10 Most-Scenic Alpine Lakes of Kashmir | Complete Travel Guide

The valley offers many treks across various alpine lakes and regions. The popular bases for alpine lakes in Kashmir for trekking include Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Yousmarg. There are many other places to visit near alpine lakes, for an exciting experience.

We have curated some of the best-kept secrets, stunning trails, and hiking spots. For those eager to explore the enigmatic beauty of Kashmir and set out on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Kashmir Alpine Lakes Trek is the best pick, it is renowned worldwide and its popularity keeps growing. 

Wondering what to do at Alpine Lakes?

• Hiking
• Camping
• Sightseeing
• Fishing
• Photography
• Birdwatching
• Wildlife-Spotting
• Nature Walks
• Stargazing
• Meditation 

If you’re still unsure about ‘What to do at Alpine Lakes Treks’, then keep scrolling through!

The Kashmir alpine lakes trek, also known as the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, is one of the most popular alpine lakes treks in the Kashmir Valley, revealing the serene beauty of the mountain-secluded Kashmir region. 

There are several alpine lakes in Kashmir, and you can cover the major lakes on the KGL trek. Trekking is one of the most popular things to do in Kashmir, especially to discover the Alpine Lakes.

This trek is among the most scenic in the Indian Himalayas, leading you to several high-altitude lakes in Kashmir. These alpine lakes shimmer amid vast meadows, adorned with vibrant blooms. 

The journey includes visits to several high-altitude, freshwater glacier, alpine lakes, such as Tarsar Marsar Lake, Vishansar Lake, Dal Lake, Kishansar Lake, Yamsar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Satsar Lake, Nandkol Lake, and Gangbal Lake, among others, throughout the trek.

1. Manasbal Lake

Its clarity lends it a captivating appearance, enhancing the overall experience with the presence of lush green gardens and orchards surrounding it, making it an ideal spot for a perfect picnic with loved ones. 

It is one of the alpine lakes where various bird species can be spotted, offering a delightful opportunity for bird-watching.

2. Tarsar Lake

It is among those alpine lakes in Jammu and Kashmir that is nourished by a river that merges with the Lidder River, which in turn flows into the Kolahoi stream within the Lidderwat Valley. 

The alpine lake’s edge is fenced with a variety of herbs and alpine blooms. Its water sources include glaciers and natural springs. 

During winter, the lake is enveloped in a deep layer of snow, making it a sought-after spot for heliskiing and ski mountaineering. The classic path begins in the Aru Valley and traverses the Lidderwat Valley, Sikwais, and Tarsar Meadows. 

Another path starts from Aru Valley, veering left through the thick pine forest, and passing through Nandkhole, a challenging but rewarding route for the Tarsar Marsar trek.

3. Marsar Lake

On the Alpine lakes right bank, there is a vast wildlife park, also known as Hangul Park. The Marsar outflow stream, Daghwan Stream, is the source of the Sarband water body and provides drinking water to the city of Srinagar. 

It’s fascinating that the stream of the Marsar Lake is home to a large number of trout, and fishing is not a common activity there. For those interested in exploring the Marsar Lake trek, there is much to discover.

Marsar Lake is renowned as a mysterious lake in the history of Kashmir. It is believed to be haunted, with numerous tales passed down about the twin lakes. One of the interesting facts about alpine lakes involves a wild creature called Runduk that is said to lurk around the lake.

In addition to the traditional path, Marsar Lake offers a few alternative routes for exploration. One popular trekking route is through the Dachigam National Park, which starts from Srinagar, and another is the Tral Soutur route.

4. Nundkol Lake

It’s a perfect spot for those seeking a quiet getaway, and those interested in experiencing a more natural way of living can choose activities such as camping by the lake. 

This destination is a must-see for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, especially those interested in activities like hiking, should add Nundkol Lake to their list of places to visit.

5. Dal Lake

Dal Lake is renowned for its Shikara rides and luxury houseboat experiences, offering a beautiful and enchanting experience for tourists, often referred to as the Jewel of Srinagar. 

The lake is also home to numerous mini-markets that are visually appealing, and the locals utilise the lake as a means of transportation. The flowers in Dal Lake create a sense of floating gardens, further enhancing its mesmerising allure.

6. Gangabal Lake

The transparent waters also attract numerous trout fish, offering opportunities for fishing and the chance to savour some delicious fish dishes. This location demands a challenging hike, making it a favourite spot for those seeking adventure.

7. Sheshnag Lake

Nestled in the high altitude, and picturesque beauty of the Pir-Panchal and Zanskar Himalayan Mountain Ranges, the Sheshnag Lake is a sight to behold.

The journey to Sheshnag begins at the world-renowned Hill Resort of Pahalgam, a mere 80 kilometres from the bustling city of Srinagar.

The path leading to the sacred Hindu site of Amarnath Cave, from where the Sheshnag Lake route diverges, is a 19 km trek. An additional 4 km trek leads directly to the lake. 

The total distance of the Sheshnag Lake trek is 23 kilometres from the main road of Pahalgam. 

8. Kausarnag Lake

According to Hindu beliefs, Kausarnag Lake is a sacred site for Vishnu, attracting numerous Hindu devotees each year who view its waters as sacred.

Kausarnag Lake serves as the primary water source for the Aharbal Fall, and although its outflow is not visible, it is believed by experts that the water seeps underground, flowing through rocky areas. 

The journey to this picturesque lake begins at the renowned Aharbal Fall, 61 km from Srinagar City. The trek is filled with natural marvels and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Indian Himalayas. 

This is one of the alpine lakes in Kashmir which is also rumoured to contain mythical creatures, such as alligators or Himalayan Turtles, though no sightings have been reported for centuries.

9. Wular Lake

Additionally, it offers opportunities for fishing. The lake is renowned for the variety of birds that inhabit its vicinity. Located at the base of the Himalayas, visitors can expect a comprehensive bird-watching adventure at Wular Lake.

10. Runisara Lake

The scenery is breathtaking, with a lake surrounded by meadowy grasslands and towering white mountains, adorned with patches of snow. 

If you visit during the right time of day, the evening, you’ll witness the sun’s rays glinting off the lake’s surface and the reflection of the mountains dancing on its waters. 

There are countless stories associated with this trek and lake. Some believe it was the path taken by the Pandavas. Many famous trails begin here, making it a cauldron of history. Runisara Lake is one of the most beautiful Alpine Lakes In India.

What’s the best time to visit Alpine Lakes?

There are many good hotels near Alpine Lakes like The Chinar Resort and Spa, Alpine Resorts, and The Vintage Gulmarg, where you can spend the night or stay in the outdoor tents for an even more adventurous experience. These are also some of the best hotels in Gulmarg and nearby areas. 

How To Reach Alpine Lakes?

To reach the alpine lakes, one must reach Srinagar and then they will be guided to reach the base camps of various alpine lakes treks.

By Air: The nearest airport to reach Alpine Lakes is Srinagar International Airport (SXR). After reaching the airport you can either take a taxi and reach Gulmarg and other base camps for Alpine Lakes or your camping partners will arrange for your travel.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Alpine Lakes is the Jammu Tawi Railway Station. You will get plenty of public transport from here to reach your destination. 

The Alpine Lakes are some of the most fascinating masterpieces of Mother Nature and we would recommend you to at least explore them once in your lifetime. Spending your summer in Kashmir, discovering these high-altitude pristine water bodies is truly an awe-inspiring experience.