Tarsar Marsar Trek Kashmir

The Tarsar Marsar Trek is another stunning trek in the Kashmir Valley, known for its picturesque lakes, verdant meadows, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s slightly less challenging than the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek but equally rewarding in terms of natural beauty.

Overview

Trek Highlights

  1. Twin Alpine Lakes: The trek is named after the two high-altitude lakes:
    • Tarsar Lake: A serene and turquoise-blue lake surrounded by grassy meadows and towering peaks.
    • Marsar Lake: Located close to Tarsar but hidden from direct view, it is often shrouded in mist, adding to its mystical appeal.
  2. Pristine Meadows and Landscapes: The trek takes you through lush green meadows (like Shekhawas and Lidderwat) dotted with wildflowers, dense pine forests, and remote pastoral settings.
  3. Panoramic Views: The trek offers spectacular views of the Kolahoi Mountain, the highest peak in the region, as well as the surrounding valleys and forests.
  4. Secluded Campsites: The camping experience is one of the highlights of this trek, with camps set up near the lakes, amidst meadows, and beside glacial streams.
  5. Kashmiri Culture: Experience the local Kashmiri culture in the remote villages, interacting with the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities who inhabit these regions.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Srinagar to Aru

  • Altitude: 7,958 feet
  • Drive: 3-4 hours, 105 km
  • Drive from Srinagar to Aru, a picturesque village and the base camp for the trek. Aru is surrounded by lush meadows and forests.
  • Overnight stay in Aru.

Day 2: Aru to Lidderwat

  • Altitude: 9,131 feet
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Trek Time: 5-6 hours
  • The trek begins with a gentle ascent through pine forests and along the Lidder River, leading to the Lidderwat campsite, a beautiful meadow by the river.

Day 3: Lidderwat to Shekwas

  • Altitude: 11,039 feet
  • Distance: 6 km
  • Trek Time: 5-6 hours
  • Trek through dense forests and open meadows with views of the surrounding peaks. The trail gradually ascends to Shekwas, another stunning campsite.

Day 4: Shekwas to Tarsar Lake

  • Altitude: 12,449 feet
  • Distance: 5 km
  • Trek Time: 4-5 hours
  • A short but steep ascent takes you to Tarsar Lake, where you’ll camp by the lakeside. The lake is surrounded by towering mountains and offers mesmerizing views.

Day 5: Tarsar Lake to Sundersar via Marsar Lake

  • Altitude: 13,201 feet
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Trek Time: 6-7 hours
  • Cross the Tarsar Pass to reach Sundersar. On the way, you can take a detour to visit Marsar Lake, hidden behind a mountain ridge.

Day 6: Sundersar to Homwas

  • Altitude: 11,039 feet
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Trek Time: 5-6 hours
  • Descend from Sundersar back to Homwas, passing through verdant meadows and lush forests. This is a relaxing day with more descents than ascents.

Day 7: Homwas to Aru and Drive to Srinagar

  • Altitude: 7,958 feet
  • Distance: 11 km trek and 105 km drive
  • Trek Time: 5-6 hours trek, 3-4 hours drive
  • Trek back to Aru through the same route, and then drive back to Srinagar. The trek ends here.

Trekking Essentials

  1. Clothing:
    • Quick-dry base layers
    • Insulating layers (fleece, down jacket)
    • Waterproof jacket and pants
    • Woolen cap, gloves, and neck gaiter
  2. Footwear:
    • Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support
    • Trekking socks (woolen and synthetic)
  3. Gear:
    • Backpack (50-60 liters) with a rain cover
    • Sleeping bag (rated for sub-zero temperatures)
    • Trekking poles
    • Headlamp with extra batteries
  4. Miscellaneous:
    • First-aid kit and personal medication
    • Water bottles/hydration pack
    • Snacks and energy bars
    • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm

Permits and Regulations

  • Permits: Indian nationals need a permit to trek in the Kashmir Valley, which is arranged by the trekking agency.
  • Foreign Nationals: May need additional permits, and it’s advised to check with local authorities or the trekking agency.

Tips for the Trek

  • Acclimatization: Spend time in Srinagar or Aru to acclimatize to the altitude.
  • Fitness: Prepare with cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and endurance-building activities.
  • Safety: Always trek with a guide, as the region is remote and weather conditions can change rapidly.
  • Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of the local culture and traditions in the villages you pass through.

The Tarsar Marsar Trek offers a mesmerizing blend of tranquil lakes, lush valleys, and stunning mountain views, making it a must-do for trekkers looking to explore the beauty of Kashmir.