Guided treks in Kashmir
Nomad runs guided treks in Kashmir with local guides, permits, camping equipment and camp logistics included. The main routes are the Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar and Gangabal, all starting from Srinagar. Group and private departures run from June to September, and gear can be hired separately if you are walking with another operator.
The routes
The Kashmir Great Lakes is the one most people come for — around 75 km over seven or eight days, crossing several passes and linking Vishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangabal. It is not technical but it is sustained, and the passes are long days.
Tarsar Marsar is shorter and quieter, usually five to six days from Aru near Pahalgam. If the Great Lakes sounds like more than you want, this is the better first Kashmir trek.
Gangabal from Naranag is the shortest of the three, three or four days, and can be done as a standalone or as the tail end of the Great Lakes route.
What a guided trek includes
A local guide who knows the route and the weather, camping equipment and tents, all meals on the trail, permits, and a porter or pony arrangement for the group gear. Transport from Srinagar to the trailhead and back is included on group departures.
What it does not include is your personal gear — boots, layers, a warm enough sleeping bag. We rent all of that, and it is usually cheaper than buying for one trip.
Booking and payment
An advance confirms your place; the balance is settled in Srinagar before departure. Dates, group sizes and per-person pricing depend on the route and the season, so tell us what you are thinking and we will send real numbers rather than a brochure price.
Before you book
- Deposits
- Refundable, returned at the end of your hire. Nothing is withheld without photographs of the damage.
- Your documents stay with you
- We photograph your licence and ID. We never keep originals — you may need them at a checkpoint.
- Inspection at both ends
- Condition, odometer and fuel are photographed with you present, at collection and at return.
- Delivery
- Free collection from Srinagar. Delivery to hotels, houseboats and trailheads for a distance-based fee.
Common questions
When is the trekking season in Kashmir?
Roughly June to September. The high passes on the Great Lakes route hold snow into June some years, and weather closes in from late September. July and August are the most reliable.
How difficult is the Kashmir Great Lakes trek?
Moderate to challenging. It is not technical — no ropes, no climbing — but it is around 75 km over seven or eight days with several pass crossings above 4,000 m. You need to be comfortable walking six to eight hours a day on consecutive days.
Can I rent trekking gear without booking a trek?
Yes. Plenty of people walking with other operators hire their sleeping bag, mat or rucksack from us, because most trek packages do not include a bag warm enough for the high camps. See our camping gear rental page.
Do I need a permit to trek in Kashmir?
Requirements vary by route and change from season to season. On a guided trek we handle it. If you are walking independently, confirm the current position locally before you set out rather than relying on an old blog post.
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Ready when you are
Message us with your dates and we’ll confirm availability and a price. No deposit to ask a question.