What is the Best Time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

Kashmir Great Lakes trek, popularly known as the 7 Lakes of Kashmir trek, is arguably the most exquisite trek of India. It is very popular among trekkers and you will see the trails crowded by the adventure-seekers. As the name suggests, it takes you to more than 6 serene lakes of Kashmir and their breathtaking beauty will surely capture your heart. Its basecamp lies in Shitkadi Sonamarg and it finds its annex at the Naranag, a beautiful village of the valley. You pass through vast meadows with wildflowers dotting the region, gushing  streams and lakes with turquoise waters, and those snow-laden mountains always in sight. Essentially a summer trek, the best time to do Kashmir Great Lakes trek is from June till September. The weather is favourable with easily accessible routes. You will find various camping spots where you can pitch your tents and spend the night, relaxing and rejuvenating for the next day. 

Here is a detailed breakdown of the best time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes trek and some necessary tips to remember in a particular month. 

Highlights of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

High-altitude lakes: Throughout the trek, you will be lucky to witness some of the most mesmerising lakes of Kashmir valley including Vishansar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Kishansar Lake, Nandkol Lake, Gangabal Lake and many like theses. You even get the once-in-a lifetime opportunity to camp by the shores of some of these water-bodies. The setting that the ambience there provides is so soothing that it takes all the stress away. A popular activity to do here is lying under the vast sky and stargaze. 

Adventurous Passes: Trekkers also cross three high-altitude passes in this trek such as Gadsar Pass, Zajbal Pass and more. Gadsar Pass is the one of the highest points of the trek and gives you a peek of the Vishansar Valley and the twin lakes. Mount Harmukh with Gangabal and Nandakol lakes are to be seen from the Zajbal Pass. You have to be extra careful while crossing these passes. 

Landscapes and Valleys: Starting from the Sonamarg Valley, where you acclimatise before the trek, you also get the chance to trek in other stunning valleys and through gorgeous meadows as well. The pristine beauty here is unparalleled. Some of them included Gadsar Valley, Satsar Valley, Gangabal Valley etc. These are some favourite camping spots among travellers. 

Best time to do Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek In June: 

As summer commences in Kashmir from June, Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a must thing to do during June. It is important to know that the trek is possible in the later days of june as per the rules of Department of Tourism Jammu and Kashmir The sun is out and about the whole day, keeping it warm and balmy. The temperature hovers between 15°C to 25°C and drops to a minimum of 10°C, making the nights a bit colder.

There is little to no sign of rainfall in June in Kashmir which keeps the trekking trails dry and easily trekkable. You will see crystal clear views in the absence of fog too. There are chances of sunburn and heatstroke so, keep hydrating yourself. Drink water frequently even when you are not thirsty. Wear cotton clothes by the day and keep some woollens to be comfortable at night. Trekking without a trek leader can be dangerous, so you can take help of trek operators in Kashmir for an unforgettable experience.

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek In July:

July is the peak month for Kashmir Great Lakes trek as the pleasant weather makes all the long walking tolerable and enjoyable. The month of July also marks the onset of Monsoon season in the valley. It does not rain heavily here unlike the rest of Northern India. You will experience light drizzling and occasional rainfall at the end of the month.

It does not hamper your plans in any way as the routes remain traceable and not slippery. The temperature is around 15-25°C, same as that of june but you will feel refreshness in the air with the moisture present. Kashmir Great Lakes trek is crowded this time of the year. 

Carry a raincoat to be dry when it rains. Wear clothes that are quick-dry and not very thick. Keep everything in a spacious and waterproof backpack. 

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek In August:

Kashmir Great Lakes trek can be done easily in August as the climate remains convenient as per the difficulty of the routes. The monsoon season is at its peak in August and occasional rainfall is experienced on some days.

You will witness a surreal side of nature and the trek in the monsoons. Being in a place that is absolutely cut from the rest of the world and getting drenched in the middle of nowhere is a whole other experience. The temperature remains flexible between 20°C to 30°C, keeping the weather enjoyable. Keeping a raincoat is important and your clothes should be quick-dry ones. The month will surely give you memories of lifetime and an unforgettable time of Kashmir Great Lakes trek.