Kashmir Great Lakes
Ganderbal, Kashmir
Grade
Moderate to Difficult
No of Days
Maximum Altitude
4200m
Price
INR 14500/- per person Srinagar to Srinagar
Available Date
15th July to 22nd July 2025
03rd Aug to 10th Aug 2025
10th Aug to 17th Aug 2025
17th Aug to 24th Aug 2025
Kashmir, The Heaven on Earth: Is It Truly Paradise?
All you need to know about Kashmir Great Lakes for 2025
The legendary poet Amir Khusro once wrote:
"Agar Firdaus Bar Roo-e-Zaminast, Haminasto, Haminasto, Haminasto."
"If there is a heaven on Earth, it is here, it is here, it is here!"
For trekkers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers, these words take on an even deeper meaning when they step into the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir, often referred to as the Paradise on Earth. But does Kashmir truly live up to this poetic reputation?
Anyone who has wandered through its majestic meadows, alpine lakes, and snow-clad peaks will undoubtedly say yes. Among the many adventures that showcase the true beauty of this region, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (KGL) stands out as a mesmerizing journey into the heart of the Himalayan wilderness.
Why the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is the Ultimate Himalayan Adventure
1. Trekking Through Mesmerizing Trails and Campsites
Every day on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek feels like stepping into a new world. The trail unfolds through:
✅ Verdant meadows painted with colorful wildflowers
✅ Dramatic valleys flanked by snow-capped Himalayan peaks
✅ Boulder-strewn trails and glacial moraines that test your endurance
✅ Breathtaking campsites by alpine lakes, where mornings begin with golden sunrises and nights are illuminated by a sky full of stars
The journey isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about embracing the untamed beauty of Kashmir, one step at a time.
2. The Legendary Glacial Lakes of Kashmir
The trek is named after its stunning high-altitude lakes, each more breathtaking than the last. Every lake tells a story, mirroring the grandeur of the mountains and sky:
💙 Vishansar Lake – A jewel of serenity, reflecting the towering peaks like a mirror.
💙 Krishansar Lake – A mystical lake, changing its shades of blue with the movement of the sun.
💙 Gadsar Lake – Known as the Lake of Flowers, surrounded by vibrant alpine blooms.
💙 Satsar Lakes – A cluster of interconnected lakes, a hidden paradise along the trail.
💙 Twin Lakes of Gangbal & Nundkol – Guarded by the mighty Mt. Harmukh (16,870 ft), a sight of pure magnificence.
One of the trek’s most exhilarating moments is reaching Zach Pass (13,500 ft), where you get a 360-degree panoramic view of the Karakoram Range, glacial lakes, and the pristine valleys stretching far beyond the horizon.
3. The Gadsar to Satsar Journey – A Trekker’s Dream
The most magical day of the trek is the journey from Gadsar to Satsar. Imagine walking through:
🌿 Emerald-green meadows carpeted with wildflowers
🌊 Glistening streams weaving through the valley
🪨 Boulder zones that challenge your endurance, adding an element of adventure
This section of the trek is a blend of serenity and thrill, making it a favorite among seasoned trekkers.
4. Conquering Zach Pass – The Ultimate Himalayan Reward
The climb to Zach Pass is a test of both endurance and spirit. But when you reach the top, the reward is beyond imagination:
🏔️ A stunning view of the Karakoram & Pir Panjal Ranges
💎 A breathtaking panorama of Kashmir’s twin lakes—Gangbal & Nundkol
❄️ An unforgettable sense of accomplishment as you stand amidst the towering Himalayas
It’s a moment of pure euphoria, where nature's grandeur unfolds before your eyes.
Difficulty Level and Preparation for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
🚶♂️ Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
📏 Total Distance: 75 km
⏳ Duration: 7 Days
🗻 Highest Altitude: 13,750 ft
Though classified as a moderate trek, the steep ascents, long trekking hours, and boulder crossings demand good physical fitness. It’s advisable to:
✔️ Engage in cardio training & strength workouts before the trek
✔️ Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness
✔️ Carry essential trekking gear like sturdy boots, rain gear, and warm clothing
Best time for Kashmir great lakes trek ?
The best time for the KGL trek is July to September, when:
🌿 The meadows are lush green after the summer bloom
🏔️ The peaks remain snow-capped, creating a stunning contrast
🌞 The weather is stable, offering clear blue skies and perfect trekking conditions
With Himalayan Passion’s expert trek leaders, high-quality equipment, and well-organized campsites, 2025 is the perfect year to tick off this once-in-a-lifetime adventure from your bucket list.
Is the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Worth It?
🌄 Absolutely! The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek isn’t just a journey; it’s an experience that connects you to the soul of the Himalayas. Here’s why:
✨ Spectacular landscapes that change every day
✨ Tranquil lakes reflecting the grandeur of the mountains
✨ Untouched Himalayan beauty, away from the crowds
✨ A perfect blend of adventure, thrill, and serenity
Whether you're a passionate trekker, a nature enthusiast, or a photographer seeking the perfect frame, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek 2025 promises an adventure that will stay with you forever.
🌟 Are you ready to explore the Heaven on Earth? Book your trek now with Himalayan Passion and embark on the adventure of a lifetime!
Itinerary
Day 01
Day 02
Day 03
Day 04
Day 05
Day 06
Day 07
Day 08
Reporting at Srinagar, by 12 Noon, then drive to Shitkadi(Sonmarg). On arrival in Shitkadi, briefing and registration to be completed by every trekkers and participants. Spend the evening time in beautiful Shitkadi. Overnight stay at Camp.
After early morning breakfast trek to Nichnai, which is approximately 12KMs. The trail is mostly gradual ascent with amazing wide views of the mountains, the beautiful streams will follow you throughout the trail. Trail runs through deodar trees, and chestnut. One will start to fall in love with the colors. Overnight stay at camp.
After morning breakfast, trek to Vishnasar lake, and Krishnasar Lake of altitude 3,700m. of distance 13km, the trail is Moderate to gradual ascent and descent. One witnesses the beautiful meadows, colourful valleys after crossing the Nichnai Pass. And magnificent view of high stone peaks, Vishnasar Lake and Krishnasar Lake, defintely blows the mind. Overnight stay in camp, beside the river.
After morning breakfast, trek to Gadsar Lake, via Gadsar Pass, which is at an altitude of 4200m. of distance 16 km. The trail is of steep ascent till the Gadsar Pass. Then after crossing the pass the trail is surrounded by meadows, green velvet valleys and colourful wildflower bushes. One could view beautiful Gadsar Lake surrounded by the high stone peaks. Overnight stay at Camp.
After breakfast, trek to Satsar Lake, of Altitude 3610m with distance of 10km, with steep ascent, till the Satsar Pass. Today is the most beautiful day with amazingly stunning and astonishing view, one could have ever witnessed through out. Satsar Lake, combines of seven small lakes joined with a common stream, with a huge Lake, which is mainly known as Satsar Lake, the views around the lake takes the traveler to some another planet of amusement and wanderland. Overnight stay at camp.
After early morning breakfast trek to Gangabal and Nundkol Twin lakes, which lies at an altitude of 3575m with a distance of 16 km, the trail today is steep till the Zach Pass, just as one reaches the summit of the Zach Pass, the wide view of superficial Gangabal and Nundkol Lake at the Foothills of Mt. Harmukh opens and mesmerizes the trekkers. Mt Harmukh, resembles somewhere like Mt. Kailash. After Zach Pass the trail is entirely downhill and through the beautiful green meadows. Overnight stay at camp.
Buffer day (Note:- Buffer day is kept mainly for the weather issues since Kashmir Great Lakes in a monsoon trek, so the buffer day is generally used if it rains too heavily. Otherwise the buffer day is not utilized, depending upon the weather conditions and trail conditions, decision is to be made by the Trek Leader).
After early morning breakfast trek to Naranag of distance 12km, the trail is entirely easy and descent. After reaching Naranag, drive to Srinagar City, we will drop you to the City, (Dal Lake/Lal Chowk). Driving time to Srinagar may increase due to of heavy traffic. Make your further travel plan from Srinagar after 8:00 pm. Or one can opt to stay in Srinagar at their own cost.
"What included"
Cost of transportation from Srinagar to Srinagar
Cost of Fooding while on trek (Morning and evening Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner- meals will be provided. Breakfast-Roti, Sabji/Maggi, etc., Lunch/Dinner-Rice/Roti, Sabji, Dal, Achar, etc.).(Day 1:- Evening Tea to Day 8:- Breakfast)
Technical Camping equipments:- Tents(sharing basis), Sleeping Bag, Mattress, Utensils, Microspikes, Technical climbing equipments
Guide,Support staff,cook, Supporting crew.
Cost of Permit fees.
"What not included"
Cost of Personal expenses.
Cost of emergency due to bad weather conditions.
Cost of personal porter for offloading
Meals during transit i.e. meals while on road or travelling will not be provided. Only breakfast will be provided in Last day (Day 8)
Anything which is not mentioned in the inclusion.
Cost of stay in Srinagar.
Extra Stays.
Prepaid Sims/Numbers don't work in Srinagar(Kashmir), Requested to carry personal Postpaid Sim/Number
Photo Gallery
Booking Policy:
To book your trek, you need to pay 30% of the trek fees as advance. Rest 70% to be paid in cash when you reach the basecamp, to be collected by the team leader.
One can pay the amount online(Net Banking, GPay, UPI ID).
Details to be shared on request.
Cancellation Policy:
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30 days before the trek date, full refund of the paid amount
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15 days before the trek date, 50% refund of the paid amount.
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Cancellation less than 15days to the start date of the trek, no refund possible
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In case Himalayan Passion cancels the trek or trip, full refund will be paid.
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One has option to send another person on their behalf.
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One has option to adjust the paid amount on any other trek, if a person cannot join the trek he/she paid for.