Trekking in Kashmir
Kashmir Valley is a trekking paradise because of many reasons. The valley hosts heavenly tranquil destinations, snuggled in the Himalayan mountains. Majestic alpine lakes, dense forests, vast meadows and tribal life make trekking in Kashmir super amazing. Adventure tourism Kashmir has ample scope, one of which is trekking in Kashmir.
Best Treks in Kashmir
Explore in this blog the best treks available to do in Kashmir. We will discuss trekking in Kashmir with trekking as an adventure tourism Kashmir and list some Gulmarg hiking trails. Let us begin with the exploration.
KGL- Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
The most infamous and legendary trek among all the treks available in the Kashmir valley. This trek is also one of the longest ones which takes you through the many majestic alpine lakes of Kashmir. These lakes include Vishansar, Krishansar, Gangabal, Gadsar, Satsar, and Nundkol.
This trek is of about 7 days and the lakes lie in the Greater Himalayan range which stands on the east side of the Kashmir valley. You should opt for this trek if you want to see the many glorious alpine lakes at once.
Kausarnag Lake Trek
Another sacred lake for Hindus, this lake is the second largest alpine lake and is located in the Pir Panjal range of Kashmir. The trek to this lake starts from the famous and magnificent Aharbal Falls, in the Kulgam district of Kashmir.
It has many legends attached to it and one among them is that this lake was created when the Hindu god Vishnu stamped his foot on the ground. An annual pilgrimage to the site is also done but from another route through the Reasi district of Jammu. It takes around 4 days to trek back and forth which is worth seeing this magical alpine lake. Kashmir trekking tours have to include this place at any cost.
Choharnag Trek
Chohar means 4 and that has to do with the four alpine lakes that are close to one another and separated by little distances. These legendary lakes are very soothing and beautiful to the eyes, sitting between the meadows and peaks of the Greater Himalayan Range. There is also the famous Margan Top near these lakes. This trek is among the shortest ones and takes 1-2 days. This trek has to be on the itinerary of Kashmir trekking tours. One of the best locations for trekking in Kashmir.
Chiranbal Meadow Trek
This trek is among the easiest and shortest ones, yet it is very charming and beauty-filled. Chiranbal is situated in the Kulgam district of Kashmir and is the largest sub-alpine meadow with lush green grass and forests with the Zajinar River flowing and making the moment more amazing. This meadow is a wonderful trekking destination which takes only 1 day. Kashmir trekking tours must have this one in the itinerary.
Alpather Lake Trek
This lake is also known as ‘Frozen Lake’ because it remains frozen most of the time. It lies in the Pir Panjal range of mountains, not far from the valley of Gulmarg. This lake is a wonder to experience, although it is not a big lake, it has a charm of its own. Surrounded by wildflowers and snow, it is among the most beautiful alpine lakes of Kashmir. It is a short trek of 1 day and can be a good start for beginners. Kashmir trekking tours are void without visiting this pristine lake. It is surely one of the best Gulmarg hiking trails.
Tarsar Marsar Trek
Among the most famous and beautiful spots for trekking in Kashmir is the journey to the twin lakes of Tarsar and Marsar, situated in the Greater Himalayan Range. These twin lakes are among the largest alpine lakes of the valley, with the trek starting from the famous Pahalgam village and resort. This is a trek of around 7 days which mesmerises a person with the mighty lakes standing next to one another. These two marvels of nature will give the thrill-seekers, a different level of satisfaction.
Sheeshnag Trek
The Sheeshnag Lake, located in the Greater Himalayan range of the valley, is an important and revered one among the Hindus. This lake is among the most famous alpine lakes of Kashmir with a legend attached. It is named Sheeshnag which means the King of the Nagas, which are considered among the primary beings created by Hindu gods, millions of years ago. This legend of the lake relates to the Kashmiri Folklore of ‘Himal and Nagraj’. It is one of the shortest and best treks and takes 1-2 days. This beauty will leave you gaping and will amaze the thrill-seekers in every way.
Gangabal Lake Trek
Situated in the Greater Himalayas, Gangabal is one of the revered lakes of religious importance among the Hindu population, which has a legend behind its beauty. Also known as Harmukh Ganga, it is the largest alpine lake in Kashmir. Kashmiri Pandits perform an annual pilgrimage to this sacred lake to fulfil their wishes, as it is considered an abode of the Hindu god Shiva. It has boosted adventure tourism Kashmir because of its charm.
Best Tips for Trekking in Kashmir
- Take prior permission or a trekking pass from the authorities before engaging in trekking.
- Trekking unlike other adventure tourism Kashmir requires less equipment but things like raincoats, waterproof jackets, trekking boots, an axe, sleeping bags, torches and power banks are necessary.
- Trekking in Kashmir requires a person to have enough stamina according to the length of the trek.
- You should not litter and keep nature clean for littering degrades the environment.
- You should form at least a group of five to keep wild animals away as they do not come close to a large group of people.
FAQ
For trekking in Kashmir, which is the best alpine lake?
Not only one, there are numerous gorgeous alpine lakes like Gangabal, Kausarnag, Tarsar and many others for trekking in Kashmir.
Which form the some Gulmarg hiking trails?
The best Gulmarg hiking trails are en route to Alpather Lake, Tosamaidan and Khilanmarg.
What are some short trails for trekking in Kashmir?
Chiranbal Meadow Trek, Sheeshnag Trek and Alpather Lake Trek are among the short treks.
Author is a student who loves to explore new corners of learning. He likes writing and travelling while taking challenges that question his abilities and skills. His hobbies are helping people and spending time in nature.