Tulian Lake Trek

Unforgettable Tulian Lake Trek: Your Complete Guide

Tulian Lake is a hidden gem located between the beautiful Pir Panjal and Zanskar mountain ranges, near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The unforgettable Tulian Lake Trek is a glacial lake situated at an elevation of approximately 12,000 feet (3,658 meters) above sea level. This trek is famous for its crystal blue lake frequently surrounded by floating chunks of ice, even in the months of summer.

A Background on the Tulian Lake Trek

Tulian Lake Trek, often called “Mini Switzerland,” is located at a distance of 16 to 17 kilometers from Pahalgam to Baisaran meadows—around 12,000 feet. This 5 day long trek is moderate and can be done by both beginners and trekking enthusiasts. The best time to embark on this trek is when the sky is clear and the lake is accessible, which is between June and September. During this time, the trail is easy to follow, and thick pine forests and lush meadows are more welcoming. The altitude, rocky stretches, and steep sections might create challenges for you, but that’s what adventures are all about.

There are many famous spots near Pahalgam; however, Tulian Lake Trek is well-known for its untouched beauty. What makes this trek beautiful is the contrast of turquoise water, green meadows, and white snow—dead gorgeous photogenic. If you are looking for a week’s serene and private adventure with your family and friends or even yourself, then this quick Himalayan adventure is perfect, as it takes only around 5 days.

How to Take a Permit for the Tulian Lake Trek?

The best part of doing the Tulian Trek is that you usually do not require a permit. However, if you are a foreign national, then registering at the Pahalgam police station is mandatory. Therefore, it is always advisable to book your treks through the registered guide. Thin Air Expedition will help you through the process of getting the permission from the police station. It is advisable for all the future trekkers to carry a valid and original ID card all the time.

Complete Tulian Lake Itinerary

Day 1—Drive from Srinagar to Ganesh Bal via Langalbal. Trek to Deno Valley

Driving distance: 85 km, around 2 and a half hours

Altitude covered: 5,200 ft to 6,975 ft

Meals included: dinner

Overnight stay: Campsite in Deno Valley

How does your day 1 look?

Our traveler vehicle picks you up from Pahalgam. From Srinagar, Pahalgam is around 90 km, which you will have to reach on your own.
Ganesh Bal is at a 2 km distance from Pahalgam, a small village, located on the right bank of the river called Lidder, which also features a temple. Offer your prayer where Ganesha stopped by before leaving for the Amarnath shrine and start your journey.
Start your trek from Ganesh Bal to Deno Valley, which is a gentle 3-hour climb covering a 4.3 km distance. A beautiful forest, a short trail surrounded by the spruce trees, welcomes you as you start your trek, followed by a lovely clearing where you can take a small break for chai and fill up your water bottles.
As you resume the journey, you will see a small stream on your right that originates from Tulian Lake.
The open area vanishes as you enter the tree line again and trek under them for about half an hour only to reach the wooden bridge. Just before the bridge there is a diversion; one goes to Chutiyaal (left), but we take the second route, which goes to the right.
To go to the other side, you will have to cross the river. As soon as you cross the river, an open area with a gorgeous view of the valley appears. This route takes us to the unparalleled view of Kashmir Valley, also called Deno Valley. The extensive meadows where cattle and horses graze are a treat to the eyes. Keep following this valley to reach Saurasar.
It takes about 2 more km to reach Deno Valley, where a lovely campsite is bordered by Himalayan trees, promising you will not compromise with an amazing view of lush meadows, wildflowers, and an extensive view of Pahalgam. After a hearty meal, you camp here under the stars.

DAY 2—Trek from Deno Valley to Kanimool

Trek distance: 6.5 km, around 6 hours

Altitude covered: 8,254 ft to 9,504 ft

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, an evening snack, and dinner.

Overnight stay: Campsite in Kanimool

How does your day 2 look?

Start your trek towards the wooden bridge right after a healthy and fulfilling breakfast. A minor part of forest and a small stream lead you towards Chutiyaal Meadow. Take a short break and rest there.
Unlike the previous days, today’s trail goes deep into the forest. Enter the deep 1 km long jungle trail as you leave the meadows behind to reach the Baisaran meadows, called the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’.
The 2.5 km stretch from Chutiyaal to Baisaran is the highlight of the day that offers a picturesque and gigantic meadow that extends up until the timberline. This tree line comprises conifers and pine trees that flourish together in close clusters, adding glory to the snow-clad mountains that set the background. This view of Baisaran is going to stay long in your memory, for sure.
Enter the steeper as well as gradual 4 km ascent towards Kanimool via the Baisaran trail. This route takes you through the core of the spruce and fir forest. Witness the Gujjar huts in this area called Breadayanghan. The peaks of Hodasarbal and Wokhalbal are somewhat clear now as you are about to reach the Kanimool campsite.
Stay in the tents at Kanimool and rest for the night. Fill up your bottles from the mountain stream curving close to your camp—a good source of drinking water.

DAY 3—Trek from Kanimool to Tulian Valley

Trek distance: 4 km, around 5 hours

Altitude covered: 9,504 ft to 10,568 ft

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, an evening snack, and dinner.

Overnight stay: Tulian Valley

How does your day 3 look?

Start early, as there is a long day waiting ahead with a 4 km steep ascent from Kanimool to Tulian Marg.
The zigzag route through a jungle is icy yet striking. Today you are going to trek in the pristine part of the Kashmir forest.
Today, your hiking poles and hiking shoes will be helpful to navigate this challenging terrain.
After a careful trek of 3.5 hours, arrive at the Tulian Valley, where a few stone and trampoline sheet huts are a unique sight to experience. Take a rest here at Tulian Marg before we resume.
After a little trek, reach the heart of Tulian Valley. This is where we will set up the camp. Again, there is a consumable water stream flowing right next to the campsite. You camp here for the two days, so make the most out of this opportunity.

DAY 4—Trek from Tulian Valley to Tulian Lake and back to Tulian Valley

Trek distance: 4 km, around 5 to 6 hours

Altitude covered: 10,568 ft to 12,087 ft and to 10,568 ft

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, an evening snack, and dinner.

Overnight stay: Tulian Valley

How does your day 4 look?

Today, the trek goes from easy to a little challenging. Tulian Marg’s narrow meadows offer a pleasant walk until you start following the risky boulder terrain. The water stream runs through parallel all along the way. You can fill up the bottles to keep yourself hydrated.
After crossing the boulder terrain, the trek becomes more challenging, as after about half a km trek, a steep section to Tulian Lake awaits.
Here comes the final climb, comprising a steep ascent, boulders, and loose scree to test your patience and fitness. In order to maintain the firmness in your feet, usage of two trekking poles is highly suggested.
Right when you are about to reach the top, a glimpse of Tulian Lake starts to show up, motivating you to finish the journey. Wait! There is more. As soon as you reach the top, an actual breathtaking view of the turquoise blue lake awaits there with the patches of ice floating on it. Reward yourself with a break and cherish the journey you have taken to reach here.
The same amount of effort you put in while climbing up, you will have to put in while descending. Navigate carefully and repeat your path to the Tulian Valley campsite. Enjoy dinner, pen down your memories, and call it a day.

DAY 5—Trek from Tulian Valley to Ganesh Bal and drive back to Srinagar.

Trek distance: 7 km, around 5 to 6 hours

Altitude loss: 10,567 ft to 7,017 ft

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, an evening snack, and dinner.

How does your day 5 look?

Today, continue the descent till Pahalgam, then drive back to Srinagar from Ganesh Bal. The vehicles will be arranged by the Thin Air Expedition. Expect to reach Srinagar by evening.

Points to keep in mind before booking

Although our expert trek leaders of Thin Air Expedition figure out everything in advance before the journey starts, it is always a good idea to keep a few things in mind before embarking on a challenging journey like the Tulian Lake Trek.

Take your fitness seriously at least 2 weeks prior. Focus on leg training (brisk walking, running, jogging, jumping) and cardio exercises, followed by a strict protein-rich diet.

Carry enough energy bars, trail mix, and nuts to keep yourself active during the whole trek. Keep yourself hydrated throughout the trek by drinking water in little amounts at a time.

Be prepared with the layered dresses as well as waterproof wear, as the weather shifts quickly in the higher regions. Our trekking agency will guide you in advance about the weather conditions and help you with the essential things to carry for the trek, including trekking shoes, hiking poles, etc.

Keep your ID proofs handy in case of any checking on the way.

Frequently Asked Question:

How is the weather at Tulian Trek?

In summers the temperature of Tulian can drop to -5 degrees, and in the day it ranges around 10-15 degrees.

What is the best time to do the Tulian Trek?

June to September is the ideal time to book your Tulian Trek, as the weather is more pleasant and trails are accessible.

What if the Tulian Trek gets cancelled last minute?

Baisaran Meadows, Aru Valley, and Betaab Valley are a few of the options if your trek to Tulian gets cancelled due to some unavoidable reasons, like permit cancellation or bad weather conditions.

What is the difficulty level of the Tulian Lake Trek?

The trek to Tulian is moderate with rocky stretches and steep sections offering some beautiful panoramic views of the meadows and snow-capped mountains.

What is the total length of the Tulian Trek?

Tulian Trek takes around 4 to 5 days to complete with 8 to 9 km one way. The complete trek, back and forth, is around 16 to 17 km.

Tulian Lake is a stunning combination of sky-soaring peaks and green meadows, offering a thrilling yet accessible trek for hiking lovers and nature enthusiasts. This mesmerizing, untouched alpine beauty is ideal for capturing and spending some quality time away from the chaos of city life. The Tulian Lake trek is a rewarding journey that brings serenity with amazing views and a sense of discovery. Thin Air Expedition promises to make this trek an unforgettable experience for you and your family and friends. We have been handling all types of groups, small to big, while handling their permit process, meals, tents, trekking gear, etc.

Book your Tulian Trek with us here.