The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a popular destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of India. With its stunning alpine lakes, snowy mountains, and picturesque landscapes, it's no wonder that so many people choose to embark on this adventure. And with Trekkaro, you'll have all the necessary information and resources to plan your trip. Find out about the itinerary, dates, costs, and more with our comprehensive guide.
The Great Lakes of Kashmir trek is a popular hiking route in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The trek takes hikers through stunning alpine meadows, past crystal-clear lakes, and over high mountain passes. The trek is known for its breathtaking scenery and is a must-do for any avid hiker or nature enthusiast visiting the region.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is an exploration of a heavenly side of the region not seen before. This trek in the Himalayas offers the unique experience of traversing across three high-altitude passes and five river valley crossings, complete with seven picturesque alpine lakes in their radiant shades of green, blue, and turquoise – all in just 7 days! Every day, you can be surrounded by an incredible amount of opulence - azure skies and gigantic mountain panoramas; lush fields with wildflowers; river crossings, and hopping between stones. The KGL trek is sure to spoil you with its plethora of views! The trail ascends to an apex of 4,180 M, with altitudes that fluctuate between climbs and dips throughout. Despite the changes in terrain, it's relatively easy to follow - the only hiccup is having the stamina to cover 10 km or more each day. The Trek, at 74.5 km long, is a great selection for hikers wanting to up their game in the Himalayas. Experienced trekkers alike would appreciate it for its stunning visuals and luxurious trekking experience. The most opportune period for the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is from July to September. On this page, you can find a comprehensive itinerary, route map, and photos of the KGL trek.
Best Time:- The best time to go on the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is from July to September, when the weather is mild and the trekking conditions are favorable. However, it is important to note that the region can experience sudden weather changes, so it is always best to be prepared for any conditions.
Shitkadi, or the Meadow of Gold, is where the KGL trek begins. To ensure a smooth journey, opt for the transport with Trekkaro, boarding no later than 12:00 PM from the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) in Srinagar. If you are traveling independently, ideally aim to reach Sonmarg by 3-4 PM. We advise you to arrive at the base camp before 3:00 PM, providing you with an opportunity to get acquainted with the grandeur of Kashmir National Park. You can easily witness four majestic peaks Sirbal Peak, Kolahoi Peak, Amarnath Peak, Machoi Peak, and the Machoi Glacier from this location. The journey from Srinagar to Sonmarg may be short, but it's an enjoyable ride. Once you leave the city limits, there is little-to-no traffic and lovely natural scenery takes over instead. About thirty kilometers into the drive, picturesque snow-capped mountains pop up on the horizon with rolling green meadows on either side of the road. It's worth your while to take a day trip from Srinagar to admire these stunning views! We will base ourselves in camps for the day, with a Team introduction after tea in the evening followed by dinner.
Leaving Shitkadi at 8:00 AM, we will be hiking up and down the trail. The gradient is moderate, and there will be plenty of water sources for refilling water bottles along the way. We follow a vehicle track that descends to the Sind River, where the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek begins. When the trailhead is reached, it quickly rises. About ten minutes into the trek, the trail unexpectedly enters a patch of green meadows overlooking Sonmarg. It is at this point that civilization as we know it ends, and the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek begins! This is a breathtaking view of the Sindh River glistening in the early morning sunshine as she makes her way through this tiny town surrounded on either side by gorgeous mountains. This view only gets fuller and more resplendent as you ascend further up the trail. It takes 30 minutes to reach the top of the meadow. Maple trees, pine trees, and silver birch trees dot the landscape. The climb up to Nichnai, your campsite for the day, takes you through vibrant meadows dotted by clear brooks and streams!
Despite the moderate gradient, be prepared for long hours of walking. We will break camp early for the day and start at 8 a.m. Through the day, the scenery shifts winningly, from a stroll through expansive meadows to a stroll along the banks of a river to a moderate climb up the Nichnai Pass, followed by a sharp descent. As you walk along the river running through the Nichnai Campsite, look for feasible spots where you can cross it. The Nichnai Pass is located on the other side of the river. The Pass (which can be seen from the campsite itself) can be reached once you reach the other side of the river bank. After a couple of bends along the ridge, the trail ascends steadily for about an hour to the top of the ridgeline that was visible from the meadow below. However, this isn't the actual pass. The actual pass begins after a couple of bends along the ridge. On the left, snow-covered mountains line the passageway. On the right, the land rises, giving the impression of walking through a tunnel. You descend quickly and steeply on rocky terrain from the top of the Pass to the meadows below. You will notice that colorful little flowers dot the grass here. A new river flows into this region from the Pass. The horizon is filled with numerous, narrow trails.
On your left, you will see snow-clad mountains, while on your right, there are stretches of barren and rugged mountain faces. Continue walking along one of these trails and continue walking forward. In addition to the sharp contrast in scenery, the dewiness of the grass and flowers at your feet make this one of the most beautiful meadow walks on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. Our campsite for the day is located two hours away beyond yet another river crossing and not far from an alpine lake with startlingly blue waters that are bound to have you hooked right from the moment you lay your eyes on it. Vishansar Lake is just a short distance from Kishansar Lake, another famous lake.
Our trek today consists of a steep two-hour ascent followed by a steep two-hour descent and then a gentle walk through the meadows. We will have plenty of water sources along the way for refilling water bottles. The trail begins with the climb of a pencil-thin ridge along the mountainside near Kishansar Lake. It takes about an hour and a half to reach the top of this ridge. The mountains unfold a stunning view of the Kishansar and Vishansar lakes together about halfway up your ascent! Once you reach the top of the ridge, the trail descends steeply for an hour before opening up into a valley surrounded by mountain ranges. Aside from the bright red, yellow, purple, and blue flowers popping out of the green grass, these meadows are by far one of the brightest on the trek. After climbing up the pass, this meadow makes you want to flop down and catch a nap. Gadsar Lake lies beyond this meadow. Because Gadsar Lake is the least visited of the seven alpine lakes, it has the most piercing blue waters. Quite a few make weekend trips from Sonamarg to Vishansar and Kishansar, but most make the trip from Naranag to Gangabal on the other side of the trail. Despite this, Gadsar remains untouched due to its location at the highest point of the trek, making it difficult to reach. An Indian Army camp near our campsite will collect, check, and record all of our original ID cards one and a half hours away from Gadsar Lake.
The gradient for the day is mostly moderate barring the first one and a half hours of steep ascent. Post that, it is a level walk up to the next campsite. The landscape on today’s trail stands in sharp contrast to the river valleys we have been trekking through till now. The terrain is rugged, desolate, and captivating in its isolation. Meadows are scant and are marked by scattered patches of white flowers. Boulders and rocky terrain dominate the landscape with an occasional brook cutting through them. We will be crossing an army camp today as well where our original ID cards will be collected, checked, and recorded before letting us cross. Rolling grasslands once again take over the terrain beyond the army camp. Ten minutes away lay the first of the Satsar Lakes. Satsar is a group of seven inter-connected lakes situated in a narrow alpine valley stretching north to south. The lakes drain out into the Wangath Nallah which is a tributary of the Sindh. Big and picturesque in its greenery and backdrop of the mountains, we will be setting up camp here for the day.
We begin by taking the trail heading out of the Satsar Campsite. This section of the trail is exciting mainly because it is dominated by boulders. Most hikers, we have noticed, are comfortable getting down on all fours when jumping from boulder to boulder. You should also be careful not to lose your balance by jumping on loose rocks. After traversing these boulders, we come upon the largest and last Satsar Lakes. It is then time to gain altitude again, so be prepared for a steep climb over the next three and a half hours. We descend for a good 30 minutes until we are confronted by ridge lines that run across the mountains. As we climb from the base, the terrain becomes increasingly rocky and barren. This is probably why KGL treats you to the most theatrical view of the trek on this ridge- a vertigo-inducing view of Gangabal and Nandakol lakes nestled snugly in a valley to make up for the starkness of the landscape. You are compelled to take a break to watch the spectacle unfolding in front of you as mist and fog playfully flit into and out of the scene concealing and revealing the twin lakes. From the top of the ridge to the campsite, it is a very long descent from Gangabal Lake.
Trekkers and tents are more common here than they are at the other campsites. Nandakol and Gangabal are well known for trout fishing in the region. The lake at Nandakol's base is bewitching in its setting. It is fascinating to observe how light and clouds interact on the glacier. A jagged glacier clings to the slopes of the Harmukh Peak. Take some time to explore Gangabal Lake once you've set up camp at Nandakol. The lake is a short walk away from the campsite and you will notice that it is less crowded and more tranquil than Nandakol. There are colorful pebbles on the waterbed near the banks. The lake is surrounded by a mountain. Remnants of a glacier rest at its base, feeding it. The banks are long and pleasant to walk along. Make sure you return to your campsites before dark once you have explored.
Today we will be descending to the Naranag road head, which is where our trek ends. The distance is long and the trail becomes steep towards the end. The ridgeline runs downstream from Gangabal campsite towards the trees. It takes about an hour to reach the treeline. Continue walking along its fringe. For the first 7 Km, you don't lose altitude. There are gentle ascents followed by flat walks through lush meadows. On the way, you see a few huts dotting the landscape. It makes you wonder what it would be like to live there. Once you reach 7 Km, the trail starts to drop sharply. The trail is mostly muddy and runs under pine trees. Naranag appears to be in sight after one or two kilometers, but there is still a long way to go. We should reach Naranag by the afternoon. Our vehicles to Srinagar will be waiting there. We should arrive in Srinagar around 6 PM. To account for any delays on your way, make sure your transport leaves the city post 9 if you plan to leave Srinagar the same day.
If the buffer day is used, you will need to pay Rs 2,000 per day + 5% GST. The money will be collected by the trek leader only if we use the buffer day.
From Srinagar's airport, which is connected to all major airports in India, you can reach Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) in 45 to 60 minutes via taxi.
If you are planning on taking the train, there are two railway stations nearby. Jammu station is about 260 km away, and you can expect an 8-hour bus ride to your destination. Udhampur is slightly closer at 200 km and requires only a 6-hour journey by bus to reach Srinagar.
Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) can be reached by bus from any major city in Srinagar. From the bus stand, it will take about 30 minutes to reach the garden.
• Backpack & Rain Cover (40-60 Litres)
• Trekking Shoes
• Trekking Pole
• LED Torch/Headlamp
• Two Water Bottle (one liter each)
• Basic Medications (or prescribed if any)
• Trekking Jacket
• Three (Five in winter) Warm Layers
• Two trek pants (one Wear and one carry)
• Two collared t-shirts
• Thermals
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 50/70)
• Lip Balm (SPF 30)
• Sun cap
• Synthetic hand gloves
• Two pairs of Socks
• Raincoat/Ponchos
• Daypack (20 liters), if you opt to offload your backpack
• Toiletries
• Lunch Box
• Plastic cover (for wet clothes)
• Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Passport, Aadhaar Card, Driving license, or voter ID)
• Life insurance or travel insurance
• Medical Certificate
1- Accommodation: Full-load camping arrangements on the mountain with a large mess tent and tables. Stay from Day 1 to Day 6 (Shitkadi to Gangabal). In Shitkadi, Stay will be in a Camp on a sharing basis. You will camp on the trek (3 people per tent).
2- Meals: All meals during the trek, starting with dinner on Day 1 till breakfast on Day 7. (Simple Nutritious Vegetarian food)
Tea/Coffee/Soups/Snacks will be served throughout.
3- Camping charges: All trekking permits and forest camping charges are included (if any).
4- Leaders & Guides: Trek leaders are assisted by certified and experienced local guides.
5- Trekking Equipment: High-quality tents, sleeping bags, ice axes, ropes, microspikes, gaiters, etc., as required.
6- Safety Equipment: First aid, medical kit, oxygen cylinders, stretchers, etc., will be available at all the campsites to deal with emergencies.
1- Transport to and from the base camp: We arrange shared taxis for trekkers from the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC), Srinagar to Shitkadi and drop you back from Shitkadi. This will cost approx. Rs. 8,500/- both sides for 5-6 seat vehicles (tentatively). You will have to share this cost with the other trekkers.
2- Food during transit to and from the base camp.
3- Backpack offloading charges: Rs. 3,000/- for the full trek + 5% GST. The backpack cannot weigh more than 9 kg. Suitcases/trolleys/duffel bags will not be allowed. Please note that charges will vary for the last-minute offloading in case you decide to offload your bag after reaching Shitkadi.
4- Anything apart from inclusions.
Cancellation requests are not taken over the phone.
We understand the frustration and disappointment that comes with having to cancel a trek or having it canceled. That's why TREKKARO has a trekker-friendly cancellation policy in place, designed to help minimize the impact of cancellations and provide a more flexible approach to planning your adventure.
To initiate a cancellation, all requests must be made in writing by the person who submitted the booking form or made the booking and sent to the company's contact via email, with a tax invoice copy at info@trekkaro.com.
This policy is effective from August 1st, 2024.
1. Cancellation 30 days before the start date of the trek: Get a refund with 30% cancellation charges of the trek fee.
2. Cancellation between 29 days and 15 days before the start date of the trek: Get a refund with 50% cancellation charges of the trek fee.
3. Cancellation within 14 days before the start date of the trek, or no show on the start day of the trek: Unfortunately, No refund or you can transfer your trek (same batch date & same trek) to your dear one OR apply for TREKCASH Voucher (Total fee paid) 14 days before your trek date which comes with 1-year validity.
4. If you used a voucher to register for a trek and now want to cancel, the cancellation policy applies. If there's a remaining balance after paying the cancellation charges, it will be credited back to your TREKKARO account. However, if the voucher's validity has expired at the time of cancellation, you won't be eligible for a refund, voucher extension, or any other compensation.
a. Change of trek batch date is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch.
b. In case of transferring a trek to your dear one, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements laid down by Trekkaro.
c. Trekkaro holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice.
Once the trek has commenced, there will be no refunds or vouchers provided for unused portions or services for any reason. Any changes or early ending or departure from the trek will be at your own expense and liability.
If your trek leader sends you down from the trek, this may occur due to various reasons such as lack of fitness, failure to maintain a safe turn-around time, altitude sickness, blood pressure issues, or other health concerns, or if you are found drinking or smoking during the trek or breaking the rules of the trek. Additionally, you may also be sent down if you decide to quit the trek on your own due to personal reasons.
Refund Policy
The applicable refund amount will be processed within 10 working days.
If we have to cancel/suspend your trek before the date of departure or at the last moment due to natural calamity or unforeseen circumstances (continuous rain or snow, snowstorms, thunderstorms, floods, landslides, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that prevents us from conducting a trek safely) or OR unexpected situations like political unrest, curfews, local riots, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders OR any other issues that affect the safety of the whole group, TREKKARO will issue a TrekCash Voucher for the total fee paid, redeemable within 1 year on any of our treks, with the requirement to pay any price difference for a higher-priced trek. The voucher will be generated within 10 working days and sent to your email address.
Note: In the instance of exchanging a TrekCash Voucher for your dear one, he/she ought to fulfill all the obligatory necessities set by Trekkaro.
When you take an adventurous trek with TREKKARO, then be assured that whatever we do is more than your expectations. Our wish to excel goes beyond the point where your boots hit the trail – it begins the moment that you get in contact with us, and it never ends. There is nothing more satisfying than hearing from our trekkers that they’ve just had “another trip of a lifetime with Trekkaro”.
It may come as a surprise, but the reality is that it is a two-way street (or trail), and you are ultimately responsible for the nature of the experience that you have with us. And not only that, but you also influence the experience of others in your small group.
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a popular destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of India. With its stunning alpine lakes, snowy mountains, and picturesque landscapes, it's no wonder that so many people choose to embark on this adventure. And with Trekkaro, you'll have all the necessary information and resources to plan your trip. Find out about the itinerary, dates, costs, and more with our comprehensive guide.
The Great Lakes of Kashmir trek is a popular hiking route in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The trek takes hikers through stunning alpine meadows, past crystal-clear lakes, and over high mountain passes. The trek is known for its breathtaking scenery and is a must-do for any avid hiker or nature enthusiast visiting the region.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is an exploration of a heavenly side of the region not seen before. This trek in the Himalayas offers the unique experience of traversing across three high-altitude passes and five river valley crossings, complete with seven picturesque alpine lakes in their radiant shades of green, blue, and turquoise – all in just 7 days! Every day, you can be surrounded by an incredible amount of opulence - azure skies and gigantic mountain panoramas; lush fields with wildflowers; river crossings, and hopping between stones. The KGL trek is sure to spoil you with its plethora of views! The trail ascends to an apex of 4,180 M, with altitudes that fluctuate between climbs and dips throughout. Despite the changes in terrain, it's relatively easy to follow - the only hiccup is having the stamina to cover 10 km or more each day. The Trek, at 74.5 km long, is a great selection for hikers wanting to up their game in the Himalayas. Experienced trekkers alike would appreciate it for its stunning visuals and luxurious trekking experience. The most opportune period for the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is from July to September. On this page, you can find a comprehensive itinerary, route map, and photos of the KGL trek.
Best Time:- The best time to go on the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is from July to September, when the weather is mild and the trekking conditions are favorable. However, it is important to note that the region can experience sudden weather changes, so it is always best to be prepared for any conditions.
Shitkadi, or the Meadow of Gold, is where the KGL trek begins. To ensure a smooth journey, opt for the transport with Trekkaro, boarding no later than 12:00 PM from the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) in Srinagar. If you are traveling independently, ideally aim to reach Sonmarg by 3-4 PM. We advise you to arrive at the base camp before 3:00 PM, providing you with an opportunity to get acquainted with the grandeur of Kashmir National Park. You can easily witness four majestic peaks Sirbal Peak, Kolahoi Peak, Amarnath Peak, Machoi Peak, and the Machoi Glacier from this location. The journey from Srinagar to Sonmarg may be short, but it's an enjoyable ride. Once you leave the city limits, there is little-to-no traffic and lovely natural scenery takes over instead. About thirty kilometers into the drive, picturesque snow-capped mountains pop up on the horizon with rolling green meadows on either side of the road. It's worth your while to take a day trip from Srinagar to admire these stunning views! We will base ourselves in camps for the day, with a Team introduction after tea in the evening followed by dinner.
Leaving Shitkadi at 8:00 AM, we will be hiking up and down the trail. The gradient is moderate, and there will be plenty of water sources for refilling water bottles along the way. We follow a vehicle track that descends to the Sind River, where the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek begins. When the trailhead is reached, it quickly rises. About ten minutes into the trek, the trail unexpectedly enters a patch of green meadows overlooking Sonmarg. It is at this point that civilization as we know it ends, and the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek begins! This is a breathtaking view of the Sindh River glistening in the early morning sunshine as she makes her way through this tiny town surrounded on either side by gorgeous mountains. This view only gets fuller and more resplendent as you ascend further up the trail. It takes 30 minutes to reach the top of the meadow. Maple trees, pine trees, and silver birch trees dot the landscape. The climb up to Nichnai, your campsite for the day, takes you through vibrant meadows dotted by clear brooks and streams!
Despite the moderate gradient, be prepared for long hours of walking. We will break camp early for the day and start at 8 a.m. Through the day, the scenery shifts winningly, from a stroll through expansive meadows to a stroll along the banks of a river to a moderate climb up the Nichnai Pass, followed by a sharp descent. As you walk along the river running through the Nichnai Campsite, look for feasible spots where you can cross it. The Nichnai Pass is located on the other side of the river. The Pass (which can be seen from the campsite itself) can be reached once you reach the other side of the river bank. After a couple of bends along the ridge, the trail ascends steadily for about an hour to the top of the ridgeline that was visible from the meadow below. However, this isn't the actual pass. The actual pass begins after a couple of bends along the ridge. On the left, snow-covered mountains line the passageway. On the right, the land rises, giving the impression of walking through a tunnel. You descend quickly and steeply on rocky terrain from the top of the Pass to the meadows below. You will notice that colorful little flowers dot the grass here. A new river flows into this region from the Pass. The horizon is filled with numerous, narrow trails.
On your left, you will see snow-clad mountains, while on your right, there are stretches of barren and rugged mountain faces. Continue walking along one of these trails and continue walking forward. In addition to the sharp contrast in scenery, the dewiness of the grass and flowers at your feet make this one of the most beautiful meadow walks on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. Our campsite for the day is located two hours away beyond yet another river crossing and not far from an alpine lake with startlingly blue waters that are bound to have you hooked right from the moment you lay your eyes on it. Vishansar Lake is just a short distance from Kishansar Lake, another famous lake.
Our trek today consists of a steep two-hour ascent followed by a steep two-hour descent and then a gentle walk through the meadows. We will have plenty of water sources along the way for refilling water bottles. The trail begins with the climb of a pencil-thin ridge along the mountainside near Kishansar Lake. It takes about an hour and a half to reach the top of this ridge. The mountains unfold a stunning view of the Kishansar and Vishansar lakes together about halfway up your ascent! Once you reach the top of the ridge, the trail descends steeply for an hour before opening up into a valley surrounded by mountain ranges. Aside from the bright red, yellow, purple, and blue flowers popping out of the green grass, these meadows are by far one of the brightest on the trek. After climbing up the pass, this meadow makes you want to flop down and catch a nap. Gadsar Lake lies beyond this meadow. Because Gadsar Lake is the least visited of the seven alpine lakes, it has the most piercing blue waters. Quite a few make weekend trips from Sonamarg to Vishansar and Kishansar, but most make the trip from Naranag to Gangabal on the other side of the trail. Despite this, Gadsar remains untouched due to its location at the highest point of the trek, making it difficult to reach. An Indian Army camp near our campsite will collect, check, and record all of our original ID cards one and a half hours away from Gadsar Lake.
The gradient for the day is mostly moderate barring the first one and a half hours of steep ascent. Post that, it is a level walk up to the next campsite. The landscape on today’s trail stands in sharp contrast to the river valleys we have been trekking through till now. The terrain is rugged, desolate, and captivating in its isolation. Meadows are scant and are marked by scattered patches of white flowers. Boulders and rocky terrain dominate the landscape with an occasional brook cutting through them. We will be crossing an army camp today as well where our original ID cards will be collected, checked, and recorded before letting us cross. Rolling grasslands once again take over the terrain beyond the army camp. Ten minutes away lay the first of the Satsar Lakes. Satsar is a group of seven inter-connected lakes situated in a narrow alpine valley stretching north to south. The lakes drain out into the Wangath Nallah which is a tributary of the Sindh. Big and picturesque in its greenery and backdrop of the mountains, we will be setting up camp here for the day.
We begin by taking the trail heading out of the Satsar Campsite. This section of the trail is exciting mainly because it is dominated by boulders. Most hikers, we have noticed, are comfortable getting down on all fours when jumping from boulder to boulder. You should also be careful not to lose your balance by jumping on loose rocks. After traversing these boulders, we come upon the largest and last Satsar Lakes. It is then time to gain altitude again, so be prepared for a steep climb over the next three and a half hours. We descend for a good 30 minutes until we are confronted by ridge lines that run across the mountains. As we climb from the base, the terrain becomes increasingly rocky and barren. This is probably why KGL treats you to the most theatrical view of the trek on this ridge- a vertigo-inducing view of Gangabal and Nandakol lakes nestled snugly in a valley to make up for the starkness of the landscape. You are compelled to take a break to watch the spectacle unfolding in front of you as mist and fog playfully flit into and out of the scene concealing and revealing the twin lakes. From the top of the ridge to the campsite, it is a very long descent from Gangabal Lake.
Trekkers and tents are more common here than they are at the other campsites. Nandakol and Gangabal are well known for trout fishing in the region. The lake at Nandakol's base is bewitching in its setting. It is fascinating to observe how light and clouds interact on the glacier. A jagged glacier clings to the slopes of the Harmukh Peak. Take some time to explore Gangabal Lake once you've set up camp at Nandakol. The lake is a short walk away from the campsite and you will notice that it is less crowded and more tranquil than Nandakol. There are colorful pebbles on the waterbed near the banks. The lake is surrounded by a mountain. Remnants of a glacier rest at its base, feeding it. The banks are long and pleasant to walk along. Make sure you return to your campsites before dark once you have explored.
Today we will be descending to the Naranag road head, which is where our trek ends. The distance is long and the trail becomes steep towards the end. The ridgeline runs downstream from Gangabal campsite towards the trees. It takes about an hour to reach the treeline. Continue walking along its fringe. For the first 7 Km, you don't lose altitude. There are gentle ascents followed by flat walks through lush meadows. On the way, you see a few huts dotting the landscape. It makes you wonder what it would be like to live there. Once you reach 7 Km, the trail starts to drop sharply. The trail is mostly muddy and runs under pine trees. Naranag appears to be in sight after one or two kilometers, but there is still a long way to go. We should reach Naranag by the afternoon. Our vehicles to Srinagar will be waiting there. We should arrive in Srinagar around 6 PM. To account for any delays on your way, make sure your transport leaves the city post 9 if you plan to leave Srinagar the same day.
If the buffer day is used, you will need to pay Rs 2,000 per day + 5% GST. The money will be collected by the trek leader only if we use the buffer day.
From Srinagar's airport, which is connected to all major airports in India, you can reach Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) in 45 to 60 minutes via taxi.
If you are planning on taking the train, there are two railway stations nearby. Jammu station is about 260 km away, and you can expect an 8-hour bus ride to your destination. Udhampur is slightly closer at 200 km and requires only a 6-hour journey by bus to reach Srinagar.
Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) can be reached by bus from any major city in Srinagar. From the bus stand, it will take about 30 minutes to reach the garden.
• Backpack & Rain Cover (40-60 Litres)
• Trekking Shoes
• Trekking Pole
• LED Torch/Headlamp
• Two Water Bottle (one liter each)
• Basic Medications (or prescribed if any)
• Trekking Jacket
• Three (Five in winter) Warm Layers
• Two trek pants (one Wear and one carry)
• Two collared t-shirts
• Thermals
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 50/70)
• Lip Balm (SPF 30)
• Sun cap
• Synthetic hand gloves
• Two pairs of Socks
• Raincoat/Ponchos
• Daypack (20 liters), if you opt to offload your backpack
• Toiletries
• Lunch Box
• Plastic cover (for wet clothes)
• Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Passport, Aadhaar Card, Driving license, or voter ID)
• Life insurance or travel insurance
• Medical Certificate
1- Accommodation: Full-load camping arrangements on the mountain with a large mess tent and tables. Stay from Day 1 to Day 6 (Shitkadi to Gangabal). In Shitkadi, Stay will be in a Camp on a sharing basis. You will camp on the trek (3 people per tent).
2- Meals: All meals during the trek, starting with dinner on Day 1 till breakfast on Day 7. (Simple Nutritious Vegetarian food)
Tea/Coffee/Soups/Snacks will be served throughout.
3- Camping charges: All trekking permits and forest camping charges are included (if any).
4- Leaders & Guides: Trek leaders are assisted by certified and experienced local guides.
5- Trekking Equipment: High-quality tents, sleeping bags, ice axes, ropes, microspikes, gaiters, etc., as required.
6- Safety Equipment: First aid, medical kit, oxygen cylinders, stretchers, etc., will be available at all the campsites to deal with emergencies.
1- Transport to and from the base camp: We arrange shared taxis for trekkers from the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC), Srinagar to Shitkadi and drop you back from Shitkadi. This will cost approx. Rs. 8,500/- both sides for 5-6 seat vehicles (tentatively). You will have to share this cost with the other trekkers.
2- Food during transit to and from the base camp.
3- Backpack offloading charges: Rs. 3,000/- for the full trek + 5% GST. The backpack cannot weigh more than 9 kg. Suitcases/trolleys/duffel bags will not be allowed. Please note that charges will vary for the last-minute offloading in case you decide to offload your bag after reaching Shitkadi.
4- Anything apart from inclusions.
Cancellation requests are not taken over the phone.
We understand the frustration and disappointment that comes with having to cancel a trek or having it canceled. That's why TREKKARO has a trekker-friendly cancellation policy in place, designed to help minimize the impact of cancellations and provide a more flexible approach to planning your adventure.
To initiate a cancellation, all requests must be made in writing by the person who submitted the booking form or made the booking and sent to the company's contact via email, with a tax invoice copy at info@trekkaro.com.
This policy is effective from August 1st, 2024.
1. Cancellation 30 days before the start date of the trek: Get a refund with 30% cancellation charges of the trek fee.
2. Cancellation between 29 days and 15 days before the start date of the trek: Get a refund with 50% cancellation charges of the trek fee.
3. Cancellation within 14 days before the start date of the trek, or no show on the start day of the trek: Unfortunately, No refund or you can transfer your trek (same batch date & same trek) to your dear one OR apply for TREKCASH Voucher (Total fee paid) 14 days before your trek date which comes with 1-year validity.
4. If you used a voucher to register for a trek and now want to cancel, the cancellation policy applies. If there's a remaining balance after paying the cancellation charges, it will be credited back to your TREKKARO account. However, if the voucher's validity has expired at the time of cancellation, you won't be eligible for a refund, voucher extension, or any other compensation.
a. Change of trek batch date is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch.
b. In case of transferring a trek to your dear one, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements laid down by Trekkaro.
c. Trekkaro holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice.
Once the trek has commenced, there will be no refunds or vouchers provided for unused portions or services for any reason. Any changes or early ending or departure from the trek will be at your own expense and liability.
If your trek leader sends you down from the trek, this may occur due to various reasons such as lack of fitness, failure to maintain a safe turn-around time, altitude sickness, blood pressure issues, or other health concerns, or if you are found drinking or smoking during the trek or breaking the rules of the trek. Additionally, you may also be sent down if you decide to quit the trek on your own due to personal reasons.
Refund Policy
The applicable refund amount will be processed within 10 working days.
If we have to cancel/suspend your trek before the date of departure or at the last moment due to natural calamity or unforeseen circumstances (continuous rain or snow, snowstorms, thunderstorms, floods, landslides, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that prevents us from conducting a trek safely) or OR unexpected situations like political unrest, curfews, local riots, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders OR any other issues that affect the safety of the whole group, TREKKARO will issue a TrekCash Voucher for the total fee paid, redeemable within 1 year on any of our treks, with the requirement to pay any price difference for a higher-priced trek. The voucher will be generated within 10 working days and sent to your email address.
Note: In the instance of exchanging a TrekCash Voucher for your dear one, he/she ought to fulfill all the obligatory necessities set by Trekkaro.
When you take an adventurous trek with TREKKARO, then be assured that whatever we do is more than your expectations. Our wish to excel goes beyond the point where your boots hit the trail – it begins the moment that you get in contact with us, and it never ends. There is nothing more satisfying than hearing from our trekkers that they’ve just had “another trip of a lifetime with Trekkaro”.
It may come as a surprise, but the reality is that it is a two-way street (or trail), and you are ultimately responsible for the nature of the experience that you have with us. And not only that, but you also influence the experience of others in your small group.
Transportation will be arranged from the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC), Srinagar at noon. The cab costs Rs 8,500 per vehicle (both sides) and has to be paid directly to the driver.
If the buffer day is used, you will need to pay Rs. 2,000/- per day + 5% GST. The money will be collected by the Trek Leader only if we use the buffer day.
Sonmarg has the last ATM point before you reach Shitkari (Basecamp) of Kashmir Great Lake Trek or Great Lakes Trek if you need to withdraw money.
Shitkari is the last place before starting your trek where you’re likely to get a stable mobile signal (Postpaid SIM only). Finish all your important phone calls here and inform anxious family members about limited phone connectivity.
We’ve been the leaders in providing Free Trekking Gear (FTG) on treks for more than 6 years. How’d we get here? By redefining the way, everyone must trek. Check out how we’re creating the future of trekking around the globe.
Trekkaro is the world's only free trekking gear company, providing high-quality gear from the Decathlon brand to trekkers at no cost. Say goodbye to the hassle and expense of buying or renting gear for your next trek. Trekkaro offers everything from trek shoes to jackets rated for temperatures as low as -10 degrees, as well as poles, gaiters, and microspikes. Join Trekkaro today and experience the freedom of trekking without the burden of expensive gear.
Trekkaro offers free cancellation policies for all trekkers. If you need to cancel your trek for any reason, we provide a TrekCash Voucher that is equal to 100% of the amount you paid. This voucher has a 1-year validity, so you can use it towards any future trekking adventure with us. We want to make sure that our trekkers have the flexibility they need to plan their trips with confidence.
Trekkaro is the best trekking company in India, according to its impressive 4.9/5 rating on Facebook and 4.8/5 rating on Google. Customers rave about their experiences with Trekkaro, leaving glowing reviews and recommending the company to others. With such high ratings, it's clear that Trekkaro is a top choice for anyone looking to explore the beautiful landscapes of India through trekking.
We always help keep you safe from the moment you book to the moment you (reluctantly) head home.
No matter the trek difficulty, our treks balance well-planned itineraries with the flexibility to do your own thing and make the experience your own.
When you trek with us, you experience first-hand our commitment to making the trek a force for good in everything we do.