Hiking in Kashmir, the magical mountain land, is a mesmerizing experience. Nestled among the stunning Himalayan peaks, the valley is blessed with pristine natural beauty. And offers excellent opportunities for trekking and hiking trips in Kashmir. From exploring the beautiful meadows, deep forests, snow-capped mountains, and gushing rivers. To aimless walks over the snow-covered capes, one can find the hiking trails in Kashmir captivating and rewarding.
What makes the experience even more exciting is spotting rare wildlife species and having a chance to interact with locals and explore their vibrant culture. If you are looking for adventurous hiking trips in Kashmir away from the everyday hustle-bustle of life, trekking places in Kashmir are undoubtedly a perfect destination.
1. Trekking to Apharwat peak and Alpather Lake, Gulmarg:
Trekking to Apharwat peak and Alpather lake are two of Gulmarg’s most exciting trekking places. Apharwat Peak is known for its stunning view of the lush green surroundings and the sweeping views of distant snow-capped mountains. On reaching the peak, one can photograph and bird-watching or enjoy a hot cup of tea at the resting hut. The other trekking point of Gulmarg, Alpather Lake, on top of Apharwat peak, is 3700 meters above sea level. And popular amongst shutterbugs looking to capture its natural beauty.
The peaceful setting of lush greenery with grazing horses, ice caps, and surreal hues makes for mesmerizing vista as far as your eyes can reach. It’s a great place for weekend getaways from nearby cities or to spend alone amidst nature. The Himalayan range surrounds this place. It is perfect for trekking, hiking, and camping activities, where one can take an opportunity to explore its beauty away from urban life while living harmoniously with nature.
2. The Zabarwan Range:
The Zabarwan Trek is an adventurous and spectacular journey situated near Srinagar, the state capital of Jammu & Kashmir. Situated on the picturesque banks of the scenic Dal Lake, it offers travellers a chance to explore the rugged terrains of the western Himalayan mountain ranges through a series of hiking trails and high passes. The trek crosses dense forests and meadows lined with pretty rhododendron flowers while ascending its rocky ridges and snow-capped peaks. The view from the top is truly magical, with distant mountain ranges stretching far into the horizon.
Apart from its breathtaking landscape, one can overlook many interesting cultural attractions like; the Mughal gardens of Kashmir, including Chashma Shahi, Nishat Bagh, and Shalimar Garden alongside the Pari Mahal, Tulip garden, and the Shankaracharya Temple as you pass through the Zabarwan trekking range. For anyone visiting Srinagar, Zabarwan Trek is an exciting hiking trip in Kashmir.
3. Markha Valley Trek, Ladakh:
The Markha Valley trek in Ladakh is a breathtakingly beautiful experience that gives you a unique insight into the region’s culture, heritage, and natural beauty. It’s one of India’s few treks, offering a stunning combination of high-altitude desert mountain villages, numerous Buddhist monasteries, and diverse wildlife. This hiking trail in Kashmir spans a network of hamlets and wonderful rock formations like Phubra Gompa and Nimaling.
From the high passes to the colourful Serkos campsite, the landscapes of this trek remain etched in memory forever. The local nomads share their tales while crossing bridges made from tree roots or rope bridges. Trekking up to Kongmaru La pass makes this an adventurous journey, given its arid atmosphere and rocky terrain. Many of Ladakh’s mountains can be viewed on this vigorous trek, for it reaches extraordinary heights.
4. Tarsar Marsar Trek, Anantnag:
The Tarsar Marsar Trek is a beautiful trek that takes you through the scenic sights of the Kashmir Valley. It is in the Anantnag district and offers some of the most stunning views and landscapes. The trek starts from Sonamarg, a small town at an elevation of 2700 m, and proceeds along shallow and calm mountain streams in the Himalayas.
Enclosed by lush pine forests, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks on all sides, this trek leads you to several mesmerizing lakes making it unique and peaceful. Along this route, one can witness wildlife such as brown bear cubs and ibex throughout their journey. While out there, travellers have numerous opportunities to enjoy camping under the night sky or even participate in adventure activities such as paragliding. Overall, Tarsar Marsar Trek will leave an unforgettable adventure experience in Kashmir.
5. Vishansar Naranag Trek:
Vishansar Naranag Trek is a popular trekking place near Sonmarg, a hill station in the picturesque Kashmir Valley. This moderate to difficult trek usually takes 6-7 days and passes through some of the highest mountains in Jammu and Kashmir. The walk will take you through luscious meadows, snow-capped mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and serene valleys. Making it one of the most unforgettable experiences in the region.
During this hiking trip in Kashmir, you can explore a variety of flora and fauna that you won’t find in other places. Not only that, but you also get to witness breathtaking views of Lashkari Kulah and Machoi glaciers while crossing Toshimarg valley. Trekkers should preferably set out during summers as snowmelt makes it more dangerous during winters due to slippery paths and low visibility. Be prepared for an enthralling journey if you plan to undertake the Vishansar Naranag trek. It will create many fond memories.
6. Kolahoi Glacier Trek:
Kolahoi Glacier Trek is one of the most exciting trekking places in India. Located in the higher reaches of the Anantnag District, the trek allows you to traverse nature’s most awe-inspiring trails. And spend time amidst lofty peaks, magnificent views, and sparkling glaciers. The trail begins at Aru village and then passes through meadows of flowers, alpine forests, and snow-covered mountain peaks. With big gushes of glacial water flowing underneath your feet.
The entire hiking trail in Kashmir takes about five days, depending on the terrain and your fitness level. The spectacular view from atop Kolahoi Peak will leave you captivated for hours. You can also explore mountainside shrines and see shepherds tending to their herds. And discover various flora and fauna during your journey. Kolahoi Glacier Trek is a must-visit for anyone looking for an adrenalin-charged adventure wrapped amidst the Himalayas’ majestic beauty.
7. Yusmarg Trekking Trails:
Yusmarg hiking trails, just outside of Srinagar in Kashmir, provide a chance to explore breathtaking mountain scenery and experience the culture of the Himalayan region. The Yusmarg trek is a 40 km long traipse around the meadows of the celebrated Pir Panjal range that can take two to five days to complete. Along the way, visitors can catch stunning views of the breathtaking snow-capped mountains of Jammu and Kashmir and join local excursions in nearby villages.
It’s important to plan out your equipment and route before you start. It may be wise to hire a guide familiar with the area who can provide information about weather conditions, safe spots for rest stops, meals, and terrain checking. The Yusmarg trail offers an authentic journey designed to give avid trekkers a real taste of adventure in the majestic Himalayas.
8. Nafran Valleys Treks, Anantnag:
Trekking to Nafran Valley Pahalgam is an invigorating experience. It is a picturesque valley in Jammu and Kashmir known for its high-altitude meadows, glaciers, embroidered high hills, and meandering streams. As the trail progresses, one discovers a diverse terrain ranging from lush green landscapes to rocky islands, streams, and snow-capped peaks. Trekkers can also enjoy spectacular Kashmir mountain views extending as far as the horizon.
Moreover, due to its exceedingly pleasant climate and breathtaking natural beauty, Nafran Valley is home to various plant species, including Alpine fir trees, Juniper bushes, and Rhododendrons that bloom during summer. The most amazing thing is that you will never find any true tourist crowd here; instead, you have solitude amidst the deafening silence of nature, making it an even more relaxing and enjoyable experience.
9. Lolab Valley Trekking Trails, Kupwara:
Lolab Valley Trekking Trail is one of the most unexplored and hot treks in Kashmir. Located in the Kashmir valley, it offers a range of stunning views as you climb through snow-capped peaks and lush meadows of wildflowers that bloom during the summer months. The trail alone is an adventurous journey with dense forests, flowing streams, and icy waterfalls to conquer.
A must-see for nature lovers, this trek will take you through majestic Kashmir mountains, dynamic valleys, and perfect spots to take photos or relax and take in the sights of some of India’s most beautiful terrain. It is a perfect spot for hikers hoping to explore their limits while testing their navigation skills. On this picturesque trek, there is no better way to get close to nature than weaving past alpine lakes, vibrant shrubs, and cascading rivers.
10. Gangbal Lake trek:
Gangbal Lake Trek is located in Kashmir Valley, India, and is one of the most breathtaking and hot treks in Kashmir. The trek starts from Sonamarg, surrounded by pristine meadows, forests, and snow-clad peaks. The beauty starts to unfold once you reach Gangbal Lake. It’s known as the “Jewel in Kashmir” and truly lives up to its name with its crystal clear blue-green waters framed by Kashmir mountainous vistas on one side and thick forest on the other.
Every step of this journey brings something new to explore; with steep climbs, you’ll be rewarded with incredible sandy beaches, amazing streams, and untouched nature up close. Those looking for a real adventure might even camp overnight by the lake under a blanket of stars – an experience that will stay with them long after they finish their trek.
