Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Solo

1. Check the Weather Forecast

Always check the weather before starting the trek. The temperatures vary depending on the month. In August, daytime temperatures are around 25°C but can drop to 5°C or even lower if it rains. July and September are cooler and considered the best months for this trek. Even if the day starts sunny, the weather can change quickly, turning windy and rainy. So, be mentally and physically prepared for unpredictable conditions.

2. Learn How to Read a Map

Carry a map, either paper or digital (ideally both). Knowing how to read and follow a map is essential. Study the route before the trek begins. You can get maps from the local tourism department. The Kashmir Great Lakes trail is mostly well-defined and easy to follow.

3. Understand Basic Health and First Aid

Learn about common health issues that can occur due to altitude gain. Knowing basic first aid is very important. The trek starts at 2,377 meters and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,200 meters at Gadsar Pass. That’s a gain of over 1,800 meters, which can affect your body if you’re not acclimatized.

 4. Pack a Personal Medical Kit

Make sure your kit includes:

• Diamox – for altitude sickness
• ORS – for hydration
• Norflox-TZ, Lemofen – for diarrhea
• Crocin – for fever
• Avomine – for motion sickness
• Avil 25mg – for allergies
• Combiflam – as a painkiller
• Disprin – for headaches
• Digene – for acidity
• Crepe bandage, Moov spray – for sprains or muscle pain
• Azithromycin – for bacterial infections
• Band-Aids, gauze, cotton, sunscreen, toilet paper, etc.

 5. Carry the Right Gear

Your gear should include:

• Comfortable trek pants and T-shirts
• Fleece and thermal innerwear for layering
• Windproof and waterproof jacket
• Woolen cap and trekking hat
• Muffler or scarf
• Waterproof high-ankle trekking shoes
• Cotton and woolen socks
• Sleeping bag and tent
• Trekking pole
• Lunch box and small hiking stove (like a butane burner)
• Backpack with a rain cover
• Head torch and hand torch
• Whistle, watch, pocket knife, etc.

6. Stick to the Trail

Even though the trail doesn’t pass through dense forests, always stay on the marked route. Camp only at designated spots. The trail is usually clear and well-trodden. Avoid wandering off, as it can be risky and unnecessary.

7. Stay Hydrated

Drink enough water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can make you feel weak and increase your chances of getting sick. There are many glacier-fed streams along the trail where you can refill your water bottles. Drink water at regular intervals to maintain energy.

 8. Get Necessary Permissions

You will need to get official permission from the Tourism Department before going on this trek. This is mandatory for all treks in Kashmir.

If you are trekking with Cliffhangers India, we will take care of all that. 

Environmental Guidelines

• Use plastic only when absolutely necessary.
  
• Don’t litter. Carry back all your waste.
  
• Camp only in designated areas.
  
• Dig a small hole (cat hole) for organic waste.
  
• Respect wildlife and don’t disturb animals.
• Never pollute streams, lakes, or glaciers.

Related article: How Difficult is Kashmir Great Lakes Trek