One just cannot overlook the pristine beauty once maxed out at the foothills of Mt. Haramukh, which is the highest mountain peak in the vicinity of Kashmir valley. Glistering on its lap, the Gangabal Lake with its pious waters in the midst of an untamed landscape is a rejuvenating picture rousing the heart of the hermit trekker and capturing the eyes of the feasting photographer. The trek to Gangabal Lake is one of the most beautiful treks in the Kashmir Valley that turns through narrow edges and passes through steep ridges and drops you to a surreal world. Its vicinity also unwraps the stunning view of Mt. Nanga Parbat, meaning naked mountain, soaring at a height of 8,126 meters in the Karakorum range.
Duration: 8 Nights - 9 Days
Day 01, Arrival Srinagar (1585m):
You will be met on your arrival by our representative and transferred to the houseboat, where your trek leader will give you the predeparture briefing. There is a short afternoon Shikara ride of Dal/Nigeen Lake. Overnight at houseboat.
Day 02, Srinagar - Sonamarg (2723m) 4 hours. 84 Km:
We drive through the picturesque Sindh valley, along the SindhRiver, to the highland of Sonamarg, known as the ‘meadow of Gold’ as it is believed the water upon the vale has mystical wealth inducing properties. After lunch we take a side walk to Thajwas glacier. Overnight at Sonamarg in tents on a two person share basis.
Day 03, Sonmarg - Nichinai (3620m) 4 -5 hours.13 Km:
A short descent through the nearby pine forestbrings us to a steel bridge over the Sindh river. From here we climb steeply to Shkoder, a great vantage point to view the glacier and the Sindh valley.An undulating descentbrings us to our overnight camp at Nichinai.
Day 04, Nichinai - Krishansar (3680m) 4-5 hours. 15 Km:
Our trek begins with an ascent to Nichinai Pass(4084m) to enjoy the spectacular mountain views. We then descend through flower strewn meadows towards Vishansar and Krishansar lakes. We cross a small stream to reach our camp at Vishansar lake, where we will stay for two nights.
Day 05, Krishansar - Dubta Pani (3280m) 4- 5 hours. 16 Km:
Today our trek begins with a steep ascent toward Gadsar pass, which offers a fantastic view of the Karakorum Mountains. A gradual descent along the contour and past Gadsar lake will bring us to our overnight camp beside a stream – a welcome temptation for an afternoon swim on a sunny day.
Day 06, Dubta Pani - Gangabal Lakes (3570m) 7 -8 hours. 19 Km:
After crossing the steam we climb gradually to Postpatri (the valley of flowers)for another spectacular view of the Karakoram mountains. When we reach the saddle at Mangandub we climb steeply towards Zagibal peak (4210m). The climb is strenuous but well worth the effort as we are rewarded with unrivalledviews of the Gangabal lakes and Hurmukh peak. A long zig zag descent brings us to the stream crossing, followed by a short climb to our two night camp at Gangabal lakes.
Day 07, Gangabal Lake (3570m). Rest Day:
Today is a well deserved rest day. You can enjoy a pretty walk around the lake, rainbow trout fishing or, if you have a little more energy, head up to Lul Gul pass for a breatkaing view of Nangapabath.
Day 08, Gangbal Lake - Srinagar (1585m) 1 hour drive:
After a leisurely breakfast our trail leads us past the two small villages of Nunkol and Trunkol, followed by a steep descent through a beautiful dense pine forest to Naranag. Here we visit a Buddhist monastery, where the 3rd world conference of Buddhists was held.This will be our finishing point of Gangabal Lake trek .We will be transferred by a chartered coach/car toa houseboat for our overnight stay.
Day 09, Depart Srinagar:
You will be transferred to the airport.