3 Nights 4 Days
Specific Tour
16 people
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Nestled in the heart of Kashmir, a land renowned for its pristine lakes and majestic valleys, the Gangabal Nundkol trek stands as one of the region’s most sought-after and trending short treks. This enchanting journey leads you to two stunning alpine lakes, nestled at the base of Mount Harmukh, towering at 5146 meters above sea level. The trek begins at Narang, a picturesque village located 45 km northeast of Srinagar. Narang is not only a gateway to this mesmerizing trek but also a site of historical and spiritual significance, home to the ancient Shiv Temple, dating back to the 7th century. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region, providing a glimpse into the valley’s storied past. Its intricate architecture and serene surroundings make it a revered spot for both pilgrims and history enthusiasts.
Offering a moderate challenge, the route features a gradual ascent, the trek culminates at Budsheri Top, where trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan landscape.
Gangabal Lake is not only a visual marvel but also holds great spiritual significance. Revered as sacred in Hinduism, it is considered one of the abodes of Lord Shiva. Every year, Kashmiri Hindus embark on a pilgrimage known as the Harmukh-Gangabal Yatra, honoring the sacredness of this serene spot. The mountain itself, Mt. Harmukh, boasts a rich history in the annals of mountaineering. In 1856, during the Great Trigonometric Survey, Thomas Montgomerie became the first to summit Mount Harmukh. From its peak, he made groundbreaking observations, sketching the two towering peaks later known as K1 (Masherbrum) and K2, situated about 130 miles (210 km) to the north. This marked the first recorded sighting of the highest peaks in the Karakoram range, a monumental achievement in the history of climbing.
The Gangabal Lakes Trek is also one of India’s finest treks, offering an extraordinary blend of lush meadows, dense forests, glistening lakes, and snow-capped peaks. Its array of attractions, including Gangabal Lake—Kashmir’s largest alpine lake and one of the largest in India—further enhances its appeal. Fed by the glaciers of Mount Harmukh, the lake is a natural wonder, drawing trekkers and pilgrims alike. Open from mid-May to mid-October, the trail remains a magnet for those seeking to immerse themselves in its stunning landscapes and profound spiritual heritage.
Your exciting adventure begins with a seamless transfer from Srinagar, where our comfortable taxi will pick you up and transport you to the picturesque village of Naranag. Located just 45 kilometers from the vibrant city of Srinagar, Naranag is a renowned destination rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. Upon reaching Naranag, you will be introduced to your experienced trek guide, who will accompany you on this extraordinary journey. After reaching Naranag you will be served with welcome drink (Kehwa) Naranag is famed for its ancient archaeological site and the sacred Shiva Temple, a revered monument that adds a spiritual essence to this charming village. As you explore this captivating location, you’ll be transported back in time, uncovering the deep cultural heritage embedded in the region. After soaking in the tranquil surroundings, the remainder of the day will be dedicated to acclimatizing to the mountainous terrain with a brief hike to Dumail. This scenic trek not only offers stunning views but also helps your body adjust to the altitude, ensuring you are well-prepared for the adventure that lies ahead. On return you will we’ll be treated to evening tea with snacks. A warm and comforting soup will follow, along with a hearty dinner and a sweet dish to round off the day.
On this day, you will begin carrying your backpack as we start the ascent towards the next campsite. Our standard routine begins with an early wake-up call at 6 am, followed by breakfast at 7 am, and departure from the campsite by 8 am. Starting early ensures we avoid the heat of midday, reach the campsite with ample time to rest, and allow for better acclimatization. After breakfast, your trek leader will provide a brief orientation before we embark on the day's journey. Before setting off, a packed lunch will be provided at Naranag. Today's trek spans approximately 10 kilometers, taking around 6 to 7 hours. It begins with a steep ascent all the way up to Butsheri Top, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. The trail winds through a lush green pine forest, and the fresh fragrance of the pines is incredibly rejuvenating. Along the way, there are breathtaking views of the Wangat Valley, adding to the beauty of the journey. The first stop is at Butsheri Top, where we take a well-deserved break near a local dhaba to enjoy lunch and replenish ourselves. Afterward, the trail eases out, transitioning into a more gradual walk toward Trunkol Meadow. Just before reaching the meadow, we exit the tree line, and as we enter Trunkol Meadow, we're greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Mount Harmukh 5200m , also known as the Eiger of Kashmir. The expansive Trunkol Meadow stretches before us, creating a grand and mesmerizing view that feels almost surreal. We continue across the vast meadow, navigating through patches of boulders, until we reach our campsite. Before reaching camp, we pass an army camp where we need to show our ID proof, so it’s important to have it handy. After clearing the check, we cross a stream and arrive at our campsite, which is conveniently located next to a Forest Hut. Once we settle in, we can relax and enjoy some tea and snacks, soaking in the surrounding beauty. Later in the evening, we’ll be treated to soup, dinner, and a sweet dish, rounding out a satisfying day. Afterward, it’s time to unwind and get a well-deserved rest before tomorrow’s adventure.
Our day begins at 6 AM, when we wake up to the serene calm of the morning. After a light breakfast at 7, we commence our trek by 8 AM. Today's journey covers a distance of 4 kilometers, and we start with a gentle ascent through the picturesque Gangabal Valley. The gradient is mild, allowing us to appreciate the tranquility of the landscape as we wind our way deeper into the valley. The route takes us through lush, expansive meadows, where a fresh breeze dances through the grasslands, carrying with it the sweet scent of nature. As we cross a few undulating mounds, the mesmerizing Nundkol Lake comes into view. The lake, with its placid waters, offers a peaceful respite and is a sight to behold. The river streams flowing from the lake meander gracefully towards the Trunkhol meadow, adding to the beauty of the surroundings. Nestled at the base of Mount Harmukh, the campsite awaits us, situated close to the lake, providing a perfect vantage point to admire the stunning scenery. Upon reaching the campsite, take time to explore the tranquil shores of Nundkol Lake. The lake, renowned for its population of trout, offers a serene environment for reflection and exploration. A short stroll around the lake brings us to the base of Mount Harmukh, where we can marvel at the glacier from which the lake receives its crystal-clear waters. After a satisfying hot lunch at the campsite, we continue our journey towards Gangabal Lake. A brief 30-minute walk, which includes crossing a modest ridge, leads us to the shores of this majestic lake. Gangabal Lake, the largest alpine lake in Kashmir, is often regarded as one of the finest in the region, earning it the title of the "Ganges of Kashmir." The tranquil beauty of this sacred lake is the perfect end to a day of breathtaking natural wonders. After our exploration, we return to the campsite where we are welcomed with a comforting tea and snacks, a perfect way to unwind after the day’s adventure. As the evening sets in, we enjoy a warm, nourishing soup followed by a delightful dinner. To conclude the day, a sweet dish adds a touch of indulgence before we settle in for a well-deserved rest, surrounded by the peace of nature.
We begin the last day of our trek with an early breakfast at 7:00 am, and by 8:00 am, we will set off. A packed lunch will be provided for the day. Today, we will trek from Nundkol Lake to Naranag, covering a distance of 14 km in approximately 6 hours. The trail is a steady descent all the way to Naranag, which can be hard on your legs, so it’s important to exercise caution and maintain a steady pace. The trek from Nundkol to Naranag is a magnificent journey. As we descend, we will pass through the expansive meadows of Trunkol, offering panoramic views of Mount Harmukh and the picturesque Salnai Valley. The terrain is varied, and the winding, zig-zag descent through Butsheri Forest adds a thrilling aspect to the day. This marks the last day of our trek and the culmination of the Gangabal Nundkol Trek. We will take transportation back to Srinagar, which is 55 km away, and the journey will take approximately 2 hours.
This trek takes you to two pristine alpine lakes—Gangabal and Nundkol—set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Harmukh. It beautifully combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance, making it one of Kashmir’s most enriching short treks.
The trek begins from Naranag village, around 45 km from Srinagar, and concludes back in Srinagar with pickup and drop arranged.
The trek is graded moderate to moderately difficult:
Not mandatory, but recommended.
If you can:
The trek includes a mix of:
All camps are set in scenic locations for an immersive experience.
Fresh, simple, and nutritious meals including:
Yes, when done with an organized team:
Participants must follow safety guidelines at all times.
Network is available in Srinagar and Naranag, but becomes very limited or unavailable during the trek.
It’s a great opportunity for a true digital detox.
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