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Kashmir is one of those amazing places in India that has something to offer to everyone. There are meadows, lakes and mountain peaks for nature lovers, stunning trekking routes that wind through the dense forests and rugged terrains of the region. Trekking in Kashmir is not just about challenging hikes; it’s also about immersing yourself in the region’s rich culture, for many of the trails lead to popular pilgrimage sites. If you are planning to explore the offbeat locations in Kashmir, trekking through its mesmerising landscapes is a must for you.
Top 10 Routes For Trekking In Kashmir
Routes for trekking in Kashmir take you to the stunning natural wonders like glacial valleys and towering peaks while some take you to popular pilgrimage sites like Amarnath Cave temple.
1. Great Lakes Trek
Photo: Mehrajmir13 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the most popular trekking routes in Kashmir that attracts thousands of tourists every year is the Great Lakes trek. The trek takes you through a mix of alpine lakes, lush meadows and the panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. You get to explore five of the most popular lakes in Kashmir on this trekking journey: Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangabal. Each of these lakes features a scenic landscape around it, which adds to the experience of the trek. It is a moderately challenging trek that demands you to be in your best physical health.
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kashmir
2. Tarsar Marsar Trek
Another one of the popular treks in Kashmir is the Tarsar Marsar trek. The trekking journey winds through the breathtaking Aru Valley and finally leads to the twin alpine lakes, Tarsar and Marsar. More than the adventure, most people embark on this trek to experience the serenity and the views of the vibrant blue lakes surrounded by the high mountain rises. Starting from Aru, the trail passes through lush green valleys, dense forests, and charming villages. One of the highlights of this trek is trekking around Tarsar Lake, at 3,795 metres above sea level.
Location: Harwan, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006
Best Time To Visit: June to September
3. Naranag-Gangabal Trek
Photo: Maliksajidpotography / Pexels
If you are a beginner with very little information and experience regarding trekking, consider embarking on the Naranag-Gangabal trek. The easy and well-established trekking path is the highlight of this trekking experience. Also, the final destination of this trek ends at 3,750 metres elevation, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You cover around 30 km in the trek and it lasts for 6 days in total. As you trek through the lush green valleys and serene meadows, the final views of the Gangabal Lake leave you spellbound. The trek culminates in Naranag, a charming village surrounded by orchards and traditional wooden houses.
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Suggested Read: Museums In Jammu And Kashmir
4. Kolahoi Glacier Trek
Photo: Irfanaru / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the popular Kashmir treks that you can embark on is the Kolahoi Glacier trek. This is a fairly challenging trek, which explains why it is more popular among experienced trekkers. Getting to witness the source of the Lidder River, aka Kolahoi Glacier, is the main intent behind this trek. However, what triumphs all the physical hurdles after the trek is the view of the magnificent Kolahoi Peak and the glaciers in the surroundings. Like a lot of the other treks in Kashmir, even this one starts from Aru and passes through rocky terrains and dense forests.
Location: Naranag 380014
Best Time To Visit: June to September
5. Gurez Valley Trek
Photo: Sai._.Avinash / Shutterstock
Up next on the list of the popular trekking routes in Kashmir is Gurez Valley trek. The views of the surrounding mountains and the Kishanganga River are truly an experience you wouldn’t regret immersing yourself in. This trek is ideal for those looking to explore the lesser-known regions of Kashmir and experience its untouched beauty. The trek starts from Bandipora in Kashmir and ends in Gurez Valley. Once you reach the valley, take a day to explore the lush green landscape, ancient forts and the traditional wooden houses that are the highlights of the place.
Location: Gurez Valley, Dawar, Forest Block, Jammu and Kashmir 193503
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Srinagar
6. Thajiwas Glacier Trek
Photo: Biswarup Bhattacharjee / Wikimedia Commons
If you don’t want to exhaust yourself in a long trek around Kashmir in India, the Thajiwas Glacier trek is a great option to consider. It is a great trekking option if you are looking for a quick escape to the mountains. It starts from the town of Sonmarg and with a slight ascent, you walk through the lush greenery and remote locations to reach the Thajiwas Glacier. Usually, the total trekking experience lasts 3 days and the highest point in the trek is at 3000 metres above sea level.
Best Time To Visit: April to November
7. Lidderwat Trek
Photo: Nandanupadhyay / Wikimedia Commons
Around 13 km from Aru Valley, Lidderwat trek is another moderately challenging trek in Kashmir. Trekking through the lush greenery and dense forests of the Lidder Valley is the main attraction of this trek. The route starts from Pahalgam and follows the famous and serene Lidder River, passing through the pine forests and a few of the charming shepherd villages too. Once you reach the Lidderwat meadow, indulge in camping around the towering peaks and flowing streams. It is moderately easy and offers a peaceful retreat amidst the natural wonders of the meadows in Kashmir.
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kashmir
8. Naranag Mahlish Trek
Photo: Simon English / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
If you are looking for a trekking route in Kashmir that’s accessible throughout the year, the Naranag Mahlish trek is one that never disappoints. It covers the twin lakes Gangabal and Nundkol, both of which are located in the foothills of Mount Harmukh. You trek through thick pine forests and experience the beauty of the surrounding nature trails, which add to the experience. More than the actual ascent of the trekking journey, it is the return route that adds to the thrill of the experience.
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
9. Sonmarg Vishansar Naranag Trek
Photo: Mehrajmir13 / Wikimedia Commons
The trek to Vishansar and Naranag via Nichnai Pass is another one of the most enthralling trekking experiences in Kashmir. The views of the snow-clad mountains and the vibrant green meadows are truly the most beautiful experiences in this trek. The trek starts from Srinagar and takes you through the high-altitude passes in Sonmarg. On the way, you get to witness Vishansar Valley, which is known for its extensive availability of medicinal plants. You also get to see the Krishnasar Lake en route. On the way, you also come across a variety of other popular lakes like Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangabal.
Best Time To Visit: June to September
10. Warwan Valley Trek
Photo: Waseemazam / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Among the most exquisite treks in Kashmir, nothing beats the Warwan Valley trek. It is a difficult trek that’s usually only meant for experienced trekkers and continues for 10 days. The highest point in the trek is at 14,495 feet. The highlight of this trek is that it takes you to a valley that’s located in a highly remote location, where you can unwind and rejuvenate. The trek also involves glacier walks, overhangs and moraines, which add to the difficulty of the trek in general.
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Jammu
There are multiple routes for trekking in Kashmir and the best part is that there’s a trek to match the experience of each traveller. From easy and short to difficult and long, there’s something to cater to your interest. Irrespective of the trek you embark on, one thing is common – the unmatched beauty of the surroundings. Sans any delay, book your next trip to Kashmir with TripXL to avail of the best deals and discounts.
Cover Photo: Prateek Katyal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
