The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek : All you need to know about Great Lakes Trek

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek exposes you to the magnificence of Kashmir. There are seven breathtaking lakes included in the trek. Each lakes introduces you to the never-ending beauty of the nature, as the lush green meadows become the pathway you walk on. Present at a height of 4191 metres, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is filled with the views of snow-capped mountains. The trek faces poor connectivity issues, as Kashmir Great Lakes Trek takes you closer to nature and farther away from the commercialized world.

The mesmerizing views – Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (source)

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Villages

Sonamarg

Sonamarg is one of the most popular places in Kashmir. Known for its beautiful landscapes, colossal mountains and exquisite greenery, Sonamarg is a place worth seeing. Due to the presence of some hotels and restaurants, Sonamarg becomes a comfortable place for travellers. Those who want to enjoy the beauty of Kashmir without compromising on basic necessities can stay in Sonamarg.

The valley of Sonmarg

Naranag

Another village in Kashmir’s Ganderbal district is Naranag. Still relatively unknown, Naranag is the home to the beautiful Wangath river. Naranag also becomes a sought-after place during the winters by the adventure enthusiasts when the hills of Naranag covers with snow. It becomes a skiing heaven for the adventure-seekers.

Shitkadi

A small, unknown village in Kashmir is known by the name of Shitkadi. Blessed with unmatchable beauty and ravishing views, Shitkadi can capture all your senses and immerse you into natural beauty. It is not easy to reach Shitkadi, and that’s why it has remained relatively unexplored.

The view of the Great Lakes

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Difficulty

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a moderate level trek which requires some level of fitness and physique to overcome the obstacles provided by this trek. It takes around a week to complete this trek. Warm clothes, trekking stick and other basic necessities are required during this trek, as there are frequent ascents and descents in the journey. Mountain sickness is another major problem during the trek.

• Also Read About : Dal Lake in Srinagar

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Route Map

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek begins from Sonamarg. You will find a lot of eating places in Sonamarg, and the weather of this place is pretty enjoyable as well. As you move towards Shekdur, the scenery starts changing. Meadows start unfolding themselves, as the sky-touching mountain peaks surround you. There is no sign of commercialization on your way. When you reach Nichnai, a crystal clear stream becomes your companion.

The gorgeous Krishansar Lake is 3710 metres above sea level. Vishansar is another breathtaking lake in your trek.  It is surrounded by enormous mountains from all the sides, as the spiritual lake is nestled in the lap of the valley.

The trek introduces you to gorgeous maple trees, widespread greenery and untouched natural beauty. There are very few treks which can provide you the kind of serenity and calmness that Kashmir Great Lakes Trek does. Then, head towards Gadsar Lake which is also known as ‘lake of Flowers’ due to its beauty. Snow-capped mountains cover the lake from each side and beautiful violet flowers grow on its bank.

Ahead on the journey lies Satsar which is formed by seven tiny lakes. Twin Lakes by the name of Gangabal and Nundkol will also make their presence known during the journey due to the captivating vistas that exist around these lakes. As you’d move towards Naranag village, you’ll encounter resplendent glaciers in all their raw glory.

• You may also like to reads on: Wular Lake

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Weather

The best time to start the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is from June till the early September. The temperature remains moderate throughout the trek, as the average temperature can range from 15 to 20 degree Celsius. During the night time, the temperature can fall as low as 5 degree Celsius.