Kashmir Great Lakes
Also known as: KGL
The Kashmir Great Lakes - a string of jewel-like alpine lakes (Vishansar, Gangabal) below snow peaks
The route
The line through Kashmir, India - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Waypoints
- 1Sonamarg / Srinagar (start)Trailhead
Start [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 2Stage camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 3Stage camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 4EndTrailhead
End of route [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
Season & conditions
Jul-Sep
Sun, cold nights, afternoon storms
Best Jul-Sep; permits and the SECURITY situation can affect access - verify. Confirm.
On the trail
A chain of alpine lakes, meadows and high passes in Kashmir
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Shorter sections; the lakes are the highlight
Getting there & staying
Sonamarg, from Srinagar
Point-to-point may need transport between ends - confirm
Camping; no huts
Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote
Services in Sonamarg / Srinagar; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
Operator-run; verify the current security/permit situation before planning. Confirm.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Altitude illness is the main risk at these elevations - acclimatize, ascend slowly, know the descent rule; weather, river crossings; verify current security
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.