My Journey on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

When people say "Kashmir is heaven on Earth," they’re not exaggerating. But to truly understand that statement, one must walk through its heart—through alpine meadows, pine-laced ridges, snow-capped passes, and the mirror-like lakes that shimmer under the sun. My journey on the Kashmir great lakes trek was more than just a trek—it was a deep and soulful connection with nature at its finest.

The Start of a Dream

It began with a longing. For years, I had seen photographs of the emerald valleys and sapphire lakes of Kashmir. The KGL trek, as it’s affectionately called, is often described as the most beautiful trek in India. I finally decided it was time. I signed up with Himalaya Shelter, a trekking company known for their expertise and local connections in the Himalayas, especially in Uttarakhand and Kashmir. From the very first call to the last goodbye at the end of the trek, they proved to be the perfect partner for this adventure.

From Sonamarg to Nichnai – Into the Wild

The trek starts at Sonamarg, a quaint hill station surrounded by forests and flowing streams. The first day itself was a gradual ascent, moving through pine forests, alongside the Sindh River, and into lush green meadows. Every turn brought new views that left me in awe. The landscape was dotted with sheep grazing freely, and the sky seemed to stretch endlessly above us. By the time we reached our first campsite at Nichnai, under a sky glittering with stars, I knew I was in for something unforgettable.

The Lakes – Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar and Beyond

Over the next few days, I walked through valleys that looked like paintings, crossed high mountain passes, and stood in awe beside some of the most beautiful alpine lakes on Earth. Each lake had its own story and personality.

• Vishansar Lake: Serene and majestic, surrounded by peaks still capped with snow.
• Krishansar Lake: Just a short walk ahead, reflecting the blue of the sky so perfectly it felt unreal.
• Gadsar Lake: Known as the lake of flowers, we reached it after crossing the Gadsar Pass (13,800 ft), the highest point of the trek. The descent opened into a wide valley with flowers blooming in every color imaginable.
• Satsar, Gangbal and Nundkol: These twin lakes near the base of Mount Harmukh were the grand finale. Gangbal especially left me spellbound, nestled at the base of rugged cliffs and often catching the golden hues of sunset.

Each lake was a reward after long walks, testing climbs, and patient steps through rocky trails and flower-strewn meadows.

The Experience – More Than Just Trekking

While the landscapes were enough to steal your breath away, what made this journey even more special was the warmth of the locals and the stories shared over tea in tents. I met fellow trekkers from across the country, and we bonded over aching feet, laughter, and shared admiration for the wonders we were witnessing.

Our guides, locals from Kashmir trained by Himalaya Shelter, told us legends of the lakes, warned us of weather changes, and cooked the most comforting meals in the middle of nowhere. Their knowledge of the terrain made the journey safe and enjoyable.

Best Time to Visit Kashmir Great Lakes

The best time to do the Kashmir great lakes trek is from July to September. This is when the snow has melted, the wildflowers are in full bloom, and the weather is relatively stable.

A Journey Worth Every Step

My journey on the Kashmir great lakes trek was not just about reaching a destination; it was about surrendering to the beauty of the unknown, to the silence of the highlands, and to the power of nature. It was about discovering how small we are in front of these majestic creations and yet how connected we can feel amidst them.

If you’re looking for a trek that challenges you, rewards you, and stays with you forever, the Kashmir great lakes trek is the one. And for those seeking expert guidance, warm hospitality, and a seamless trekking experience.