Kashmir Great Lakes (KGL) – The Crown Jewel
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Duration: 7 to 8 days
Kashmir Great lakes Trek Maximum Altitude: 13, 750 ft
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Difficulty Level: moderate to difficult
Kashmir Great Lakes Highlights: chain of seven alpine lakes in Kashmir (Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar Pass, Satsar, Gangbal, Nundkol), sweeping meadows, and views of Mount Harmukh. Many lakes are hidden and untouched; if your great lakes trek leader is aware of them, consider yourself lucky.
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek–Best Time to Book in 2026: July–September.
Why in 2026: the Kashmir Lakes Trail remains raw but the infrastructure in Sonmarg and Naranag has improved a lot making logistics smoother.
(A memorable journey through the Great Kashmir Lakes)
If there’s one trek that doesn’t just change the route but also changes the rhythm of life, it’s the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek or popularly called as KGL trek among the trekker’s community.
Back at home I had seen many photographs of the great Kashmir lakes, but none of them prepared me for what was coming. No lens, no blog, no description could capture what I witnessed as I stood between heaven and earth as our reflection trembles in a lake that mirrors the deep blue sky itself.
How it all started:
Hi this is prashanth from Hyderabad and I am a software techie; I have huge amount of work to deal with on a daily basis and the city life itself was chocking me. The traffic, the sounds, this never-ending block age in life was way too much for me to take.
Then I came across Thin Air Expeditions who were well known for their off-beat trekking experience. I have been on multiple treks but this time I didn’t know I was signing up for something different altogether. They promised me KGL trek would be “the closest one could come to walking through a dream”.
And…. They were right!!
Preparation for the Journey – An unexpected surprise.
ThinAirExpedition sent me a pre trek guide which included fitness plans, gear checklist and a small note on the spiritual preparation one might require for legendary KGL trek.
It was more than just a trek itinerary. It was mindset altering.
The trek duration was 7 days on foot, but I learned that the trek starts long before we arrive in Kashmir. The first step should be taken right after we book the package.
I began my training 5 weeks prior – light jogging, climbing flights of stairs and breathing exercises. Thin Air Expedition group emphasized on health, hydration and altitude acclimatization which are often underestimated aspects in the Himalayas.
They even shared Kids guidelines and prerequisites for first-time trekkers. But what made me hooked to them is their premise and tone: Gentle yet firm – like a friend and a guide who knows the mountains better than you do, but wants you to find your own place among the Himalayas.
The D-day; The journey starts:
After 4 weeks of wait the day finally came where I boarded the flight for Srinagar. After a 3-hour flight from Hyderabad to Srinagar, I finally reached Srinagar with loads and loads of anticipation. I was welcomed by chilly air of Srinagar, the essence Srinagar had is indescribable.
Day 1 – Drive from Srinagar to Gagangir
The busy streets of Sri Nagar were a sight to witness. It spoke tons of their culture. I had a slight snack at a bakery outside, where I had Kashmiri kulcha (baked bread) with tea and it was a rejuvenating taste. From there the real journey began. With a drive from Srinagar to Gagangir, about 80 Kilometres of pure bliss to our eyes.
The Kashmir valley welcomed us with a warm glow with the enchanting Sindh River running adjacent to us as the mighty mountains slowly taking shape in the distance.
By evening we were at Gagangir. the air was thin with slight chills and crispy temperature. The team welcomed us with some hot pakoras and tea the moment we got down at Gagangir, we were introduced to our support crew – local herders, kitchen staff and trek-leaders
They briefed us on trek safety, altitude awareness, how often should we hydrate and all the other stuff which are important for a trek.
That night we retired as millions of stars spilled over the valley. It was a sight to witness.
Day 2: Sonamarg to Nichnai – into the lap of mother nature
Today was the first real day of trekking – we had a gradual ascent through pine and maple forests which stand stall and pump out fresh air to the eco system around them. Thin air’s lead guide, Subodh bhai walked with us, sharing the stories of local Gujjar shepherds who still migrate with their flocks across the valley.
As we trekked by, we saw horses grazing freely in the vast alpine meadow. The climb to Nichnai was long but amazingly rewarding. With every step one could witness the true beauty of Kashmir as it unfolded its beauties one by one.
We were able to see carpets of wildflowers with vibrant colours, distant snowlines, distant snow-capped peaks and the sounds of mountain rivers echoing across the valley make the overall experience surreal.
We reached Nichnai campsite by evening, yes! We were tired… but we were far from being exhausted. The mountains, the air, the rivers themselves rejuvenated our energy as we trekked through.
That evening we camped at first major campsite after crossing the treeline. That evening we watched clouds swirl over ridgelines it was like a Disney movie. Thin air’s cook Irfan prepared warm soup and rice, we had our dinner sitting around a bonfire as sharing an old legend: Nichnai, “the secret valley” locals believe this pass hides whispers of spirits that protect travellers who walk with humility in their heart.
Day 3: Nichnai to Vishansar and Krishansar – The heavenly water bodies
We woke up to the fresh air of the Himalayas. We were eager as to what was in for us today. We were served hot tea with a tasty breakfast. We had a good night sleep as we had trekked continuously yesterday and were tired.
After a hearty breakfast we started early, crossing the Nichnai pass (13,000 ft) the landscape rapidly transitioned from lush alpine meadows and chilly Himalayan streams to dry soil and rocky area which absorbs sunlight. As we started the trek early, we had witnessed dew-laden, glowing green plants in soft sunlight.
Here the mountains revealed their raw terrain as the vegetation ended and one could see the golden-brown hue filled essence of the transition. Then we transitioned into a new altitude zone where we were at the top of the pass and snow patches began to appear. The peaks and terrain were matted with slight snow making it a mesmerizing sight to watch.
As we were on top of the Nichnai pass it was absolutely silent. The only sounds were our breaths and the sound of the wind along with the teams’ cheerful exclamations as they witness snowcapped peaks from the pass.
Our next stop was Vishansar lake, imagine standing next to a vast mirror reflecting the deep blue sky… it was as if a piece of sky actually fell into the still waters. Locals here believe in a legend which says the magnificent Vishansar lake is the lake of lord Vishnu the “protector of life”
Forging ahead we came across an equally stunning lake but had much deeper and darker hue in it. The waters resembled the colour “stormy sapphire” strong and aura oozing out of its magnificent waters just like lord Krishna was believed to be. When we stand between two lakes it feels as if you are witnessing the balance of creation, calm and chaos, the duality of nature; lord Vishnu and Krishna – side by side.
That night was particularly enchanting as the breathtaking milky way painted the night sky as we retired for the day cuddled by the mystical Vishansar lake.
Day 4: Vishansar to Gadsar – Into a dream
The moment we woke up it was jaw dropping, it was kind of the morning that would only exist in dreams. The reflections of Vishansar and Krishansar lake under a veil of morning mist made it an out worldly experience. Our trek guides from Thin Air Expeditions asked us to get ready for the day as they told us this is one of the best experiences of the entire trek.
After a healthy breakfast we started our trek. We trekked to the edge of Krishansar lake and were on our way to the one of the highest points of the KGL trek, Gadsar Pass (13,750 ft) as we climbed higher the twin lakes bid us farewell as they grew smaller.
We reached Gadsar pass in no time, the world suddenly opened up again, I stood there breathless in awe not due to the altitude but thanks to the breathtaking beauty. On one side were Vishansar and Krishansar lakes studded between the towering peaks and on the other side, a valley descending into clouds studded with hidden lakes. The pass felt like it was a portal between realms.
From there we began our descent through lush green meadows speckled with tiny violet and yellow flora. Our trek leader from Thin Air Expeditions pointed to the distance and said “That’s Gadsar Lake – the lake of flowers.” It was indeed surrounded by wildflowers that seemed to bloom right out of stone.
There’s something more deeply spiritual about Gadsar Lake than one usually sees. Locals call it “Yemsar” – the lake of Yama, the Lord of Death. According to Kashmiri folklore, this lake is sacred. It is said to be bottomless and protected by unseen forces. It Oozes powerful, ancient aura from it, which also the reason why shepherds avoid bringing their flocks too close.
We took our time descending as our knees ached but hearts full. We were of course tired but the memories we were making… they were one of the most precious moments I had after a long time. By late afternoon we reached our campsite near Gadsar lake at an altitude of 12,000 ft.
Tonight like the previous night was a calm one. Milky way spilled across the sky was a common sight for us now as the entire trek took us through low light polluted areas. That night we were sipping tea next to a camp fire listening to stories under a star spotted night.
Day 5: Gadsar to Satsar – A trek through silence.
We woke up to crack of down and unlike the other days we were already ready for the day we were no longer exhausted. We got the hang of the trek. Like everyday we had a different breakfast today. The funny thing about the breakfast is I never had this level of balanced breakfast Between healthy and simple back at home as the Thin Air Expeditions group served.
Today our journey was from Gadsar to Satsar. We trekked through one of the most remote and offbeat trekking routes in Kashmir today. We were trekking amidst a meadow rich with wild alpine flowers and cold trickling Himalayan streams. Sheep grazing lazily, sunlight cutting through the ocean of clouds and shining over the dew ridden valley was a wonderful sight.
Today there were no villages, no sounds of civilization, it was us and mother nature. We crossed small wholesome wooden bridges built by local shepherds reminding the art of engineering belonged not only to the urban graduates but our intelligent rural folk who dwell close to mother nature.
By late afternoon, we reached the Satsar lakes, a cluster of seven interconnected enchanting alpine lakes hidden in the folds of the mountains. Most trekkers only go for the main lake but there are seven lakes in total and each mirror a different shade. Each lake is said to represent the seven stages of human consciousness where each lake reflected a different emotion of the pilgrim.
We reached our camp as we neared one of the larger lakes. The temperature dropped sharply after sunset and this camping was much needed digital detox for me. Satsar for me was not just a stop. It’s where the trek began contemplative. After days of trekking this was the day, I listened to my thoughts and became one with nature. This has got to be one of the best offbeat trekking experiences out there.
Day 6: Satsar to Gangbal and Nandkol
Our morning experience at Satsar was astounding. The moment I woke up I went out of my tent and I stood there awestruck looking at the mist hovering over the still waters. The Thin Air Expeditions team woke us up with steaming cups of Kahwa.
Today we were enroute to the legendary Gangbal and Nandkol lakes via Zaj Pass (11,950 ft). The trail gently took us through rolling meadows, but the climb soon turned steep and rockier. The views however grew exponentially wild with every step. The seven lakes of Satsar gradually faded into the distance but marking their resonance in our memories forever.
When we reached Zaj pass, the entire valley unfolds at our feet, the view from here is one of the most beautiful ones in the Kashmir Great Lakes trek. Snow Ridden ridges, Enormous floating clouds and one could see two magnificent lakes shining like gems in distance.
The Gangbal and Nandkol lakes. As we near the legendary lakes our trek leader shared some stories with us regarding the Mighty Gangbal and Nandkol lakes. Locals believe Gangbal is the abode of lord shiva, and is known as the “Ganges of Kashmir”.
The twin lake Nandkol lies just below, it is connected by small stream which symbolises the union of lord shiva and mother Parvathi. Many say that bathing in Gangbal washes away a lifetime of sins.
The descent from the pass was long and had more weight than previous days. We passed through fields of boulders and patches of alpine grass. When we finally reached the lakes, the sight of Mount Harmukh’s (16,780ft) reflection in the still waters of Gangbal.
We set up camp nearby the Nandkol lake. We were definitely tired from the trek. We were served with some hot onion pakoras and juice the moment we reached the camp. For a moment the whole camp was silent and there were this silence and the sound of Himalayan glacial streams filling the silence.
For those seeking offbeat trekking experience in Kashmir, this stretch from Satsar to Gangbal is the apex of Himalayan experience.
Day 7 Gangbal to Naranag – From the heights of heaven to the jaws of civilisation.
Today we woke up to the breathtaking view of mount Harmukh. It was just like any other morning dew filled with nothing else to disturb us but mother nature carefully cuddling us in her warmth. Thin Air Staff woke up prior to us and the aroma of Khawa filled the cold air. The team met outside their tents and were warming up to start the trek back home.
We knew it was the last day of the trek. Our hearths sank at once when someone casually reminded that this was the last day. Leaving Gangbal and Nandkol felt bittersweet. The essence of these lakes filled us whole. It was natural rejuvenating experience. We quietly packed our gear knowing this was the final stretch of a journey we never knew we needed.
The trail to Naranag was gentle as we saw Gujjar Shepherds grazed their sheep in the soft meadows. The tiny wooden huts, smoke rising from the chimneys made me feel nostalgic, as if nothing here has changed in a century. Children waved as we passed by, women carrying wood, this Kashmiri ambiance, the nature it felt as if the time started moving again. The meadows gave way to thick pine forests.
The descent was long and silent. Unlike previous days where trekkers talked to each other. Everyone knew this is the day they departed. Every step we took brought us closer to the civilization. A part of me never wanted to go back. The springs, the meadows, the towering peaks and every aspect of this trek got etched into my mind.
After hours of descent, we were able to set our sight at Naranag temple appearing through the trees. This is a temple which is dedicated to lord shiva. Its poetic to end our pilgrimage here, at the shrine of the same deity whose presence we had felt near Gangbal.
Our seven days of silence was broken once we reached Naranag village, where our journey back to Srinagar was about to start. The faint buzz of phone signals, the sounds of vehicles started back. It felt weird listening to the Noice after the great silence we had during the trek.
I headed back to Srinagar that day and I sat there with a heavy heart as we neared Srinagar. That day I had mixed feelings as I saw the photographs of the trek. This was for sure once in a life time experience for me and I would also thank Thin Air expeditions team to plan and execute this trek smoothly. They are definitely a good trekking partner to team up with to have an unparallel experience.
Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek – The Twin Lake Experience
Tarsar Marsar Trek Duration: 6–7 days
Tarsar Marsar Maximum Altitude: 12,500 ft
Tarsar Marsar Trek Difficulty: moderate
Tarsar Marsar Trek Highlights: camping under the starry sky and by Tarsar Lake. Get enchanted by the mystic views of Marsar.
Tarsar Marsar Trek-Best Time to book in 2026: July–September.
Why in 2026: less crowded in comparison to other treks in Kashmir like KGL, making it a smart choice.
Tulian Lake Trek – Short Yet Magical
Tulian Lake Trek Duration: 3–4 days
Tulian Lake Trek Maximum Altitude: 12,000 ft
Tulian Lake Trek Difficulty: easy to moderate
Tulian Lake Trek Highlights: crustal clear blue alpine lake cuddled up by Kolahoi and Zanskar ranges, forest trails are closer to Pahalgam.
Tulian Lake Trek-Best Time to book in in 2026: May–October.
Why in 2026: beginner friendly short-trek who have limited time.
Gangbal Trek – At the Foot of Mount Harmukh
Gangbal Trek Duration: 4–5 days
Maximum Altitude: 11,500 ft
Difficulty: moderate
Highlights: magic of twin lakes (Gangbal and Nundkol), reflection Mount Harmukh in the lake, learn about native culture of Gujjar community.
Gangbal Trek–Best Time to book in 2026: July–September.
Why in 2026: those who have no time to do KGL due to time constraint must choose this trek instead with equally dramatic lake views.
Nafran Valley Trek – The Hidden Gem
Nafran Valley Trek Duration: 6–7 days
Nafran Valley Trek Maximum Altitude: 13,100 ft
Nafran Valley Trek Difficulty: moderate
Nafran Valley Trek Highlights: expansive lush meadows, Kolahoi Glacier views, clear sparkling streams-true definition of purity
Nafran Valley Trek -Best Time to book in 2026: July–September.
Why in 2026: an offbeat alternative to KGL (more commercialize). Book this trek for peaceful adventure.
Warwan Valley Trek – Raw Wilderness
Warwan Valley Trek Duration: 7–9 days
Warwan Valley Trek Maximum Altitude: 14,500 ft
Warwan Valley Trek Difficulty: difficult
Warwan Valley Trek Highlights: connected with Suru Valley in Ladakh, remote hamlets, rugged terrain, and rivers
Warwan Valley Trek -Best Time to book in 2026: July–September.
Why in 2026: seasoned trekkers who seek something more challenging than just and easy to moderate trek, and raw and less explored landscapes.
Brahma Valley Trek – Culture & Beauty Combined
Brahma Valley Trek Duration: 5–6 days
Brammah Valley Trek Maximum Altitude: 12,500 ft
Brammah Valley Trek Difficulty: moderate
Brammah Valley Trek Highlights: pristine meadows, rivers, encounter rich local culture
Brahma Valley Trek-Best Time to book in 2026: July–September
Why in 2026: still undiscovered, ideal for those who seek solitude.
Pir Panjal Range Trek – Ridges & Meadows
Pir Panjal Trek Duration: 6–7 days
Pir Panjal Trek Max Altitude: 13,000 ft
Pir Panjal Trek Difficulty: moderate
Pir Panjal Trek Highlights: vast glaciers, 360-degree vista of Himalaya, and rolling ridges
Pir Panjal Range Trek –Best Time to book in 2026: June–September.
Why in 2026: range trek is a new term for the world and embarking on such journey is no less than an achievement. It is going to be the best highlights in the coming years.
Silent Meadows Trek – Peaceful Escape
Silent Meadows Trek Duration: 4–5 days
Silent Meadows Trek Maximum Altitude: 11,500 ft
Silent Meadows Trek Difficulty: easy to moderate
Silent Meadows Trek Highlights: high-altitude green-land, stargazing, solitude
Silent Meadows Trek -Best Time to book in 2026: June–September.
Why in 2026: perfect choice for first-time trekkers and beginners. Those who want easy trek with soulful experience far from crowd then it will be a smart choice.
Tosa Maidan Trek – Meadow Magic
Tosa Maidan Trek Duration: 4–5 days
Tosa Maidan Trek Maximum Altitude: 12,000 ft
Tosa Maidan Trek Difficulty: easy to moderate
Tosa Maidan Trek Highlights: expansive high-altitude meadows carpeted with wildflowers, trade stories associated with the trail
Tosa Maidan Trek -Best Time to book in 2026: May–September.
Why in 2026: looking for a trek which also brings you closer to culture and history while being on the trail then this is where you should be going
Marchoi Trek – Versatile Snow & Meadow Trek
Marchoi Trek Duration: 4–5 days
Marchoi Trek Maximum Altitude: 10,000 ft
Marchoi Trek Difficulty: easy to moderate
Marchoi Trek Highlights: snowy fields in winter, beautiful meadows in summer, learn rich culture of Gurez Valley in both the seasons.
Marchoi Trek -Best Time to book in 2026: Dec–Mar for snow | May–Sept for meadows
Why in 2026: can be done in both the seasons appealing all types of trekkers
How to Choose Your Trek in Kashmir 2026?
Beginners:
Tulian, Silent Meadows, Marchoi, Tosa Maidan.
Intermediate Trekkers:
Tarsar Marsar, Gangbal, Nafran Valley, Pir Panjal.
Experienced Trekkers:
Kashmir Lake Trek, Warwan Valley.
Offbeat Lovers:
Brahma Valley, Nafran, Tosa Maidan, Silent Meadows.
Scenic Variety:
7 lakes trek Kashmir, Tarsar Marsar.
Frequently Asked Questions – Kashmir Summer Treks
What are the best summer treks in Kashmir?
7 lake trek in Kashmir (KGL), Tarsar Marsar Trek, Gangbal Trek, Tulian Lake Trek, Nafran Valley, Warwan Valley, Brahma Valley, Pir Panjal Range, Tosa Maidan, Marchoi, and Silent Meadows are some of the most popular and recommended summer treks in Kashmir. Each of them offers unique experience when it comes to lakes, meadows, and ridges.
When is the best time to do summer treks in Kashmir?
The trekking season of Kashmir starts from late June to September. A few of them begin in May as well. However, July and August months are the busiest as alpine lakes are fresh and meadows filled with wildflowers are at their best. For clear skies and fewer crowds, visit Kashmir in the month of September.
What is the difficulty level of Kashmir summer treks?
Not all treks are same; each contains different level of difficulty;
For easy to moderate level trek, choose Tulian Lake, Tosa Maidan, Silent Meadows, and Marchoi.
If you are one of those trekkers who want to challenge themselves after several easy treks then go for moderate treks; Tarsar Marsar, Gangbal, Nafran Valley, Pir Panjal, and Brahma Valley.
For seasoned trekkers KGL and Warwan valley treks are best fit.
Do I need prior trekking experience?
Not for every trek. A few easy to moderate level treks can be done by the beginners. Tulian Lake, Marchoi, Silent Meadows, and Tosa Maidan are one of those treks that welcome first-time trekkers. If you are picking KGL trek or Warwan Valley, good fitness level along with prior trek experience is required.
What kind of views can I expect on Kashmir treks?
Kashmir Treks are about everything; an amalgamation of serene alpine lakes, never ending meadows, snow-veiled peaks, pine forests, and glaciers. If you want to witness all in just one trek then KGL is one for you.
What should I pack for a Kashmir summer trek?
Essential trekking gear like, proper layered clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, poncho, skincare, sunglasses, headgear, water bottle, tiffin, energy bars, dry snacks, and personal medicines should be carried by the trekkers. Trek organizers usually provide tents and meals. You can visit Thin Air Expedition’s trekking gear list page where you will get the idea.
Are permits required for trekking in Kashmir?
Trails that are near sensitive region require permits from local authorities. Thin Air Expedition handles permit process and often include the same the trek package.
How safe are summer treks in Kashmir?
Yes, if you book a trek with certified guides and registered organizers then you are 100% in safe hands. Respect the local culture and follow the guidelines issued by local authorities and your leader to avoid any hassle.
Why choose Kashmir over other trekking destinations?
Kashmir is the trekking capital of India. A trekker gets to witness every feature of nature in just one trek. Its unmatched diversity, be it series of alpine lakes, rolling meadows, tranquil glaciers, and cultural richness, everything comes packed in one trek, unlike other regions.
Flora and Fauna of Kashmir Summer Treks
Flora – Kashmir’s Green Carpet
The main reason why one must do summer trek in Kashmir is because valleys and meadows transform into vibrancy. A breathtaking variety of plants put a life in the land;
Alpine Wildflowers
Blue poppies, buttercups, daisies, forget-me-nots, Himalayan balsam, and gentians blossom across pastures like you are walking on a carpets of a painting.
Trees & Forests
At the beginning of the trail when you are still on the lower altitude, pine, deodar, fir, and silver birch dominate the land. As you go high, willow and scattered juniper patches welcome you.
Meadows & Pastures:
Popular rolling meadows of Tarsar Marsar and Kashmir Great Lakes burst with colorful wildflowers in July–August.
Medicinal Plants:
Himalaya has always been rich in herbs like Saussurea (Kuth), Arnebia (Ratanjot), and Aconitum. They are used in traditional remedies.
Fauna – Wildlife of the Himalayas
The backwoods of Kashmir support variety of wildlife. Encountering them totally depends on two factors; luck of trekkers and altitude.
Mammals:
Hangul (Kashmir Stag): they are rare to sight and highly protected.
Himalayan Musk Deer: extremely shy, hence can be spotted spotted during dawn or dusk.
Brown Bear/ Black Bear: often spotted in the higher valley treks, you can’t sight them while on the regular route
Markhor & Ibex: also called wild goats; seen in rugged cliffs.
Snow Leopard: dream capture of many wildlife enthusiast; hardly seen, but are encountered in higher ranges.
Birds:
Himalayan Monal (Impeyan Pheasant):
State bird of Uttarakhand, famous for its vibrant color also found in Kashmir.
Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture) & Golden Eagle:
They soar high above ridges you walk on
Himalayan Snowcock & Chukar Partridge:
Commonly seen in high-altitude zones
Colorful Finches, Warblers, and Thrushes: enhanced sound coming from the immersive environment of the meadows
Aquatic Life:
Trout fish is a common sight in the alpine lakes, especially, Vishansar, Krishansar, and Gangbal, adding to the biodiversity.
Why It Flora and Fauna Matter to Trekkers?
Kashmir is just not a landscape; the flora and fauna of Kashmir summer treks enhance the quality of experience. Walking on a colorful wildflower carpet, encountering a herd of ibex on a ridge, or hearing the sound of the snowcock is nothing less than a live classroom of Himalayan ecology.
Permits for Kashmir Summer Treks
Do you need permits?
Yes. Most of the Kashmir summer treks come under control or ecologically fragile high-altitude regions (protected and sensitive) making permits mandatory. These permits are usually arranged by your trekking agency. Check before booking the trek with them, whether the permit fee is included in the package or not. A professional organizer always includes the fee of permit in the package.
Who issues the permits?
Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department, Forest Department (for eco-sensitive zones), Local District Authorities & Army Check-posts (in border areas like Gurez, Warwan, or Gangbal)
Trek-wise Permit Notes
Kashmir Great Lakes (KGL): forest & local administration issue the permits in Sonmarg/Naranag; checked at Army posts.
Tarsar Marsar: in Aru/Pahalgam, forest department issues the permit
Tulian Lake: one needs local permission through Pahalgam authorities
Gangbal Trek: at Naranag Army Base, permits are needed
Nafran Valley: you can receive the permission through Pahalgam authorities
Warwan Valley: permits are mandatory due to remote border location. Army checks the permit en route
Brahma Valley: take the permission from local forest officials
Pir Panjal Range Treks: permission from forest & local authority is required
Silent Meadows, Tosa Maidan, Marchoi (Gurez): since the trail passes through Army-patrolled or eco-sensitive zones, all permissions are required
Documents Required
Valid Government-issued ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License)
Passport copy & Visa (for foreign nationals)
Passport-size photos (2–3, often required at checkpoints)
Important Notes for Trekkers
Carry original ID throughout the journey, not just photocopies.
Foreign Nationals are requested to get registered with the local authorities before the journey begins
We, at Thin Air Expedition, handle the permit process only when trekkers are responsible and submit their copies of ID in advance
If you are choosing a trek in Kashmir, Army checkpoints are common. Please keep your permits handy.
Tips and Precautions for Kashmir Summer Treks
Before the Trek
Pick the Right Trek: we have already shared the trek name and its difficulty level in this blog. it should be easier to pick a trek that suits best with your fitness level (example, Tulian for beginners, KGL for seasoned trekkers).
Fitness Preparation: Cardio is the most important part of your workout when it comes to trekking. Besides, do strength training, and flexibility exercises. Start preparing yourself at least a month before the trek starts. Trails in Kashmir demand long walking hours.
Pack Smart: we have already shared the essential trekking gear list. Layered clothing is must to keep you warm throughout the trek, rain gear as weather in mountainous region is unpredictable. Carry a pair of sturdy trekking shoes.
Keep your original valid IDs and Permits handy as many routes pass Army checkpoints
On the Trail
Acclimatize well before the journey starts even though the Kashmir treks are moderate in altitude; still it is suggested to spend a day in Srinagar/Sonamarg/Pahalgam to get habitual of the altitude.
Consume water in regular intervals, not too much but in moderate. Staying hydrate helps you avoid fatigue and altitude sickness.
Treks are never about reaching first at the point, don’t rush. Keep a pace and take steady steps. Remember, your motive is to spend some quality time in nature, and absorb the energy.
Be prepared for the shifts in weather as rain, hail, or sudden fog are common here. All you can do is keeping poncho/rain jacket handy.
If you follow the instructions of your trek leader than half of the journey is sorted out. Many trails pass through Army zones or less-marked paths, in such cases only local person can assist you, so never leave the trail and group.
Keep the dry snacks, energy bars in your backpack as quick refreshment during the trek. Avoid binge eating as digestion slows at altitude.
Environmental & Cultural Care
Carry a plastic bag to keep your waste in it as Kashmir’s ecology is fragile.
The quaint village homes in Kashmir are click worthy but taking permission of the locals before capturing their world sounds respectful.
You are on a trail and among some of the rare species of bird and animals. Apart from that, you are in Kashmir to spend some time with your soul; avoiding loud music in such time won’t be a big thing to ask.
Local staff carries supplies with great efforts, wasting food means insulting their efforts. Take only what you can finish, refill the dish if required.
Remember, we are in a wildlife zone. In case you sight an animal, observe them from distance; trying to feed or chase them will only make them disappear.
At Campsites
Nights are chilly even in summer season, so always layer up
Keep your belongings and essential items in your sleeping bag.
Do not wander far at night and stay closer to your group; mist of valleys can disorient.
Kashmir 2026 is the Year for Trekkers. The infrastructure is improved; trekkers are more aware of offbeat trails and understand the significance of raw and untouched Kashmir beauty. With all this, Kashmir summer treks in 2026 promise to be breathtaking. Whether you pick famous KGL trek or the pristine charm of Nafran Valley or Warwan, every trail promises to show how paradise must feel like.
If you are planning a trek in summer 2026, Kashmir should be your first choice — where every meadow has a story to tell, every lake becomes mirror for the skies, and every step feels like you are getting closer to the fairy tale.