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Among all the mesmerising valleys in Kashmir, Pahalgam is known for some of the most pristine alpine lakes. Tucked away between towering mountains and vibrant meadows, these lakes in Pahalgam are nature’s treasures, featuring peaceful scenery and pristine waters. These glaciers are not just trekking destinations; they have their own cultural as well as mythological significance. Hikers tread through rocky, difficult paths for the breathtaking sights of lakes and some relish the stillness around them. The lakes that surround Pahalgam are visually and spiritually enhancing, whether you are looking for adventure, spirituality, or peace.
6 Must-See Lakes In Pahalgam
Discover the following stunning lakes in Pahalgam and lose yourself in the breathtaking scenery.
1. Tulian Lake
Photo: Raqueeb Mir / Wikimedia Commons
Tulian Lake is situated at a height of 3,684 meters. This beautiful frozen lake is famous for its blue colour and is located between the high peaks of the Zanskar and Pir Panjal Ranges. The lake is also known for its peculiar two-toned tint that sees bits of ice floating across it even in the summer. The hike is not difficult but a serious reward, as the trek goes through rich coniferous forests. It is an adventure for seasoned trekkers. Its natural beauty and solitude make Tulian Lake a great destination for everyone who wants to enjoy the serenity.
Best Time To Visit: June – September
2. Sheshnag Lake
Photo: Sauood07 / Wikimedia Commons
Sheshnag Lake, one of the most sacred and beautiful lakes in Pahalgam, is at a height of 3,590 meters. Located on the way to the Amarnath Yatra, this alpine lake is an integral part of Hindu mythology; here lived the mythical serpent king, Sheshnag. The lake is approximately 1.1 km, and it is surrounded by tall mountains and green meadows that beautify this serene area. In summer, the lake is a magical turquoise, mirroring the peaks around it. It is a spiritual as well as a visual journey, with extensive views of the Himalayan wilderness.
Best Time To Visit: June – August
3. Munwarsar Lake
Photo: Nadeem Riaz / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Munwarsar Lake is a much better hidden yet just as attractive alpine lake of Kashmir Valley. This high-altitude lake remains extremely pure, with only the most hardcore trekkers and adventure lovers making the effort to reach it. The waters of Munwarsar Lake are so pristine, they reflect the serrated mountain towering over them. Unlike some of the other more frequent lakes in Pahalgam, people like to frequent this place to get away from the crowds. A diverse range of flora and fauna thrive in the lake’s ecosystem, including alpine wildflowers and frequent sightings of mountain goats.
Best Time To Visit: July – September
4. Tarsar Marsar
Photo: Alfaaz Aabid / Wikimedia Commons
Tarsar and Marsar are twin alpine lakes, located at heights of 3,795 and 4,200 meters, respectively. The highlight of the Tarsar-Marsar trek, regarded as one of the most picturesque treks in Kashmir, is these lakes. The trek guides adventure seekers to green meadows, pine forests and mountain passes, all rewarding you with a breathtaking view. While Tarsar Lake exposes deep blue waters and a soft ambience, Marsar is more elusive, covered with mist owing to its higher altitude. To locals, the lakes are of extreme importance and Marsar is indeed a revered place.
Best Time To Visit: July – September
5. Jadar lake
Photo: Luca Bravo / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Jadar Lake is one of the offbeat and less known Alpine Lakes than its very popular counterpart in the Pahalgam region. Nestled amid rolling green meadows and craggy mountain peaks, the lake is an enchanting haven of isolation and untrampled beauty for trekkers. The water is an otherworldly emerald green that can reflect the sky above. Jadar Lake is reached by traversing through thick pine forests and crystal-clear glacial streams, which makes it an exciting experience of Kashmir’s natural beauty. Nestled in stillness, Jadar Lake is perhaps a perfect place for contemplation and meditation.
Best Time To Visit: July – September
6. Chumnai lake
Photo: Sharada Prasad CS / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chumnai Lake is a high-altitude glacial lake tucked away deep in the Kashmir Valley, beyond the reach of regular trekking routes. The remote location of the lake presents a challenge; however, for those willing to make the trek, the benefits achieved are unsurpassed. The pristine, crystalline waters of Chumnai Lake, rimmed by rugged cliffs and gently rolling meadows, offer a dramatic landscape. The hike to Chumnai Lake winds its way through remote villages, verdant pine forests and high-altitude pasturelands where shepherds herd animals. Summer here brings an explosion of rare alpine flowers you won’t find anywhere else.
Best Time To Visit: July – September
4 Lakes Around Pahalgam
After you have visited the lakes in Pahalgam, explore the following lakes near the region and complete your adventure.
1. Krishansar Lake
Photo: Mehrajmir13 / Wikimedia Commons
Krishansar Lake, situated at a height of 3,710 m, is one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in Kashmir. This glacial lake is along the famous Great Lakes Trek and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, which remain partially covered in ice throughout the year. The lake is especially beautiful in the summer, with its deep blue waters mirroring the surrounding meadows carpeted with colourful wildflowers. The lake’s mystique deepens as its colour changes from deep blue in the morning to emerald green by noon.
Best Time To Visit: July – September
2. Gangabal Lake
Photo: Irfanrulz / Wikimedia Commons
Gangabal Lake, at an altitude of 3,570 meters, is the most sacred lake of Kashmir, known as “Haridwar of Kashmir.”. Above it, Mount Harmukh’s glaciers feed its waters, offering a set of stunning views. It extends for 2.5 kilometres and has crystal-clear waters that reflect the sky and the surrounding ridges. Starting from Naranag, the trail to Gangabal Lake enchants adventurous souls with its scenic beauty through verdant meadows, lush green pine forests, and craggy mountain ridges. Gangabal Lake is surrounded by beauty and is ideal for camping, with clear night skies ideal for stargazing.
Best Time To Visit: June – September
3. Gadsar Lake
Photo: Budget Trek Kashmir / Wikimedia Commons
The Lake of Flowers at an elevation of 3,600 m, Gadsar Lake is one of the few glacial lakes in Kashmir, situated along the famous Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. During summer, this beautiful alpine lake is surrounded by colourful meadows filled with wildflowers. Even in June, the lake is often partly frozen, rendering it an otherworldly beauty. Locally, the Gadsar is also known as the “Lake of Death,” with legends that state it has no bottom, with mythical creatures concealed in the depths. But those myths simply contribute to the lake’s mystique.
Best Time To Visit: July – September
4. Vishansar Lake
Photo: Mehrajmir13 / Wikimedia Commons
The Vishansar Lake is a pristine glacial lake, pure and sacred, located at an altitude of 3,710 meters. The green meadows around the lakes turn golden during good autumns and the landscape changes throughout the year. Vishansar is one of the first big lakes on the Great Lakes Trek and is therefore a common camping spot. The lake is fed by melting glaciers, and the water is strikingly clear, acting like a mirror to mountains. The lake is also home to a diverse ecosystem, with a wide range of fish species.
Best Time To Visit: July – September
The lakes in Pahalgam and its surroundings are more than just visual wonders; they’re gateways to the spirit of Kashmir’s natural worlds. Each lake, with its unique colours and surrounding landscapes, tells a different story of nature’s beauty. Their pristine beauty and remote locations make them ideal for trekking, camping, and nature photography. Plan your visit with TripXL and soak in Kashmir’s alpine paradise.
Cover Photo: Srinu maripi / Wikimedia Commons
