Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is without any doubt the best summer trek of India. It remains the most famous and sought-after. The trek has a variety and offers a scenic landscape unparalleled with any of the other treks. The 8 turquoise alpine lakes sit charmingly in the lush meadows of its valley. It indeed has the most alpine lakes that any trek can offer. This trek is also called 7 lakes of Kashmir Trek. Owing to the many alpine lakes one sees on this trek, the trek has become famous for its 7 alpine lakes and rightly now called 7 lakes of Kashmir Trek.
Kashmir Great Lakes trek starts from Sonamarg – the famous tourist place in Kashmir. The trek winds up through jungles, meadows, gullies, and the vast spread of grasslands in the high altitude of Kashmir. The total duration of the trek is 7 days, and the gradient of the trek is moderate to difficult. It is best done in summers and remains closed during the winter season.
Day 1: Srinagar to Sonamarg (2,730m)
3-hour scenic drive along Sindh River
Acclimatization day with gear check and briefing
Overnight camping near Sonamarg
Day 2: Sonamarg to Nichnai (3,505m)
9km trek (6-7 hours) through Table Top meadow
Gradual ascent with Thajwas Glacier views
Camp beside flower-filled Nichnai valley
Day 3: Nichnai to Vishansar Lake (3,650m)
Cross Nichnai Pass (4,100m)
Descend to twin lakes (Vishansar & Kishansar)
13km trek (5-6 hours)
Day 4: Vishansar to Gadsar via Gadsar Pass (4,200m)
Most challenging day (14km, 8-9 hours)
Steep ascent to Gadsar Pass with panoramic views
Descend through wildflower meadows to Gadsar Lake
Day 5: Gadsar to Satsar Lakes (3,600m)
12km relatively easier trek (5-6 hours)
Pass through seven interconnected alpine lakes
Rocky terrain with mountain vistas
Day 6: Satsar to Gangabal/Nundkol Lakes (3,587m)
Cross Zajibal Pass (4,000m)
First views of Gangabal twin lakes
9km trek (5-6 hours) with boulder sections
Day 7: Gangabal to Naranag (2,271m)
Long descent through Trunkhol meadows
13km trek (6-7 hours) ending at Naranag temple
Drive back to Srinagar
Physical Requirements:
Prior high-altitude trekking experience recommended
Ability to walk 6-8 hours daily with 8-10kg backpack
Comfortable with steep ascents/descents on rocky terrain
Training Suggestions:
6-8 weeks pre-trek cardio (running, stair climbing)
Strength training for legs and core
Practice hikes with loaded backpack
Clothing:
Layered clothing (thermal base, fleece, down jacket)
Waterproof jacket and pants
Trekking pants and quick-dry t-shirts
Equipment:
High-ankle waterproof trekking shoes
Trekking poles (highly recommended)
Headlamp with extra batteries
Accessories:
Sunglasses (UV protection)
Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm
Personal medical kit and water purification tablets
Altitude Considerations:
Gradual ascent profile for proper acclimatization
AMS prevention protocols followed by guides
Emergency oxygen and first aid available
Permits & Regulations:
All necessary permits arranged by operator
Strict no-littering policy in fragile alpine zones
Fishing prohibited without special license
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Trekking Distance: 65 km
Maximum Altitude: 4,200m at Gadsar Pass
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Best Season: June to September (ideal weather conditions)
Starting Point: Sonamarg
End Point: Naranag
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