The Kashmir Great Lakes trek or also known as the Sonmarg - Vishansar - Naranag trek is a popular alpine Himalayan trek in the great Kashmir Valley. With a difficulty level of moderate to high, the KGL trek is worth the effort. Crossing through alpine peaks of the Himalayas and grassy meadows, one comes across the glaciers of these rugged mountains. The 7 lakes of Satsar are a treat for the eye along with the lakes of Gangbal and Nundkol. In a nutshell, The Kashmir Great Lakes is a must-visit and every trekker's dream!
- Camping in tents
- Treks to the crystal clear lakes of Kashmir
- Stunning Himalayan landscape
- Assisted Porterage
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Services of a Trek Leader from Foliage Outdoors
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Paradise for Trekkers
Day 1: Arrival at Srinagar
Arrive at Srinagar and drive to Sitkari/Sonmarg (2800m, 87kms). Overnight at Sonmarg.
Day 2: Trek from Sitkari village to Nichnai (3505m, 13kms)
Begin early morning and start ascending towards the Shokdhari campsite on a Maple and Pine tree-lined route. Enjoy beautiful views of Sonmarg and the glaciers en route and from the campsite. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 3: Trek from Nichnai to the Vishansar lake (3657m,15kms)
Visit the Vishansar lake situated 1km from the campsite. Nothing that we say or write can prepare you for the beauty of the alpine high-altitude lake. Surrounded by mountains and being hard to access, the waters of the lake are crystal clear and change color as the day proceeds. You are guaranteed to start feeling rejuvenated just sitting by the lake and listening to the lapping sounds of the water and soaking in the scenic beauty. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 4: Trek from Vishansar lake to Gadsar lake (4191m,13kms)
Despite being close in distance, the twin lakes can be seen together only from the top at Gadsar pass. Trek to the Gadsar Pass, at 4191m The scintillating views at the top of the pass more than compensate for it. From the pass, descent into flat meadows covered with brightly colored wildflowers to reach the Gadsar Lake. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 5: Trek from Gadsar lake to Mengandob/Satsar lake(3600m, 12km)
Today, you begin with a two-hour steep climb up the mountains to enter into flatlands known as Mengandob. Trek ahead, crossing an army camp, to the Satsar lakes. The Satsar lakes are a collection of 7 lakes in a cascade formation. Fed by melting snow, a couple of these lakes dry up in summer and autumn. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 6: Trek from Satsar lakes to Gangbal twin lakes (3505m, 10kms)
You will be challenged today as you cross rocky and boulder-ridden terrain, cross a few ridges, and Climb Mountains to arrive for a break on a ridge at 3570m. After a quick break, keep going up to reach the final ridge at 3000m. From here, you can view the twin lakes of Gangbal and Nundkol. What follows is a steep rocky descent, a few ups and downs, and entry into green meadows which lead to the Nundkol lake and Gangbal lake. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 7: Day at leisure.
Today you get to relax by the lakes, explore surrounding meadows, soak in the magnificent mountainscape, uncover a few local legends about the lakes, share travel stories, meditate, exercise your photography skills and do anything that soothes your soul (without disturbing others trekkers/nature). Overnight stay in tents.
Day 8: Trek from Gangbal twin lakes to Naranag (11kms)
On the final day, we trek past a tree line, some grassy lands, and towards the pine forest cover. Follow the forest line for about 6-7kms and descend into the Naranag village. Evening transfer to Srinagar. Overnight at a hotel in Srinagar.
Day 9: Departure
Departure to Pune by flight. End of Services.
What is included in the tour
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Local transport by Non-AC chartered vehicle.
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Accommodation as per the itinerary in hotels/rest houses/lodges / Tents on a twin sharing basis.
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All meal charges in Kashmir (except at Airport)
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Services of a Trek leader from Foliage Outdoors.
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Activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
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Portage up to 10 kg per person during the trek route.
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Entry / Permit Fees.
What is NOT included in the tour
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Flight / Train arrangement up to Srinagar.
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Bottled Mineral water / cold drinks / any other beverages purchased during the journey or at the Destination
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Personal expenditure of any kind (personal porterage, telephone, laundry, room service etc.).
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Medical Expenses if incurred.
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Expenses that are incurred due to reasons beyond the control of the organizers.
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GST
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Any other charges not mentioned in “Charges Include”
