Thajiwas Glacier, situated 3 kilometers from Sonamarg in Kashmir, stands as a majestic frozen expanse, soaring to an elevation of 3000 meters above sea level, cloaked in snow throughout the year. The serene trek leading to the glacier enhances the allure of Sonamarg and distinguishes itself as one of the most easily reachable glaciers in the entire region. This journey is a gem in Jammu and Kashmir, drawing both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
The perpetually snow-covered panorama makes Thajiwas a sought-after trekking destination in the Sonamarg vicinity. Its accessibility makes it a favored choice for families seeking a summer retreat, providing opportunities for modest snow sports activities amidst the tranquility of nature. The trek from Sonamarg to Thajiwas Glacier unfolds through picturesque landscapes, including grazing meadows, verdant pine forests, sparkling lakes, and meandering streams. Engaging in conversations with locals adds an extra layer of excitement for visitors. With its ease of access, this trek is classified as an easy-level hike, requiring only suitable body coverings, sturdy footwear, and a camera to capture its breathtaking vistas.
Location: Sonamarag, Thajiwas Glacier
Altitude: 3000m.
Duration: 2 nights 3 days
Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
Realising your dream of finding yourself surrounded by the most mesmerizing meadows is the Tarsar Marsar trek. Velvety grasslands and enchanting surroundings of the Kolahi Mountains make trekking in Kashmir’s Tarsar Marsar a delightful experience.
The twin lakes and their pristine waters ensure that you have an unwinding experience in the lap of nature. Trekking by the twin lakes is an experience to behold as it is an ideal place for you to visit for a laid-back sojourn into the mountains to explore the calm side of the mighty Himalayas. Beginners can sign up for this trek to get bamboozled by the beauty of nature in the heart of Kashmir.
Location: 5 km from Sundarsar.
Altitude: 4114.8m/13,500 feet.
Duration: 7 days.
Difficulty level: Easy.
The Kashmir Great Lakes, located at an elevation of 13,850 feet, is a collection of five separate alpine lakes spread across different valleys. This moderate to difficult level walk is a fantastic opportunity to immerse oneself completely in the Kashmir valleys. This close to heaven on earth experience includes everything a trekker could want, from snow capped mountains, verdant meadows to gushing streams, untamed north-west Himalayan flora and wildlife, spectacular panoramas, and glittering glaciers. The seemingly astonishing and unspoiled beauty of Kashmir’s Great Lakes is a visual feast for everyone who considers nature to be the best painter known to humanity.
The journey to all different valleys across hard passes and different terrain at every turn, presenting all distinct stunning views of lakes, is what makes this walk famous among frequent trekkers. The route begins in Shikari camp and ends at Gangabal camp, passing through the alpine lakes of Vishnusar, Gadsar, Satsar, and others. The hikers can see the natural home of trout and other types of fish at Gadsar Lake, also known as the Valley of Flowers in Kashmir with its towering mountains and harsh terrain. Local beliefs and mythical stories such as Gandsar Lake are sure to keep trekkers entertained throughout their route.
Location: Srinagar, Vishansar, Gangabal, Naranag, Satsar, Gudsar and more.
Altitude: 4191metres/13,750 feet (Gadsar Pass).
Duration: 7-9 days.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Read also: Top Tourist Places in Kashmir
Tulian Lake, located at an elevation of 3,684 metres, is a tourist destination in Pahalgam, Anantnag District, in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Tulian Lake, located between the Pir Panjal and Zanskar ranges, is a beautiful turquoise-colored lake that is thought to be in the shape of a number eight, with a narrow entrance to water. The lake is commonly observed with big slabs of ice floating on top of it. Tulian Lake is surrounded on three sides by majestic mountains that are frequently covered with snow.
This is a somewhat difficult trip that takes you through green valleys and steep slopes with thrill-infested uneven terrain in places. Despite the fact that this is a moderate-level walk, novice trekkers or those unfamiliar with the terrain in Kashmir should prepare ahead of time with appropriate equipment and physical fitness. Because navigation and weather are among the more difficult components of the journey, trekkers are encouraged to travel with a good local guide. Leaving aside the obstacles of the terrain, the end results are rewarding, with scenic and majestic views of the site.
Location: Pahalgam, Baisaran, Tuilian Marag, Tulian lake, Tulian Marag, Kanimool
Altitude: 3684m.
Duration: 6 nights 5 days
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Kolahoi Glacier is a valley glacier in the northwestern Himalayan Range located 16 kilometers north of Pahalgam in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India. This valley glacier is adored as the “Goddess of Light” by the people of the Anantnag district for its year-round supply of water that is mostly used for drinking and agriculture. Being the perennial origin to major rivers like Lidder and Jhelum, the Kolahoi Glacier is also referred to as the “Goddess of Light”. The historic valley glacier captures the essence of Kashmir as the trail takes you to the most fascinating streams, lakes, forests and riverbanks of Lidder.
As the gushing waters fill the air with a feeling of victory, experience rejuvenation in the lap of nature as you will walk through sprawling valleys in the Himalayas. The trek tests your mettle with its whopping altitude and exciting terrain, allowing you an adventurous outing in the lap of nature.
Location: The 5km long hanging glacier is located just below the Kolahoi Mountain and above the Lidder Valley.
Altitude: 3840.48/12,600 feet.
Duration: 5 days.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Nestled in the foothills of Mount Harmukh, Gangabal Lake promises a picture-perfect view of the majestic lake against the backdrop of the mighty mountain. Trekking to Gangabal Lake promises a delightful sojourn across the meadows of Naranag, which are captivating for nature lovers as well as photography enthusiasts.
The trail comprises beautiful gorges and ridges, challenging you as the surroundings constantly enchant you with changing the landscape and pleasant weather all along the trek. Visit this trek if you are a nature lover as it promises to be one of the most enthralling treks in Jammu and Kashmir.
Location: Naranag-Trunkhol-Butsheru-Gangabal-Naranag.
Altitude: 3600m/11811.02ft.
Duration: 5 days.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Read also: Best Adventure Activities To Do In Pahalgam
Taking you to the high-altitude lakes nestled in the Himalayas is the Kashmir Alpine Lakes Trek. The trek promises a sojourn to the most majestic lakes in the mystifying land, including the Dal Lake in Srinagar.
Trekking in Kashmir to these lakes promises a rejuvenating trail into popular as well as unexplored lakes, namely Vishansar Lake, Krishnasar Lake, Yamsar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Satsar Lake, Nandkol and Gangabal Lake and many more. Trekking in Kashmir to these pristine lakes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it promises to help you build lifelong memories as you set off in the mountains.
Location: Sonamarg.
Altitude: 4140 metres/13582.68.
Duration: 15 days.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Taking you to Vishansar and Naranag via Nichnai Pass is the enthralling Sonmarg Vishansar Naranag Trek. Nestled in the mighty Himalayas, the Sonmarg Vishansar Naranag Trek offers picture-perfect views of snow-clad mountains, colorful meadows and alpine forests along the trail.
Starting from Sonmarg, the trek takes you to high-altitude passes which offer breathtaking views of the Valley. Set off from Srinagar to the high-altitude passes via Sonmarg. Explore the enchanting Vishansar Valley, also known as “valley of medicinal plants” and spend time by the azure Krishansar Lake.
Conclude your trek by descending through the flower valleys and colorful meadows. The trek takes you through more lakes in Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangabal, allowing you to experience tranquillity in the heart of nature.
Location: Srinagar.
Altitude: 13713.91/4180 meters.
Duration: 8 days.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Read also: Best Time to Visit Kashmir