Alpather Lake is a small yet scenic alpine lake which is based at the foothills of the twin Apharawat Peaks. The lake is situated at an altitude of 14400 feet and stays frozen for more than half the year. That is why it is more popularly known as the Frozen Lake among people. Visitors love to do Alpather Lake Trek in Kashmir and admire the beauty of the place. You can discover this serene paradise with our Kashmir tour packages. The lake is very small in size, just a small body of water. It is a glacial lake, fed by the melting snow from the nearby peaks. But the entire setting of the lake is just picture-perfect. There are so many things to do in Alpather Lake trek which you can explore.
Alpather Lake in Gulmarg will take you to a different world when it comes to adventure. During the months of winter, in January and February especially, this entire lake freezes completely. So much that you could easily walk over it. Additionally, you can check the amazing things to do in Gulmarg in summer if you are visiting here during summer.
This high altitude Alpather Lake trek is one of the best things to do in Gulmarg. Alpather Lake trek requires a whole day’s trek starting from Gulmarg and covering a distance of about 13 km.
The lake is an absolute must-visit for trekking enthusiasts consisting of a one-day trekking expedition from Gulmarg to Alpather Lake. The Alpather Lake trek in Kashmir is moderately difficult. Also, there are many best scenic places to visit in Kashmir that can be explored during your journey.
Here is a complete travel guide for Alpather Lake trek.
How to Reach Alpather Lake
The first part of visiting the lake would of course be to get to Gulmarg. You will first have to get to Srinagar and from there, reach Gulmarg. Alpather lake lies around 13 kms away from the Gulmarg town. For adventure seekers and fit tourists, a one-day trek consisting of 13 kms, will take you to Alpather Lake from Gulmarg(via Khilanmarg). Now moving further to travel guide for Alpather Lake trek.
Gulmarg to Alpather Lake by Road
The road from Gulmarg to Apharwat peak and the lake was actually built by the Indian Army and gets used only by their vehicles. It is the same road that first reaches Bota Pathri from Gulmarg and then climbs up the mountain.But due to the sensitivity of the region, Civilians are not allowed to travel on this road and you will be stopped at the check post the moment you start driving up.
When you reach Alpather Lake in Gulmarg, you will be amazed with the serene beauty of the place.
Even if you were allowed to travel, you would still need a strong car with great ground clearance, excellent driving skills to reach Alpather Lake Trek in Kashmir Valley.
Suggested Read- Best Kashmiri Food
Best Way to Reach Alpather Lake
The best way to get to Alpather Lake from Gulmarg is by Gondola. This is the best way because it offers a little bit of almost everything. You will also encounter a lot of attractions at Alpather Lake trek Kashmir. Gulmarg is popular for Skiing and other snow adventure sports in Kashmir which you can explore.You get to catch a Gondola ride which is a great experience in itself. Then you get some trekking as well to add to your adventure tale. And then finally you will be standing at the banks of Alpather Lake without stressing yourself too much.
Time Needed for Alpather Lake Trek
By road, you cannot definitely go so that is out of the zone. If you were planning to trek the entire 14 kilometres from Gulmarg then it will easily take you about 12 to 14 hours at least, depending on your physical stamina.If you were going by Gondola, however, then it will take you about 2 to 3 hours from the Gondola station to go to the lake and come back. Either way, it is at least a day’s affair from Gulmarg.
Best Time to Visit Alpather Lake
Every time is the best time to visit the lake. It presents a different colour in every season. Alpather Lake Trek will give you an amazing experience. Let’s check the breakdown of how the lake looks each month.- Alpather Lake in January – Covered in snow and completely frozen. Extremely cold with snow all around. Must wear war woollens and a heavy windproof jacket and come with a guide.
- Alpather Lake in February – Same as the month of January.
- Alpather Lake in March – Same as the previous two months. The only difference is that the snow starts to melt around this time.
- Alpather Lake in April – Spring arrives. Lush green all around with some snow still left. One of the best times for Alpather Lake Trek .
- Alpather Lake in May – Lake would have melted completely. There will be some snow left on the hills around though.
- Alpather Lake in June – No snow. A complete blue water body. Plenty of chances of sudden rainfall.
- Alpather Lake in July – Remains the same as June. A complete blue water body. Plenty of chances of sudden rainfall.
- Alpather Lake in August – Lush green all around and a sight to behold. Another great time for Alpather Lake Trek.
- Alpather Lake in September – The weather will be the same as in August. The chances of rain will be less though.
- Alpather Lake in October – Winter will start to settle in and it can snow here anytime.
- Alpather Lake in November – The lake would start to freeze. There will be occasional snowfall in the region.
- Alpather Lake in December – The entire area will start to turn white and the lake will be partially frozen.
Suggested Read: How to enjoy snowfall in Gulmarg, a complete guide
What to pack for Alpather Lake Trek?
- Pair of good Thermals
- Good woollen scarf and beanie
- Warm waterproof Gloves
- Fleece layer and sweater
- Good jacket that can resist wind and subzero temperatures (preferably waterproof)
- Waterproof pants
- Thermal Socks
- Waterproof Shoes with good Grip
- A good waterproof jacket (preferably with a hoodie)
- Raincoat (Especially for July-August)
- Shoes with good grip
If we talk in general, then you usually don’t need any guide. The only time you may need a local guide is if you were trekking in the months of January, February, or even March, to help you navigate your way through all the snow.For the rest of the months, you don’t really need a guide, as the route is clear and visible. The lake is very easy to reach from the Gondola station, all that you need to do is climb up to the top of the peak.
The entire town of Gulmarg is filled with guides. These people will keep a track of you and will follow you on each step then they try to make a fool out of you. The most common dialogue of these guides is that the trek is difficult and only they can show you the way.
We understand that the only source of income for these people is through guiding the tourists. However, using these ways is highly not acceptable.
We have discovered Alpather Lake Trek in brief and have covered important parts of the trek. You will create a lot of memories in Alpather Lake Trek as the place has a lot of things for you.So! Hurry Up and plan your trip today with WanderOn with your friends and family and explore the beauty of this place.
