Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Day 1: Shitkadi BaseCamp

The journey begins at Shitkadi, just a few kilometers before Sonamarg town. Surrounded by majestic mountains and alongside the gushing Sindh River, this location sets the stage for your adventure. You'll need to reach Srinagar on your own, and from there, transportation can be arranged to Shitkadi, a roughly 3-hour drive away. Upon arrival, your registration, health screening, and document verification will take place. Make sure to arrive on time to kickstart your trek seamlessly.

• Altitude: 2695 m (7798 ft.)
• Time taken: 3 hours drive

Day 2: Shitkadi to Nichnai via Tabletop

The second day takes you higher into the mountains. The trek begins with a 10-minute walk along the road before diverting into a green meadow. Here, you'll enjoy panoramic views of Sonamarg town and the stunning Thajwas valley. As you ascend through Maple and Pine tree-covered terrain, keep an eye out for the famous Amarnath Peak. The trail then leads you through dense forests of Maple, Silver Birch, and Oak trees, offering a unique Kashmiri experience. Afterward, you'll reach Tabletop, a picturesque location where you can have lunch at Shabir Bhai’s famous Dhaba before continuing towrads Nichnai. The path unfolds, taking you through canopy of bhoj trees and eventually ending into alpine zone, each more awe-inspiring than the last.

• Altitude: 2695 m (7798 ft.) to 3614 Mts. (11856 ft.)
• Time taken: 6 to 7 hours, Distance: 9.4 km

Day 3: Nichnai to Vishansar Valley

Day 3 presents a long but rewarding trek through meadows. The trail follows the Nichnai River, and after crossing it, you'll begin a gradual ascent to the Nichnai Pass. The climb to the pass can be challenging due to the altitude, so take your time. The pass serves as a transition point between Nichnai and Vishansar Valley. As you descend from the pass, you'll enter a vast meadow, greeted by stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. The campsite, situated near a stream originating from Vishansar Lake, offers a perfect spot to rest and rejuvenate.

• Altitude: 3614 Mts. (11856 ft.) to Altitude - 3603 Mts. (11820 ft.)
• Highest point : Nichnai Pass  4115 m (13500 ft) 
• Time taken: 6 to 7 hours, Distance: 11.6 km

Day 4: Vishansar to Gadsar via Kishansar Lake and Gadsar Pass

Day 4 is a challenging but visually rewarding leg of the trek. You'll ascend toward the picturesque Kishansar Lake before making a steep climb to Gadsar Pass. This high point offers breathtaking views of the Kishansar and Vishansar lakes, surrounded by towering peaks. Descending from the pass, you'll encounter the serene Gadsar Lake before reaching the Gadsar campsite. The landscape changes as you proceed, and the day ends with a visible campsite in sight.

• Altitude: 3603 Mts to 3304 Mts. (10839ft.)
• Highest point : Gadsar Pass - 4215 Mts. (13828 ft.) -
• Time taken: 7 to 8 hours, Distance: 14.4 km

Day 5: Gadsar to Satsar

On Day 5, the trail takes you to the Satsar Valley, known for its remote lakes. As you hike, you'll enjoy views of the tree line below and the mighty Nanga Parbat Peak in the distance. After ascending and traversing, you'll reach a check post where permits and IDs are verified. The trail leads you into rocky terrain and eventually to the flowery meadows of Satsar Valley, where you'll camp near one of the seven Satsar lakes, each surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

• Altitude: 3304 Mts. (10839ft.) to 3650 Mts. (11975 ft.)
• Time taken: 5 to 6 hours, Distance: 10.8 km

Day 6: Satsar to Gangbal via Zaj Gali Pass

Day 6 is the most challenging day of the trek. The trail starts with a steep ascent through boulders before reaching the Zaj Gali Pass. The reward at the top includes spectacular views of Gangbal and Nundkol lakes, nestled beside each other. After descending, you'll traverse through meadows with a stream, and finally, you'll set up camp near the largest alpine lake in Kashmir, Gangbal Lake.

• Altitude: 3650 Mts. (11975 ft.) to 3510 Mts. (11515 ft.) 
• Highest Point: Zaj Pass- 4090 Mts. (13418 ft.) - 
• Time taken: 6 to 7 hours, Distance: 11.2 km

Day 7: Gangabal to Naranag

On the final day, you'll descend from Gangbal through picturesque landscapes. The trail takes you through forests and meadows, offering glimpses of the Harmukh peak and yellow flowers carpeting the ground. After reaching Budsheri top, you'll begin a steep descent that eventually leads you to Naranag village, where the trek concludes. Take some time to explore the village and visit the ancient temple before heading back to Srinagar.

• Altitude: 3510 Mts. (11515 ft.) to 2250 Mts. (7381 ft.)
• Time taken: 6 to 7 hours, Distance: 12.3 km

Conclusion: The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. From lush meadows and dense forests to crystal-clear lakes and towering peaks, every day offers a new adventure. Plan your trek carefully, prepare for altitude changes, and make the most of this incredible opportunity to explore the beauty of Kashmir.

We hope this day-wise itinerary has inspired you to embark on this remarkable adventure. Be sure to check the latest trekking regulations and guidelines before setting out, and always prioritize safety and environmental conservation during your journey. Enjoy your trek through the paradise that is the Kashmir Great Lakes!