KGL Trek

Note: We are currently awaiting confirmation from the administration regarding trek permits for this season due to 2025 Pahalgam incident. Final status is yet to be announced. If you are planning to join this trek, please book refundable flight tickets from your destination to Srinagar and return.

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most scenic and rewarding treks in India, offering a perfect blend of adventure and serenity. Over the course of seven days, trekkers trail through alpine meadows, snow-clad peaks, and pristine blue lakes that sparkle like gems in the Himalayas. Beginning at Sonamarg and concluding at Naranag, the route unfolds through lush valleys, high-altitude passes, and charming shepherd settlements, immersing participants in both natural beauty and local culture. Along the way, seven magnificent glacial lakes reveal themselves, each framed by towering mountains and wildflower meadows.

Led by the Certified Ramblers India Team alongside experienced local staff, this trek ensures safety, authenticity, and a true backpacker-style experience. Shared tents at scenic locations, creating a raw and immersive connection with the outdoors. With clear policies, a focus on participant safety, and a commitment to transparent operations, Ramblers India delivers an unforgettable Himalayan adventure that challenges the body, calms the mind, and leaves lasting memories of Kashmir’s alpine wonderland.

Highligits:

• Seven Alpine Lakes – Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangbal, Nundkol, and Dal Sarovar

• Majestic Mountain Passes – Nichnai Pass (13,100 ft), Gadsar Pass (13,750 ft), and Zaj Pass (13,100 ft)

• Stunning Valleys – Sonamarg and Naranag

• Shepherd Settlements – Experience the local Gujjar culture

• Alpine Flora & Fauna – Vibrant meadows and diverse wildlife

Trek Facts

• Grade: Moderate

• Endurance: High

• Maximum Elevation: 13,750 ft (Gadsar Pass)

• Total Trek Distance: 78 km~

• Trek Duration: 7 Days

• Trek Start Point: Sonamarg

• Trek End Point: Naranag

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek – Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar & Transfer to Sonamarg (Altitude: 7,800 ft)

📍 Distance: 80 km (4-hour drive)

🕒 Duration: Half-day travel + acclimatization

🏕️ Stay: Tents / Homestay

• Pickup from Srinagar (TRC) at 12:00 PM.

• Scenic drive along the Sindh River with views of lush green meadows and mountains.

• Arrive at Sonamarg, a stunning valley known as the "Meadow of Gold."

• Trek briefing by leaders, safety protocols, and equipment check.

• Light walk around the campsite for acclimatization.

• Dinner and early rest for the trek ahead.

Day 2: Sonamarg to Nichnai (Altitude: 11,500 ft)

📍 Distance: 12 km

🕒 Duration: 6-7 hours

🌄 Terrain: Meadows, maple forests, rocky trails

🏕️ Stay: Tents at Nichnai

• 6:00 AM: Wake up, freshen up, and warm-up exercises.

• 7:00 AM: Breakfast, fill water bottles, and final backpack check.

• 8:00 AM: Begin the trek through beautiful maple and pine forests.

• 10:30 AM: Rest stop at a small Dhaba near Tabletop meadow.

• 12:30 PM: Lunch break near a stream.

• 2:30 PM: Ascend towards Nichnai Valley, known for its vast open meadows.

• 4:00 PM: Reach Nichnai campsite with stunning views of snow-capped peaks.

• 5:30 PM: Tea and evening acclimatization walk.

• 7:00 PM: Dinner & trek briefing for the next day.

Day 3: Nichnai to Vishansar Lake (Altitude: 12,000 ft)

📍 Distance: 13 km

🕒 Duration: 6-7 hours

🌄 Terrain: Gradual ascent, river crossings, boulder patches

🏕️ Stay: Tents at Vishansar Lake

• 6:00 AM: Wake up & morning routine.

• 7:30 AM: Start trek; ascend towards Nichnai Pass (13,100 ft), offering panoramic mountain views.

• 10:00 AM: Cross the pass and descend through rocky trails.

• 12:30 PM: Reach lush green meadows near Vishansar Lake, enjoy a packed lunch.

• 2:30 PM: Explore Vishansar Lake, a breathtaking glacial lake with reflections of nearby peaks.

• 5:00 PM: Evening acclimatization walk to avoid altitude sickness.

• 7:00 PM: Dinner, followed by stargazing at the crystal-clear night sky.

Day 4: Vishansar to Gadsar via Krishansar Lake & Gadsar Pass (Altitude: 13,750 ft)

📍 Distance: 14 km

🕒 Duration: 7-8 hours

🌄 Terrain: Steep ascents, boulders, high-altitude pass crossing

🏕️ Stay: Tents at Gadsar

• 6:00 AM: Early wake-up for a challenging trek.

• 7:30 AM: Trek towards Krishansar Lake, another stunning alpine lake.

• 9:00 AM: Begin steep ascent towards Gadsar Pass (13,750 ft), the highest point of the trek.

• 11:30 AM: At the top, witness panoramic views of Vishansar and Krishansar lakes.

• 1:00 PM: Descend towards Gadsar Lake, known for its turquoise blue waters and wildflowers.

• 3:30 PM: Pass through an Army checkpoint (ID proof required).

• 5:00 PM: Reach campsite, followed by an acclimatization walk.

• 7:00 PM: Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5: Gadsar to Satsar Lakes (Altitude: 12,000 ft)

📍 Distance: 12 km

🕒 Duration: 6-7 hours

🌄 Terrain: Meadows, rocky paths, multiple lake crossings

🏕️ Stay: Tents at Satsar

• 6:30 AM: Wake up and morning stretching.

• 7:30 AM: Breakfast & start the trek.

• 9:00 AM: Cross rocky trails and rolling meadows.

• 11:30 AM: Reach Satsar Lakes, a group of seven interconnected alpine lakes.

• 1:00 PM: Lunch break near the lakes.

• 3:00 PM: Trek through boulder sections before reaching the campsite.

• 5:00 PM: Acclimatization walk & tea break.

• 7:00 PM: Dinner & preparation for next day's final pass crossing.

Day 6: Satsar to Gangbal & Nundkol Lakes via Zaj Pass (Altitude: 13,100 ft)

📍 Distance: 12 km

🕒 Duration: 6-7 hours

🌄 Terrain: Steep ascent, boulder sections, lake views

🏕️ Stay: Tents at Gangbal

• 6:00 AM: Wake up & morning warm-up.

• 7:30 AM: Start trek with a steep climb towards Zaj Pass (13,100 ft).

• 10:30 AM: Reach the top, offering a mesmerizing view of Gangbal & Nundkol Lakes.

• 12:30 PM: Steep descent towards the lakes.

• 2:00 PM: Arrive at the lakeside campsite, relax near the pristine waters.

• 4:00 PM: Optional short trek to Nundkol Lake for sunset photography.

• 7:00 PM: Dinner and trek reflections with the team.

Day 7: Gangbal to Naranag (Altitude: 7,450 ft) & Return to Srinagar

📍 Distance: 13 km

🕒 Duration: 6 hours trek + 3 hours drive

🌄 Terrain: Pine forests, downhill trail

🏕️ Stay: None (Return to Srinagar)

• 6:00 AM: Wake up and pack belongings.

• 7:00 AM: Breakfast & start the final descent through pine forests.

• 10:30 AM: Rest stop at Trunkhol meadow, meet local shepherds.

• 12:00 PM: Arrive at Naranag, visit the ancient Shiva temple.

• 1:00 PM: Lunch break before boarding vehicles.

• 2:00 PM: Drive back to Srinagar.

• 5:00 PM: Drop-off at TRC.

Pricing:

Srinagar to Srinagar - ₹19,999/-

✔️ Pickup & drop from Srinagar TRC.

✔️ Insurance for the trek

✔️ Comfortable camp accommodation in tents

✔️ Tasty & nutritious meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner during the trek

✔️ All trekking permits & entry fees

✔️ Expert guides & support team

🚫 Excluded: Personal expenses, porter charges, meals in Srinagar & emergency evacuation costs

Sonmarg (Base Village) to Naranag (End Point) - ₹18,599/-

✔️ Insurance for the trek

✔️ Comfortable camp accommodation in tents.

✔️ Tasty & nutritious meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner during the trek

✔️ All trekking permits & entry fees

✔️ Expert guides & support team

🚫 Excluded Travel to Sonmarg, Personal expenses, porter charges & emergency evacuation costs

🎒 Need Help Carrying Your Backpack?

Porter Service: ₹3,000/-

🚀 Additional Notes:

• Weather Check: Conditions change rapidly; be prepared for sudden rain or cold winds.

• Fitness Requirement: The trek involves high endurance & long trekking hours—train accordingly (We will share the fitness regime).

How to Reach:

By Air: Srinagar has an airport that has flights from all the states of India. The most convenient and short way to reach Srinagar is from New Delhi.

By Train: Srinagar Railway station is very well connected from Jammu Tavi which is majorlyc onnected to all major cities rail network.

By Bus: There are regular bus and cab services from Jammu. You will reach within 10 hours from Jammu to Srinagar. Bus service is also available from Delhi to Srinagar.

It’s a 3-hour drive from Srinagar to the Sonmarg base camp of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Registration Process:

Step 1: Book Your Seat  

• Scroll below and select your ticket. Click on Checkout, fill in your details, and choose your preferred mode of payment. (Refer to the Manual Payment option if you wish to pay via UPI/NEFT.)

• Once completed, you will receive an email containing your ticket and the mandatory disclaimer form.

Step 2: Fill Mandatory Disclaimer Form  

• After payment confirmation, participants must complete the participation disclaimer form accurately to provide necessary information.

• Compliance with the disclaimer is mandatory for participation in the event.

Step 3: WhatsApp Group Creation 

• On the day of departure, a WhatsApp group will be created in the evening.

• All registered participants will be added to the group, which will serve as the official platform for communication, updates, and coordination during the event.

Trek Checklist

✔ Clothing & Footwear

• Trekking shoes with ankle support

• 3 Full sleeve t-shirts and trekking pants

• Warm layers (fleece, down jacket, thermal wear - 2 pairs)

• Waterproof jacket & poncho

• Woolen socks, gloves, and cap

• QuickDry Towel, 5 pairs of innerwears

✔ Essential Gear

• Backpack (50-60L)

• Trekking pole

• Head torch with extra batteries

• Sleeping bag (optional)

• Knee cap

• powerbank/ solar charger

✔ Personal Items

• Water bottles (3L minimum)

• Sunscreen, Sunglasses, and lip balm

• Toiletries and basic first-aid kit

• Snacks (dry fruits, energy bars, fruits)

• Personal medications

• Identity proof

🗓️ 4‑Day Fitness Plan

Day 1 – Endurance & Cardio   Start the week with stamina building. Jog or brisk walk 5 km in under 40 minutes. Add 15–20 minutes of stair climbing or uphill walking with a backpack (4–6 kg) to simulate trek conditions.

Day 2 – Strength Training   Focus on legs, core, and shoulders. Do squats, lunges, push‑ups, planks, and step‑ups (3 sets each). Include light weights or resistance bands for shoulder presses and core stability.

Day 3 – Flexibility & Breathing   Dedicate this day to yoga and stretching. Work on hamstrings, hips, and back mobility. Practice pranayama or deep belly breathing to improve lung capacity for high altitude.

Day 4 – Practice Hike / Long Walk   Go outdoors for an 8–10 km hike or long walk with a loaded backpack (6–8 kg). If trails aren’t accessible, substitute with stair climbs or treadmill incline walking. Focus on pacing, hydration, and endurance.

For mumbai/ pune registered participants, we will take you for the weekend hikes on 1 & 8th August 2026 as a practice hikes (charges applicable for food/ else carry from home)

Trek Disclaimer

• Mandatory Disclaimer Form: Accurate completion of the online disclaimer form is required. If incorrect details are provided, participants will be asked to refill the form without exception.

• ID Card Requirement: Participants must bring a valid ID card for safety verification purposes.

• High‑altitude trekking involves inherent risks, including AMS, hypoxia, dehydration, and fatigue.

• Participants must ensure they are physically and mentally fit for the trek and disclose any pre‑existing medical conditions to the trek leaders before departure.

• Ramblers India trek leaders will monitor participants for symptoms of altitude sickness. If symptoms occur, immediate descent or evacuation may be required. The decision of the trek leader regarding safety will be final and binding.

• Participants are responsible for carrying personal prescriptions and Please mention it in the disclaimer form and also inform our trek leader of any medication use.

• Weather conditions at high altitude are unpredictable. Ramblers India reserves the right to alter, postpone, or cancel the trek in the interest of participant safety.

• Participants must follow all instructions regarding the pace, hydration, rest, and acclimatization during everyday's trek breifing. Failure to comply may result in removal from the trek without refund. Punctuality: Participants are expected to adhere to the schedule and avoid delays to respect the time of others.

• Parental Consent for Minors: Participants under the age of 18 must have written parental consent to participate in the event.

• Itinerary Modifications & Event Cancellations: Participants will be informed in advance of any changes to the itinerary or cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances.  RamblersIndia as a company and trek leaders are not responsible if the visited places have new rules or are prohibited due to natural calamities.

• As of now the permits are yet to provided by the District Office, If KGL is not yet open then we may prefer Tarsar Marsar Trek, If none of them aren't permitted then we will refund the event fee only.

• Please book flight tickets with free cancellation/ flexi date change option included.

• Weather and Organizer Authority: We reserve the right to cancel, postpone, or change the event location due to unexpected weather conditions. Ramblersindia or the trek leader will not be held responsible if entry is restricted by local authorities. In such cases, an effort will be made to select an alternate nearby location, taking participants' preferences into consideration.

• Expense Responsibility: Participants should carry extra cash during the trek for rides and entry to attractions. Participants are responsible for expenses not included in the event fees. If additional expenses arise due to location changes, participants will be informed and required to cover the extra costs. Participants need to pay for any additional Stay/ Food due to Flight/ Train/ Bus delay or any natural calamities like landslides, earthquakes, etc.

• Misconduct and Prohibited Activities: Misconduct, including alcohol consumption, smoking, or any form of intoxication, is strictly prohibited. Playing loud music or teasing animals during the trek is not allowed.

• Personal Hygiene and Environmental Responsibility: Participants should avoid wearing deodorant or perfume during the trek.

• Adherence to the Leave No Trace principle is mandatory—do not litter or leave plastic waste behind.

• Forest Guidelines: All participants must follow the Forest Department's guidelines.

• Participants should exercise caution when hiking in forested areas.

• Accommodation during the trek: The stay will be in a sharing tents.

• Accommodation at Base village: Basic accommodation will be provided, typically in villagers' homes or simple stay facilities with triple or quadruple sharing basis at the base villages. Private couple sharing rooms are subject to availability and will incur additional charges.

• Washroom Facilities: Basic washroom facilities will be available at the base village. During the trek there will be a temporary toilet tent setup at the campsite.

• Group Coordination and Cooperation: Participants are expected to maintain discipline, cooperate with fellow participants, and contribute to a positive team environment. Participants should not expect luxury facilities and are encouraged to cooperate with fellow ramblers.

• Safety Disclaimer: While safety is a priority, Ramblersindia and its designated trek leaders are not liable for severe injuries or fatalities.

• Weather conditions in the Himalayas are subject to change, and we are not responsible for any natural calamities that may occur during the event.

• Eligibility & Participation: All participants must meet the physical and mental fitness levels required for the activity. By registering, participant confirm they meet these requirements and understand the risks involved.

• Withdrawal: Participant is liable for any emergency evacuation costs and any legal proceedings arising from accidents or injuries during the trek or rappelling or travelling. Ramblers India, along with its trek leaders and hired local guides, will not be held responsible or accountable for any such incidents.

• Emergency evacuation costs, medical expenses, or hospitalization due to altitude‑related illness are the sole responsibility of the participant.

• Liability & Risk: Please be advised that if a participant decides to withdraw from the activity at any stage, they will be solely responsible for making their own travel arrangements from that point onward. Our team will not be liable for any transportation, lodging, or other related expenses due to the participant’s decision to exit.

• Luggage Policy: If you have not availed the mule offloading service, you must carry your own backpack throughout the trek. Pack only with the essentials mentioned in the trek checklist

• Personal Belongings: We are not responsible for personal losses such as theft or damage to personal belongings. Participant is usually expected to take personal responsibility for their belongings and exercise caution to prevent such incidents.

• Payment and Registration: Participant is responsible for bearing convenience fees charged by payment gateways.

• The participant has thoroughly reviewed and accepted our Disclaimer and Privacy Policy. This step is crucial as it ensures that you are fully informed about the terms and conditions under which you are engaging with our services.

• The Disclaimer outlines the limitations of liability and the scope of information provided, clarifying that while we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, we cannot guarantee its completeness or reliability.

• By registering for this event, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and have reviewed all relevant terms, risks, and responsibilities associated with the activity.

• The event requires a minimum strength of 6 to happen.

Payment Policy:

• Third-Party Payment Gateways: We utilize third-party payment gateways for a smoother registration process. The total amount at checkout includes both the main event fee and a convenience fee, convenience fee is borne by the customer and displayed before finalizing the payment.

• Manual Payment Option: Participants may opt to manually transfer the payment via UPI (Unified Payments Interface) or NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer). A transaction ID or reference number will be provided for this purpose. The manual payment option is available for only

  one hour from the time the ticket is marked as unpaid. If the payment is not completed within this time frame, the order will be automatically canceled.

• The entire amount must be paid upfront; we do not accept partial payments, such as half in advance and the remainder on the event day.

• Transaction Confirmation for Manual Payments: Participants paying through UPI or NEFT (where the convenience fee is not applicable) must confirm their payment by providing the transaction reference via email or WhatsApp.

• Service Availability: No refunds, discounts, or concessions will be issued if participants choose not to use specific services provided during the event.

• Withdrawal: If a participant withdraws from the event after registration, the amount paid cannot be carried forward to future events. Refunds will be processed according to the refund policy in place at the time of withdrawal without convenience fee.

Refund Policy:

• Refund Medium: Refunds will be processed through the same payment medium used for the original transaction. Payments made via UPI will be refunded to the UPI ID, while bank transfers will be refunded to the designated bank account.

• Processing Time: Refunds will be initiated on the event date or the next business day. Refund processing time may vary between 3 to 10 working days, depending on the payment gateway. In case of delays, the recipient should contact the payment gateway support for assistance.

• Refunds will be initiated on the event date or the next business day and processed within 2 days.

• For UPI payments, refunds will be transferred to the UPI ID.

• For current account payments, we will request either the UPI ID or bank account details for processing.

• Refunds cannot be issued to a payment wallet or phone number—only UPI IDs are valid.

• Refund Issuance: Refunds will not be issued in cash or coupons unless previously agreed upon with the participant. Refunds will not be processed on weekends due to team unavailability.

• Exclusion of Convenience Fee: Refunds exclude the convenience fee. If the payment includes a convenience fee from a third-party gateway, only the event fee will be refunded. For instance, if the event price is ₹1000 and the convenience fee is 5% (making the total paid amount ₹1050), the refund will be based on ₹1000, excluding the convenience fee.

Refund Percentages for Cancellations:

• 50% refund for cancellations made 10 or more days before departure.

• 40% refund for cancellations made 7 days before departure.

• 30% refund for cancellations made 6 days before departure.

• 20% refund for cancellations made 5 days before departure till the day of departure.

• Refunds will not be issued for no-shows, such as missing the train or last-minute cancellations due to emergencies.

• Event Cancellation:

  In the event of a cancellation by the organizer, the full event fee will be refunded, excluding the convenience fee. Any personal transportation costs (e.g., train, bus, flight, cab, hotel) will not be refunded. If the event is forwarded to another Organization, an extra fee needs to be paid by the participant if the other organizer's fee is higher than our event fee.

• If the minimum attendance isn't reached, the event will be canceled. For events starting in the morning, the decision will be made the day before in the evening, while for those beginning at night, the decision will be made in the evening.

• If the event is canceled midway due to unforeseen circumstances, no refund will be given, and no amount will be transferred to other events.