An unforgettable expedition through one of India’s most pristine and mystical landscapes.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek takes you deep into the heart of the Kashmiri wilderness, offering a transformative experience that blends breathtaking natural beauty with thrilling physical challenges.
This trek spans roughly 70–75 km on foot over 7–8 days, where every step immerses you in a world of snow-capped peaks, shimmering alpine lakes, and expansive, verdant meadows.
Destination History & Significance:
Myth & Lore:
In local lore, Kashmir’s landscapes are known as “heaven on earth.” For centuries, they have inspired poets, travellers, and spiritual seekers.
The region is steeped in ancient traditions and folklore, with many lakes and mountain passes carrying names referencing divine figures and mythological legends.
Cultural Heritage:
The trek offers glimpses into the lifestyle of the indigenous Gujjar and Bakarwal communities, whose age-old nomadic traditions echo through the valleys.
Local customs, regional cuisine, and traditional music add a cultural depth to the natural journey, connecting trekkers to the rich heritage of Kashmir.
Natural Legacy:
The pristine environment of the Kashmir Great Lakes has been preserved over generations, reflecting the delicate balance between nature and human activity in this remote part of the Himalayas.
Location & Major Attractions:
Starting Point – Sonamarg:
Often called the “Meadow of Gold,” Sonamarg sets the stage with its dazzling open landscapes, vibrant wildflower fields, and a serene atmosphere that prepares you for the trek ahead.
Spectacular Alpine Lakes:
Vishansar & Kishansar: Often described as twin jewels, these lakes mirror the towering peaks and create an ever-changing canvas of colours throughout the day.
Gadsar: Nestled beneath rugged cliffs, its clear, emerald-blue waters captivate trekkers and serve as a symbol of nature’s untouched beauty.
Satsar: A series of interconnected lakes that resemble a string of pearls, offering a tranquil setting amid rugged terrain.
Gangabal & Nundkol: Revered for their spiritual significance, these twin lakes lie at the base of mighty peaks, providing both a visual feast and a serene refuge.
Panoramic Vistas & Natural Wonders:
Traverse high-altitude passes open to sweeping views of the Himalayan range, revealing dramatic contrasts between lush green valleys and snow-draped summits.
Discover cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and ancient glacial formations that tell the story of a timeless natural evolution.
Challenges & Essential Notes:
Physical Demands:
The trek features steep ascents and descents, rocky trails, and prolonged walking hours (often between 6–9 hours daily).
Significant daily altitude gains (up to 3,000 ft) require careful pacing, proper rest, and gradual acclimatization.
Altitude & Weather:
High altitudes mean lower oxygen levels, making it essential to be aware of the signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and to carry necessary medications.
Weather can be unpredictable—expect chilly nights, variable temperatures, and occasional rain showers; layered clothing and waterproof gear are non-negotiable.
Navigation & Safety:
While the trails are marked and guided by experienced local experts, trekkers should remain vigilant on steep, rocky sections and boulder fields.
Limited mobile connectivity beyond Sonamarg necessitates pre-planning communications and emergency protocols.
Environmental Responsibility:
Follow “Leave No Trace” principles to preserve the fragile ecosystem; carry out all waste and minimize your environmental footprint.
Respect local customs and interact with communities in a considerate manner, ensuring the natural and cultural heritage remains intact for future generations.
Trip Highlights
Witness the ever-changing hues of Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangabal, and Nundkol as they mirror the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Each lake offers a unique charm—from the deep blue reflections at Vishansar to the floral accents around Gadsar.
Conquer challenging high-altitude passes like Nichnai, Gadsar, and Zaj that provide panoramic vistas of the entire Himalayan range. Every pass crossing is a rewarding moment, offering unforgettable 360° views.
Trek through expansive meadows bursting with wildflowers and dense pine and maple forests that exude tranquility. The serene landscapes create an ideal backdrop for photography and quiet reflection.
Experience authentic Kashmiri culture by interacting with local Gujjar and Bakarwal communities along the route. Discover ancient traditions and regional folklore that add depth to your adventure.
A moderately difficult trek that tests your physical endurance with steep ascents, rocky descents, and long trekking hours. The challenge of conquering high altitudes and rugged terrain makes each step a triumph.
Enjoy nights under a canopy of stars in remote campsites, where the silence and cool mountain air create a magical ambiance. Camp beside pristine lakes and listen to the gentle sounds of nature around you.
Every day unveils a new scenic masterpiece—from cascading waterfalls and glacial streams to towering peaks and endless valleys. The trek is a living canvas of nature’s art, ensuring memorable photo opportunities at every turn.
Itinerary
Day 01 :
Srinagar to Sonmarg
Drive Duration: 3 hours | Drive Distance: 90 km. Report at TRC Near Dal Lake around Noon. We have a buffer time of 1.5 hours, and after that, we proceed to Sonmarg from Srinagar. If you arrive a day earlier, you can stroll around Dal Lake and take a houseboat or Shikara ride. Spend overnight at Shitkadi campsite in Sonmarg
Day 02 :
Sonmarg to Nichnai
Trek distance: 11 km | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours | Altitude gain: 7800 ft to 11500 ft Today will be the first day of this enthralling Kashmir Great Lakes trek! After having breakfast at the campsite start your trek. Here onwards, the trek will be a gradual ascend and it will take you through maple and pine forests. Completing the hike through the forests, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Sonmarg Valley and pictorial streams. Relax around the vicinity for a while before you start trekking towards the Nichnai, which is located around 11,500ft above sea level. Upon arrival in Nichnai, check in to the campsite Dinner and overnight stay in the camp.
Day 03 :
Nichnai to Vishansar Lake
Trek distance: 13 km | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours | Altitude gain: 11,500 ft to 13,229 ft. Starting early in the morning, around 08:00 AM, wake up to the scenic views and start the trek towards the Nichnai Pass and enjoy the stunning views of the lush valleys and the untouched beauty of the region. Arriving at the pass, which is located 13,500m above sea level, witness, and enjoy the meticulous beauty of the pass and the snow-covered peaks all around it. Hereafter, the trek will undergo a steep descent and will lead you to a pictorial meadow of colourful flowers; while on the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, you can also catch glimpses of a cascade that finally joins a river. Here onwards, continue with the hike and upon arriving at a flat valley, continue towards its end and arrive at the campsite. Gazing on the left of this trail, you can also behold captivating views of the Himalayan Range and the Vishansar Lake Overnight stay in the camp near Vishansar Lake
Day 04 :
Vishansar to Gadsar
Trek distance: 16 km | Trek Duration: 7.5 hours | Altitude gain and loss: 12,011 ft to 13,715 ft. This chilly morning, wake up to witness the Kishansar Peak casting its reflection on the azure lake waters. Start the trek for the day towards the lakeside and reach the Kishansar Peak, which is situated around 500 ft above the campsite. Here onwards, ascend to the other side of the water reservoir. The trek till here comprises both easy and tough terrains. Later part of the day, trek towards the Kishansar Lake and finally make it to the Gadsar Pass which is perched at a height of 13,715 ft and is the highest point of this trek. From the pass, pass through a flowery meadow and some of the pictorial lakes; Yamsar is one of these lakes. From here, continue with the descent and after crossing it, reach the Gadsar Lake. A picturesque lake, it is adorned with the stunning beauty of exotic flowers. Overnight stay at Gadsar Lake
Day 05 :
Gadsar to Satsar
Trek distance: 12 km | Trek Duration: 4.5 hours | Altitude gain: 10,706 ft to 11,985 ft. Your day will begin with a walk from the camp towards the stream. Brace yourself for varied terrains from super steep, flat, and even land. Reach the first of Satsar Lakes, which is a group of seven different lakes, and stay near Satsar Lake at camps. Overnight stay at Satsar
Day 06 :
Satsar to Gangabal Twin Lakes
Trek distance: 9 km | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Altitude loss: 11,985 ft to 13,276 ft. A true test of calibre, this is the day when you will have to push your physical and mental limits! Trudge through rocks and boulders ridden terrain, pass the last of the Satsar lakes, and start hiking downwards for half an hour till you arrive at the forest line. Here onwards, start ascending upward and reach an altitude of 13,400ft; during this climb, you can witness several ridges at different heights and the quaint Gujjar huts as well. From the summit, you can also behold the fascinating views of the twin lakes: Gangabal and Nundkol, which are connected to each other by a picturesque stream and are known for trout fishing. Post this; trek through a sharp and rocky trail and make it to a gurgling stream, passing which, you will reach a lush meadow that advent towards the Nundkol Lake, which is also a popular weekend getaway among the locals. Trekking for around 20 minutes from Nundkol Lake, you will finally arrive at Gangabal Lake, and by crossing the bridge across the lake; you will arrive at the campsite. Dinner and overnight stay in the camp.
Day 07 :
Gangabal to Naranag Trek
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Altitude loss: 11,486 ft to 7,800 ft. On your final day of the Kashmir Great Lake Trek, start from the Gangabal camp, and ramble on grassy land dotted with yellow flowers and pine forest. Descend to Naranag, the last leg of your trek. Reach Naranag Village in Ganderbal District. If you wish, you can visit Naranag Temple. Be driven back to Srinagar with wonderful memories Please note: The distance between campsites may vary by 100 meters depending on the weather conditions and the route you take. The altitude may also vary by 100 feet for similar reasons. Important: While returning from Naranag, the checkpost closes at 4 pm. Make sure to plan according to this. If stuck, you will personally have to take the help of the Indian Army for your stay at night.
Day 08 :
Buffer Day
It is advised to plan a buffer day after this trek and plan your return tickets accordingly. In case the buffer day is used during the trek, you need to pay Rs. 1500/person extra to the Trek Leader. A medical certificate and insurance are mandatory for this trek. You must submit your medical certificate, trek insurance, and Aadhar card at least 15 days before the start date of your trek.15 days before the start date of your trek.15 days before the start date of your trek.
Includes/Excludes
INCLUSIONS
Sonmarg to Naranag
Veg Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks and Dinner
Medical Amenities – First Aid Kits, Oxymeters, oxygen cylinders.
Sanitised and Hygienic Camp sites
EXCLUSIONS
5% GST
Trek Insurance and medical certificate
Anything not mentioned in inclusion list
Meals during Transportation
Any kind of personal Expenses
Unscheduled or extended stay due to road blocks, Landslides
Porter/mule charges (Personal), Back pack offloading Charges
Cost of Evacuation in case of emergency
How Difficult is the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a moderate to difficult expedition that offers seasoned trekkers a rewarding challenge amidst breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Spanning approximately 70 kilometres over 8 days, the trek ascends from 7,800 feet to a peak altitude of 13,750 feet, demanding both physical endurance and mental resilience.
Key Factors Influencing the Trek’s Difficulty:
Terrain Diversity: Trekkers navigate through dense forests, expansive meadows, rocky terrains, and high-altitude mountain passes. The trail includes steep ascents and descents, requiring surefootedness and stamina.
Altitude Variation: The significant elevation gain poses risks of altitude sickness. It’s crucial to acclimatize properly and recognize early symptoms to ensure safety.
Daily Distances: Participants typically cover 10-12 kilometres daily, translating to 6-7 hours of trekking. This consistent physical exertion necessitates prior trekking experience and a good fitness level.
Weather Conditions: The region’s unpredictable weather can range from clear skies to sudden rain or snow, making the trail more challenging and requiring adequate preparation.
Preparation Recommendations:
Physical Training: Engage in cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and practice hikes to build endurance and muscle strength.
Mental Readiness: Develop a positive mindset to handle challenges like fatigue and varying weather conditions.
Proper Gear: Equip yourself with high-quality trekking boots, layered clothing, and rain gear to tackle diverse terrains and weather scenarios.
Acclimatization: Plan for rest days and gradual ascent profiles to allow your body to adapt to the altitude, minimizing health risks.
How to Get Fit for the Trip
A trekking adventure like the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek requires not only mental determination but also physical preparedness. Our expert tips will help you build the strength, endurance, and resilience needed for this transformative journey. Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to get fit for your trek, along with suggestions for images to enhance your website content.
1. Set Clear Fitness Goals
Define Your Objective: Aim to improve your cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and overall stamina.
Benchmark: A good target is to run 5 km in under 32 minutes consistently for at least two weeks before your trek.
Plan: Create a training schedule that gradually increases your intensity and duration.
2. Cardiovascular Training
Running & Jogging: Incorporate regular runs or jogs (3–5 days a week) to boost your heart health and stamina.
Cycling & Swimming: Mix in activities like cycling or swimming to diversify your workouts and reduce impact on your joints.
Interval Training: Use interval workouts (short bursts of high-intensity followed by recovery periods) to enhance endurance and speed.
3. Strength & Endurance Workouts
Leg Strength: Focus on exercises such as squats, lunges, step-ups, and calf raises to build powerful leg muscles.
Core Stability: Engage in planks, Russian twists, and leg raises to strengthen your core, which is vital for balance on uneven terrain.
Upper Body: Incorporate push-ups and resistance training to support your overall endurance and help with backpack carrying.
4. Flexibility and Balance Training
Yoga & Pilates: Regular yoga sessions or Pilates help improve balance, flexibility, and mental focus.
Stretching Routine: Make it a habit to stretch after workouts to prevent injuries and improve muscle recovery.
5. Simulated Trekking & Hiking Practice
Practice Hikes: Gradually build up your trekking distance by hiking local trails. Begin with shorter hikes and progressively increase your distance and altitude.
Weighted Backpacks: Train with a backpack loaded to mimic the weight you’ll carry during the trek. This will condition your muscles and improve your endurance.
6. Nutrition & Hydration
Balanced Diet: Fuel your body with a mix of proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to support energy levels and muscle repair.
Hydration: Maintain proper hydration before, during, and after workouts. Drinking water regularly is crucial, especially when training at higher intensities.
Snacks: Keep energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits handy for quick energy boosts during your training sessions and hikes.
7. Rest and Recovery
Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get 7–9 hours of sleep each night to allow your body to recover from strenuous workouts.
Active Recovery: Incorporate light activities like walking or gentle stretching on your off days to keep your body moving without overexertion.
Listen to Your Body: Rest when needed to avoid injuries and burnout.
8. Professional Guidance and Consistency
Consult a Trainer: Consider working with a fitness trainer experienced in trekking or outdoor sports to tailor a program to your needs.
Track Progress: Keep a training log or use fitness apps to monitor your progress and stay motivated.
Stay Consistent: Consistency is key; even on busy days, try to incorporate some physical activity to maintain momentum.
Get Ready to Trek!
By following these expert tips and dedicating yourself to a structured fitness plan, you’ll be well-prepared to conquer the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. Not only will you build the physical endurance needed for the journey, but you’ll also enjoy the process of transforming your body and mind for the adventure of a lifetime.
Best Time to Do Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
The optimal period to embark on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is from July to mid-September. During these months, the region unveils its most picturesque landscapes, offering trekkers a mesmerizing experience.
Weather Conditions:
Daytime: Temperatures typically range between 15°C to 20°C, providing pleasant trekking conditions.
Nighttime: Temperatures can drop to around 5°C to 8°C, especially at higher altitudes, so adequate layering is essential.
Trail and Scenery:
As the winter snow recedes, the trails become accessible, revealing:
Lush Green Meadows: Expansive stretches of verdant fields come alive, adorned with a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers.
Pristine Alpine Lakes: The melting snow feeds into crystal-clear lakes, each reflecting the towering peaks and azure skies, creating postcard-perfect vistas.
Flora and Fauna:
This season witnesses a resurgence of life:
Floral Diversity: The meadows burst into a riot of colours with diverse wildflowers in full bloom.
Wildlife Activity: The favourable weather conditions make it an ideal time for observing local wildlife in their natural habitats.
Additional Considerations:
Crowd Levels: Given its popularity, certain sections of the trail may experience increased foot traffic. Opting for mid-week departures can offer a more solitary experience.
Preparation: Despite the favourable conditions, the trek’s moderate to difficult rating necessitates proper physical preparation and acclimatization to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Embarking on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek during this window not only ensures optimal weather and trail conditions but also immerses trekkers in the unparalleled beauty of Kashmir’s alpine landscapes.
Note: Weather in mountainous regions can be unpredictable. It’s advisable to check current conditions and forecasts closer to your departure date.
How to Reach Srinagar
the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek begins in the picturesque city of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Srinagar is well-connected to major cities across India, offering several travel options to suit your preferences.
By Air:
The most efficient way to reach Srinagar is by flying into Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR), located approximately 12 kilometres from the city centre. While there are no direct flights from Ahmedabad to Srinagar, major airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, GoAir, and SpiceJet offer connecting flights with layovers in cities like Delhi or Mumbai. The total flight duration, including layovers, typically ranges from 5 to 8 hours.
By Train:
Srinagar does not have a direct railway station. The nearest major railhead is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, situated about 270 kilometres from Srinagar. To reach Jammu Tawi from Ahmedabad, you can board trains like the ADI JAT Express or Jammu Tawi Express, with journey times ranging from 24 to 30 hours. Upon reaching Jammu, you can hire a taxi or board a bus to Srinagar, which takes approximately 7 to 9 hours, depending on road conditions.
By Road:
For those who enjoy long drives, a road trip from Ahmedabad to Srinagar is an option. The distance is approximately 1,350 kilometres, and the journey can be both challenging and rewarding, offering diverse landscapes along the way. However, this mode of travel requires careful planning, considering factors like road conditions, rest stops, and overnight accommodations.
Local Transportation in Srinagar:
Once in Srinagar, local transportation options include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses. For a seamless experience, it’s advisable to arrange for a pre-booked taxi or shuttle service to transport you from the airport or railway station directly to your accommodation or the designated trek pickup point.
What to Pack for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
Packing the right gear and essentials is crucial for a comfortable and successful trekking experience. Here’s a comprehensive packing list to help you prepare for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.
Pro Tip: Pack smartly! Keep essentials accessible, distribute weight evenly, and always carry a waterproof cover for your backpack.
What is the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?
It’s an adventurous journey through the pristine Himalayan landscapes of Kashmir, showcasing a series of high-altitude alpine lakes, lush meadows, and rugged mountain passes. The trek is celebrated for its natural beauty and deep-rooted local lore, making it a transformative experience for trekkers.
How long does the trek last?
The trek typically takes 7–8 days to complete on foot, covering approximately 70–75 km of varied terrain. An additional buffer day may be included for acclimatization or unforeseen delays.
How difficult is the trek?
Classified as moderate to difficult, the trek involves steep ascents and descents, rocky trails, and significant altitude gains (up to 3,000 ft daily). It requires good physical fitness, proper acclimatization, and a readiness to face high-altitude challenges.
How fit do I need to be for Kashmir Great Lakes?
A Himalayan trek like Kashmir Great Lakes requires a really good fitness level. The trek has long climbs and steep descents daily. As a measure of your fitness, we need you to: Run at least 5 km in 32 minutes before your trek. The consistency of your workout also matters, so aim to jog 25 km a week or 100 km in a month. It’s a minimum mandatory requirement if you wish to trek with us.
Is the Kashmir Great Lakes trek Safe?
The Kashmir Great Lakes trail is safe. It is in the remote regions of Kashmir, away from the hotbed of turmoil. It is towards the more touristy Sonamarg region. There are also 3 army camps on the trekking trail. And we camp close to them. So the trekking trail itself is completely safe. However, political unrest, curfews and clampdowns have occurred in the past during our trekking season. We have tackled these efficiently, never compromising on the safety of trekkers. We travel during non-curfew hours and take measures to safely pick up or drop trekkers at the airport. Sometimes, we call off treks if the situation is too serious (for instance when Burhan Wani was shot and the political situation in Kashmir was out of control). Calling off a trek is a worst-case scenario and has not occurred too many times in the past. Keep in mind that if we are running the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, you can assume that it is safe. We would not compromise on anyone’s safety and run it during dangerous times.
How many months in advance should I book the Kashmir Great Lake trek?
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek (KGL) has a narrow window for trekking. It is possible to trek in Kashmir for only 3 months in a year. The season starts in July and goes till the middle of September. But the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is one of the most popular treks in our country. Trekkers eagerly wait to do this trek.
Will I get a mobile network and charging points during the Kashmir Great Lakes trek?
You will get mobile connectivity only till Srinagar. After that, the network is sketchy and almost non-existent. Make sure you finish all your important telephone calls before starting your travel to the base campInform family members about poor connectivity during the trek. Note: Prepaid SIM cards do not work in Kashmir. As for electricity, you won’t have access to electricity or charging points anywhere during the trek.
When is the best time to do the trek?
The ideal trekking season is from June to September when the valleys are lush, wildflowers bloom, and the weather is most favorable.Be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially during the monsoon period.
What if we want to leave extra luggage at the base village?
You can keep extra luggage in the base village for any particular trek. There are no cloak room charges applicable. It’s free of cost
How do you manage toilets?
As there are no permanent toilets on the trek, we carry toilet tents which are dry toilets so you need to carry wet tissues/tissue wipes with you.
Can we consume Alcohol during the trek?
It’s a strict no. If you fall sick during the trek due to alcohol consumption TheSearchingSouls has the right to cancel your trek and send you back to base village. No expenses shall be refunded in that case and you will have to pay additional for stay at base village.
What kind of shoes will I need? Does a sport shoe work?
If it’s a snow trek a good trekking shoe is mandatory. If you buy a new shoe do walk for few days so that it fits you well and doesn’t leave you with blisters while you trek. If it is a summer trek or post monsoon trek a shoe with good grip and ankle support will do.
Things Nobody Tells You About the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the most breathtaking trekking experiences in India. While most guides will tell you about its pristine alpine lakes, lush meadows, and towering peaks, several lesser-known aspects can make or break your experience. Here are some things nobody tells you about this trek:
1. The Beauty is Beyond Your Imagination
You’ve seen pictures, but nothing prepares you for the experience. The scale and grandeur of Kashmir’s valleys and lakes feel surreal, almost like stepping into a high-definition IMAX movie. The ever-changing landscape—from lush green meadows to rugged mountain passes—makes every single day feel like an entirely different trek.
2. The Trek is Physically and Mentally Challenging
It may look like a fairy-tale journey, but the trek is not a walk in the park. With long trekking days (10-12 km per day), steep ascents, and high-altitude terrain, you need good endurance and stamina. If you aren’t used to trekking for long hours, train at least 4-6 weeks in advance with cardio, strength workouts, and regular hikes.
3. The Weather is Extremely Unpredictable
One moment you’ll be walking under a bright blue sky, and the next, clouds can roll in, bringing rain or even snowfall. The temperature can drop drastically at night (as low as -5°C), even during summer. Always carry rain gear, extra warm layers, and waterproof covers for your backpack.
4. The Lakes Change Colors Throughout the Day
The high-altitude lakes are magical—they change colours depending on the time of day and the angle of sunlight. Vishansar and Kishansar Lakes, for example, shift from crystal-clear blue in the morning to deep green by afternoon, and inky blue by evening.
5. Acclimatization is Key to Avoiding Altitude Sickness
Since the trek takes you above 13,000 feet, proper acclimatization is crucial. Some trekkers experience headaches, nausea, or dizziness due to the thin air. Drink plenty of water, walk slowly, and avoid skipping acclimatization breaks. If symptoms worsen, inform your guide immediately.
6. The Trekking Path is Not Well-Marked
Unlike some Himalayan treks with clear trails, Kashmir Great Lakes is more of an explorer’s trek. The paths often merge with meadows, and landmarks can be confusing. This is why having a knowledgeable guide is essential—they know the correct routes, the safest river crossings, and the best spots for rest stops.
7. Expect to be Completely Disconnected
There’s no mobile network for most of the trek. You’ll be off the grid for 7+ days, which can be both a challenge and a blessing. Let your family know in advance and embrace the digital detox—it’s a rare chance to fully connect with nature.
8. Food is Surprisingly Good on the Trek
You might expect simple, bland meals, but the food on this trek is surprisingly tasty and nutritious. From hot parathas to comforting dal-rice and evening soup, the trek organizers ensure you get enough energy for the strenuous journey. Don’t forget to carry some high-energy snacks like dry fruits, chocolate, and protein bars.
9. Crossing Nichnai & Gadsar Passes is No Joke
The Nichnai Pass (13,500 ft) and Gadsar Pass (13,800 ft) are two of the toughest parts of the trek. These high-altitude passes involve steep ascents, loose rocks, and strong winds. Reaching the top is rewarding, but the climb will test your endurance. Take it slow, breathe deeply, and enjoy the epic views.
10. You Might See Wildlife
While the meadows and valleys seem peaceful, keep an eye out for wildlife. You might spot Marmots (big furry rodents), Himalayan foxes, and even the elusive Hangul deer. Shepherd dogs are common too—be cautious as some can be aggressive around campsites.
11. Local Shepherds and Bakarwals are Friendly but Guarded
You’ll come across Bakarwal shepherds who migrate with their livestock. They are welcoming but also reserved, as they’ve seen trekkers come and go. If you interact with them, be polite and respectful of their way of life.
12. You’ll Miss the Trek Once It’s Over
No matter how tough the trek gets, you’ll never want it to end. The raw beauty, the sense of adventure, and the friendships you make along the way will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. You might even find yourself planning a return trip before you’ve even left!
the Kuari Pass & Pangarchulla Trek to witness snow-capped peaks, serene meadows, and thrilling adventures in the heart of the Himalayas. Ideal for young adventurers, this trek promises unforgettable memories!
