5 days
Specific Tour
16 people
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The Kounsarnag Lake Trek is a mesmerizing journey through the majestic Pir Panjal Range, one of the most stunning sub-ranges of the Himalayas. Combining dramatic mountain landscapes, spiritual significance, alpine lakes, and rugged Himalayan terrain, this trek offers an unforgettable adventure deep within the untouched beauty of Kashmir.
The journey begins from the famous Aharbal Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction located in the Shopian District — often known as the “Apple Bowl of Jammu and Kashmir.” The region is renowned for its lush apple orchards, scenic valleys, and peaceful mountain surroundings, making it a perfect gateway into the wilderness of the Pir Panjal mountains.
The trail gradually ascends through vast meadows, rugged mountain paths, alpine landscapes, and remote valleys before finally reaching the magnificent Kounsarnag Lake. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3850 m above sea level, the lake lies hidden amidst towering snow-covered peaks deep within the mountains of South Kashmir.
The pristine blue waters of Kounsarnag Lake, often dotted with floating snow patches even during summer, create a surreal and breathtaking landscape. Stretching nearly 2 km in length and around 500 meters in width, the lake is considered one of the most beautiful high-altitude alpine lakes in the Kashmir Himalayas.
Beyond its natural beauty, Kounsarnag also holds deep spiritual significance among Hindus, adding a sacred dimension to the trekking experience. The peaceful atmosphere of the lake, combined with the dramatic mountain surroundings, creates a deeply calming and reflective environment for trekkers.
The trek itself is physically demanding, involving steep ascents, rocky trails, and high-altitude terrain that test both stamina and endurance. However, every challenge is rewarded with panoramic Himalayan views, untouched alpine landscapes, and a sense of complete isolation amidst nature.
Whether undertaken for adventure, spiritual exploration, or simply to escape the chaos of daily life, the Kounsarnag Lake Trek promises a truly unforgettable Himalayan experience filled with natural beauty, serenity, and cultural richness.
We embark on an early morning journey from Srinagar to Aharbal, a scenic drive of approximately 70 kilometers, taking us around two hours. Upon arrival, we are welcomed by the majestic Aharbal Waterfall, often hailed as the Niagara Falls of Kashmir, accessible via a well-maintained road. As we make our way towards the lake, the path meanders through verdant pastures, crystal-clear streams, towering glacial peaks, expansive meadows, and dense forests, each step offering a captivating display of nature’s grandeur. The awe-inspiring surroundings provide an invigorating and enchanting experience for all who visit. Our trek begins with a visit to Kongwattan, a lush green meadow situated 8 kilometers from Aharbal. This picturesque spot, a favored camping destination, offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in nature’s embrace. The meadow, often adorned with vibrant tents, is framed by tall pine and coniferous trees, creating a tranquil haven. Upon reaching the campsite, we settle in and indulge in an afternoon tea accompanied by delectable snacks. As the evening draws in, a warm soup will be served, followed by a hearty dinner, with a sweet delicacy to complete the meal. The night in the mountains, when the skies are clear, becomes a canvas for stargazing, offering a celestial spectacle for those keen to marvel at the stars above.
The day unfolds much like the previous one, beginning with a gentle wake-up call at 6 am, followed by a nourishing breakfast at 7 am, and a prompt departure from the campsite by 8 am. As always, our early start ensures that we avoid the midday heat, reach our next campsite in ample time, and enjoy the luxury of proper rest and acclimatization. After breakfast, your trek leader will offer a brief yet insightful briefing to set the tone for the day's journey. Before we set off, we will be provided with a packed lunch, fueling us for the adventure ahead. Leaving the tranquil Mahinag, nestled at the foot of towering peaks, our journey to Kausarnag begins with a 5 km trek up a steep, demanding mountain trail that calls for both strength and perseverance. Upon conquering the ascent, you’ll be rewarded with the awe-inspiring sight of Kausarnag, one of the largest lakes in the Kashmir Valley. This expansive, pristine body of water is cradled by smaller icebergs and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The view is so captivating that all weariness fades, leaving only admiration for the scene before you. The lake, with its serene blue waters reflecting the majestic peaks, is a dream come true for photographers, while a vibrant carpet of wildflowers along the shore adds bursts of color, further enhancing the lake’s magnificence. The abundant water nourishes this floral display, adding an extra touch of grandeur. Kausarnag is also revered as the primary source of Veshaw, a tributary of the Jhelum River. Upon our arrival at the campsite, we will unwind with evening tea and snacks, followed by a soul-warming soup. The day will culminate with a hearty dinner, complemented by a sweet treat to delight the senses and bring a perfect end to our day.
Our day begins with the same serene routine as always, as the early morning hours awaken us with a gentle wake-up call at 6 am. The first light of day is followed by a hearty breakfast at 7 am, and we set off from the campsite by 8 am, ready to embrace the journey ahead. As with every day, our early departure ensures we beat the heat of the midday sun, allowing us to make good time, reach the campsite with plenty of daylight, and give ourselves ample opportunity to rest and acclimatize. Before we begin our trek, a packed lunch will be provided to fuel our journey, keeping our energy levels high as we embark on the day’s adventure. Today’s trek takes us back from the stunning Kausarnag to the familiar grounds of Kongwattan, covering a distance of 11 km over the course of approximately six hours. We’ll follow the same scenic route that we journeyed along earlier, allowing us to reflect on the beauty we witnessed and enjoy the peaceful surroundings once more. Once we arrive back at the campsite, we’ll be greeted with a refreshing evening tea accompanied by a selection of snacks, the perfect way to unwind after the day’s trek. As the evening deepens, we’ll indulge in a warm, comforting soup that will nourish us and restore our spirits. The day will conclude with a delicious and satisfying dinner, followed by a sweet dish that will bring the adventure to a delightful close, leaving us ready to rest and recharge for the next day’s journey.
Our day unfolds with the familiar tranquility of routine, as the soft morning hours gently stir us from slumber with a wake-up call at 6 am. The first rays of dawn are met with a hearty and invigorating breakfast at 7 am, after which we prepare to depart the campsite by 8 am, eager to continue our journey. As always, the early start is key, allowing us to avoid the midday heat, progress steadily along the trail, and reach our next destination with plenty of daylight remaining, ensuring we have enough time to rest and properly acclimatize. Before we set out, a carefully packed lunch will be provided, offering nourishment and energy to fuel our trek ahead, ensuring we stay refreshed throughout the day. Today, we will embark on a scenic 7 km trek from Kongwattan to Aharbal, which will take us approximately four hours. We will follow the same route we traveled earlier, allowing us to appreciate the landscapes once more, reflecting on the beauty we've encountered along the way. This trek marks the final leg of our adventure. After arriving in Aharbal, we will conclude our journey with a drive back to Srinagar, carrying with us the unforgettable memories of this incredible trek—a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, camaraderie, and moments of serenity that will stay with us for a lifetime.
- Backpack 40–50 Lt with rain cover – Goes on the horse/porter
– Day Pack 15–20 lt with rain cover- to carry your camera, water bottle, trail layers, trail food etc.
- Trekking Shoes: Please do not wear sports shoes as on most treks, as we go higher it gets harder to use sports shoes
-2 -3 pairs of trekking socks.
– 2 pairs of woolen socks – ideal to sleep in and best to use when in camp. We do not recommend them while trekking
– Pants: 3 pairs (including the ones you wear) – Ideal are the quick dry trekking pants.
Alternatively, track pants are also comfortable to trek in.
– T-shirts 3 pairs (including the ones you are wearing) – Preferably quick dry, full sleeve t-shirts You can also choose to get T-shirts with collars, they offer extra protection for the neck from sunburns.
– Fleece Jacket
– Rain & Wind Protection
– Down filled / Hollow fiber fill insulated Jacket
– Thermal liners – 1 pair upper and lower (optional).
– Warm Cap
– Gloves
– Sun Cap
– Sunglasses with UV protection.
– Toiletries – sunscreen SPF 40+, moisturiser, lip balm, soap, toilet paper.
– – Repair Kit (needle and thread).
– Headlamp/ Torch
– Camera
– Water Bottle- Ideally keep two bottles 1 litre each.
– Trekking Pole – Optional.
– Plastic Packing covers. (Please pack all your gear in waterproof plastic bags so that your clothes etc do not get wet while on horses or porters. Also, carry extra plastic bags in case you need to pack wet clothes.)
We provide highly skilled and experienced trek guides to ensure your safety throughout the journey. Their expertise will enhance your trekking adventure, ensuring both enjoyment and security at every step. All of our trek leaders are certified Medical First Responders.
Mountain Trails Kashmir is renowned for its strong focus on safety. We uphold the highest safety standards by providing essential equipment, medical support, and well-trained personnel to manage any emergencies that may arise during the trek.
We supply top-quality hiking gear, including waterproof tents, -15°C sleeping bags, and other essential trekking equipment. This ensures trekkers enjoy a comfortable and pleasant journey throughout their adventure.
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