Trekking in Kashmir is a complete package for adventure lovers. No doubt, Kashmir is famous all over the globe for its mesmerizing scenery, meadows, and snow-capped mountains, it is also a dream destination for adventure addicts as it offers a unique experience of trekking through the mountains and lakes.
Hiking in Kashmir is an exceptional tourist activity combining Kashmir’s breathtaking landscapes, tranquil valleys, and snow-clad hills.
The valley of Kashmir has various places of trek to explore mostly in hillstations and near lakes and rivers. During your trekking trip to Kashmir, which is also called ‘Heaven on Earth’, you will get an opportunity to experience and enjoy the local culture and hospitality of the Kashmiri people. A delightful blend of natural magnificence and cultural diversity may be found when trekking in Kashmir.
The ideal time for trekking in Kashmir is the summer season particularly from June to September and in early autumn from September to November. During these seasons, Kashmir is engulfed with lush green meadows and beautiful wildflowers with a calm and pleasant temperature.
Early summer has moderate temperatures with snow melting on the mountains which provides easy routes for treks. The foliage turns into colorful hues of orange, yellow, red, and golden during the autumn season which gives a truly amazing experience for trekking around the mountains and lakes of the valley.
Some of the fascinating places where you can enjoy hiking in Kashmir are the great lakes trek, Naranag Gangbal trek, Kolahoi Glacier Trek, Kashmir Alpine Lakes Trek, thajwas glacier trek, tosa Maidan Trek, Aru Valley Trek, and Gulmarg Trek.
Top places for trekking in Kashmir
Kashmir offers diverse options for trekking from the short easy treks to the most difficult high-altitude treks. If you are a well-trained trekker, Kashmir is the best place for challenging your hiking skills. Here are some places where you can enjoy trekking in Kashmir.
The Great Lakes Trek:
The Great Lakes Trek will give you a unique experience of hiking through 5 different lakes of the valley. These lakes include the well-known Vishansar Lake, Gangbal Lake, Satsar Lake, Krishansar Lake, and Tarsar Marsar Lake.
All these lakes are famous for their stunning landscapes and charismatic scenery. This trek is a moderate-level trek that takes about 7-8 days to complete.
this 8-day long trek will take you to some of the highest mountains of Kashmir with blue clear skies and whatnot.
Naranag-Gangbal Trek
Gangbal Lake is one of the most picturesque high-altitude lakes of Kashmir located in the Ganderbal district. The lake is a attraction of Naranag which is a tourist spot which is situated in Ganderbal. Gangbal Trek is famous for its captivating views of birds and fresh green meadows. You will find a variety of species of birds here which are a delight for the eyes amidst the peaceful environment. It is a short trek that lasts for only 3-4 days.
Kolahoi Glacier Trek
Considered one of the most challenging and thrilling treks in Kashmir, the Kolahoi Glacier trek is best for adventure freaks and trek lovers all over the world.
Situated in Pahalgam, This hiking trip will provide you with amazing views of Kolahoi peak and the glacier. June to September are the best times to enjoy your trek to Kolahoi as snow has started to melt making terrains accessible for hikers.
Thajiwas Glacier
located in Sonamarg, the Thajwas glacier trek is a 1-day trek that will take you to a blanket of snow mountain with green meadows and gushing water streams around. It is a perfect trek for those hikers who want to experience hiking in a short span of time.
That Glacier Trek is most suitable for beginner trekkers and families.
Tosa Maidan trek
If you are looking for a trek combining adventure with nature and some historical touch, then Tosa Maidan is a perfect trek for you. Tosa maidan is a vast meadow located in the Budgam district of Kashmir Valley. This trek will provide you with an enchanting experience of visiting the most beautiful offbeat destination of Kashmir.
It is a 5-6 day long trek that will take you to the dense forests of the meadow while also enjoying the local culture of the place.
Aru Valley Trek
Aru Valley Trek is a hidden gem of Kashmir which is situated in Pahalgam. This trek will take you through Lidder Valley with majestic mountains and stunning views of green meadows.
If you are looking for a peaceful trip with a calm atmosphere, then you should definitely go for the Aru Valley trek. It is a short trek suitable for amateur hikers and it only takes 2-3 days to complete.
Best time for Trekking in Kashmir
The most suitable time for enjoying trekking in Kashmir is late summer to early autumn. While going for a hiking trip to Kashmir, you need to check the weather conditions so that you will be able to enjoy your trek to its fullest.
June to September will give you the best time for hiking as this time offers stunning views of Kashmir’s hills and lakes. It is a beautiful period when the weather is predictable and calm.
Also in summer, the routes are clear which provides tourists with a safe trekking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trekking
Is Kashmir safe to trek?
Yes, Kashmir is safe for hiking. While planning for hiking in Kashmir, you should check the situation and weather conditions so that you would be able to get the best possible options for trekking.
Can we book a local tour operator for trekking in Kashmir?
Yes, it is advisable to hire a local guide for hiking if you are unfamiliar with the places of valley. Local tour operators will guide you about offbeat trekking places, and high-altitude peaks while also assisting you with logistics and safety.
Do I need permission for trekking in Kashmir?
Yes, there are certain places in Kashmir where you require permits for hiking. These permits can be obtained through local authorities or from local trekking agencies.
Are accommodations available around trekking sites in Kashmir?
Yes, mostly at famous hiking sites you will find guesthouses and tea stalls where you can relax after a day-long trek. But in remote areas, you will need to carry your own camping equipment and food.
