Great Trail Lakes In Kashmir
Great Lakes of Kashmir
Kashmir is home to some of the most pristine alpine lakes in the world. Each of these lakes is surrounded by stunning landscapes, lush meadows, and towering peaks, making them ideal for trekkers and nature lovers.
1. Vishansar Lake
- Elevation: 3,710 meters (12,170 feet)
- Location: Near Sonamarg
- Description: Vishansar Lake, also known as the “Lake of Vishnu,” is surrounded by green meadows and snow-covered peaks. The lake is fed by melting glaciers, making its waters crystal clear. During summer, the surrounding areas turn into lush green meadows, ideal for camping and trekking.
2. Krishansar Lake
- Elevation: 3,710 meters (12,170 feet)
- Location: Close to Vishansar Lake
- Description: Located just a short trek away from Vishansar Lake, Krishansar Lake sits at a similar elevation. The lake is known for its changing colors, reflecting the sky and surrounding peaks. It’s a popular destination for fishing and is one of the most picturesque lakes in the region.
3. Gadsar Lake
- Elevation: 3,800 meters (12,467 feet)
- Location: On the Great Lakes Trek route
- Description: Also known as the “Lake of Flowers,” Gadsar Lake is a glacial lake surrounded by a riot of alpine flowers during summer. The lake is accessible via the famous Kashmir Great Lakes Trek and is considered one of the highest-altitude lakes in the region.
4. Satsar Lake
- Elevation: 3,610 meters (11,844 feet)
- Location: North of the Kashmir Valley
- Description: Satsar is a series of seven interconnected alpine lakes, situated on the Great Lakes Trek. These lakes remain frozen for most of the year, but during summer, they transform into serene water bodies reflecting the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
5. Gangbal Lake
- Elevation: 3,575 meters (11,729 feet)
- Location: At the base of Mount Harmukh
- Description: Gangbal Lake is one of Kashmir’s largest high-altitude lakes and is revered by Kashmiri Pandits as a sacred site. The lake offers stunning views of Mount Harmukh and is also popular for fishing, particularly for trout.
6. Nundkol Lake
- Elevation: 3,500 meters (11,482 feet)
- Location: Near Gangbal Lake
- Description: Nundkol Lake, like Gangbal, is located at the foot of Mount Harmukh and is fed by glaciers from the mountain. It’s often visited in conjunction with Gangbal Lake on trekking expeditions, and the view of the twin lakes together is spectacular.
7. Tarsar Lake
- Elevation: 3,795 meters (12,451 feet)
- Location: Near Pahalgam
- Description: Tarsar is a striking alpine lake known for its turquoise waters. The lake is surrounded by green meadows dotted with wildflowers, making it a scenic destination for trekkers and campers. It is part of the Tarsar-Marsar trek, one of the most popular trekking routes in Kashmir.
8. Marsar Lake
- Elevation: 3,799 meters (12,467 feet)
- Location: Adjacent to Tarsar Lake
- Description: Marsar Lake is situated near Tarsar Lake but is more difficult to access. The lake remains shrouded in mist for much of the year, giving it a mystical appearance. It is located at a higher altitude, and the surrounding areas are known for their rugged beauty.
9. Sheshnag Lake
- Elevation: 3,658 meters (12,001 feet)
- Location: On the route to the Amarnath Cave
- Description: Sheshnag Lake is considered a sacred lake in Hindu mythology, named after the mythical serpent Sheshnag. The lake offers serene views of the surrounding mountain ranges and is a popular stop for pilgrims on the Amarnath Yatra.
10. Dal Lake
- Elevation: 1,583 meters (5,194 feet)
- Location: Srinagar
- Description: Though not a high-altitude alpine lake like the others, Dal Lake is one of Kashmir’s most famous and iconic water bodies. Known for its floating gardens, houseboats, and Shikara rides, it is the heart of Srinagar’s tourism.
Bonus Lake: Alpather Lake
- Elevation: 3,843 meters (12,605 feet)
- Location:
