Alpather Lake is situated 13 km away from Gulmarg between two twin Apharwat peaks. The lake is famously known as “Frozen Lake” which owes to its nature of being frozen for about eight months of the year from November to mid-June.
Situated at a height of 4390 m, 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, then Alpather Lake is must destination to visit as the lake offers you 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.
You can start trekking from Gulmarg to Khilanamarg and then you will reach Apharwat Ridge and then to Alpather Lake. If you want to travel by foot, then you can take a Gondola ride and cover a short 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.
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 difficult to trek but the unparalleled views of beautiful meadows and lush greens make it worth to visit.
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 then to Alpather Lake.
Since it is a short trek you don’t need to carry much stuff with you. You can carry your eatables and water and you should wear proper trekking shoes and clothes.
Best time to visit Alpather Lake
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 there are lush green meadows all around the lake which provide a beautiful sight to the eyes. At the beginning of July, we could see the lake partially frozen and patches of snow left in the mountains close to the lake.
From November there is occasional snowfall and the lake starts to freeze. By December, the lake gets completely frozen and the trek route gets covered with snow.
How to reach Alpather Lake
the stunning Alpather is situated at the base of Apharwat Peak which is 13 km away from Gulmarg Hill Station. The trek from Gulmarg to Alpather begins from Gulmarg and then you have to reach Khilanmarg which will take you to Apharwat Ridge. From APharwat, you will reach Lake. You can also go by foot on a Gondola ride and then you will reach Mount Apharwat and then Alpather Lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is trekking the only way to reach Alpather Lake?
While trekking is a popular way to reach the lake, visitors can also hire ponies or horses for a ride to the lake. The trekking route offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and meadows.
How to reach Alpather Lake?
Visitors typically reach Gulmarg first, either by road from Srinagar (a distance of approximately 50 kilometers) or by the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world. From Gulmarg, Alpather Lake is about a 13-kilometer trek or horse ride away.
What are the activities to do ?
Visitors can enjoy activities such as trekking, photography, and picnicking at Lake. The serene surroundings make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
What is the best time to visit Lake?
- The best time to visit Lake is during the summer months, from May to August when the weather is pleasant and the lake is accessible without encountering heavy snowfall.
