Alpather Lake Gulmarg

Alpather Lake, also Known often hailed as the "Frozen Lake of Gulmarg,Situated about 13 kilometers from Gulmarg Jammu and Kashmir between two twin Apharwat peaks. The lake is famously known as are-Kanoul Nag," which owes to its nature of being frozen for about eight months of the year from November to mid-June.

Situated at 14,400 feet (4,300m Alpather Lake is a bowl-shaped lake and is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Gulmarg. The lake is nestled between rocky mountains and lush greens with beautiful wildflowers.

If you are an adventure lover, Alpather Lake is a destination to visit, as the lake offers an opportunity to enjoy a one-day trek from Gulmarg to Alpather Lake. The trek is challenging yet beautiful as it allows you to enjoy the scenic views all along the way.

A Beautiful Lake Surrounded by snow-clad mountains and lush meadows offers a perfect escape into nature's untouched beauty.

You can start trekking from Gulmarg to Khilanamarg, reach Apharwat Ridge, and then go to Alpather  Lake. If you want to travel on foot, you can take a Gondola ride and cover a distance of 1.5 km from Gondola Phase 2 of Mount Apharwat to Alpather Lake. Also, several local guides can help you to reach Alpather Lake.

Where is Alpather Lake Located

Alpather Lake lies gracefully at the base of Apharwat Peak in the Popular winter Destination of Gulmarg. It's situated in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Nestled at approximately 4,390 meters (14,400 feet) above sea level,. The lake is famous for its remote beauty, untouched surroundings, and trekking.

The lake is about 13 kilometres away from the main Gulmarg town and can be reached by a scenic trek or by taking the famous Gulmarg Gondola ride up to Phase 2, followed by a moderate hike.

Alpather Lake Trek Gulmarg

Lake is located at the foothills of two Apharwat peaks. This charming high-altitude lake offers a one-day trek that starts from Gulmarg town. This lake can only be reached by trek through Gulmarg.

The trek is a challenging yet thrilling experience.  The high altitude and steep rocks make it a little tricky to trek, but the unparalleled views of beautiful meadows and lush greens make it worth visiting.

Alpather Lake remains open throughout the year, but if you want to enjoy a frozen lake with a snowy backdrop, you can visit the lake in the winter season from November to March.

The ice melts from June to September, paving the way for the beautiful summer with charming meadows, fresh flowers, with ample sunshine.

You can complete this trek in just one day by following the route via Gulmarg to Khilanmarg, which goes to Apharwat Ridge and Alpather Lake.

Since it is a short trek, you don't need to carry much. You can have your eatables and water, and wear proper trekking shoes and clothes.

Alpather Lake Trek: A Journey to Serenity

The Alpather Lake trek, starting from Gulmarg, is a must-do adventure for nature enthusiasts. The trek spans approximately 13 kilometers and begins at Gulmarg’s Gulmarg Gondola. Ascend through verdant meadows and scenic landscapes, with panoramic views of the Himalayas. The trail is moderately challenging, ideal for those with basic trekking experience.

As you climb higher, the terrain becomes rocky, and the air crisp. The reward is the stunning Alpather Lake, nestled amidst mountains. Best undertaken from May to October, the trek promises an unforgettable experience, blending physical challenge with the serenity of Kashmir’s pristine beauty

Alpather Lake Trekking Guide

Trekking to Alpather Lake is one of the most Memorable experiences you can explore in Gulmarg. This frozen Trek paradise promises breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.

Alpather Lake -Trekking Distance and Route

The trek to Alpather Lake usually starts from the top of Gulmarg Gondola Phase 2 (Apharwat Peak). From there, it's about a 3–4 km trek one way. For more adventurous trekkers, a longer route starts from Gulmarg town, covering roughly 13 kilometres, .

Trek Difficulty Level

The trek is considered moderate.

• For Beginners: Starting from Phase 2 makes it much easier and more accessible.
• For Experienced Trekkers: Starting from Gulmarg town offers a more challenging, day-long adventure.

Things to Carry for the Trek

• Good quality trekking shoes with grip
• Warm layered clothing (weather can change quickly)
• Sunglasses and sunscreen (high UV at altitude)
• Trekking poles (helpful for snow patches)

Adventure Activities Around Alpather Lake Gulmarg

Trekking: Embark on an unforgettable trek from Gulmarg or Apharwat Peak to reach Alpather Lake, experiencing rugged trails and breathtaking scenery.

Horse Riding:Enjoy a thrilling horse ride partway up the trail, a popular choice for travellers looking for an easier yet more adventurous way to reach the lake.

Snow Trekking (Winter Adventure):In winter, Alpather Lake is surrounded by thick snow, making it a prime spot for snow trekking and exploring frozen terrain.

Camping (For Experienced Trekkers): Set up camp near the lake under a blanket of stars — a dream experience for seasoned adventurers with proper gear and permissions.

Picnicking by the Lake (Summer Months): Relax by the thawed lake during late spring and summer, surrounded by lush meadows and blooming wildflowers.

Nature Walks and Meadow Strolls: Explore the verdant meadows leading up to the lake, best for peaceful walks

Flora and Fauna Around Alpather Lake

Alpather Lake is surrounded by raw natural beauty. In summer, the meadows come alive with colorful wildflowers like buttercups, daisies, and blue poppies. You’ll also find patches of green grass against the rocky slopes, adding a soft charm to the rugged landscape.

As for wildlife, it’s common to spot sheep and goats grazing around the area. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of mountain birds like the Himalayan snowcock or playful marmots popping out from rocky crevices.

Best time to visit 

The lake is open throughout the year for visitors. However, the best time to visit the lake is from June to September, when the ice melts, and lush green meadows all around the lake provide a beautiful sight for the eyes.

Summer: The lake looks magical in the summer with the sparkling sight of lakes surrounded by lush greenery. At the beginning of July, tourists could see the frozen lake and patches of snow in the mountains close to the lake.

Winter: There is occasional snowfall from November, and the lake starts to freeze. By December, the lake will be completely frozen, and the trek route will be covered with snow, so it will be challenging to visit the lake.

How to reach Alpather Lake

Alpather Lake is situated at the base of Apharwat Peak, 13 km away from Gulmarg. You can reach here via trek, gondola ride, or a pony ride.

Via a trek by road: Tourists must first reach Gulmarg from Srinagar, about 50 km away. After reaching Gulmarg, you can begin your trek, reach Khilanmarg, and then Apharwat Peak. Then, you will reach Alpather Lake and enjoy its scenic views.

Via Gondola ride: From Gulmarg base station, you can opt for a gondola ride, which will take you to Apharwat, where Alpather Lake is located.

Via pony ride: After reaching Gulmarg, you can also travel via a pony to reach Alpather Lake, which is around 13 km away from Gulmarg and takes about 6-8 hours, depending on the speed and weather conditions.

Alpather Lake Weather: A Year-Round Spectacle

Alpather Lake, situated near Gulmarg, Kashmir, presents a captivating weather experience throughout the year. During summer, from May to September, the weather is pleasantly cool with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The lake, surrounded by lush meadows and blooming wildflowers, is perfect for trekking and picnics.

In winter, from November to March, Alpather Lake freezes over, creating a stunning icy landscape. Temperatures drop between -10°C and 5°C, offering a magical setting for ice skating and snow adventures

Things to Know Before Visit

• Beffro your going to explore Alpather Lake & Trek so you should to know things about this travel attraction in Gulmarg.
  • The best time is camping and trekking start from April till August only so make plans only these months
  • for the trek to this lake, you should hire a local guide from Gulmarg
  • for your safety please take care warm clothes and camping
  • don’t even try to visit in Winters start from December till March

Nearest Travel Attractions

You can visit nearby places on your trip to Alpather Lake

Shrine of Baba Reshi: The Baba Reshi shrine is situated amidst scenic surroundings with high mountains and lush green forests.

The shrine is famous among Muslim devotees who flock here in large numbers, especially on Thursdays and Fridays which are considered auspicious days for visiting.

St. Mary’s Church: Saint Mary’s church is a Roman Catholic church situated in the valley of shepherds, Gulmarg. This church was built in 1902 during British rule. It was made from grey brick with a green roof and decorated with wooden interior walls, famously described as a “Victorian architectural Wonder”.

Tangmarg: Tangmarg, is a tourist destination in the Baramulla district of Kashmir. The place is famous for its walnut shops and various other dry fruit shops. You can purchase walnuts and dry fruits here at very decent prices. beautifulBesides, you can also buy local handicrafts and other local products in the Tangmarg market.

Drung waterfall: Drung is a small beautiful village located about 53 kilometres from Srinagar, the main city of Jammu and Kashmir. It is located in the Tangmarg tehsil of Gulmarg and it lies at an altitude of about 8,000 feet above sea level.

The main attraction of Drung village is Drung waterfall which is a cascading waterfall that is nestled in the middle of majestic mountains. 

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