The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most beautiful yet challenging treks in India. As one of the most sought after treks in the country, it is a favorite among trekkers and nature enthusiasts. However, the trek is accessible only during a brief period of time throughout the year. In this guided article, we’ll take a deep dive into the Kashmir Great Lakes trek – a brief overview of its route, best time to do the trek, and important tips to keep in mind.
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek: Route Overview, Best Time, Tips, And More
What Is The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek encompasses a trek route of about 74 km, beginning from Shitkadi and ending at Naranag. The trek route goes through high-altitude passes that have an average elevation of anywhere between 7,200 to 13,800 ft!
Here is the route that most trekkers follow in the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:
Srinagar – Shitkadi – Nichnai – Vishansar Lake via Nichnai Pass – Gadsar Lake via Gadsar Pass – Satsar Lake – Gangbal Lake via Zaj Pass – Naranag – Srinagar
Distance And Duration Of The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
This exhilarating trek covers an approximate distance of 74 km starting from Shitkadi, which is itself about 75 to 80 km away from Srinagar.
The duration of the trek is set to be usually 7 days, given that trekkers walk for about 7 to 9 hours on a daily basis during their journey. It might take an additional day or more for some trekkers, especially if they are not used to trekking.
“How difficult is Kashmir Great Lakes trek?”
It is considered to be a moderately difficult trek as it involves a long distance and a broad elevation range. This is why the trek is recommended mostly to trekkers with good trekking expertise and a certain fitness level.
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Best Time For Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
Let’s understand the main point of concern of this article – the best time for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.
The best time to participate in this trek is often considered to be between July and September. This is when the trek route starts getting rid of ice and starts receiving rainfall.
Plants, flowers, and other vegetation near the lakes in this trek start to bloom and bask in the tender sunlight. Average daytime temperatures are quite pleasant, hovering around 10°C to 20°C. And as night approaches, temperatures can go as low as 2°C!
During July and September, the air is comparatively humid and weather is mostly pleasant, allowing trekkers to comfortably explore the beauty of the Kashmir Valley. In fact, the skies are so clear during this time that you can spot rainbows in the day and stargaze in the night!
However, beyond the narrow July-September window, the route is mostly covered in snow. This makes traversing through the passes, valleys, and mountain ranges quite challenging. Avoid trekking during any time of the year except July to September.
Here are a few additional perks of trekking between July to September:
Why July?
- Least rainfall compared to August and September
- Newly-blooming greenery
- Good trail conditions
Why August?
- Peak blooming season; a treat for photographers and nature lovers
- Comfortable temperatures
- Occasional rain that brings only more life to the stunning landscape
September, But Why?
- Clearer skies and better mountain views
- Fewer trekkers
- A gradual shift towards the autumn season; noticeable through the green and golden-brown hues of local vegetation
Things To Keep In Mind When Participating In The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
- It is a physically demanding trek, so ensure that you prepare your fitness levels to suit the demands of the trek. Begin preparing weeks in advance – practice daily walking for 3 to 4 km, maintain an exercise routine, and follow a healthy diet.
- Abstain from smoking and drinking from at least a few weeks before the trek.
- As it is a long-distance and fairly challenging trek, we recommend not going solo. Contact a trekking expert, a tour operator service, or connect with fellow trekkers and plan your trek with them. This is especially important if you’re new to trekking or haven’t trekked before in such high-altitude places.
- You might face symptoms of altitude sickness, and these are fairly common. However, as soon as you face such symptoms, either descend to a lower elevation or seek immediate medical help.
- Carry a first-aid box with all necessary medicines, flashlight, batteries, and other important items.
- As Jammu & Kashmir is linked to an uncertain political environment, keep a tab on security concerns, civilian restrictions, and other issues concerning your safety.
- If possible, opt for refundable flight options when flying down to Srinagar, the starting point of your trek. It will greatly help you to reschedule or cancel your travel without incurring financial losses, especially in emergency situations.
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Summing Up
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is an extraordinary experience unlike any other. After all, have you ever heard of a single trek where you can see more than six breathtaking lakes?
The journey in this trek might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but with the right preparation – and of course, choosing the best time for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek – you too can witness some of Kashmir’s most beautiful sights.
