India's Most Beautiful Trail?
Ask a room of trekkers for India's most beautiful trek and Kashmir Great Lakes wins more votes than anything else. Over a week the trail strings together seven alpine lakes — Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, the twin Gangbal and Nundkol among them — each set in meadows that look painted, ringed by snow peaks and grazed by shepherds' flocks.
The Route
The trek runs from Shitkadi near Sonamarg to Naranag, crossing three passes: Nichnai (13,100 ft), Gadsar (13,750 ft, the high point) and Zaj (13,400 ft). Camps at Nichnai, Vishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangbal break the route into moderate days of 9–13 km. The final day descends steeply through pine forest to Naranag and its ancient temple complex, a two-hour drive from Srinagar.
Best Time to Go
July to early September only — this is a high snow-bound route the rest of the year. July has lingering snow patches and the greenest meadows; August is peak wildflower season; early September brings golden light and the clearest skies.
Difficulty, Permits and Practicalities
Moderate: no single brutal day, but continuous 12,000 ft-plus walking demands honest fitness and acclimatization. ID checks occur at army posts along the route — carry original photo ID; operators arrange the required permissions. The trail can close at short notice depending on conditions in the region, so book with flexible plans and follow current local guidance.