Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (4175 mts) - Best Place For Trekking in Kashmir | Wanderin Man

Itinerary Description

Grade: Difficult

Location: Kashmir

Maximum Altitude: 4175 mts

Duration: 8 Days

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek takes you to a magnificent, hitherto unexplored region of Kashmir that evokes the phrase "Heaven on Earth." The only route in the Himalayas that includes seven alpine lakes in stunning shades of green, blue, and turquoise, three high-altitude climbs, and five river valley crossings. The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek introduces you to a magnificent, never-before-seen aspect of Kashmir, evocative of its moniker, Heaven on Earth. This is the only journey in the Himalayas that includes three high-altitude passes, five river valley crossings, and seven alpine lakes in stunning shades of green, blue, and turquoise. Every day, you are greeted with unlimited, grandiose, and achingly gorgeous opulence: unending blue sky; larger-than-life panoramas of craggy mountains, colourful meadows abounding with wildflowers, river crossings, boulder jumping; the KGL walk spoils you for choice and how! The track climbs to an elevation of 4,206 metres and changes between ascents and descents on most days, making it reasonably straightforward to traverse. The only obstacle is developing the stamina required to travel the enormous distances (10 kilometres or more) required each day. The 69-kilometre journey is a fantastic alternative for novices wishing to boost their Himalayan trekking game. We suggest this path to experienced hikers as well, not because of the difficulty, but because of the sheer beauty and grandeur, it contains. The best time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is from July to September.

Short Itinerary

Arrival at Sonamarg (2730 mts) from Srinagar 81 km (3 Hours)

Sonamarg (2730 mts) to Nichnai (3500 mts) 10 km (6 hours)

Nichnai (3505 mts) to Vishansar Lake (3658 mts ) via Nichnai Pass (4150 mts)11 km (6 to 7 hours)

Buffer Day (Subjected to Weather Condition)

Vishansar Lake (3658 mts) to Gadsar Lake (3810 mts) via Gadsar Pass (4206 mts) 10 km (6 hours)

Gadsar Lake (3810 mts) to Satsar Lake (3658 mts) 12 km (6 to 7 hours)

Satsar Lake (3658 mts) to Gangabal Lake (3505 mts) 13 km (6 to 7 hours)

Gangabal Lake (3505 mts) to Naranag (2271 mts) 10 km (6 hours)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival at Sonamarg (2730 mts) from Srinagar 81 km (3 Hours)

WHAT'S INCLUDED

●Camping during the trek on twin sharing basis and hotel stay in- Leh on Day 1, Day 2, Day 3 and Day 8 on twin/triple sharing basis.
●Meals during the trek starting lunch on Day 4 till lunch on Day 8
●Trek equipment includes Dome Tents (twin sharing), Siachen sleeping bags, mattress
●Helmet, Gaiters, Harness & Carabiners as required
●Experienced & mountaineering certified trek Leader with first aid certification.
●Services of Guide, Cook and Support team
●Transport from Leh to Road head and return

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

●Meals during road journeys
●Cost of any kind of Insurance. Since insurance is mandatory, kindly get yourself insured from our partners ASC360 through www.asc360.com
●Any expense of personal nature
●Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
●Portage of personal backpack
●Transportation to and from Srinagar

Are you eligible for this adventure?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you to a height of 4,130M and is rated a moderate level trek for its long trekking distances. For its elevation and distances, it is recommended for trekkers with some prior experience in the high-altitudes.

Grade

Difficult

Max Altitude

4175 mts

Distance

69 km

WMRS Level Required

Terrain

Prerequisite Skills

Fitness Benchmark

WMRS Level Required

WMRS 5

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a level 4 adventure on the Bikat Rating Scale.

This makes it mandatory for you to have high-altitude experience of preferably multiple treks marked at level 3 on the WMRS. The altitude, the terrain, and the nature of the climb demand a certain level of endurance and a need for you to be aware of how your body reacts to the various features of the high-altitude environment.

If you do not know what level of WMRS trek would suit you best, worry not! Fill out this Form:

We will send you a progression chart to help you comfortably get out of your comfort zone in order to level up and ultimately reach your highest potential in the big, bad world of outdoor adventure.

Packing List

This is a list of essential items for individuals going on a trek with Wanderin’ Man Adventures. This list contains only those items which the participants are required to bring with them. The list excludes those items which are provided by Wanderin’ Man Adventures on the trek. We have divided the items into five categories. All the items in the list are essential except for those marked as optional.

🟩 Trekking Gear

Rucksack bag with rain cover
Day Pack Bag - Recommended for treks with summit day
Head Torch with spare Batteries
UV protection sunglasses
Water Bottles - 2 bottles of 1 liter each

🟩 Footwear

Non-skid, deep tread, high-ankle trekking shoes - 1
Pair of light weight Slipper/Sandals for the campsite - 1

🟩 Clothing

Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants - 2
Full sleeves T-shirts/Sweatshirts (1 for every 2 days of trekking)
Pair of thick woolen socks (1 pair for every two days of trekking)
Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower - 1
Undergarments (1 for each day of the itinerary)
Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck - 1
Full sleeves sweater - 1
Rain wear (Jacket & Pants) - 1
Pair of water-proof, warm gloves - 1
Woolen cap - 1
Sun shielding Hat - 1
Multipurpose Buff - 2

🟩 Toiletries

Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)
Sun screen lotion small pack (SPF 30 & Above) - 1
Lip Balm small pack - 1

🟩 Utensils

Small size, Lightweight & Leak proof lunch box - 1
Plate - 1
Spoon - 1
Tea/Coffee (plastic) Mug - 1

🟩 Miscellaneous

Camera (Optional)
Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek.
Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional)

Note-

For long treks, please carry a spare sunglasses.
For winter trek please try to carry a thermal water bottle.
For long winter treks, please carry an extra pair of warm pants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kashmir Great Lakes is a moderate level trek i.e. it requires more strength and endurance than easy level treks. It is recommended that you first gain experience of trekking to altitudes higher than 3000 meters, and then move one level up with this trek. However, if you are a beginner but committed to preparing, then you need at least 2-3 months to prepare physically & mentally for this trek.

1 Jog/Run for 4 Kms in 35-40 mins or Walk continuously for 8 Kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better) - You would be required to produce a screenshot from a fitness app testifying the same 2 Hold your breath for 25-30 seconds

You must have done a small trek of 2-3 days before and hiked to an altitude of more than 3000 meters.

Know campsite basics like how to use a sleeping bag, sleeping tet, toilet tent. Ascending & Descending technique for mountain trails. Basic mountain mannerisms.

Kashmir Great Lakes is perfect for those who want to explore far-reaching meadows, alpine lakes, high altitude passes and the vast unexplored vistas of Kashmir. The high altitude alpine lakes have mesmerizing beauty and the trail is mostly pristine and untouched. The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is meant for those who have some prior experience of trekking in the Himalayas.

The best time to do Kashmir Great Lakes trek is June to August.

The base of Kashmir Great Lakes trek is Sonamarg. Sonamarg is 80 km away from Srinagar and can be reached by taxi or bus. Similarly, on the way back, Naranag is around 55 Kms from Srinagar and one can easily get a taxi from Naranag to Srinagar.To get to Srinagar - By Air:?There are multiple flights daily directly from Delhi to Srinagar, or connecting flights from all major cities. This is the easiest way to reach Srinagar. By Rail:?Although Srinagar has a railway station, it is not linked to the Indian Railway network. The closest national railway station is Jammu Tawi, from where Srinagar is 270 km away. There are multiple trains from Delhi and Chandigarh to Jammu Tawi. From Jammu, you can make the road journey to Srinagar either via private or state run buses or private taxi. By Road:?The road distance from Delhi to Srinagar is 800 km if you are taking a taxi or driving down in a private vehicle. Direct buses to Srinagar are available from Jammu.

All major networks have coverage in Sonamarg and Naranag. However, all outstation prepaid connections do not work in J&K. You will need either a postpaid connection or a local prepaid connection.

Dal Lake:?The jewel of Srinagar, the Dal lake is synonymous to a visit to Srinagar and almost a visual definition to the town. Spread over a straggling 26 sq.kms, it is the most photogenic stretch of this instance of paradise on earth and undoubtedly also the most sought after of attractions. Mughal Gardens:?Built in the Mughal era, donning its majestic architecture, are the Mughal gardens. The garden is a combination of the Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens & Chashm-e-Shahi. The most prominent feature of the gardens its long stretches of cascading fountains makes this a must see for every traveler. Nishant Bagh:?Laid out in 1633, the Nishant Bagh fondly known as the Garden of Joy. Its beauty is enhanced by the well-manicured landscapes, long avenues of Chinar & cypress trees, rare flowering plants, 12 terraces & several bubbling fountains that's cover the whole expanse of the garden. Shankaracharya Temple:?Visit this effulgent, age old temple in Srinagar to feel closer to the gods. Situated at a height of about 1100 feet on the south-east of the city, this sacred temple offers splendid views of the valley and the snow clad mountains of the Pir Panjal range. Hazratbal:?Hazratbal Mosque, situated on the western shore of the pristine Dal Lake, is a very sacred Muslim shrine in Hazratbal. Hazratbal's special significance is derived from the fact that it houses a heir of the prophet Muhammad, a relic, titled Moi-e-Muqqadas. The relic is only displayed to the public on religious occasions, usually accompanied by colourful fairs afterwards. The shrine commands a grand view of the lake and the mountain beyond, especially when its pristine white marble elegance is reflected in the waters of the lake.

The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.

We will be camping during the entire course of the trail.

We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accomodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.

Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek.These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.

You will be provided with good quality of gaiters and microspikes from us depending upon the situation of the snow. Our trek leaders will also be carrying ropes and ice axe.

Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfil the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread and butter served for breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.

You can rent following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack.

The temperatures range from 20 degree to -3 degree celcius.

There might be snow on the higher reaches depending on the season.

If you want to offload your rucksack, you will have to make a request for offloading a few days prior the trek through an email so that arrangement can be made in advance. You will be charged per day for offloading your rucksack. In case you decide to offload on the spot, you may have to pay a higher price than usual. However offloading your rucksack is not recommended since it is not a safe practice.

A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.

Yes, trekking pole is necessary. If you don?t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.

You can buy your essentials in Srinagar. However, do not leave anything for last minute purchases.

Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.

Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.

We can arrange reserve taxis on request from Srinagar to Sonamarg and back from Naranag to Srinagar. Use the "Additional Transport" add-on to book the transport with us. The vehicles will leave Srinagar at 1200 Hrs and reach Sonamarg by 1500 Hrs. On the way back, the vehicle will start from Naranag at around 1500 Hrs and reach Srinagar by 1800 Hrs.

The trek ends in Naranag by around 1500 hrs and one can reach Srinagar by 1800 Hrs. We advise you to keep at least a 3-4 hrs buffer for both timings.

ID Proof (Soft Copy to be sent to us in Advance & original to be carried) and Medical Certificate (Soft Copy to be sent to us & original to be carried) are the mandatory documents required for the trek.

Why Wanderin Man?

(SET- Safety, Expertise & Trust )

Safety

●Small Group Size in the ratio of 6:1 (participant to leader)
●No compromise on safety and sustainability promise
●Experienced and Certified Mountaineering Professional Leaders
●Region Mapped with Emergency Evacuation Plan
●Certified Standard Equipment by UIAA (International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation certification) & other Similar Bodies
●Minimized Risk Management Standard Operating Procedure are applied for every Trek and tour
●Certified First Aid Support and Doctors* with constant availability of Safety Equipments like Medical Kit, Rescue Kit
●Constant communication is aided with the help of Communication Devices
●Certified and registered Transporter for transportation purpose

Expertise

●Founders of the company have extensive experience of 15 years having organized approx 2000+ trekking, Expeditions and other adventure activities.
●Wanderin’ Man Adventures operating expeditions above 8000 mts.
●Under the umbrella of Wanderin’ Man Adventures 15 + adventure activities Programs have been organized
●Founders have mountaineering certifications from the esteemed mountaineering institutes of India.
●Team is composed of experienced mountaineers and trek leaders with thorough understanding of norms and procedures.

Trust

●Trust has been the hallmark of our company since its inception be it any program on the list.
●Special emphasis is laid on the use of standard procedures and equipments as per the mountaineering norms
●95% of our clients have availed our service on repeat basis.
●Our business has expanded primarily based on the “word of mouth” from our existing clients to new ones

Cancellation Policy

Cash Refund (All events including Friendship Peak Expedition except other Mountaineering Expeditions) - Cash refunds are only available for bookings made without any discounts, such as promotional codes or dynamic discounts. Additionally, cash refunds are not available for shifted batch bookings or if the booking status is "Booked". The amount of the refund will be determined based on the following guidelines:

Cancellations made up to 45 days before the departure date

5% deduction

Cancellations made up to 31 days before the departure date

10% deduction

Cancellations made between 30 and 21 days before the departure date

25% deduction

Cancellations made between 20 and 11 days before the departure date

50% deduction

Cancellations made less than 11 days before the departure date are not eligible for a cash refund.

0% Refund

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