Kashmir is a land of unparalleled natural beauty, where snow-capped peaks, crystal clear rivers, and lush green valleys captivate the senses of visitors. One of the most mesmerizing treks in the region is the Tarsar and Marsar Lakes trek, which takes adventurers through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Himalayas. In this article, we will delve into the details of this trek, covering everything from the best time to visit to the challenges that trekkers may encounter.
Introduction
The Tarsar and Marsar Lakes trek is a moderate to difficult trek that covers a distance of approximately 50 kilometers. The trek starts from Aru Valley, located 12 kilometers from Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in Kashmir. From Aru, trekkers make their way to Lidderwat, Shekwas, Tarsar Lake, and Marsar Lake, before finally ending the trek at Homwas.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to undertake the Tarsar and Marsar Lakes trek is from June to September, when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. During this period, the region experiences moderate rainfall, which enhances the beauty of the surroundings.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Srinagar
The trek starts with an arrival at Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Trekkers can take a taxi from Srinagar to reach Pahalgam, which takes around two hours.
Day 2: Pahalgam to Aru Valley
The trek starts from Aru Valley, which is located at an altitude of 2400 meters. Trekkers can reach Aru by taxi, which takes around 45 minutes. From Aru, the trek begins with a gradual ascent towards Lidderwat, which is located at an altitude of 2900 meters.
Day 3: Lidderwat to Shekwas
The trek from Lidderwat to Shekwas covers a distance of approximately 11 kilometers and takes around five hours to complete. The trail passes through dense pine forests and meadows, offering breathtaking views of the surroundings.
Day 4: Shekwas to Tarsar Lake
The trek from Shekwas to Tarsar Lake covers a distance of approximately nine kilometers and takes around six hours to complete. The trail passes through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Himalayas, including glaciers, high-altitude lakes, and alpine meadows.
Day 5: Tarsar Lake to Marsar Lake
The trek from Tarsar Lake to Marsar Lake covers a distance of approximately 12 kilometers and takes around seven hours to complete. The trail passes through steep ascents and descents, offering trekkers a challenging but rewarding experience.
Day 6: Marsar Lake to Homwas
The trek from Marsar Lake to Homwas covers a distance of approximately 14 kilometers and takes around eight hours to complete. The trail passes through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Himalayas, including lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks.
Day 7: Departure from Srinagar
The trek ends with a departure from Srinagar, where trekkers can take a flight back home or explore the city’s many attractions.
Challenges
The Tarsar and Marsar Lakes trek is a moderate to difficult trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and stamina. Trekkers should be prepared to walk for several hours each day, sometimes over steep ascents and descents. The trek also involves camping at high altitudes, which can be challenging for some trekkers. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable in the region, and trekkers should be prepared for rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
Accommodation and Facilities
The trek involves camping in tents at designated campsites along the trail. The campsites are equipped with basic facilities, including toilets and water sources. Trekkers are advised to carry their own sleeping bags and other necessary camping gear. There are no restaurants or shops along the trail, and trekkers should carry their own food and water supplies.
Permits and Regulations
Trekkers need to obtain a permit from the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department to undertake the Tarsar and Marsar Lakes trek. The permit can be obtained from the tourist office in Srinagar or Pahalgam. Trekkers are also advised to follow the Leave No Trace principles and avoid littering or damaging the environment.
Conclusion
The Tarsar and Marsar Lakes trek is a trek of a lifetime that takes trekkers through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Himalayas. The trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Kashmir and to challenge oneself physically and mentally. However, trekkers should be well-prepared for the challenges that come with the trek, including the altitude, weather, and physical demands.
FAQs
- Is it safe to undertake the Tarsar and Marsar Lakes trek?
Yes, the trek is generally safe, but trekkers should follow the guidelines and regulations provided by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department.
- What is the best time to undertake the trek?
The best time to undertake the trek is from June to September.
- How long does the trek take?
The trek takes around six to seven days to complete.
- Is camping equipment available for rent?
Yes, camping equipment is available for rent in Pahalgam and Srinagar.
- Are there any medical facilities along the trail?
No, there are no medical facilities along the trail, and trekkers should carry their own first-aid kit.
