Trek · Sonamarg, Kashmir
Kashmir Great Lakes trek from Sonamarg
This seven-day trek starts at Shitkadi near Sonamarg, crosses Nichnai, Gadsar and Zajibal passes, and passes a chain of alpine lakes, Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and the twin Gangabal and Nundkol, before descending to Naranag. It is one of India's finest high-meadow treks.
Photo: Owais Mushtaq Zargar · CC BY-SA 4.0 · CommonsDay one climbs from Shitkadi through maple and birch forest to the meadow at Nichnai. From there the route crosses Nichnai pass to Vishansar and Krishansar lakes, climbs Gadsar pass at about 4,200 m, and continues past Gadsar and Satsar to the twin lakes of Gangabal and Nundkol below Mount Harmukh. The final day drops steeply through pine forest to Naranag, with its old stone temples.
Total distance is about 70 km over six walking days, with most camps above 3,500 m. That means real acclimatisation risk: gain height slowly, drink plenty of water, and know the symptoms of altitude sickness. Talk to your doctor before the trek if you have heart, lung or blood pressure conditions. Fitness matters; train with long uphill walks for six to eight weeks.
The season runs from about July to mid-September. Treks are run by many registered operators from Srinagar, and the forest and police departments may require registration and ID checks along the route. Carry your trash out and avoid soaps in the lakes. Check current status before you travel.
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Rafting the Sindh below Sonamarg
In summer, local operators run short rafting stretches on the Sindh river just below Sonamarg. The water is glacier-fed…
Questions
Before you book
How difficult is the Kashmir Great Lakes trek?
Moderate to difficult. It covers about 70 km in six walking days with three high passes, the highest about 4,200 m, and long descents. Fit beginners with good preparation complete it, but it is not a first trek for unfit walkers. Acclimatisation is essential.
What does the Great Lakes trek cost?
Group departures from Srinagar with tents, meals, guides and ponies usually cost ₹18,000–30,000 per person for the seven days. Private treks cost more. Add travel to Srinagar, gear rental and offloading of your backpack if needed. Check what permits and fees are included.
When is the best time for the Great Lakes trek?
July to mid-September. July has more snow on the passes and peak wildflowers; August is the most stable; early September is clear and cold with fewer groups. Outside this window snow closes the passes. Check current trail and permit status before you travel.