Top Places for Trekking in Kashmir

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is an eight-day trek that takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote areas of the Kashmir Valley. The trek starts from Sonamarg, which is situated at an altitude of 7,800 feet. From there, you will trek through dense forests, beautiful meadows, and high-altitude lakes.

The Gangabal Lake Trek is a moderate-level trek that starts from the quaint town of Sonamarg, situated at an altitude of 2800 meters. The trek covers a distance of approximately 20 km and takes around 3-4 days to complete. The trail is marked with rocky terrains, narrow ridges, and streams, making it a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Located near Srinagar, this trek takes you on a mesmerizing journey to the pristine Tarsar and Marsar lakes, nestled amid the grandeur of the Himalayas. The trail winds through lush meadows, dense pine forests, and charming shepherd villages, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. An immersive experience, the Tarsar Marsar Trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural encounters, making it a must-try for trekking enthusiasts exploring the enchanting realms of Srinagar.

The Bodpathri Lakes Trek is a less-explored gem in Kashmir, offering a unique experience away from the more popular trekking routes. With an altitude of 13,100 ft and a total distance of 50 km, this trek promises untouched beauty and serene landscapes. Starting from Doodhpathri, the trail passes through pine-covered hills, alpine lakes, and meadows with breathtaking views of Pir Panjal and surrounding peaks. The trek is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the chance to spot Golden Oriole birds.

The Kolahoi Glacier trek in Kashmir offers a mesmerizing adventure amidst pristine landscapes. Located at the base of Mount Kolahoi, the glacier is a stunning expanse of ice surrounded by towering peaks. Trekkers navigate through lush meadows, dense forests, and alpine terrain, culminating in the breathtaking sight of the colossal Kolahoi Glacier. This trek provides an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, showcasing the unparalleled beauty of the Kashmir Valley.

Vishansar Lake, nestled amidst the pristine landscapes of Kashmir, is a breathtaking high-altitude gem. Surrounded by towering mountains, this alpine lake is a paradise for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The trek to Vishansar Lake takes adventurers through lush meadows, dense pine forests, and snow-clad slopes, offering a captivating journey. At an elevation of over 12,000 feet, the serene Vishansar Lake rewards trekkers with unparalleled natural beauty and a tranquil ambiance.

Thajiwas Glacier Trek is a short one which starts from Sonamarg and ends at the Glacier. The trek takes you to a frozen lake, through pine and fir trees and lush green surroundings on the way. There is a path from the Glacier leading all the way up to the Shakhdar Hill. During the summer season, one can come across local Gujjar tribes. The climb up to the Sindh River is what makes the Thajiwas Glacier much more exciting and enjoyable.

Perched at 9843 feet, Khilanmarg is a lush meadow surrounded by dense pine forests, just 5 kilometers from Gulmarg. The trek, ideal for a one-day adventure, includes a visit to the frozen Alpather Lake, a stunning attraction that remains icy for most months of the year. With panoramic mountain brooks like Ningle Nallah and Ferozepur Nallah, along with a range of activities like mountain biking, rock climbing, and Gondola rides, Khilanmarg promises an exhilarating experience amid Kashmir's natural wonders.

Embark on the enchanting Narang Mahlish Trek, a year-round adventure weaving through Naranag, Trunkhol, and Gangabal, culminating in breathtaking views of alpine lakes nestled at the foot of Mount Harmukh. The trek winds through dense pine forests, offering a verdant retreat for nature lovers, with the unique return route leading through the captivating pine forest of Butsheri. In winter, the trail transforms into a serene and adventurous realm, inviting intrepid explorers to experience the unmatched beauty of Kashmir's snow-laden landscapes.