Kashmir Great Lakes Trek | 7 Glacial Alpine Lakes Expedition
Vishansar and Kishansar twin alpine lakes from Gadsar Pass ridge
Expedition Overview
Widely regarded as the most beautiful multi-day trek in the Indian Himalayas. Over 7 breathtaking days, cross 3 high-altitude mountain passes and camp beside 7 pristine turquoise glacial lakes: Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangabal, and Nundkol, guarded by the mighty Mt. Harmukh.
Trek Highlights
Detailed Expedition Itinerary
Drive from Srinagar to Sonamarg Basecamp (7,800 ft)
3 hours drive to Sonamarg; acclimatization and camp briefing beside the Sindh river.
Sonamarg to Nichnai via Shekdur (11,500 ft / 9 km)
Trek through silver birch and maple forests to the Nichnai valley.
Nichnai to Vishansar Lake via Nichnai Pass (12,000 ft / 12 km)
Cross Nichnai Pass (13,100 ft) into the paradise valley of Vishansar.
Vishansar to Gadsar via Gadsar Pass (13,750 ft / 14 km)
Climb to Kishansar and cross highest Gadsar Pass; descend to pristine Gadsar lake.
Gadsar to Satsar (12,000 ft / 9 km)
Trek along 7 interconnected alpine tarns (Satsar) and army checkpost.
Satsar to Gangabal & Nundkol via Zaj Pass (11,500 ft / 11 km)
Cross Zaj Pass overlooking twin lakes of Gangabal & Nundkol beneath Mt. Harmukh.
Gangabal to Naranag & Drive to Srinagar (6,800 ft / 13 km)
Descend steep pine trail to Naranag ruins; cab transfer to Srinagar by 6:30 PM.
Base Camp & Assembly Office Location
TRC Ground / Dal Lake Boulevard, Srinagar, Kashmir
Tourist Reception Centre, Srinagar, J&K 190001
Near Dal Lake Gate 1
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- ✓All meals on trek (fresh, nutritious vegetarian)
- ✓4-season alpine tents, sleeping bags, liners & foam mats
- ✓Certified Kashmiri mountain guides, camp staff & pack horses
- ✓Army permissions & wildlife department camping permits
What's Excluded
- ✕Srinagar to Sonamarg & Naranag to Srinagar shared cab
- ✕Backpack offloading
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is KGL trek difficult for beginners?
KGL is a moderate-to-difficult trek spanning 72 km with 3 high passes. Prior fitness training or previous Himalayan trekking experience is strongly recommended.
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