Description
With flamboyant green meadows and endless blue skies spread out in all directions, as far as your eyes can see, the Kashmir Greater Lakes Trek brings desktop wallpapers to life and stylishly so. Every day on the trail, you are confronted by beauty that is grandiose, gripping and soul-satisfying. As one of our trekkers interestingly put it, this trek is seven days too short. You simply cannot get enough of the trail! Treks in Kashmir are known for their verdant meadows and alpine lakes. But the Kashmir Greater Lakes Trek is a tad bit more special. It after all rubs shoulders with the one of the biggest meadows in Kashmir, the Tosa Maidan. But, it is not just the expanse of the scenery that leaves trekkers smitten with this place. The Tosa Maidan is so immense and so varied in terrain and geography that we set up camp here for an extra day just to be able to explore the region. And the best part about all of this- the trails are completely untouched. One look is all it takes to get mesmerised for a lifetime. The best time to do the Kashmir Greater Lakes trek is from July to September. For more information about the trail, elevation chart, temperature chart, a detailed itinerary, route map and photos, continue scrolling through this page.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Show complete Itinerary
Drive from Srinagar to Drung
Distance: 42 kms
Time: Two hours’ drive
The drive from Srinagar to Drung, although a short one, takes you through some scenic vistas of the countryside of Kashmir. You initially make your way through the city of Srinagar. Forty five minutes into the drive, houses lining either side of the road grow scant. The mountains in the backdrop become more visible. 15 minutes later, you begin ascending a gentle slope.
This continues all the way up to Tangmarg. At Tangmarg, the road branches out into two- follow the path on the right for Gulmarg. From this point onward, it is a steady climb up hill. Tall, alpine trees flank your left hand side and on the right; you get treated to yawning views of the valley below.
From here it takes half an hour to reach the renowned Drung Waterfall. We will be setting up camp at a 15 minute walk from the waterfall.
Trek from Drung (2270 M) to Dhanwas (2886 M) (Click to View GPS data)
Distance: 10 kms
Time: 4 hours
We begin our trek at 9 am today after breakfast. A few minutes into the trek, we leave the open meadows and step into forest cover. The trek starts with a gradual ascend for two to three hours through a lovely pine forest. A level walk for another hour brings you to the campsite for the day, Dhanwas.
Trek from Dhanwas (2886 M) to Pehjan (3283 M) (Click to View GPS data)
Distance: 7 kms
Time: 3 hours
We begin our trek after a leisurely breakfast in the morning. Today, we leave the treeline behind and step into the expansive green meadows. The trail ascends gently all the way to the campsite. But the trek does not end at the campsite. We will be exploring the region post lunch, trekking to a couple of known lakes and stumbling upon some unknown ones. Trek leaders, from every batch so far, have come back to us with tales and pictures of new lakes they discover from this day.
Trek from Pehjhan (3283 M) to Tosa Maidan (3117 M) (Click to View GPS data)
Distance: 10 kms
Time: 6 hours
There are meadows and then there is the Tosa Maidan. Today is a day most trekkers look forward to because it is the day you get introduced to one of the largest meadows in all of Kashmir- The Tosa Maidan. The trail for the day is a gentle ascent through meadows teeming with wild flowers. While the terrain is not a strenuous one to navigate, the distances can run long. A sound endurance level is key to finishing strong on this day.
Trek from Tosa Maidan (3117 M) to Gadasar Lake (3786 M) (Click to View GPS data)
Distance: 9 kms
Time: 6.5 hours
Today is a bit of both, tough and exciting. Do ensure you get a good breakfast in because the trail is going to be dominated by boulders. Most trekkers, we have noticed, are comfortable getting down on all fours, when hopping from one boulder to the next. As fun as this seems, watch out for loose rocks that can toggle your balance.
The trail is a contrast, alternating through meadows and rocky barren landscapes, at the end of which lies the campsite for the day- Gadtarsar Lake Camp.
Gadsar Lake (3786 M) to Noonwan (3528 M) (Click to View GPS data)
Distance: 14 Kms
Time: 6.5 Hours
The Gadsar Lake Campsite is one of the prettiest campsites in all of Kashmir. It truly feels like paradise on earth. As we trek to Noonwan, there are lakes on the left, lakes on the right and lakes everywhere waiting to be discovered today. Each lake is the same, yet so very different in its color and setting that it is impossible not to be smitten with this place.
Do let us know how many lakes you manae to discover around this day. The highest record has been 4, till date :)
Noonwan (3528 M) to Tosa Maidan (3150 M) and drive to Srinagar (Click to View GPS data)
Trek Distance: 8 Kms
Trek Time: 4 Hours
Drive Distance: 45 km
Drive Time: 3 hours
It is a four hour trek to Tosa Maidan followed by a three hour drive to Srinagar. Expect to reach Srinagar by evening. If you plan to travel out of Srinagar the same day, please ensure you book your transport that leaves the city post 9, to account for any delays along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pick your question
Eligibility: Is this trek good for me?
Tosa Maidan & Greater Lakes Trek is a moderate level trek i.e. it requires more strength and endurance than easy level treks. It is recommended that you first gain an experience of trekking to altitudes higher than 3000 metres, and then move one level up with this trek. However, if you are a beginner but committed to prepare, then you need at least 2-3 months to prepare physically & mentally for this trek. For details on trek difficulty level, please read on Bikat Rating Scale.
Eligibility: Experience required
You must have done a small trek of 2-3 days before and hiked to an altitude of more than 3000 meters.
Eligibility: Fitness benchmark
- Jog/Run for 4 Kms in 35-40 mins or Walk continuously for 8 Kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better)
- Hold your breath for 25-30 seconds
Eligibility: Requisite Skills
- Know campsite basics like how to use a sleeping bag, sleeping tet, toilet tent.
- Ascending & Descending technique for mountain trails.
- Basic mountain mannerisms.
About the activity: Why should I go for this trek?
Tosa Maidan & Greater Lakes Trek
Treks in Kashmir are known for their verdant meadows and alpine lakes. But the Tosa Maidan & Greater Lakes Trek is a tad bit more special. It after all rubs shoulders with the one of the biggest meadows in Kashmir, the Tosa Maidan. But, it is not just the expanse of the scenery that leaves trekkers smitten with this place. The Tosa Maidan is so immense and so varied in terrain and geography that we set up camp here for an extra day just to be able to explore the region.Best Season: What are the best months to visit this trek?
June - September
Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?
Packing List: What to pack
Click here for packing list.
Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?
Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?
The base of Tosa Maidan & Greater Lakes trek is Srinagar. To get to Srinagar -
By Air: There are multiple flights daily directly from Delhi to Srinagar, or connecting flights from all major cities. This is the easiest way to reach Srinagar.
By Rail: Although Srinagar has a railway station, it is not linked to the Indian Railway network. The closest national railway station is Jammu Tawi, from where Srinagar is 270 km away. There are multiple trains from Delhi and Chandigarh to Jammu Tawi. From Jammu, you can make the road journey to Srinagar either via private or state run buses or private taxi.
By Road: The road distance from Delhi to Srinagar is 800 km if you are taking a taxi or driving down in a private vehicle. Direct buses to Srinagar are available from Jammu.
Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?
All major networks have coverage till Aru. However, all outstation prepaid connections do not work in J&K. You will need either a postpaid connection or a local prepaid connection.
Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?
Dal Lake: The jewel of Srinagar, the Dal lake is synonymous to a visit to Srinagar and almost a visual definition to the town. Spread over a straggling 26 sq.kms, it is the most photogenic stretch of this instance of paradise on earth and undoubtedly also the most sought after of attractions.
Mughal Gardens: Built in the Mughal era, donning its majestic architecture, are the Mughal gardens. The garden is a combination of the Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens & Chashm-e-Shahi. The most prominent feature of the gardens its long stretches of cascading fountains makes this a must see for every traveler.
Nishant Bagh: Laid out in 1633, the Nishant Bagh fondly known as the Garden of Joy. Its beauty is enhanced by the well-manicured landscapes, long avenues of Chinar & cypress trees, rare flowering plants, 12 terraces & several bubbling fountains that's cover the whole expanse of the garden.
Shankaracharya Temple: Visit this effulgent, age old temple in Srinagar to feel closer to the gods. Situated at a height of about 1100 feet on the south-east of the city, this sacred temple offers splendid views of the valley and the snow clad mountains of the Pir Panjal range.
Hazratbal: Hazratbal Mosque, situated on the western shore of the pristine Dal Lake, is a very sacred Muslim shrine in Hazratbal. Hazratbal's special significance is derived from the fact that it houses a heir of the prophet Muhammad, a relic, titled Moi-e-Muqqadas. The relic is only displayed to the public on religious occasions, usually accompanied by colourful fairs afterwards. The shrine commands a grand view of the lake and the mountain beyond, especially when its pristine white marble elegance is reflected in the waters of the lake.
Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?
The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
Accommodation: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?
We will be camping during the entire course of the trail.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?
We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accomodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.
Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?
Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek.These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.
Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?
You will be provided with good quality of gaiters and microspikes from us depending upon the situation of the snow. Our trek leaders will also be carrying ropes and ice axe.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?
Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfil the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread and butter served for breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.
Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?
You can rent following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack.
Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?
The temperatures range from 20 degree to -3 degree celcius.
Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?
There might be snow on the higher reach depending on the season.
Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?
If you want to offload your rucksack, you will have to make a request for offloading a few days prior the trek through an email so that arrangement can be made in advance. You will be charged per day for offloading your rucksack. In case you decide to offload on the spot, you may have to pay a higher price than usual. However offloading your rucksack is not recommended since it is not a safe practice.
Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?
A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.
Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?
Yes, trekking pole is necessary. If you don’t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.
Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?
You can buy your essentials in Srinagar. However, do not leave anything for last minute purchases.
Miscellaneous : Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?
Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.
Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?
Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.
Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?
We can arrange reserve taxis on request from Srinagar to base point and back. Use the "Additional Transport" add-on to book the transport with us.
Transport: What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?
Expect to reach Srinagar by evening.
Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?
ID Proof (Soft Copy to be sent to us in Advance & original to be carried) and Medical Certificate (Soft Copy to be sent to us & original to be carried) are the mandatory documents required for the trek.
Why Bikat
Why Bikat
Learning Experience
- We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
- We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
- To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
- These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.
Loyality Programs
Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.
- Currently we have three levels:
- Basic Membership
- Summiteer Membership
- Leader Membership
Personalized Attention
- Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
- Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
- On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.
Best Expedition Leaders
- Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
- Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.
Eco-friendly Practices
- Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
- Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
- We follow a rolling campsite model.
- We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.
Safety
For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.
- To ensure this:
- Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
- The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
- Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
- Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.
Reviews
What's Included
Whats Included
- Meals during the trek
- Forest Permits/Camping Charges/Permits, Trek Permit Fee/IMF Permission (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- Camping tents, Temp rated sleeping bags, mattress
- Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with Wilderness Emergency Responder & Rescue. course from NIM Uttarkashi
- First Aid Certified Local guide, cook, helpers
- Porters or mules for carrying common luggage
Whats Not Included?
- Meals during road journeys
- Any kind of Insurance
- Any expense of personal nature
- Portage of personal backpack
- Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
- Transportation to and from Srinagar
Cancellation Policy
Cash Refund
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date
5% Deduction
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure
50%
deduction
Less than 15 days of departure
No Cash Refund
Voucher Refund
Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date
No Deduction
Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure
No Refund
Please note
- Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
- This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.
Blog Posts
10 Mountain features that must be a part of any trekker’s vocab!
Ritvij Kumar 25 March 2017
MOUNTAIN FEATURES THAT MUST BE A PART OF ANY TREKKER’S VOCAB!
While the terminology used in mountaineering is decently complex but the features that I am going to talk about are mostly the common ones. When we go t
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