| Max Altitude | Trek Duration |
|---|---|
|
13,500 ft. |
7 Days |
| Price | Contact |
|---|---|
|
14,500 INR |
+919511502069 |
About Tarsar Marsar Trek
The Tarsar Marsar Trek in Kashmir, India allows experiencing a memorable trekking expedition. Starting from Aru Valley one gets to see the greenery of the landscapes as well as the snowy mountains of the mighty Himalayas. As the name suggests, along the trek the expeditors get the scenery of the two stunning alpine lakes named Tarsar & Marsar. The whole trek is full of beautiful memories and moments and trekkers would be minded blown by the beauty of these two alpine lakes. The trek is indeed unforgettable and one of a kind.
The trek begins from Aru Valley which is filled with colorful wildflowers spreaded in vast landscapes and this whole scenic view is surreal and looks very dreamy. The path also includes dense pine forests, intersecting streams with crystal-clear water. Trekkers also get an insight into mountain life as the widespread landscapes have shepherd huts built in them. They may come across Gujjar nomads here who are known to live tribal life in the mountains. These nomads are an agricultural ethnic community, and they contribute heavily to the peculiar culture of the mountains.
Tarsar and Marsar lakes offer eye-catching views and a peaceful environment. Trekkers also like to camp under nature’s magnificence or sometimes they just relax after exhausting activities. Tarsar Marsar Trek is suitable for both experienced trekkers as well as newcomers and it is accessible to both the kind. The trek is fit for someone looking for their first experience of the Himalayas. This trek may be a little bit energy consuming but the spectacular natural beauty that trekkers get to see is worth the work and is highly satisfying. Not only the natural beauty but the trek also offers a learning experience about the mountain culture and the adventures in the Tarsar and Marsar lakes.
Tarsar Marsar Trek Day Wise Itinerary
Situated in the Kashmir Valley the whole Trek experience is filled with greenery, beautiful views, the adventures of the two lakes and at last but not the least the sky-touching peaks of the Himalayas. While designing our trek itinerary, we always keep in mind that every day of the trek should be full of adventure, suitable and useful for nature lovers. Total distance of Tarsar Marsar trek is approx. 48 km. & the highest altitude during the trek will be 13,500 ft.
Day 1: Srinagar to Aru Valley
Duration: 3-4 hours
Distance: 120 km. (Srinagar to Pahalgam – 100km, Pahalgam to Aru – 12km)
Altitude: 8000ft
The stunning Kashmir Valley view as you head towards Aru, the journey crosses through river Lidder on the NH1 highway. The Bijbehara route is a popular tourist route greeted with walnut, apricot and apple orchards along the way. The 200 asbestos-roofed huts arranged in a row along the meadows, next to the magnificent Lidder, are worth watching.
It takes around 4 hours to reach Pahalgam which is 100 km far from Srinagar and 12km more to reach Aru Valley. Aru Valley is mainly the base camp from where all the trek starts among which Tarsar Marsar is one. The pickup point will be TRC which is near Dal Lake where our TravElsket members will meet you. There are two routes that lead to Pahalgam: one through Bijbehara and the other through Anantnag. The Bijbehara route is a popular tourist route greeted with walnut, apricot and apple orchards along the way. The 200 asbestos-roofed huts arranged in a row along the meadows, next to the magnificent Lidder, are worth watching. The necessary documents to carry are aadhaar card, medical certificate and trek insurance.
After reaching Aru Valley, you will be welcomed with refreshing Kahwa, some snacks and a briefing session about the trek by our trek leader and the journey ahead. You will sleep in the tents and sleeping bags provided by the teams. The dinner is served around 8pm in the middle of the enchanting valley.
Day 2: Aru Valley to Lidderwat
Altitude : 2800m/ 9150 ft.
Trek distance : 10km
Time Taken: 6 to 7 hrs
Walk beside the river Lidder as the valley stretches, keep an eye out on bridges and sheep houses. You will pass huts at Dalla encircled by Fir trees along the route and after a short stroll you arrive at Nandkei village witnessing locals riding horses. Quick snacks are available at the shops owned by PDA (Pahalgam Development Authority) caretakers.
The next day after an early breakfast, start the trek to cover a distance of 11km which would take around 6-7 hours. You will be headed towards Lidderwat, following the flow of the river upstream. The trail will follow the departmental fence for Agriculture, giving a clear view of Aru behind. You will pass huts at Dalla encircled by Fir trees along the route and after a short stroll you arrive at Nandkei village witnessing locals riding horses.
There is a gradual ascent initially into the jungle for the first 30 mins for around 5 kms. The jungle trail is full of birds and is also often visited by pony men and shepherds. After you cross the jungle, it paves your way to the vast meadows which are stretched as far as eyes could reach.
After another 30 mins, the trail crosses through two clear streams- the second one crossed by a wooden bridge.
Walking beside the river Lidder and filling bottles with the clean glacial chilled water, passing through lush green meadows, flower beds and water streams leaving Aru valley down below. The trail climbs to a group of Pine trees shortly after the bridge. Occasionally there is a tea stall on the right, to sit and relax with a cup of tea and catch your breath. From the mound that the trail climbs out of pine woods offers one of the beautiful vistas and at the bottom of the valley, the trail meets the river Lidder.
Entering the Fir cluster again while crossing this beautiful stretch, a glimpse of a few Gujjar huts indicates Lidderwat. After reaching the campsite, you will be served with lunch and after lunch enjoy some fun activities with the group. Dinner is served early and at respective tents you get lost in the stargazing beauty. Quick snacks are available at the shops owned by PDA (Pahalgam Development Authority) caretakers.
Day 3: Lidderwat to Shekwas
Altitude : 3350m/1100 ft.
Trek Distance: 6km
Time Taken: 5hrs
Savour the day as you walk from Homwas to Shekwas having large meadows, crossing several streams and deep valleys. pass an old cluster of Silver Birch (Bhoj) trees which opens up to another stunning view. It takes approximately 5 hours covering a distance of 6km starting right behind the PDA huts and walking alongside following the river. The trail is not steep and easy to walk on. You will pass through a cluster of pine trees and after about an hour of walking, it opens up to broad stunning grasslands.
Lidderwat valley opens up to the grasslands where folds of snow adorn the grasslands that blend with the mountains. The trail splits up to a number of small valleys before coming together upward and leading to Bhakarwal shelters on the right side of the river. After crossing the river through a log bridge and 30 mins later the trail opens up to Homwas, where the meadow meets the river. There you find some friendly Gujjar huts where you can stop for tea break.
The route to Homwas is a pleasure with great underfoot and mostly on grass. The trail then heads towards the south-westerly direction. And then leave for the altitude gain. You will pass an old cluster of Silver Birch (Bhoj) trees which opens up to another stunning view. It opens up wide in front. You need to be careful with every step crossing the boulders which are big and might be wet when water flows below them that directs the way to Shekwas. A night filled with stars descends upon the meadows.
This is one among the best places to camp on the Tarsar Marsar trip.
Day 4: Shekwas To Tarsar Lake Trek
Altitude: 3800m/ 12500 ft.
Trek Distance: 4km
Time Taken: approx 3 to 4 hrs
Climbing one mound after another, the trail keeps you surprising. Visit the highest point known as Marsar point where both Tarsar and Marsar lakes can be seen. From Shekwas the trail interweaves, it’s way through a grassy landscape arriving at Sumbal and taking through the valley. The route to Tarsar climbs up onto a ridge above the stream.
You can walk barefoot on the grassy silken patches to enjoy it and after climbing the trail for two hours you will reach a conical hilltop where you will see the first glimpse of Tarsar’s blue water, the stunning almond shaped lake. This little peek is enough to accelerate you rush to the shores, following a westward direction.
It takes almost 5 hours to reach Tarsar from Shekwas. As you move closer, the view of the snow-capped mountains becomes, more magnificent, widening the view of the lake after climbing every small ridge. You cross the stream jumping from boulder to boulder before finally reaching the campsite around the lake. Time seems to halt with the silence and beauty of nature.
Day 5: Tarsar Lake to Sundersar Lake
Altitude: 4000m/ 13100 ft
Trek Distance: 6km
Time Taken: 5 hrs.
Jagmargi plains is the main highlight of this day. Sundersar is a lake which is shaped like a moon and the view changes from different points. Never miss the beauty of sunrise and sunset. The breathtaking vistas of Tarsar will leave you spellbound. It leads to Shekwas meadows following the Shepherd’s track.Stroll on the silken grass along the stream, leaving the Bhakarwal shelters behind. The beautiful grasslands can be seen in the middle of the meadows where a stream changes into a pond that is nourished by snow patched mountains. It takes 30 mins to reach the end of the meadow.
After trekking around 5 km to the Sundersar valley through Tarsar Pass. The trail starts with a sharp ascent which takes you parallel with the lake to reach the other side of Tarsar Valley. Upon reaching the crest, you get the view of the Tarsar Lake. Then trail down the peak which is sharp and be careful with every step. After trailing and crossing boulders you enter a beautiful meadow that connects to Sundersar. The lakeside offers an ideal camping site for the night while staying in cosy tents.
Day 6: Sunsersar Lake to Marsar Lake & Then Homwas
Marsar lake:
Altitude : 4100m / 13000 ft
Trek Distance: 11km
Time Taken: 7 hrs
Homwas :
Altitude: 3500m / 11500 ft.
Altitude Loss: 500m / 1600 ft.
The multiple exits of the trail leads to different districts of Kashmir Valley. There are 2 ways from Sundersar to reach Marsar and the one going through boulders is the quicker route. Boulders covered with snow makes it difficult to climb but carrying trekking poles helps to gain firmness and climb. It takes around 30 minutes to complete the climb to the pass.
After reaching the ridge you experience the beauty of Marsar Lake, also called Tarsar’s twin, almost 600-700 ft below hidden under clouds and mists. After spending some time there, take your way back to the Sundersar camps which takes around 40 minutes and then to Homwas using the other route of Shekwas. After a hectic day of hiking, enjoy some delectable food and retire for the night.
Day 7: Homwas to Aru Valley
Altitude: 2400m /7950 ft.
Trek Distance: 13km
Time Taken: 6-7 hrs.
The color of the mountain changes as the sun rises, a walk through the day to Aru as the hike comes to end. Last day of the trek and passing through the same trail that is crossed initially through Lidderwat pine forest. It goes to Aru via Lidderwat following the same route, while Lidderwat is 2hrs away from Homwas. You will get to see the beauty of Kolahoi glacier. It takes around 4 hours to reach Aru where you bid off your fellow trekmates, trek leader and the team members of TravElsket. The cab already waits at Aru to drop back at Srinagar.
Inclusions
- Accommodation in tents/huts
- Meals during the trek
- Experienced trek leader and support staff
- Permits and entry fees
- Camping equipment
- First aid kit & Mountaneering Medicines
Exclusions
- Any type of personal expenses
- Any additional activities not mentioned in the inclusions.
- 250INR Travel insurance. + 5% GST
Why Choose Us?
Expertise: We have years of experience organizing treks in the Tarsar Marsar region, ensuring a smooth and safe journey.
Local Knowledge: Our guides are well-versed in the area, offering insights into the culture, history, and geography of the region.
Personalized Itinerary: We tailor the trek according to your preferences, allowing you to explore the best of Tarsar Marsar trek at your own pace.
Safety First: We prioritize safety measures, including experienced guides, emergency protocols, and quality equipment.
Eco-Friendly: We promote responsible tourism, minimizing our environmental impact and supporting local communities.
Affordable Packages: Our trek packages are competitively priced, offering value for money without compromising on quality.
Small Group Sizes: We believe in intimate group experiences, ensuring individual attention and fostering camaraderie among fellow trekkers.
Flexibility: We accommodate various fitness levels and preferences, making the trek accessible to adventurers of all kinds.
Delicious Cuisine: Enjoy hearty meals prepared by our skilled cooks, featuring local flavors and ingredients.
Memorable Experiences: Create lasting memories as you immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Tarsar Marsar with us.
Tarsar Marsar Trek Highlights
- Travelling Through Diverse Landscapes: we see various faces of nature in the form of rigged planes, cross streams with bubbling water, vast lush meadows with vibrant wildflowers, thick forests and what not.
- Cultural Exploration: the whole trek also promises learning experience about mountain life. We also get a bird’s eye-view in the life of nomads such as that of Gujjars and Bakarwals. We can see them with flocks of animals and their temporary huts could be seen in the landscapes too. The exploration of local markets is a great way to learn about the culture of Srinagar.
- Moderate Level Trek: Kashmir Tarsar Marsar lake trek is suitable for both a beginner who wants to have his first himalayan experience and also for an experienced trekker. The paths are moderate in trekking and the trek is not overly energy consuming.
- Scenic Drives: The beginning of the journey from Srinagar offers you beautiful views along the way and keeps you out of boredom. You will get to see villages too.
- Camp By Remarkable Lakes: No amount of time is enough to absorb the beauty of Tarsar and Marsar Lakes but you can set your camp near these lakes and just enjoy the evening, filling your heart with peace and memories.
- Panorama Views: The total journey is full of incredible scenes starting from Kashmir valley to the Lidder river forming the boundary of vast landscapes and snowy peaks of Himalayas in the background. The scenery is surreal and looks unreal to the eyes.
Difficulty Level Of Tarsar MarsarTrek
No wonder Tarsar Marsar trek is full of wonderful views, vast landscapes, sky touching peaks of Himalayas, the beauty of kashmir valley and what not but if someone is going on his first experience of the Himalaya then the level of trek can go from moderate to a little bit difficult. Trekking in rugged terrain needs strength and also tests your stamina. Trekkers who are not inhabited to altitude and have weak hearts can face some breathing issues.
The weather in Kashmir valley is quite unpredictable. Within a single day it can go from sunny skies to drizzling or snowfall. The trek which can be completed within 4 to 6 days achieves an altitude gain of about 2000m going from Aru valley with an altitude of 2400m to 4100 m altitude of Marsar lake. The whole trek takes the trekkers to varied landscapes including alpine forest, lush meadows, lofty peaks in the backdrop. It needs consistent effort throughout the week. It is necessary to do acclimatization before going on high altitude to avoid any kind of risk. It might be a little difficult but once you see the rewarding beauty of kashmir valley and the natural beauty of the place you would not regret it.
Click here to get the detailed info: Tarsar Marsar Trek Difficulty Level
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Tarsar Marsar Trek Best Time
The best time to experience this trek is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is pleasant, and the trails are accessible. During this period, trekkers can witness the vibrant bloom of wildflowers and enjoy clear skies. However, it’s essential to avoid the monsoon season to prevent potential hazards like landslides and slippery trails. Here you will get the detail info on Tarsar Marsar trek best time.
Summer (June to September)
It is the peak time to go for your Trek as the Tarsar Marsar trek temperature is between 15 to 20℃ and is tolerable. You get a clear view of everything such as peaks, meadows with wildflowers and the diverse flora and fauna. There is no snowfall during this time as the ice has melted and sunny skies are prominent in these months of the day. The weather is the most pleasant in summer and little drizzling can be expected in July and August. Days are sunny while nights are cold hence some warm clothes are necessary to keep you comfortable.
Autumn (September to November)
The weather remains cool and temperature ranges from 1℃ to 12℃ during this time so it is a good time to plan your Trek. The whole Kashmir valley turns into a golden paradise, providing magnificent senses throughout the trek. Weather conditions during daytime are manageable but nights possess some challenges as mercury level drops. A few warm innerwear hooded windproof jackets, warm shocks, a hat, and warm trekking pants are some essential things that you must do in order to tackle the cold nights. Plan your trek in September as autumn is short-lived in Kashmir and most of the treks start to close from october month due to snowfall.
Why Should You Do Tarsar Marsar trek?
Scenic Beauty: If you are a nature lover then Tarsar Marsar trek is a must. The whole Kashmir valley is a heaven filled with meadows, rivers, peaks, lakes and much more.
Cultural Exploration: As mentioned above, in your trek you will encounter nomads such as the Gujjar tribe and Bakarwals of Kashmir, so by interacting with them you will get an insight into their traditional culture and life.
Unique Flora & Fauna: Every place has its own uniqueness and so does Kashmir Valley. Throughout your trek you will see vibrant wildflowers, different plants and varied animal species.
Adventure & Challenges: This trek is for everyone. Be it a nature lover or an adventurous person. Crossing rugged terrains, rivers, dense forests will give you the much-needed dose of dopamine.
Photo Paradise: Every site of the trek is a picturesque view and click worthy. So if you are someone who is into nature and wildlife photography, you don’t want to miss it.
Seasonal Difference: The trek is ever- evolving in every season. Beginning from green and lush meadows with wildflowers in summer, golden hues in autumn and snow-capped mountains in winter. It just gives you all that you need in nature. Read More
A Trekker's Experience
The journey starts from Aru valley, which is 12km away from Pahalgam city. You can drive 3-4 hours from Srinagar to reach Pahalgam crossing through picturesque landscapes, lush meadows, snow capped mountains offer a visual feast to the natural beauty of Kashmir setting the stage for the adventure ahead.
From Aru valley the trek starts towards Lidderwat on the first day where you pass through flower beds, grasslands, and a water stream flowing down. You will cross a jungle initially which is full of birds and often visited by ponymen and shepherds. After crossing the jungle, the eyes stretched towards the vast meadows where you will walk beside the river Lidder, whose clear blue water sparkling in the sunlight to reach the campsite.
The most beautiful way is passing through the terrain dotted with pine tree clusters on the way to Shekwas, whose gentle breeze welcoming the trekkers to the realm of snow blended mountains. On the way you will also come across Silver Birch (Bhoj) trees interweaved with grassy landscapes.
The hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the mountains as they meander through the pine and forests. With every bend in the trail, it offers a different perspective, with towering hills and the extending lush valleys.
Know Before You Go
Check these ways to reach Tarsar Marsar trek:
By Air: Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar is connected to major Indian cities & once you reach Srinagar via airplane, you can take a cab from here to Aru or Pahalgam directly. You can either hire the cab or share it with others.
Tips For Tarsar Marsar Trek:
Here is the list of essential things to carry on Tarsar Marsar trek:
1. Clothing: as long as clothes are concerned you must carry
– waterproof and windproof jacket
– thermal innerwear
– a hat
– waterproof gloves
– a few trekking pants
– extra warm clothes
2. Footwear:
– comfortable trekking boots suitable for terrain regions and dense forests
– a few pairs of socks
3. Backpack:
– A sturdy and spacious backpage(waterproof)
– rain cover too
4. Sleeping Gear:
– A sleeping bag
– comfortable sleeping mat
5. Trekking Gear:
–sunglasses
– trekking poles or ice axe
– flashlights with few spare batteries
6. Personal Hygiene:
– paper soap and shampoo
– Toothbrush, toothpaste
– Quick dry towel
7. First-Aid Kit: Although provided by us but few basic items come in handy.
– bandages, antiseptic cream, pain killers
– personal medications (if any)
– high altitude sickness medications
– motion sickness medications
8. Miscellaneous:
– water bottle
– energy bars and snacks
– sunscreen with high SPF
– lip balms
9. Documents:
– ID proofs, permits, and any other trekking documents.
– emergency contact information.
– travel insurance