Tarsar Marsar Trek Package
Uncover the wild allure of Nafran Valley on a 7-day trek with Gulmarg Skylinks, traversing Kashmir’s hidden wilderness.
Details
The Tarsar Marsar Trek is a mesmerizing 7-day journey through the pristine landscapes of Kashmir, covering approximately 48 km. Starting from Aru Valley near Pahalgam and ending back at Aru, this trek takes you to the twin alpine lakes of Tarsar and Marsar, nestled at altitudes of around 3,800 m (12,467 ft) and 4,000 m (13,123 ft), respectively. Known for their crystal-clear waters and breathtaking surroundings, these lakes are framed by snow-capped peaks, vibrant meadows, and pine forests. This package includes tented accommodation, guided trekking with experienced leaders, meals, and transfers, making it ideal for beginners with some fitness preparation and seasoned trekkers seeking a less crowded alternative to the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.
Day wise Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar & Drive to Aru Valley
- Morning: Arrive at Srinagar International Airport or bus stand. Meet the trek team and drive 3-4 hours (112 km) to Aru Valley (7,920 ft / 2,414 m), the trek’s base camp.
- Afternoon: Pass through Pahalgam, enjoying views of the Lidder River and apple orchards. Reach Aru, a charming village surrounded by meadows and forests.
- Evening: Check into the campsite. Trek briefing and acclimatization walk around Aru.
- Meals: Dinner at the campsite.
- Overnight: Stay in tents at Aru.
Day 2: Trek from Aru to Lidderwat
- Distance: 10 km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude: 7,920 ft to 9,120 ft (2,414 m to 2,780 m)
- Morning: After breakfast, begin trekking along the Lidder River through pine forests and Gujjar settlements.
- Afternoon: Cross streams and reach Lidderwat, a beautiful meadow at the confluence of two streams—one from Tarsar and another from Kolahoi Glacier.
- Evening: Set up camp and relax amidst the serene surroundings.
- Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner.
- Overnight: Stay in tents at Lidderwat.
Day 3: Lidderwat to Shekwas
- Distance: 6 km | Duration: 4-5 hours | Altitude: 9,120 ft to 11,000 ft (2,780 m to 3,353 m)
- Morning: Post-breakfast, trek through meadows and gradual ascents, passing shepherd huts and small streams.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Shekwas, a vast meadow offering expansive views of the valley and distant peaks.
- Evening: Camp setup and rest under a starlit sky.
- Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner.
- Overnight: Stay in tents at Shekwas.
Day 4: Shekwas to Tarsar Lake
- Distance: 5 km | Duration: 4 hours | Altitude: 11,000 ft to 12,467 ft (3,353 m to 3,800 m)
- Morning: After breakfast, ascend gently through grassy ridges and wildflower-laden trails.
- Afternoon: Reach Tarsar Lake, a stunning alpine lake with turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. Explore the lakeside.
- Evening: Camp beside Tarsar Lake, enjoying its tranquil beauty.
- Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner.
- Overnight: Stay in tents at Tarsar.
Day 5: Tarsar Lake to Sundersar via Tarsar Pass
- Distance: 5 km | Duration: 4-5 hours | Altitude: 12,467 ft to 12,959 ft (3,800 m to 3,950 m) via 13,123 ft (4,000 m)
- Morning: Post-breakfast, trek over Tarsar Pass (13,123 ft), a short but steep climb offering panoramic views of Tarsar Lake.
- Afternoon: Descend to Sundersar Lake, a smaller, serene lake surrounded by meadows. Optional short hike to explore nearby ridges.
- Evening: Camp near Sundersar Lake.
- Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner.
- Overnight: Stay in tents at Sundersar.
Day 6: Sundersar to Homwas via Marsar Lake
- Distance: 9 km | Duration: 6-7 hours | Altitude: 12,959 ft to 11,500 ft (3,950 m to 3,505 m) via Marsar Ridge 13,123 ft (4,000 m)
- Morning: After breakfast, hike to Marsar Lake via Marsar Ridge, the trek’s highest point. Marvel at Marsar’s elusive beauty, often shrouded in clouds.
- Afternoon: Descend through meadows and streams to Homwas, a peaceful campsite.
- Evening: Relax and enjoy the final night in the wilderness.
- Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner.
- Overnight: Stay in tents at Homwas.
Day 7: Homwas to Aru & Drive to Srinagar
- Distance: 10 km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude: 11,500 ft to 7,920 ft (3,505 m to 2,414 m)
- Morning: Post-breakfast, descend through pine forests and meadows back to Aru Valley.
- Afternoon: Reach Aru by midday. Board a shared vehicle for the 3-4 hour drive (112 km) to Srinagar.
- Evening: Arrive in Srinagar by late afternoon (4-5 PM). Trip concludes with drop-off at the airport or a central location.
- Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch.
Included
- Accommodation: 6 nights in twin-sharing tents at scenic campsites.
- Meals: Daily breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner during the trek (vegetarian).
- Transfers: Transport from Srinagar to Aru Valley and back via shared vehicle.
- Trekking Equipment: Tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, and basic camping gear.
- Professional Guide: Experienced trek leader and support staff for 6 trekking days.
- Permits: All necessary trekking permits and forest entry fees.
- Safety: First aid kit, oxygen cylinder, and oximeter with the group.
- Taxes: All applicable taxes and service charges.
Excluded
- Travel to Srinagar: Airfare, train, or bus tickets to and from Srinagar.
- Personal Expenses: Snacks, beverages, tips, laundry, or personal purchases.
- Porters/Mules: Offloading personal backpacks (available at extra cost, approx. ₹300-500/day per bag).
- Insurance: Travel or medical insurance.
- Additional Activities: Any costs for side trips or activities not in the itinerary.
- Emergency Costs: Expenses due to unforeseen events like natural calamities or medical evacuations.