Kashmir trekking tour: Top Trails and What You Need to Know

Kashmir is not just about its serene lakes, lush gardens, and vibrant culture. The Kashmir trekking tour takes the trekkers to some of its scenic trails.

It further offers some of the most thrilling and scenic trekking trails in the world. With its tall peaks, verdant valleys, and meandering rivers, Kashmir is a haven. It is perfect for those looking to explore the wilderness on foot.

Whether you’re an expert trekker or a novice, there are trails. That further suit each level of experience.

Here’s a guide Mumbai Kashmir packages to some of the top trekking trails in Kashmir. It meanwhile tells you about what you need to know before going on this adventure.

Top Trekking Trails in Kashmir

1: Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of its most famous and stunning trekking routes. Spanning over 72 kms, its a moderate to difficult trek of Kashmir trekking tour of yours.

It takes you further through alpine meadows, lush forests, and past shining lakes. Starting from Sonamarg, the trail meanders through five stunning high altitude lakes. Above all, each one is more scenic than the last.

The trek’s highlights include the turquoise waters of Vishansar and Krishansar Lakes. It further offers you the serene views at Gadsar Lake.

This trek mainly takes 7 to 9 days. It meanwhile offers trekkers the chance to witness the pristine beauty of Kashmir’s unseen wilderness.

The best time for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is from mid June to September. During that, the snow has melted, and the meadows are in full bloom.

2: Tarsar Marsar Trek

One more famous trail in Kashmir is the Tarsar Marsar Trek. This 7 day trek takes you through the remote regions of Aru Valley. That is located near the town of Pahalgam. The trail firstly offers a diverse landscape.

That ranges further from verdant meadows and dense forests to high altitude lakes and mountain ridges. The trek is named after the two stunning alpine lakes, Tarsar and Marsar. That are nestled amidst snow capped mountains. The campsites near the lakes are some of the most stunning in the region. That offer trekkers a serene and quiet ambiance.

The Tarsar Marsar Trek is best undertaken during July and September. Then, the snow has melted, and the weather is perfect.

3: Naranag Gangbal Trek

The Naranag Gangbal Trek is a short yet rewarding trek. Its for those who are pressed for time but still want to experience Kashmir’s beauty. This trek starts from Naranag, a small village known for its ancient temples. It takes you further to the pristine Gangbal Lake, situated at the base of Mount Harmukh.

The lake is known as one of the holiest in Kashmir. Above all, it offers stunning views of the nearby peaks. This 4 day trek is perfect for those looking for a moderate challenge. It meanwhile offers a chance to explore Kashmir’s divine side.

The best time for the Naranag Gangbal Trek is during June to October.

4: Aru Valley to Kolahoi Glacier Trek

The Aru Valley to Kolahoi Glacier Trek is a 6 day trek. That takes you further through some of the most scenic landscapes in Kashmir. The trail starts from the scenic Aru Valley. It takes trekkers through lush meadows, dense pine forests, and along the Lidder River.

The highlight of this trek is the Kolahoi Glacier. That lies at the base of the Kolahoi Peak, also known as the Matterhorn of Kashmir. The glacier offers stunning views of the nearby mountains. That meanwhile makes the journey worth each step.

The ideal time for the Aru Valley to Kolahoi Glacier Trek is during June to September.

What You Need to Know Before Trekking in Kashmir

1: Physical Preparation

Trekking in Kashmir, mainly at high altitudes, needs a certain level of outer fitness. It’s firstly needed to prepare your body for the trek. Do regular cardio exercises, strength training, and power building activities.

They should be started at least a month before your trip. For those not used to high altitudes, it’s needed to adjust to the climate. That further helps them to avoid altitude sickness.

2: Permits and Permissions

Many trekking routes in Kashmir require permits. Mainly, those that pass through protected areas or near the Line of Control (LoC).

It’s needed to check with local admin or your trekking guide. They will meanwhile tell you about the needed permissions before setting off. Above all, carrying id proofs and needed permits is crucial throughout the trek.

3: Packing Essentials

Packing for a trekking trip in Kashmir needs careful planning due to it’s uncertain weather. Even during summer, temperatures can drop highly at night. Here’s a list of needed items to pack.

Clothing

Firstly, packing layered clothing is the key. Pack thermal wear, a down jacket, waterproof and windproof outer layers, and quick dry clothes.

Footwear

Pack a sturdy pair of waterproof trekking boots is needed. That comes along with sturdy trekking socks.

Trekking Gear

Meanwhile, take trekking poles, a good quality backpack, and a sleeping bag. That is rated for cold climate are must haves.

Safety and Health

Carry a first aid kit, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. That further helps you to protect against the sun’s rays at high altitudes.

Food and Water

While most treks have provisions. But, it’s better to carry energy bars, nuts, and water bottle with a filtration system.

4: Hiring a Local Guide

Hiring a local guide is better for most treks in Kashmir. Its a must mainly for those that go through remote areas or near the LoC. Firstly, they know the routes well.

Further, they can also help you to go through difficult terrains and ensure your safety. Moreover, they can assist with arranging permits. Above all, they can provide insights into the local culture and customs.

5: Respecting Local Culture and Environment

While trekking in Kashmir, it’s needed to respect the local culture and climate. Kashmir is home to a rich cultural aspects.

Meanwhile, trekkers should be mindful of local customs and rituals. Above all, follow the rules of proper tourism, reduce waste and avoid plastic. These are crucial to preserve the pristine beauty of Kashmir’s trekking trails.

Conclusion

Kashmir’s trekking trails offer an enjoyable adventure for nature lovers and outdoor lovers. From the stunning Kashmir Great Lakes to the serene Tarsar Marsar Lakes, Kashmir offers diverse landscapes. That firstly provide some thing for each one.

Prepare well and respect the climate and local customs. With this, trekkers can enjoy the best of Kashmir trekking tour of them. As they meanwhile offer a truly pleasant experience.