When most trekkers dream of Kashmir, the iconic Great Lakes Trek comes to mind — and rightly so. With its alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and sapphire lakes like Vishansar, Gadsar, and Gangbal, it’s a Himalayan gem. But the surrounding valleys and ranges hold secrets of their own.
Here are seven underrated treks near the Great Lakes region of Kashmir, for those seeking solitude, untouched beauty, and trails less traveled.
1. Pir Panjal Lake Trek
The Pir Panjal Trek is a true hidden wonder. Unlike the popular alpine routes in Kashmir, this trail skirts through the Rajouri-Poonch belt, eventually revealing stunning glacial lakes such as Nandansar, Chandansar, and Neelsar.
What sets this route apart is its complete lack of crowds, a rich cultural blend of Gujjar shepherd life, and untouched meadows that bloom in late summer. The trail is challenging but rewarding, ideal for seasoned trekkers looking to venture beyond the more advertised routes.
For regional insights and government trek permissions, the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department provides official guidelines.
2. Gurez Valley to Gangbal via Kulsar and Satsar Lakes
While Gangbal Lake is often the endpoint of the Great Lakes Trek, few consider starting from the northern Gurez Valley, passing through the rarely-visited Kulsar and Satsar lakes.
This alternate approach offers a more secluded and raw experience. The route is steep and rugged, with challenging river crossings and forested ridges, but rewards you with pristine views and spiritual silence.
3. Mughal Road Alpine Lakes Trek
Running parallel to the ancient Mughal Road, this trek reveals high-altitude lakes such as Katorasar, Chandan Sar, and Sukh Sar, nestled between Poonch and Shopian districts.
This area, though historically significant, sees very little footfall from modern trekkers. The valleys bloom in early monsoon, and the trail is best accessed in July and August. If you want a trail that combines Mughal-era history with Himalayan scenery, this is a hidden gem.
Official trek access can be explored via the Shopian District Portal.
4. Tarsar Marsar Extension to Harbagwan
Most trekkers stop at Tarsar and Marsar lakes, but if you continue further southeast, the trail opens into Harbagwan Valley, an alpine stretch surrounded by ridges and lesser-known tarns.
This extension is rarely documented but accessible with local guides. It’s an ideal pick for trekkers who have already done Tarsar Marsar and want something more off-grid. This region is known for its wildflowers, especially during the early August bloom.
5. Gadsar Pass to Baltal via Nundkol Meadows
Instead of ending your Great Lakes Trek at Naranag, consider traversing from Gadsar Pass to Baltal, weaving through Nundkol Lake and the grasslands above Sonamarg.
This detour requires navigation skills but rewards with solitude and immersive high-altitude experiences. The descent toward Baltal offers views of Amarnath Valley, and occasionally you’ll share the path with Gujjar nomads.
Route clearance is sometimes dependent on Amarnath Yatra schedules, which you can track through the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board.
6. Bodsar Lake via Lidderwat Valley
A gem south of Lidderwat, Bodsar Lake lies hidden behind a ridge most Amarnath pilgrims bypass. This trail begins in Aru, a known base for Tarsar Marsar, and diverts into valleys rich in alpine flora and wildlife.
Expect moderate trekking hours, wildlife sightings (including Himalayan marmots and eagles), and a setting that feels like your own private Kashmir.
7. Chandigarh-Bodpathri Trek (Doodhpathri Circuit)
The Bodpathri meadows, located near Doodhpathri, are rarely explored on foot. This trail connects meadows like Tosa Maidan, Satharan, and Palmaidan, eventually looping back to Doodhpathri or Yusmarg.
The trek meanders through pastures used by nomadic tribes and is interspersed with shepherd huts and cascading brooks. While not a high-altitude expedition, its remoteness and quietude make it exceptional.
Final Thoughts
Kashmir’s alpine landscape has more to offer than its popular postcard lakes. These lesser-known treks near the Great Lakes region not only challenge your legs but also reward you with something increasingly rare: a silence unbroken by tourism, and trails that still feel like discoveries.
