The Ultimate Guide To Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Overview

Said to be one of the most beautiful and breathtaking trekking routes while you trek on the Kashmir Great Lake trek, also called as the KGL trek.

When you cross the vast green valley, and the beautiful blue lakes will leave a memory in your heart as you walk for these 7 days. In these 7 days hike you will cross over 12 lakes; 3 mountain passes and uncountable mountain beauties. These three mountain passes—Zaj, Gadsar, and Nichnai—will be crossed. 

If you are planning to visit Kashmir Great Lakes Trek then this is a perfect guide that will take you and cover all the important information, such as when is the ideal time to travel, the route, what to pack, and what you can expect along the way.

Best Time To Go For Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

As the winter months end and the snow melts, the path gets clear making it the best time in Kashmir to go for this trek.

Summer months the weather is mild and pleasant,therefore it is the best time to visit Kashmir, and the road is not slippery due to snow or rain. The months from June to September make this trek enjoyable. 

The snow has melted during this time revealing the lush green meadows and vibrant wildflowers on the way to the trek. September is a fantastic month if you want to avoid the crowds.

Autumn starts to appear in the landscape, and the temperature starts to drop, especially at nighttime.

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The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Route

The journey starts from here to Sonamarg covering 90 km which takes around 3 hours by road. It is advisable to reach Srinagar by 12PM so that you can reach the campsite before dusk and enjoy the views on the way. The stay for the night is arranged in the Shitkadi village. Upon arriving you will be welcomed with fresh hot brewed tea or coffee with some snacks.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek begins 3 km outside Sonamarg, with a final stop at a Dhaba for supplies. The trail starts along a jeep track by the Sindh River, ascending to a lush meadow with views of Sonamarg. The path winds through Maple forests and clearings, offering stunning valley vistas. After 2.5 hours, you reach Shekdur, a meadow lined with Silver Birch, ideal for camping. Continuing for two more hours leads to Nichinai, where the trail follows a rocky riverbank before opening into a vast green meadow. The first day ends at the scenic Nichinai campsite.
The day’s trek begins early, walking through meadows towards Nichnai Pass, offering stunning views of the Sonamarg Valley. After crossing the river, a gradual ascent leads to the pass, followed by a descent through rocky and grassy terrain adorned with red flowers. The trail passes a large waterfall, leading into a lush green meadow flanked by snow-clad and barren mountains. After a stream crossing, the trail ends at the Vishnusar Lake campsite. A short walk leads to the lake, which changes color throughout the day, reflecting the surrounding peaks and creating a mesmerizing display.
The next segment of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek involves a 1.5-hour ascent from Kishansar Lake to the Gadsar Pass, the highest point of the trek, offering stunning panoramic views of Kishansar and Vishansar Lakes. After the steep ascent, a descent through meadows brings you to Yamsar Lake, followed by Gadsar Lake, framed by snow-capped cliffs and blue iris flowers. You can camp by Gadsar Lake for its unspoiled beauty. If not, descend further to the Gadsar army camp, where you will need permission to proceed. Trekker details are recorded, and approval typically takes 2-3 hours.
From the Gadsar army camp, ascend for 1.5 hours, reaching 11,500 ft with views of the tree cover and river below. The trail flattens into a meadow, leading to Maegandob and the first of the seven Satsar Lakes. Depending on the season, 4-5 lakes hold water. After crossing a bridge and completing army check post formalities, camp near one of the lakes, offering scenic mountain and emerald-blue lake views.
The day’s trek features varied terrain, leading to the largest Satsar Lake after a boulder-strewn path. Following a descent with forest views, a zig-zag climb takes 45 minutes to the first ridge. After two more ridges and a challenging ascent to 13,400 ft, the stunning sight of Gangabal and Nandkol Lakes appears below. A steep 1.5-hour descent leads to a meadow, then a brief climb and stream crossing guide you to Nandkol Lake, nestled below Harmukh Peak. A 20-minute trek connects Nandkol and Gangabal Lakes, ideal for trout fishing or a relaxing lakeside walk.
After a six-hour leisurely descent, the trail becomes steeper for the final 11 kilometers. Starting from the Gangabal campsite, follow the ridgeline and stream until reaching a meadow with views of Harmukh Peak. The trek weaves through forests and meadows, offering cell reception after 30 minutes. As you descend, the final 4 kilometers drop over 3,000 feet through pine forests, leading to the village of Naranang. The steep, stone-paved path signals the end of the trek. From Naranang, you’ll travel to Srinagar, arriving by 6:30 pm to continue your onward journey.

Essential Gears & Packing List

  • Waterproof, high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip.
  • Layered clothing (thermal wear, fleece jacket, waterproof jacket, quick-dry pants)
  • Trekking poles for stability on steep terrain.
  • Carry your own reusable water bottles.
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against the UV rays. 
  • Carry your basic medicines, personal medications with you. 

Conclusion

Trekking on the KGL lakes is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Along with adventure you get to know yourself, push yourself out of your limits and complete the trek. If you have any plan to go in 2024 then make sure you are fit enough, prepare well in advance and choose better options for an unforgettable journey. 
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