Introduction:-
Kashmir is a place filled with natural waterfalls and lakes. God has blessed it with hundreds of these water bodies throughout its length and width. Our ancestors, thousands of years earlier, would have traversed numerous mountains and valleys to see these wonders of nature. There are numerous lake bodies in Kashmir and there are the huge Lakes of Kashmir!
They are extremely high altitude lakes situated at an elevation that is more than 12000 feet within the Himalayas. The only way to access them is to trek through the mountains, or riding via horseback. The Kashmir Great Lakes (KGL) trek is without doubt the most stunning trek in India.
You Can also checkout, Kuari Pass Trek. It is a one of the most popular Himalayan trek.
Somebody has described it as the equivalent of a 3D IMAX movie that is viewed live! It’s also a challenge! You’ll climb mountains of rocky terrain with endless glaciers which dissolve into swift streams and pass through huge green meadows where sheep lay in a trance, and beautiful wildflowers were scattered on the way.
The icing of the cake is that you get to see at least 10 of the numerous emerald turquoise alpine lakes, five distinct valleys, and three extremely high passes that you are able to see. The whole trek is an enormous canvas before you, painted in a variety of hues and shades. The experience is simply amazing!
A BIT ABOUT THE TREK
Extremely high altitude treks in Kashmir can be undertaken only between the short period between July and September. For the remainder of the year, these lakes are frozen, while the mountains remain smothered with snow. You must have strong lungs, strong knees and a steady mental focus to complete this journey. Being physically fit and healthy is crucial, especially in the lower limbs, but ultimately it’s your willpower and determination that can make you successful.
Age also matters. Also it is possible that you are the fittest and youngest in the group but not be able to finish the trek in the event of AMS attacks. Once you enter an area that is higher altitude (above 10000 feet),acute mountain sickness could strike anyone,anytime. AMS can be prevented through the treatment with Diamox. KGL is usually regarded as a moderately tough trek
Weather can turn brutal anytime, with heavy snow, hail, or rain and every day is postcard-perfect with the exception of a few mountains and lakes. What makes the lakes attractive are the glaciers that supply the lakes. White pieces are frequently visible on the water’s surface. Lake. The lakes are tucked away beneath the tall mountains and surrounded by miles of lush green meadows with an array of vibrant wildflowers that dance through the air.
DAY ZERO –
In a secluded area, surrounded by tufts of deodar trees and mountains and overlooking the stunning Sindh River, Thajwas Glacier Peak stands out ahead. You might spot a bizarre structure, a dhoka or a hut of the name of Gurjar Bakarwal beneath these trees. The the evening was spent in leisure as we strolled down the river, and became acquainted over tea. All the papers and physical fitness assessments were finished, then dinner and we went to bed early since we had to get up early the next day.
Day 1. SHUTKADI IN NICHNAI SHEKDUR:-
The morning briefing was informed that this day was the most difficult of the days due to the numerous kilometers of trekking to be done, and on every day in the day was higher than 3000 feet. In general, it is not advised to reach greater than 1100 feet within 24 hours, however, in this instance, an exception must be made as it is only possible to camp in the same area. The day began by a short period of a steep climb to the table-like meadow known as Table Top. From there, you can enjoy the whole Sonmarg valley, and over it are the majestic Thajwas. We continued our journey through the meadows that are beautiful and the mountains of snow that are Shekdur. There were a few steps into an amazing silver birch forest.
Day 2. NICHNAI To VISHANSAR Lake
The climb was moderate for a short time prior to the difficult climb up to Nichnai Pass. The pass appears to be an enormous tunnel that is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks. Nichnai Pass is at an elevation 13500 feet. The climb to the pass isn’t difficult however it lasts for an extremely long time, that makes it a lot of work.
Day 3: VISHANSAR GADSAR VIA KRISHANSAR and GADSAR Pass:
While Krishnasar Lake is only one kilometers from Vishansar it can be visited on the next day after a short hike of about 45 minutes, as it is located at a height of about 500 feet. Krishnasar is a vast deep-blue , deep-blue lake which is situated just below Krishnasar Peak. The two lakes can’t be observed together at this time. There is a large meadow that is spread out on the right side. A ridge rises abruptly to the front. This is what we were forced to trek through. The hike begins slowly and provides a breathtaking panorama of Krishnasar.
Day 4 GADSAR TO SATSAR-
Satsar refers to the seven (Saturn) lakes (Sir). Although the lakes are scattered throughout the same area, it’s difficult to complete the entire area in one day. The landscapes around Satsar appear neat and tidy, with the stream that flows lazily. The road that leads to Gadsar was originally narrow strip. The steep slope took a long time when traversing an Kasturkoth pass.
There are no peaks on this pass , but the trail follows the edge of the ridge leading to a large meadow known as Rasbal Long before the Indo-Pak war in 1965. There were several potholes along each side of the path. This is why the area is referred to as Mengandob. Another important aspect is that at the midpoint of the hike you can catch an enticing view of the distant Nanga Parbat peak from one of the bends along the trail.
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