Kashmir Great Lakes Trek – Day-wise Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Shitkadi via Srinagar – 112 km / 4-5 Hours Drive (Altitude: 7,780 ft / 2,372 m)
Your adventure begins as we pick you up from Srinagar Airport and drive towards the charming village of Shitkadi, located just beyond Sonamarg. The drive winds through stunning Kashmiri landscapes, lush valleys, and the beautiful Sindh River. After a scenic 4-5 hour journey, we reach our first campsite at Shitkadi, nestled amidst alpine meadows and pine forests. Relax and soak in the fresh mountain air as we prepare for the trek ahead.

Day 2: Trek from Shitkadi to Nichnai – 11 km / 6-7 Hours (Altitude: 11,888 ft / 3,623 m)
The trail kicks off with a short drive to the trek starting point near Sonamarg. We begin with a steady ascent through lush meadows and thick Maple forests, offering stunning views of Sonamarg and its surrounding valleys. As we gain altitude, we pass through shepherd huts, blooming wildflowers, and the silver birch forests of Shekdur. After lunch, we descend into the picturesque Nichnai valley, following a glistening river through a breathtaking meadow surrounded by mountains. Settle into your riverside camp for a tranquil night under the stars.

Day 3: Trek from Nichnai to Vishnusar Lake – 13 km / 6-7 Hours (Altitude: 12,055 ft / 3,675 m)
We start early and gradually ascend towards Nichnai Pass (13,800 ft), which offers panoramic views of the Sonamarg valley and snow-clad peaks. After crossing the pass, a rocky descent leads us into a mesmerizing valley carpeted with alpine flowers and crossed by glacial streams. The scenery is magical — towering waterfalls, meadows, and snow-fed rivers. We camp near the Vishnusar stream, just a short walk away from the stunning Vishnusar Lake. In the evening, you may explore the twin lakes of Vishnusar and Kishansar, each reflecting the towering peaks in their crystal-clear waters.

Day 4: Trek from Vishnusar to Gadsar Lake via Gadsar Pass – 16 km / 7-8 Hours (Altitude: 13,850 ft / 4,222 m)
Today is one of the most visually rewarding days of the trek. A steep ascent brings us to Gadsar Pass, the highest point on the trek. From the ridge, the twin lakes of Vishnusar and Kishansar can be seen together — a sight straight out of a dream. As we descend into a vast valley, we encounter Yamsar Lake, wildflower-strewn meadows, and eventually reach the divine Gadsar Lake, known for its spiritual significance and mesmerizing turquoise hue. Surrounded by snow-laden peaks, the lake is a perfect resting point. Depending on camping restrictions, we either camp near the lake or further ahead near the army checkpoint.

Day 5: Trek from Gadsar to Satsar – 12 km / 6-7 Hours (Altitude: 12,100 ft / 3,688 m)
The day begins with a gentle stream crossing followed by an uphill trail leading above the tree line. The barren yet beautiful terrain opens into green meadows beside the Maegandob valley. As we traverse this high-altitude landscape, the silence of the mountains surrounds us. After passing the Satsar Army Camp, where documents are checked, we reach the magical Satsar Lakes — a group of seven interconnected alpine lakes, some seasonal and some permanent. We pitch our tents beside one of these serene lakes, enveloped in the tranquility of the mountains.

Day 6: Trek from Satsar to Gangabal via Zaj Pass – 9 km / 5-6 Hours (Altitude: 11,655 ft / 3,552 m)
Today’s trail is filled with variety — from boulder hopping near the final Satsar Lake to ascending ridges that offer bird’s-eye views of the valley. After a challenging climb, we reach the highest ridge (13,400 ft), revealing the grand twin lakes of Gangabal and Nandkol, nestled at the base of Mount Harmukh. A steep descent leads us through highland meadows and forested sections until we reach the shore of Nandkol Lake, where we camp for the night. Take a short walk to the majestic Gangabal Lake, where the still water mirrors the towering mountains — truly a Himalayan wonder.

Day 7: Trek from Gangabal to Naranag, Drive to Srinagar – 6 km Trek + 13 km Drive (Altitude: 6,500 ft)
Our final descent is a steep and challenging one. We trek through dense pine forests and colorful meadows dotted with yellow wildflowers. As the altitude drops, civilization slowly returns, and we pass by traditional huts and glimpses of Naranag village. By noon, we reach the roadhead at Naranag, where our vehicles await. A short drive brings us back to Srinagar, where your journey ends — leaving you with a heart full of memories, unmatched mountain experiences, and breathtaking visual treasures.

Inclusions

• Accommodation in camps from Day 1 to Day 6 on a twin-sharing basis

• Forest permits & camping charges as per current government regulations

• Nutritious vegetarian meals starting from Day 1 dinner to Day 7 breakfast

  • Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, and Dinner

• Camping equipment including:

  • Sleeping bags

  • Sleeping mattresses

  • 4-season tents

  • Toilet tents

  • Dining tent

• Support staff:

  • Certified Trek Leader (BMC/AMC qualified)

  • Experienced Trek Guide, Cook, Helpers, and Porters

• Transportation from Srinagar to Srinagar

• Technical gear like Gaiters & Microspikes (if required)

• Safety gear including:

  • Basic First Aid Kit

  • Oxygen Cylinder

  • Ropes for emergency support

Exclusions

• Meals during road transfers

• Permit charges for foreign nationals

• Personal bag offloading charges (if you wish to offload your backpack)

• Any kind of insurance

• Expenses of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, tips, etc.

• Rental of personal trekking gear

• Any expense not mentioned in the inclusion list

• Evacuation costs or medical expenses due to emergencies

• Costs incurred due to early departure from the trek

• Tips for local guides, porters, or support staff

• Any additional costs arising from natural calamities, road blocks, weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances

🏞️ Trek Highlights – Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

• 🌄 Seven Pristine Alpine Lakes: Witness the magical beauty of Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangabal, Nundkol, and Yamsar — each lake more stunning than the last.

• 🏔️ High Mountain Passes: Cross Gadsar Pass (13,850 ft) and other thrilling ridgelines offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Kashmir valley and snow-capped peaks.

• 🌿 Meadows of Paradise: Trek through endless stretches of lush meadows like Shekdur, Maegandob & Nichnai, dotted with wildflowers, gurgling streams, and grazing sheep.

• 🏕️ Camp Beside Glacial Lakes: Spend peaceful nights beside some of the most scenic alpine lakes under a sky full of stars.

• 🌸 Blooming Alpine Flora: Encounter vibrant wildflowers like blue poppies, daisies, buttercups, and Himalayan orchids along the trails.

• 🌲 Diverse Landscapes: Traverse thick Maple & Pine forests, vast green valleys, rocky ascents, and serene alpine lakes — a surreal mix of terrain in a single trek.

• 🧭 Thrilling Adventure: A moderately difficult trek perfect for experienced hikers looking to challenge themselves in high-altitude conditions.

• 🎒 Authentic Himalayan Experience: Led by certified trek leaders with rich knowledge of the region, ensuring both safety and cultural immersion.

• 📸 Unreal Photo Opportunities: Perfect frames at every turn — sunrises over lakes, mist-covered peaks, and reflections in turquoise waters.

🏕️ Essential Trekking Gear Checklist

For Treks with Parvat Exploration

🎒 Backpacks

1. Rucksack bag with rain cover – Qty: 1
2. Daypack (Recommended for treks with summit day)

💡 Lighting

3. Head torch with spare batteries – Qty: 1

🕶️ Eye & Hydration Protection

4. UV protection sunglasses – Qty: 1
5. Water bottles (1 liter each) – Qty: 2

👣 Footwear

6. High-ankle trekking shoes (Non-skid, deep-treaded) – Qty: 1
7. Lightweight slippers/sandals – Qty: 1

👕 Clothing

8. Quick-dry trekking pants/lowers – Qty: 2
9. Full-sleeve T-shirts/sweatshirts – 1 for every 2 days of trekking
10. Woolen socks – 1 pair for every 2 days
11. Thermal body warmer (upper & lower) – Qty: 1
12. Undergarments – Qty: 1 per trekking day
13. Warm, insulated jacket (wrist & neck closed) – Qty: 1
14. Full-sleeve sweater – Qty: 1
15. Rainwear (jacket & pants) – Qty: 1
16. Waterproof, warm gloves – Qty: 1
17. Woolen cap – Qty: 1
18. Sun hat/cap – Qty: 1

🧼 Toiletries

19. Personal kit (towel, toilet paper, paper soap, bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)
20. Sunscreen lotion (small pack) – Qty: 1
21. Lip balm (small pack) – Qty: 1

🍽️ Utensils

22. Lightweight, leak-proof lunch box – Qty: 1
23. Plate – Qty: 1
24. Spoon – Qty: 1
25. Tea/Coffee mug (plastic) – Qty: 1

🧳 Miscellaneous

26. Camera (optional)
27. Personal medicines – Carry in sufficient quantity. Consult your doctor before the trek.
28. Dry fruits, nuts, chocolate bars (optional)

🔔 Note:
This is a general checklist for multi-day Himalayan treks with Parvat Exploration. Please double-check with our team for any trek-specific recommendations or weather-related adjustments.

Measures Taken by Parvat Exploration to Ensure the Security of Trekkers

At Parvat Exploration, trekking isn’t just an adventure – it’s a transformative journey into the heart of the Himalayas. But with every adventure comes the responsibility of ensuring your well-being. Backed by a highly qualified team, local expertise, and global safety standards, we take every measure possible to prioritize your safety.

🧗‍♂️ Fitness Evaluation & Trek Readiness

High-altitude treks demand physical endurance and mental resilience. Before confirming your participation in any of our treks, we assess your fitness to minimize risk.

• Body Mass Index (BMI) Check: Trekkers are evaluated to ensure a healthy BMI range suited for high-altitude exertion.

• Fitness Declarations: Participants are required to submit fitness proof or undergo an assessment if needed.

• Acclimatization Protocols: Every itinerary includes rest days specifically for acclimatization to reduce the risk of AMS.

🩺 Health Monitoring on Trail

Throughout the journey, your health is monitored regularly by our trained trek leaders:

• Vital Checks: Daily monitoring of oxygen levels, pulse rate, and blood pressure.

• Health Cards: Each trekker’s vitals are documented and can be reviewed at the end of the trek.

• Immediate Response: Any early symptoms of AMS or other altitude-related issues are immediately addressed.

💊 Medical Safety Measures

Parvat Exploration is prepared with a comprehensive medical kit on all high-altitude treks. Our kits are equipped with:

• Blood Pressure Monitor

• Oxygen Saturation Meter (Pulse Oximeter)

• Portable Oxygen Cylinders

• High-altitude emergency medicines:

  • Diamox (for AMS)

  • Dexamethasone (for HAPE/HACE)

  • Nifedipine

  • Asthalin Inhaler

  • Disprin

  • Sterile Syringes

Our trek leaders are AMC-qualified (Advanced Mountaineering Course) and trained in Wilderness First Aid.

⛺ World-Class Trekking Equipment

We never compromise on gear. We provide:

• Customized Tents: Weatherproof tents that retain heat up to 10°C higher than outside.

• -15°C Sleeping Bags: Suitable for sub-zero Himalayan nights.

• Microspikes & Gaiters: Essential gear for snow and slippery terrain.

• Ropes, Ice Axes, and Stretchers as needed for technical terrain or rescue.

🍲 Nutrition & Hydration on Priority

We fuel your journey with the right meals at the right time:

• Nutritious Meals: Our food is designed to meet high-altitude dietary needs.

• Local Delicacies: Experience the taste of Uttarakhand and Himachal on every trek.

• Hydration Monitoring: Trekkers are routinely reminded and encouraged to hydrate properly to reduce risk of AMS.

🚨 Emergency Response to AMS, HAPE & HACE

Our trek leaders are well-trained to detect and manage Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), and more severe conditions like HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) and HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema).

Recognizing AMS Symptoms:

• Headache, nausea, dizziness

• Difficulty sleeping or breathing

• Loss of appetite or fatigue

Our Action Plan:

• Triple One Protocol: 1 Disprin + 1 Liter Water + 1 Hour Rest.

• Descent Protocol: If symptoms persist, the trekker is immediately escorted to a lower altitude.

• Oxygen Support & Medication: Provided immediately if symptoms escalate.

We advise trekkers never to self-medicate. Always consult the trek leader first.

⚠️ Risk and Response Mechanism

🏔️ Altitude Risk

Response: Constant health checks, gradual ascent, acclimatization days, oxygen support.

🌦️ Weather Uncertainty

Response: Trek leaders take the final call. We never proceed in unsafe conditions.

🧍‍♂️ Injuries on Trail

Response: Minor injuries treated on-site. Serious injuries are evacuated via stretcher to the nearest roadhead and medical center.

📵 Lack of Communication

Response: Our team uses walkie-talkies and local support staff as runners for effective coordination across camps.

🛡️ Why You Can Trust Parvat Exploration

• ✅ 3 IMF Associate Members on our core team – among only 100 in India.

• ✅ Accredited by ATOAI, IMF, and Uttarakhand Tourism.

• ✅ Himalayan Locals as your guides – born and raised in the mountains.

• ✅ Focus on year-round safety, whether it’s a summer climb or winter expedition.

🔚 Final Word

Parvat Exploration believes a memorable trek is a safe trek. We combine years of mountaineering expertise, world-class equipment, local insight, and a commitment to excellence so you can explore the Himalayas with confidence.

🏔️ Pre-Trek Preparations | Parvat Exploration

At Parvat Exploration, we believe that trekking is more than just a journey through mountains — it’s a journey within. While the scenic beauty and untouched trails offer unforgettable memories, they also demand a fair share of physical endurance and mental resilience. It’s not just about being fit — it’s about being ready.

Whether you’re taking your first step on a trail or are a seasoned trekker preparing for a high-altitude adventure, here’s how to get trek-ready, the Parvat way.

🫀 Prerequisites of Trekking

1. Cardiovascular Endurance & Stamina

High-altitude treks test your lungs more than your legs. Building cardio endurance is non-negotiable. Jogging, swimming, cycling, or brisk walking — choose your style but stay consistent. Make it a goal-driven journey, just like your trek.

Progressive Stamina Plan:

• 🎯 Start with completing 5 km in 35 minutes or less

• 🏃‍♂️ Push further to 5 km in under 30 minutes

• 🏁 Before your trek, aim to finish 10 km in 60 minutes or less

Doing this 4-5 times a week, at least 2 months before your trek, can make a massive difference.

💪 Strength Training

Most Himalayan trails are a combination of ascents, descents, and flat stretches — think of it as climbing an eternal staircase. Building leg strength is crucial to manage these elevations while carrying a loaded backpack.

Recommended Routine:

• Squats – Begin with 3 sets of 8 reps, aim to increase to 3 sets of 15 reps

• Add lunges, step-ups, and planks to your routine for better balance and core strength

Strong legs = less fatigue = more views to soak in. 🏞️

🤸‍♂️ Flexibility

Trekking involves unpredictable terrains and movements — hopping over rocks, ducking under branches, and stretching across ledges. Without flexibility, even the smallest action can feel like a strain.

Daily Stretching Essentials:

• Hamstrings

• Quadriceps

• Hip Flexors

• Lower Back

• Shoulders

Just 15–20 minutes of stretching each day can help relax muscles, improve posture, and prevent cramps or stiffness during the trek.

❤️‍🔥 Cardiovascular + Speed Endurance Mix

This is where most of your training time should go. A perfect mix of speed and endurance helps your heart adapt to thin air and long-distance trekking.

Sample Routine:

• 🏃 Start with 5 km in 45 mins

• Gradually progress to 7 km in 45 mins

• Aim for 10 km in 80–90 mins without breaks

The trick is consistency — every week counts.

🏋️ Back & Core Strength

A Himalayan backpack may only weigh 6–10 kg, but it feels heavier the higher you go. Building core strength and shoulder stability helps you carry that weight with ease.

Try these:

• Planks (front & side)

• Shoulder shrugs

• Deadlifts (light-weighted)

• Back extensions

Training your core will help you maintain posture and prevent lower back strain.

🧘 Mental Preparation

Even the strongest trekker may be tested by sudden weather changes or tough climbs. That’s where mental strength takes the lead.

At Parvat Exploration, we encourage practicing:

• Breathing Exercises (Pranayama)

• Meditation (10–15 mins daily)

• Mindful Silence / Nature Walks

Mental calmness boosts your decision-making ability and allows you to be present — to feel every whisper of the wind, every crunch of gravel beneath your boots.

🔚 Final Word from Parvat Exploration

The Himalayas are humbling. They test and teach. Preparation is your way of respecting the mountain. Start early, stay regular, and trek mindfully.

Because out there, it’s just you, the trail, and the mountain calling.

Photos

Terms and Conditions – Parvat Exploration

Welcome to Parvat Exploration! We are thrilled to be a part of your journey into the Himalayas. To ensure a smooth, safe, and transparent experience, we request you to read our terms and conditions carefully before booking any trek, tour, or service with us.

1. Booking and Payment Terms

• To confirm your booking, a minimum advance payment of 40% of the total package cost must be made.

• The balance 60% must be paid 15 days before the start date of the tour or trek.

• For bookings made within 15 days of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.

• Payments can be made via bank transfer, UPI, credit/debit cards, or other authorized digital methods.

• Receipt of payment will be acknowledged through email/WhatsApp.

2. Cancellation Policy

If a client cancels the booking:

• Before 30 days of departure: 90% refund of the advance amount.

• 15–29 days before departure: 60% refund of the advance amount.

• 7–14 days before departure: 30% refund of the advance amount.

• Less than 7 days or no show: No refund.

Refunds will be processed within 10–15 business days to the original payment mode.

3. Itinerary Policy

• The itinerary provided at the time of booking is tentative and subject to change based on weather conditions, road conditions, local restrictions, and unforeseen events.

• Final itinerary details and updates will be shared closer to the departure date or on-ground by the trek leader or coordinator.

• Any changes or detours made in the interest of safety or logistics will be at the sole discretion of the trek leader.

4. Hotel & Transport Disclaimer

• Hotel check-in and check-out times follow local hotel policies. Early check-in or late check-out may incur additional charges.

• Transport services arranged by Parvat Exploration may be shared or private based on the chosen package.

• In case of transport breakdowns or delays due to traffic, weather, or roadblocks, alternative arrangements will be made as reasonably possible, but no refund or compensation shall be provided.

5. Risk & Liability Disclaimer

• Treks, expeditions, and road trips involve inherent risks such as landslides, altitude sickness, injuries, wildlife encounters, and unpredictable weather.

• By booking with Parvat Exploration, participants voluntarily accept all associated risks and agree that the company, its staff, trek leaders, or affiliates shall not be held liable for any loss, injury, accident, or delay.

• Participants are advised to follow instructions of the trek leader and avoid risky behavior.

• Any additional costs arising from evacuation, emergency transport, or rescue operations due to illness, injury, or natural calamity must be borne by the participant.

6. Medical & Fitness Requirements

• Participants must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.

• Trekking at high altitudes demands physical fitness. We recommend a regular fitness routine before the trek.

• Parvat Exploration reserves the right to deny participation to any individual found medically unfit or under the influence of alcohol/drugs.

7. Code of Conduct

• Participants must maintain respectful behavior toward fellow trekkers, locals, and staff.

• Littering, damage to nature or property, or violation of forest laws will lead to termination of participation without refund.

• Smoking or drinking alcohol during trek hours or at campsites is strictly prohibited.

8. Travel Insurance

• Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation, illness, injury, and trip cancellations is strongly recommended but not included in the standard package unless mentioned.

• Clients may choose to procure personal travel insurance from authorized providers.

9. Force Majeure

Parvat Exploration shall not be liable for any failure or delay in services due to conditions beyond our control, including but not limited to: natural disasters, war, acts of God, strikes, pandemic outbreaks, or government restrictions.

10. Jurisdiction

Any dispute arising under these terms and conditions shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, or as decided by Parvat Exploration.

11. Contact Us

For any queries or clarifications regarding your booking or these terms, feel free to contact us:

📞 +91 83830 88283 | +91 94561 12947
📧 explore@parvatexploration.com
🌐 www.parvatexploration.com

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