Nichnai Pass Trek,Itinerary,Package,Location,Distance,Height,Best time to Visit in 2025-26.

The Nichnai Pass is a key highlight of the Kashmir Great Lakes (KGL) Trek, but you can also trek just up to the pass for a shorter adventure. Nichinai Pass, also spelled as Nichinai Pass, is a mountain pass located on the Great Lakes of Kashmir trek in Sonamarg, India. It sits at an altitude of 4,139 meters (13,229 feet). The pass is known for its challenging terrain, including snow patches, and offers scenic views of Nichnai Lake and surrounding landscapes.

Key Features and Details:
Location: Great Lakes of Kashmir trek, Sonamarg, India.
Altitude: 4,139 meters (13,229 feet).
Challenge: The pass is known for its challenging terrain, especially during the snow season, and is considered one of the first major challenges on the trek.
Views: Offers views of Nichnai Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Waterfall: A waterfall near the pass is a popular spot for lunch during the trek.
Trek: Part of the longer Seven Lakes trek, which is approximately 65 kilometers long.
Best time to visit: June for snow, or other months depending on the specific trek conditions.

Nichnai Pass Trek Overview (Kashmir 2025-26)

Attribute	Details
Location	Ganderbal District, Jammu & Kashmir, India
Start Point	Sonamarg
End Point	Nichnai Valley / Return to Sonamarg or continue to Vishansar
Altitude (Height)	~13,100 ft (3,990 m)
Trek Distance	~26 km round trip (to Nichnai Pass and back)
Duration	3–4 Days (Standalone Trek) or 7–8 Days as part of KGL Trek
Trek Difficulty	Easy to Moderate
Best Time	July to September (snow clears, lush meadows, stable weather)

Nichnai Pass Trek Itinerary (Standalone – 4 Days)

Day 1- Arrival in Sonamarg (7,800 ft)

Reach Sonamarg from Srinagar (approx. 3-4 hours drive)
Overnight stay in camp/homestay

Day 2- Trek from Sonamarg to Nichnai Campsite (11,500 ft)

Distance: ~11 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
Trail passes through maple and pine forests, river crossings
Steep initial ascent, then gradual incline

Day 3 - Trek to Nichnai Pass (13,100 ft), return to Nichnai camp or descend to Sonamarg

Distance: ~4–5 km one way
Trek through alpine meadows and glacial streams

Optionally continue to Vishansar if part of KGL trek

Day 4 - Trek back to Sonamarg and depart

Distance: ~11 km | Duration: 5–6 hours

Package Cost (Indicative for 2025-26)

Package Type	Price (INR)	Inclusions
Budget Trek	₹7,000 – ₹9,000	Guide, tents, meals, permits
Standard Trek	₹10,000 – ₹12,500	Guide, porter, full meals, tents, transport from Srinagar
Private Trek (2-3 Pax)	₹15,000 – ₹18,000	Personalized guide, private tents, Srinagar transfers

Additional Tips

Permit: Required for KGL trek (check with your trek organizer); Aadhar and ID proof needed.
Mobile Network: Weak to no signal beyond Sonamarg.
Altitude Sickness: Mild risk; acclimatization recommended in Sonamarg.

During The Trek

At ThinAir Expedition, our treks are carefully designed by a team of highly experienced mountaineers and outdoor leaders, ensuring you experience the adventure of a lifetime while connecting deeply with nature, yourself, and fellow trekkers.

Every trek with us is led by certified and experienced trek leaders who know the mountains inside out — sharing fascinating stories, regional history, and insights into the local flora and fauna. By the end of your trek, you’ll not only have lifelong memories but also a deeper appreciation for the Himalayas.

Inclusion

🚐 Transport Pickup Time: 7:30 AM, Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station.

From the scheduled pick-up point to the base camp, we arrange transportation in vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dzire, or Tempo Traveller (12-seater). This is shared by trekkers at a pre-decided cost. All vehicles are non-AC for mountain travel safety.

🏡 Accommodation Base Camp Stay: 1-night accommodation in a local homestay or guesthouse, offering a glimpse of authentic Himalayan lifestyle. (Single-sharing available at INR 5,000 extra per person for the entire trek)

On-Trek Stay: Twin-sharing tents (Vango Halo Pro / A-Shape) built to handle extreme weather while keeping you comfortable after a long day’s trek.

⛺ Camping Equipment High-quality sleeping bags rated for sub-zero temperatures.

Foam mattresses for added comfort.

Safety gear including microspikes, gaiters, helmets, and ice axe (where required).

💊 Medical Support Our team carries an extensive medical kit and is trained in high-altitude first aid.

Oxygen cylinders (checked before every trek) are available at campsites and with the team at all times.

🌿 Permissions & FeesAll forest entry permits and camping fees for Indian nationals are included. (Additional charges apply for foreign nationals)

🍽 Meals Nutritious veg meals (with eggs) — Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner.

Jain and vegan meals available on prior request.

Dedicated kitchen tent and dining tent with tables and seating.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Our Team Certified Trek Leader (AMC/BMC/NIM-trained) for safety and smooth execution.

Local Guides with deep knowledge of the trail, culture, and biodiversity.

Support Crew including cook, helpers, porters, and mules for common equipment.

🎒 Cloakroom Facility You can leave extra luggage safely at our base camp free of charge.

During The Trek

Exclusion

❌ Personal expenses like tips, medicines, and phone calls.

❌ Travel from your hometown to the pick-up point.

❌ Personal trekking gear (jackets, shoes, backpacks, cutlery) — available for rent at affordable rates on prior request.

❌ Backpack offloading (optional) – INR 400 per bag/day (up to 12 kg).

❌ Trek insurance (mandatory) — to be arranged separately.

❌ Buffer day cost (if used) — to be paid directly to the trek leader.

❌ Any items not mentioned in the inclusions list.

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is definitely going to be an unforgettable adventure, living rent-free in your heart for the rest of your life. No other place can give you a proper blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and stimulating trekking experience like this trek. It is now time to see the other side of Kashmir—places that are untouched and less visited. Thinairexpedition ensures the overall safety and success of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek—‘paradise on earth’.