Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Weather and Climate Info:

Summer (April – June )

Accessibility
The route of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is mostly accessible.
Weather Conditions
The weather is moderate and temperatures range from -2 to 17 °C
Overview
The summer months are suitable for trekking.

Monsoon (July – September)

Accessibility
The trails are accessible during this time.
Weather Conditions
Moderate rainfall can be experienced during the afternoon. At the higher altitudes, rainfall is less.
Overview
Monsoon is the best time to trek the Kashmir Great Lakes.

Autumn (October – November)

Accessibility
The trails are accessible.
Weather Conditions
The sky is clear but the trekkers experience colder temperatures than the summer and monsoon.
Overview
Views are stunning during this time and is also a good time for trekking.

Winter (December – March)

Accessibility
The trails are buried under thick sheets of snow; hence, are inaccessible. Weather Conditions
The weather is extremely unfavourable and temperatures are freezing throughout the day.
Overview
Not suitable for trekking.

Temperature Overview

Summer (May to June)

Daytime temperatures: 17 °C
Nighttime temperatures: -2 °C

Monsoon (July – September)

Day temperatures:
20 °C
Night temperatures:
2 °C

Post-monsoon/ Autumn (September to November)

Daytime temperatures: 12 °C
Nighttime temperatures: -5 °C

Winter (December to March)

Daytime temperatures: 5 °C
Nighttime temperatures: -18 °C

Mountain Ranges, River Valley & Lake:

The primary focus of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is the lakes that the trekkers witness throughout the journey. The peaceful environment along with the natural beauty is overwhelming and therefore attracts many trekkers. The mountain ranges and river valleys are also extremely beautiful in the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. The monsoon unfolds the vibrant colours of the grassland, making it photogenic.

Mountain Ranges

Himadri Range
The Himadri range is the primary mountain range in the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek as the entire Kashmir Valley lies in this range. The major peaks that can be observed include Harmukh, Amarnath and Kolhoi. The Himadri range is also known as the Greater Himalayas. The beauty of the Kashmir Valley is charmed by the presence of the snow-capped peaks of the Himadri range.

Pir Pinjal Range
The Pir Pinjal Range is located at the southwestern side of the valleys and can be spotted from various locations along the trek. Deo Tibba (6001 m) and Indrasan (6221 m) are the major peaks of the Pir Pinjal range which makes the scenery mesmerizing. The trekkers can also many passes which connect the Pir Pinjal range with other parts of the Himalayas.

Zanskar Range
The north-eastern side of the Kashmir Valley is surrounded by the Zanskar range. The trekkers can witness a contrasting scenery of the green meadows with the rocky terrain of the Zanskar range. The Kamet peak (7756 m) is the highest in the Zanskar range and can be observed from afar.

River Valley

Gadsar Valley
The Gadsar Valley is primarily famous for the Gadsar Lake. The word ‘Gadsar’ means ‘Lake of fishes’ in the local language. The lake is full of different varieties of fish and the trekkers can also observe large ice blocks floating during the summer. The lake looks stunning amidst the beauty and greenery of the Gadsar Valley.

Nichnai Valley
The Nichnai Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys in the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek as the grasslands are vibrant and many small streams are flowing downward from the surrounding peaks. The streams move parallel to the trail which gives a refreshing experience to the trekkers. The local shepherds with their herd of sheep, can be spotted throughout the valley which can be quite photogenic as well.

Sonmarg Valley
The Shitkari base camp is situated in the Sonmarg Valley, therefore the trekkers start the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek by admiring the beauty of the valley. The Sonmarg valley is also popular for different outdoor activities and salutes the rocky peaks at the beginning of the trek.

Lake

Vishansar Lake
The Vishansar Lake is situated at an altitude of 3710 m and offers the trekkers with breathtaking beauty. The lake is considered highly spiritual by the locals. It is formed due to the melting of the surrounding glaciers and looks amazing in every season.

Kishansar Lake
The Kishansar Lake is located just near the Vishansar Lake and therefore, the altitude is similar to the latter. The lake is popular for its clear water and different colours during different times of the day. The trekkers need to trek only 0.5 KM from the Vishansar Lake to get to the Kishansar Lake. The lake reflects the rugged peaks of the surrounding ranges which look serene.

Gadsar Lake
The trekkers can witness the Gadsar Lake between the Vishansar and the Satsar Lake during the journey. The Gadsar Lake is situated at a height of 3600 m. The lake flows down into the Neelum River, situated in Pakistan-operated Kashmir.

Geographical Highlights

Glacier

Harmukh Glacier
The Harmukh Glacier is present at the slopes of the Harmukh Peak and can be spotted from the Gangbal and Nundkol Lakes. The glacier melts during the summer resulting in multiple streams near Gangbal Lake. The trekkers get the opportunity to capture lasting memories amidst the beauty of the Harmukh Glacier during the summer.

Satsar Glacier
The Satsar glacier plays a major role in the formation of the Satsar lake, especially during the summer. The trekkers can experience stunning views of the Satsar glacier from the SatsarLake campsite. The Satsar glacier plays an important role in maintaining the local ecosystem by maintaining the water level of the seven interconnected lakes of Satsar.

Beautiful Meadows

Shitkari meadow
The Shitkari meadow is a part of the Sonmarg Valley and pulls the attention of the trekkers at the beginning of the trek. The Valley of the Sind River along with some surrounding peaks can be witnessed from here. The Shitkari meadow is the first campsite and therefore, creates a sense of anticipation among the trekkers about the upcoming views and obstacles.

Nichnai meadow
The Nichnai meadow comes just after crossing the Shitkari meadow and the views here are mesmerizing. It acts as the stepping stone of the Nichnai Pass and allows the trekkers to spot various wildlife. The massive peaks along with the streams make it a photographer’s dreamland.

Passes

Nichnai Pass
The Nichnai Pass is the first of all the passes on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. It offers stunning views from the Vishansar meadow and the Sonmarg Valley. The pass is situated between the Nichnai meadow and the Vishansar Lake. It sits at an altitude of 4115 m.

Gadsar Pass
The Gadsar pass is the highest pass of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek and requires good physical fitness as it includes some sections of steep ascent and rocky terrain. It sits at an altitude of 4200 m (13800 ft) and therefore, proper acclimatization is required.

Flora and Fauna:

• The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is full of a wide variety of flora and fauna which provides the trekkers with different layers of experience. Observing different plants and animals can be joyful for some of the trekkers in case walking along the trail feels too mundane.

  Flora

  Forest
  Various coniferous trees including spruce, fir, deodar and pine make up the forest cover of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. The forests are quite dense near the Shitkari base camp but gradually decrease with the increase in height.

  Wild Flowers
  The wildflowers attract many trekkers and photographers as the meadows look covered by a colourful blanket during the spring and summer months. Some of the wildflowers include iris, daisy, buttercups, primulus and many more.

  Medicinal Plants
  One can also call the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek a medicinal hub because of the number of medicinal plants available here. The locals rely mostly on these plants to fight different diseases. The medicinal plants found here include artemisia, gentiana and rhubarb.

  Fauna

  Mammals
  The Himalayan Marmot and the Himalayan Brown Bear are the most common mammals found on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. The trekkers can also witness the rare snow leopard at the higher altitudes. The Nichnai and the Gadsar meadows are home to most of the mammals.

  Birds
  The Golden Eagle and the Himalayan Monal are the most popular birds on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. The Golden eagle is famous for its large size and dark-coloured feathers. The Himalayan Monal, on the other hand, is the State bird of Uttarakhand and is famous for itsvibrant colours.

  Aquatic Life
  The lakes of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek are home to a wide variety of fishes. The trout fish is the most common and can be spotted in brown and rainbow colours.

  Insects
  The bees play an important role in the ecosystem as they pollinate the flowers throughout the meadows. Butterflies are also common during the summer, among which the Himalayan Swallowtail is the most popular because of its availability in multiple colours.

  You should take a moment to admire the creation of nature. It can help you to be grateful for being a part of this amazing trek. Observing the plants and animals consciously will let you develop friendships with the different animals and also respect their habitat and existence.

  Photography Tips

  Golden Hours for Lighting:
  Tip: Leverage the stunning lighting conditions during the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon. Capture soft and golden light that enhances the beauty of the landscape. Avoid midday when the light can be harsh, but it can also create compelling contrasts in the rugged terrain.

  Flora and Fauna Focus:

  Tip: Explore the rich biodiversity of Kashmir Great Lakes. Capture vibrant rhododendrons in spring, lush greenery in monsoon, and snow-covered trees in winter. Use a zoom lens for wildlife shots, maintaining a safe distance to avoid disturbing the animals.

  Landscape Photography Essentials:

  Tip: The panoramic views of the Himalayas are breathtaking. Keep a wide-angle lens handy to capture the vast landscape. Add depth and scale by incorporating elements like trekkers or tents in the foreground.

  Experiment with Perspectives:

  Tip: Vary your angles and perspectives for unique shots. A low-angle shot of a trail leading into the mountains can add depth and intrigue to your photos. Experimentation can lead to captivating compositions.

  Rule of Thirds:

  Tip: Compose balanced and interesting shots using the rule of thirds. Divide your frame into nine equal segments and place key elements along these lines or their intersections. This simple rule can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your photographs.

  Capture Local Culture:

  Tip: As Kashmir Great Lakes Trek passes through quaint villages, document local architecture, people, and daily life. Seek permission before photographing individuals to respect their privacy and cultural norms.

  Night Sky Photography:

  Tip: Utilize the clear skies at high altitudes for astrophotography. Set up a tripod and use long exposure settings to capture the stars, and potentially the Milky Way. The serene nights in the Himalayas offer a canvas for stunning celestial shots.

  Be Weather Prepared:

  Tip: The Himalayan weather is unpredictable. Protect your camera equipment from rain and snow using weather-resistant gear. Keep batteries warm in cold weather to prevent quick drainage. Consider using lens hoods and covers for additional protection.

  Travel Light:

  Tip: Prioritize essential gear for high-altitude trekking. Minimize equipment to reduce the weight you carry. A lightweight and versatile camera setup will ensure you are agile and ready to capture spontaneous moments.

  Respect the Environment:

  Tip: Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid damaging the natural environment or disturbing wildlife while capturing your shots. Leave no trace and follow the principles of responsible trekking and photography.

  Bonus Tip – Patience is Key:

  Tip: Sometimes, waiting for the right moment, light, or movement can make a significant difference in capturing a memorable photograph. Practice patience during your trek, and you might be rewarded with extraordinary shots that tell a unique story of your Kashmir Great Lakes adventure.

Things to Carry:

Hiking Shoes

• Type: We recommend that you look for water-resistant shoes with a deep yet flexible sole to sustain on Himalayan terrains.

Note: Dynamic rough terrains hold uncertain threats. The pair of shoes that has the advantage of overcoming those threats will help you to maintain your confidence in balancing.

Backpack

• Type: It purely depends on the kind of Trek you plan.
  • (15-20) litres will be ideal for short treks of (1-3) days.
  • (40-60) litres will be ideal for long treks of (3 – 10) days.

Note: A backpack comes under very essential for the activity like trekking. You will have a requirement of your Backpack throughout the journey for your belongings and all the essentials you need. We recommend you test the bag and choose it according to your height, the Trek where you are taking it & comfort it provides.

Daypack

• Type: A (10 – 15) litres waterproof daypack is all you need to have with you for the Summit.

Note: Your Daypack will be for those Summit days and shorter days when you just need your essentials (wallet, small water bottle, sunglass, power bank, etc.) with you.

Clothing

• Collared T-shirts – Carrying 2 – 3 units of collared T-shirts will be ideal. The collar will help you to keep your neck away from direct sunlight and not too exposed to the Sun and getting sunburnt.
• Padded Jacket – Ensure that the jacket is wind-resistant & capable of keeping you warm at -10 °C to -12 °C temperature.
• Fleece Jacket – Fleece jackets are made of very soft and cozy material. It helps you to maintain a comfortable body temperature. Keep 2 Fleece Jackets with you.
• Thermals – You will have a requirement of only 1 pair of this in the Winter, For Summer it could be under consideration. It is made of pure cotton and designed in such a way that body heat is blocked between its layers. It will keep you warm during the nights when the temperature falls.
• Trek Pants – You will have a requirement of 2 units of Trekking Pants with you always. Between them, one must be convertible. Ensure it is made of Cotton or windproof light material & provides maximum durable comfort.
• Sun Caps –The Sunlight might be harsh at higher Altitudes and the direct exposure of sunlight to your head is harmful to your skin. Carry Sun Caps to keep your head cool.
• Woolen Caps – You will need woolen caps during the nights to keep your ears and head warm from the very cold breeze.
• Waterproof Gloves – You will require waterproof gloves for cold and wet sections of the Trek. Always keep your hands clean & warm, and avoid letting your hands wet to get the supporting grip and balance.

Trek Accessories

• Trekking Pole: The Trekking/Hiking Pole saves 60% of your energy for conquering a steep slope at a higher altitude. It is advisable to carry a trekking pole with you for the treks.
• Head-lamp or Torch: A head-lamp is another important thing that also comes under mandatory items for our Treks. It will help you to deal with the dark. Headlamps become more effective to walk in dark cold weather without approaching through your hand. Featured Torch is also ok for uphill.

Daily essentials

• Toiletries: We recommend you carry all your Toiletries essentials and all other personal belongings by yourself to avoid borrowing. Here are some items you could take- tooth-cleaning paste, dental brush, lip moisturizer, skin hydrating cream, facial cleanser, a range of vital creams and items, bathroom tissue/toilet paper, menstrual pads, along with other important personal care items like shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and shaving supplies.
• Containers & Vessels: It’s advisable to bring your water containers; we recommend two bottles each with a capacity of 1 litre. Additionally, for both ease and hygiene reasons, please carry your food containers to use for the meals we supply. The metal bottle comes in handy for hot water served in the camps.
• Recommended Medicines: Gauze 1 small roll, Dexamethasone one strip, Nifedipine 5 tablets, Band aid 10 strips, Avomine 4 tablets (motion sickness), Avil 25mg 4 tablets (allergies), Combiflam 4 tablets (Pain killer), Crepe bandage 3 to 5 meters, Disprin 6 tablets (headache), Crocin 6 tablets (fever), Digene 10 tablets (acidity), Omez/ Rantadine 10 tablets (antacids), Norflox TZ & Lomofen 6 tablets each (diarrhea), Diamox 10 tablets (to prevent AMS), Cotton 1 small roll

Essential Documents Required:

For the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, you must bring specific documents and submit them to the trek leader at the base camp. These include a copy of the Disclaimer, along with one photocopy and the original of a government-issued photo ID. Additionally, a doctor’s medical certificate confirming your fitness for high-altitude conditions is required.

Risks and Precautions:

Here are the risks or challenges you might face on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.

Risk of Slip/Skid:

Nature of Risk: The trail, particularly in winter (December and January), may be scattered with black ice, leading to a risk of slipping or skidding. Additionally, the unpredictable Himalayan weather adds to the challenge.

Safety Precautions:

High Altitude Risks:

Nature of Risk: Ascending from 6,400 feet to 11,500 feet over 4-5 days may lead to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), and High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), especially at higher camps.

Safety Precautions:

Dealing with Blisters and Cramps:

Nature of Risk: Blisters, cuts, and cramps can occur on uneven trails.

Safety Precautions:

Weather Risks at High Altitude:

Nature of Risk: Unpredictable weather, particularly in the Himalayas, can worsen quickly.

Safety Precautions:

Communication Risks:

Nature of Risk: Communication signals weaken and may be lost completely at higher altitudes.

Safety Precautions:

Emergency/Immediate Rescue:

Nature of Risk: Severe health issues or emergencies may necessitate immediate rescue.

Safety Precautions:

Risk of Low Oxygen at Higher Altitudes:

Nature of Risk: Oxygen levels decrease with altitude, potentially causing breathing difficulties.

Safety Precautions:

Overall Safety and Cooperation:

Cooperation is essential for safety and enjoyment during the trek. Discourage the use of objectionable substances during the trek for overall safety and well-being.

Cancellation Policy

Initiating Cancellation:
To cancel your booking, please send an email to: [email protected]

Cancellation Due to Unforeseen Events:
In case of trek cancellation by Discovery Hike owing to unexpected events such as natural disasters, floods, or political unrest, we will issue a trek voucher. This voucher is valid for one year and can be used for the same or a different trek.

Cancellation Due to Personal Reasons:
If you decide to cancel your trek for personal reasons, the following terms apply under our cancellation policy:

No Cash Refunds: We do not offer cash refunds once a booking is completed. Instead, a voucher for the same or a reduced amount will be provided.

Cancellation 30 Days or More Before Trek: If you cancel 30 days or more before the trek start date, a voucher for the full booking amount will be issued.

Cancellation 20-29 Days Before Trek: For cancellations made between 20 to 29 days before the trek start date, 50% of the booking amount will be deducted. The remaining amount will be provided as a voucher.

Cancellation Less Than 20 Days Before Trek: No voucher will be issued for cancellations made less than 20 days before the trek start date.

Seasonal and Occasional Activities:

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a combination of rocky terrains, a wide variety of flora and fauna, green meadows and pristine lakes. But one also needs to understand the weather before setting intention upon the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. The trekkers also experience the rich Kashmiri culture including the local cuisine, art and dance, outfits and architecture.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer (June to August)
The Summer season witnesses the melting of the snow and open trail for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. The meadows are green and full of blooming wildflowers. The streams across the meadows overflow because of the melting water.

The temperatures are mild during this time and therefore, good for the trekkers. The Himalayan Marmot and Himalayan Brown Bear can be commonly seen during this time.

Autumn (September to November)
The sky is clear during this season but the temperature is much colder than the summer. Therefore, the night can be challenging for the trekkers. The meadows start losing their green vibrance and turn golden brown.

The autumn offers clear views of the surrounding peaks of the Greater Himalayas. The scenery is extremely photogenic during this period but the trekkers need to carry extra warm clothes due to the cold nights.

Monsoon (June to September)
The weather is mostly clear but the afternoons witness rainfall. The stream currents are at their peak during the monsoon. The meadows look extremely beautiful because of the lush greenery and the fully bloomed wildflowers.
The monsoon is the best time to attempt the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek because of the moderate climate, stunning views and natural beauty. Ponchos are mandatory during this time as rainfall can occur anytime.

Winter (December to February)
The Kashmir Great Lakes become inaccessible during the winter months as it gets covered under thick sheaths of snow. The trails and lakes also get buried under the snow.
Trekking the Kashmir Great Lakes is not suitable during the winter and therefore, remains closed officially. The weather is unfavourable and temperatures are freezing.

Occasional Activities

Urs Festivals
The dargahs (shrines) of Kashmir are full of many people to pay tribute to the saints during the Urs festival. The festival is celebrated according to the Islamic calendar. The trekkers can witness local Kashmiri rituals and also enjoy Kashmiri qawwali. The local cuisine can also be a good escape for the trekkers during this time.

Star Gazing
The summer and the spring months offer clear skies; hence, the trekkers enjoy star gazing at night from the camping sites. The silence in the mountains makes this experience even more overwhelming.

Bird Watching
The trekkers can find bird watching to be exciting and joyful amidst all the physical stress ofthe Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. From the large wing span of the Golden eagle to the vibrant Himalayan Monal, from bearded vultures to the snow patridges; the trekkers fully enjoy the bird-watching experience.

Photography
Clear landscapes including the towering peaks of the Greater Himalayas and serene lakes offer endless opportunities to the photographers. From lush greenery to snow-capped peaks, from overflowing streams to rocky terrain; nature poses all the time for you to capture memories.

Local Language Phrases:

Hello – “नमस्कार” (Namaskar)

How are you? – “तुम कसै छौ?” (Tum kase chau?)

My name is – “मेरु नाम …” (Meru naam …)

I am fine. How are you? – “मी ठीक छौं. तुम कसै छौ?” (Mi theek chaun. Tum kase chau?)

Please help me. – “कृपया, मेरी मदद करें.” (kripya, Meri madad karen.)

Tell me the route. – “मुझे रास्ता बता.” (Mujhe rasta bata.)

Where am I right now? – “मी अभी कख छौं?” (Mi abhi kakh chaun?)

Please rescue me. – “कृपया मुझे बचाओ.” (Kripya mujhe bachao.)

Do you have medical kits? – “क्या तुमरे पास मेडिकल किट छै?” (Kya tumre paas medical kit chhai?)

Will you join me? – “तुम मेरु साथ द्याओलु?” (Tum meru sath dyaolu?)

How long will it take to reach the summit? – “शिखर तक पहुंचण मा कती समय लगोलु?” (Shikhar tak pahunchan ma kati samay lagolu?)

Where is the next Maggi point? – “अगला मैगी प्वाइंट कख छ?” (Agla Maggi point kakh ch?)

Will there be too much cold? – “क्या ज्यादा ठंड ह्वालि?” (Kya jyada thand hwaali?)

What is the name of the nearest village? – “नजीकी गांव का नाम क्या छ?” (Naziki gaon ka naam kya ch?)

Is there any update of heavy snowfall? – “क्या भारी हिमपात कु अपडेट छ?” (Kya bhari himpaat ku update ch?)