Warwan Valley Trek - Complete Itinerary

• Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Trek Duration: 8 Days
• Highest Altitude: 14,495 ft
• GROUP SIZE: 6-12
• TOTAL TREK DISTANCE: 80km
• BEST TIME: July to October
• Suitable For: 12-62 years

Overview

The trek to Warwan Valley is one of the picturesque treks available in India and runs from Ladakh down to Jammu & Kashmir. Warwan Valley is an offbeat region with unexplored parts of the Kashmir district. And, just like popular spots in Kashmir like Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam, Warwan Valley shows a little more of what Kashmir might look like without an agricultural economy. This remote location will surely add beauty, as it is untouched.

The trek takes you from one landscape to the next with the first part being relatively barren rocky land in the Trans-Himalayas and transitions into lush green meadows that are often seen in Kashmir. One of the toughest parts of this Kashmir trek is a pass where you will experience a tricky climb and walk across the Bracken glacier. This would be undoubtedly be one shady experience.

The highest elevation of the Warwan Valley Trek is 14,495ft and the overall trek is approximately 80 kilometers. This is not a trek for beginners, although not too difficult it is best for some who has done at least one trek and experience the associated toughness.

What are the Highlights of the Warwan Valley Trek?

• Alpine Lakes: When trekking you will pass through the alpine lakes. And, camping beside these lake is just a wow moment. Water that is quiet, as clear as glass, and perfectly reflects the sky all around it. These places are just for you to be there and to be still, acknowledging the wonders of nature.
• Cultural Experience: The highlight of this trek, is meeting the many people who lives there. These remote villages have a culture that is unique to wherever you are on the trek. You are in regions of the land that are quite removed and you can feel a collision of cultures, and we feel fortunate to experience this. You hear about their history, their stories, and their depth of tradition is only rivalled by the indigenous land here, and you feel you have arrived in a time capsule fashion.
• Bracken Glacier: Bracken Glacier is not a walk in the park, all the work and effort considered, but what an experience! It's physically hard, mentally stimulating and the total satisfaction from crossing the ice, icebergs and the ruggedness of the terrain cannot be matched. The views are also not that difficult to get used to.
• Merging of Rivers: At Sumdo, there is a collection point of the Suru River and another glacial stream. It's that place in nature where you are in awe; two rivers converging to create an extremely beautiful peaceful valley and delta. You get the sense you found a little piece of the undiscovered world.
• Fields of Kashmi: The meadows in Warwan Valley were so beautiful they seemed unreal. Endless green, wild flowers in abundance, and a soft wind moved through the grass. Given some of the nature you had passed along the trek, the feeling of being enveloped in the surrounding natural beauty was almost hypnotic and peaceful.
• Panoramic Views: You will see amazing views at certain points along the trek. It will present as breathtaking snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, rivers winding in deep into the scenery. There is such a change in scenery that you can not help but stop and admire your new perspective along the trek. Each view felt like it was in a different world.
• Wildlife Encounters: The presence of wildlife is a magical element of the trek as well. Watching marmots pop their little heads out of the ground, spotting snow pigeons cascading effortlessly through the skies – there's always something 'wild' to see. It's a wonderful natural spectacle, and you're just a spectator.
• Remote Trails and Silence: For someone who is looking to escape the crowds, this trek is a great option. The more distance you gain, the more isolated the trails become, and all you hear may be the wind, your footsteps, and the distant and sometime melodic sounds of birds. It is a really peaceful experience, and you have the opportunity to push any of your thoughts and just be.
• Cross-over experience: Another interesting aspect of this trek, is the experience of cross-over in environments. Starting in the arid and barren lands of Ladakh, you slowly increase your distance and cross into the lush green, fertile valleys of Kashmir. Each step feels like you are crossing into a different world, with an experience of the unknown.
• Terrain Challenge: Expect the terrain to give you many different types of challenges. There may be some friendly segments, but you should expect to climb steep trails, glacier cross wild icy glacial crossings, rocky trails that may give you challenges. You are not going to treat this experience with the kid-glove treatment, but that is what makes reaching the top so rewarding. It is unbelievable to think of the amount of effort it took to get you to see what you get to experience.

Warwan Valley Trek – A Detailed Itinerary

Day 1- Drive from Srinagar to Panikhar

Altitude: 10,700 ft | Distance: 185 km | Duration: 10 hours | Pick-up Location: Sheikh Feroze Tours & Travels, Srinagar

Day 2- Trek from Panikhar to Denora

Altitude: 10,700 ft to 12,375 ft | Distance: 14 km | Duration: 8 hours

Day 3 -Trek from Denora to Kalapari

Altitude: 12,375 ft to 12,850 ft | Distance: 2 km | Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours | Activity: Acclimatisation hike to glacial lake

Day 4- Trek from Kalapari to Kaintal via Lomvilad Pass

Altitude: 12,850 ft to 11,550 ft via 14,495 ft | Distance: 22 km | Duration: 13 to 14 hours | Trail: Glacier walk, steep ascent to pass, descent through moraines, snowy slopes, switchbacks, final meadow walk to campsite

Day 5- Trek from Kaintal to Humpet

Altitude: 11,550 ft to 11,120 ft | Distance: 17 km | Duration: 7 to 8 hours | Trail: Meadow walk, easy river crossings, slight overhangs, gradual ascent near Humpet

Day 6- Trek from Kalapari to Kaintal via Lomvilad Pass

Altitude: 11,120 ft to 9,320 ft| Distance: 15 km| Duration: 7 to 8 hours| Trail: Initial climb followed by descent, landslide-prone sections, undulating terrain

Day 7- Trek from Sukhnai to Basmina and drive to Srinagar

Altitude: 9,320 ft to 5,200 ft | Trek Distance: 14.5 km | Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours | Trail: Gentle ups and downs

Day 8: Drive to Srinagar

Best Time to do Warwan Valley Trek

Warwan Valley is packed with many beautiful locations and worthy places for a peaceful vacation at any time throughout the year. Considering the activities you might participate in and the climate conditions, summer is the best time to visit. The valley is blooming and grasslands are vibrant during this time. The best time to visit Warwan Valley is from the months July to September.

In winter, the valley is buried under a blanket of snow, making it difficult for people to walk on the narrow trails.

For more details, you can have a word with a team of experts at Thin Air Expedition!

What to Pack for Warwan Valley Trek?

• Clothing: Trekking pants,Full-sleeve t-shirts,Jacket,Waterproof windcheater or rain jacket,Thermal innerwear,Fleece or down jacket,Trekking socks,Woollen socks,Woollen gloves,Waterproof gloves,Woollen cap or beanie,Sun cap or hat,Buff or neck gaiter,Lightweight towel
• Footwear:High-ankle trekking boots,Floaters or sandals,Slippers
• Personal Essentials:Sunscreen,Lip balm with SPF,Sunglasses
• Toiletries:Toilet paper,Wet wipes,Hand sanitizer
• Personal medication:Small towel,Nail cutter,Comb
• Trekking Gear:Backpack,Daypack,Rain cover for bags,Headlamp with extra batteries,Water bottles,Trekking poles,Sleeping bag,Dry bags or zip-locks,Power bank,Energy bars or trail snacks
• Documents:Government ID,Medical certificate,Passport-size photos
• Optional:Camera or GoPro,Journal and pen,Playing cards or small game,Lightweight book,Mosquito repellent

Frequently asked questions with answers

Q. Where is Warwan Valley?

Warwan Valley is in Kishtwar district of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, in India. It is located in the stunning Jammu division along with stunning views and the serenity of nature.

Q. Is the Warwan Valley trek tough?

Yes, the trek to Warwan Valley is considered tough due to the rough terrains and high altitude, and would normally only suit the more experienced trekkers.

Q. What is Warwan Valley known for?

Warwan Valley is famous for its stunning beauty. It has beautiful green meadows, steep mountains, picturesque landscapes, and of course the Warwan river flowing through it. It is a peaceful place away from crowds and loved by naturalists and adventurers alike.

Q. How tough is the Warwan Valley trek?

Warwan Valley trek is classified as tough because of the steep trail, walking through forests, crossing high passes which all contribute to making this a tough trek requiring good health and fitness.

Q. When is Warwan Valley best visited?

The best time to visit Warwan Valley is July and October. This is the lovely weather during which trekking, camping and getting around the valley is the best.

Q. Is camping allowed in Warwan Valley?

Yes, camping is allowed in Warwan Valley. Camping is a common pastime, for people who trek and nature lovers who want to enjoy the silent and tranquil night in Warwan valley.

Q. Which river flows in Warwan Valley?

Warwan River, also known as Murusudar River is flowing through Warwan valley especially in the lower side. A lovely and quiet river which ends up in Chenab River, basically a beautiful component of the natural beauty and essence of the valley.

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.

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Memories

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