the trek in shorts and dry fit gear also. It has least chances of giving you the sun burns.

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