It is hard for a trekker to not include the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek on their bucket list. This trail will always be a part of Himalayan treks since it provides an unforgettable experience. The 8-day journey, which will change your life, begins in Sonamarg and ends in Naranag.
Since the journey is rated as somewhat challenging, complete beginners should not attempt it. You will go about 75 kilometers and gain 13000 feet in elevation. You will experience some of the most breathtaking views of your life over the course of the 8 days. The highlight of this high-altitude, the alpine walk is Nandkol Lake, Vishansar Lake, Krishansar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Gangabal Lake, and so on. The old trade route used by the Gujjars, the nomadic shepherds of this area, is the one you will take to see these lakes. Following in their footsteps, the trip returns to Sonamarg through the Nichnai and Gadsar passes.
Along the entire route, there are numerous verdant green meadows filled with wildflowers, as well as distant herds of grazing cattle and horses and bubbling mountain streams. The meadows merge with the Pir Panjal mountains' foothills, which travel through and cradle all the valleys.
The best months to travel for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek are July to September. In actuality, this is the only time of year when the walk can be completed without incident. It is completely covered in snow for the remainder of the year, making it impossible to walk on.
Due to the monsoon, most treks around the nation are closed at this time; but, in Kashmir, things are a little different. The Kashmir Valley is shielded from monsoon clouds by the 288 km-long Pir Panjal Range. In contrast to the other Himalayan treks, these months have plenty of sunshine and nice weather. The walk is made much more delightful by how much greener and more alive the surroundings become. At higher altitudes in early July, you can glimpse the first blossoms amidst patches of snow. The hottest time of year in Kashmir is from the middle of July until the beginning of August.
The most ideal weather is in September when there is a little breeze and clear, blue skies. The valley begins to have some snowfall at the end of September and you can also opt for the Luxury Camping in Kashmir to make your stay memorable.
Highlights of the Trek
It goes without saying that traveling through the region known as "Paradise on Earth" is a divine experience. The strenuous 75-kilometer walk is well worth the effort and for this trek, you need the Best Hiking Equipment which can help you complete the trek efficiently.
The trek's main draw is the seven breathtaking high-altitude lakes: Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangbal, Nandkol, and Dal Lake.
Mountains covered in ice encircle the pure blue waterways, which have floating ice chunks. The scene is as picturesque as a painting, with majestic trees, rich green meadows, and vibrant wildflowers all around.