Altitude: 2,426m | 3.5 hours drive

• Brace yourself for a 4-hour long drive through the winding roads that take you to Aru. On the first day of Tarsar Marsar trek, you see quintessential Kashmir valley as the car roars through the iconic Pahalgam. Take the left towards Aru, an uphill turn that slips into the stunning Lidder river.
• Upon reaching Aru, wind down and take a breather at the campsite while sipping a welcome drink. The trek leader will brief you about the upcoming adventure before you head for delicious dinner in the embrace of the valley.

Altitude: 2,426 m to 2,780 m | 6 hours drive | Distance: 11 kms

• Embark on the trail of the trek that opens in the jungle and runs for about 5 km. With its quaint wilderness cascading, the jungle unfolds a comfortable path for you to venture.
• After an exhilarating walk to the gorges, you see a wavy meadow stretching alongside a couple of river crossings. Stop and breathe a sigh as the winds dance their way through. Sip some glacial water that comes right from Tarsar lake if you may and commence your hike towards the campsite, looking upon the marvellous views. The Lidderwat campsite awaits you with evening snacks and drinks. Soak up to the refreshments and give your Tarsar Marsar Kashmir trek a brief pause.

Altitude: 2,780 m to 3,360 m | 5 hours | Distance: 6 kms

• The gradient of the day is moderate, with long hours of walking. At Nichnai Pass, we’ll stop for a short break; interestingly, this particular pass comes right after the river stream. There is a gradual ascent to the mountain; so, remember to stop regularly for hydration breaks and maintain a steady speed.
• The mountain descends steeply and rugged towards the lovely valley below. One will be delighted and happy as they stroll through this peaceful field. A vast expanse of mountains to the left and right can be seen as one looks around. Such is the beauty of nature that while one side of the mountain range would appear rugged, the other side is snow-capped.
• Campground can be arrived after a few kilometres of strolling, after crossing the river. The campground is close to the majestic Vishansar Lake’s water tributaries. After arriving at the campground, take your evening refreshments and unwind by the lake.
• This day of your Tarsar Marsar trek begins with an ascent that takes you to the higher surface introducing a sweeping view of the Lidderwat Valley. It’s a rather easy grade wherein your first climb is followed by the forest. Walk as you enjoy the glimpses of the jungle parallel to the Lidder River. You will walk towards Shekwas and find a treacherous boulder that alerts you to stay cautious. As you cross the enthralling path, the campsite welcomes you in and get you to wrap up this adventurous day of Tarsar Marsar trek on a good note.

Altitude: 3,360 m to 3,790 m | 5 hours | Distance: 5 kms

• Gear up as it is a longest and interesting, yet most difficult day of the journey. The incline ranges from easy to challenging. You will cross over the highest altitude of the trek, that is, Gadsar Pass standing tall at 4,200m. Early in the morning, your journey guide will set you up for the day. Within an hour of the journey, one will be able to see the trek’s first and finest feature. Look at Vishansar and Krishansar Lakes, two beautiful lakes that are peacefully and pleasantly situated next to one another. These two lakes, each of which has a distinct religious significance, both drain into the Kishanganga River, which flows through the Gurez Valley.
• After the lakes, the arduous ascent to Gadsar Pass begins. The path is short and steep, so you need to be cautious with the gradual ascent. The climb up the mountain takes about two hours. This route is where the majority of the breathtaking photos of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek could be clicked. The meadow is wavy and breathtakingly placed between the two mountain stretches. There are various colourful blooms and plants, as well as lush greenery. The most vibrant part of this journey is the field.

• Soon after that, Gadsar Lake, a tranquil lake with a blue hue, will be visible on your left. Only the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek makes frequent trips to the lake. This lake, one of the finest alpine lakes you will see on the journey, is one of the least explored because it is almost in the centre of the trail. According to legend, the Gadsar Lake’s water and animals have therapeutic properties. The lake is a short distance from the campground.
• Relish your break across the mountainous winds as you start another day of Tarsar Marsar trek. The new day takes you towards Tarsar Lake on a gradient that is moderate. As you walk on the boulders, the river runs giddily beside you. The walk ahead traverses the meadow surrounded by mountains. And the moment that trail comes to an end, you see the ever so gorgeous alpine lake of Kashmir.

Altitude: 3,790 m to 3,945 m | 5 hours| Distance: 5 kms

• The trail on the fifth day of Tarsar Marsar Kashmir trek unveils with a sharp ascend that stays with you for about an hour. You have to climb up to the top of the ridge upon reaching which you come across the mesmerising view of Tarsar Lake. Revel in this bird’s eye view while you are at it. The next few minutes are all about descending from this ridge which is undoubtedly sharp.
• After conquering the fear on the daunting ridge, cross the boulder and savour the moment at a meadow called Silent valley that connects Shekiwas to Sundersar. Indeed peaceful, the valley exhibits lush grass in between a couple of mountain stretches and the land is adorned by river streams and water ponds. After this one terrific walk of the day, head towards the Sundersar campsite to retire for the night.

Altitude: 3,945 m to 3,505 m via Marsar Ridge 4020 m | 7 hours | Distance: 9 kms

• The adrenaline rush kicks in when you step foot around the strikingly beautiful Sundersar Lake. This circular lake is bordered by small mountain tops, exuding a serene symphony. Travel round the lake and traverse a ridge for half an hour to reach the ethereal Marsar Lake. Stand on the vantage point at the highest altitude of your Tarsar Marsar trip and collect the snapshots of the lake. Take the same route back towards Homwas and the artistic trails elevated by boulders and meadows to reach the campsite.

Altitude: 3,505 m to 2,426 m | 6 hours | Distance: 13 kms

• The last day on your Tarsar Marsar itinerary takes you the same trail you mapped during the first two days of your trek. For one more time, look upon the towering mountains, observe the forest’s silence and watch the rivers hurrying their way as you mark your way back to Aru. Upon reaching the location, the cab will take you to Srinagar.