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Tarsar Marsar Trek in Kashmir

The Tarsar Marsar trek in Kashmir is a captivating high-altitude adventure that showcases the region’s unparalleled natural beauty. Popular during the summer months, this trek is renowned for its exploration of thr...

Tarsar Marsar Trek in Kashmir Tarsar Marsar Trek in Kashmir
Duration6N 7D
DifficultyModerate
Altitude13200
Price₹14,202
OverviewItineraryInclusionsDatesPolicyBook

Overview

The Tarsar Marsar trek in Kashmir is a captivating high-altitude adventure that showcases the region’s unparalleled natural beauty. Popular during the summer months, this trek is renowned for its exploration of three pristine alpine lakes—Tarsar, Sundersar, and Marsar—nestled at an altitude of 12,500 feet. These shimmering lakes are surrounded by lush green meadows and offer breathtaking views that leave trekkers spellbound.

The trail winds through vibrant wildflower meadows, crystal-clear streams, and awe-inspiring mountainscape within the scenic expanse of Dachigam National Park. A standout feature of the trek is the opportunity to camp beside the emerald-blue waters of Tarsar Lake, where trekkers can enjoy serene sunrises and sunsets that add a magical touch to the journey. Along the way, hikers also encounter traditional Gujjar settlements, providing a glimpse into the local shepherd culture and enriching the overall experience.

As an enchanting alternative to the famed Kashmir Great Lakes trek, the Tarsar Marsar trek offers a unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable journey through Kashmir’s scenic splendor.

Quick Itinerary

  • DAY 1: Srinagar to Aru-112km drive
  • DAY 2: Aru to lidderwatt-9 km
  • DAY 3: Lidderwatt to Sekwass -6 km
  • Day 4: Sekwass to Tarsar-6 kms
  • DAY 5: Tarsar to sundersar-5 km
  • DAY 6: Sundersar To Marsar back to sekiwass-10 km
  • DAY 7: Sekiwas to Aru and back to Srinagar

Detailed Itinerary

Tarsar Marsar Trek in Kashmir: A Stunning High-Altitude Adventure

Day 1: Srinagar to Aru-112km drive

  • Altitude: 2420 m.
  • Time taken: 4 hours drive
  • Pick up at Srinagar at 12:00pm
The drive is around 4 hours. Pahalgam is around 100 km from Srinagar, and then a further 12 km up is Aru Valley. Aru is arguably the best valley and hamlet in Kashmir. This village has remained the base camp for some of the fascinating treks that include the Tarsar Marsar Trek.

Day 2: Aru to lidderwatt-9 kms

  • Altitude from 2426M (7958ft) To 2783M (9131ft)
  • Time taken: 6 hours
  • Distance: 9 kms
The gradient of the day is easy; however, there is a long walk of around 9 kms. For only the first 30 minutes there is a gradual ascent into the jungle. The trail of the trek starts in the jungle for about 5 km. The jungle is thick and at a few places opens wide, giving way to the shepherd houses and deep gorges in the distance towards your left. The jungle is full of birds, and you will see the trail frequented by shepherds and ponymen. 
After the jungle walk, the trail opens onto a vast, wavy meadow. The meadow is far-stretching with a couple of river crossings. In the middle of this meadow walk, you will be walking just beside the river Lidder. The river dances and flows delightfully. The grass of the meadow just goes to the bank of the river. You can relax and rest for some time at any of these beautiful locations on the way. Fill your water bottles with this clean glacial water that comes right from Tarsar Lake. This Lidder River will be your travel partner until Tarsar Lake. 
While walking for some time, you will see a triangular wooden hut towards your left. Cross the bridge that goes towards the meadow surrounding the hut. You will see your campsite ready for you. You will be welcomed with evening snacks and drinks. This camping site is called Lidderwat.

Day 3: Lidderwatt to Sekwass-6 kms

  • Altitude from 2783M (9131ft) To 3365 M (11039ft)
  • Time taken: 5 hours
  • Distance: 6km
The day starts with an ascent and takes you to the higher ground, from where you get a wider view of the entire Lidderwat Valley. The grade of the day is easy. Shortly after your first climb, the trail merges into the forest. You will be walking through the jungle and parallel to the Lidder River. The trail then opens out into the long stretches of meadow walk. You will have to cross the river over a log bridge. The valley is full of wildflowers and grass. You will reach a Homwas where the river meets the meadow; relax and enjoy the gorgeous beauty here. On your way, you will see shepherd houses and a cluster of silver birch. Just before you reach Shekwas, there is a boulder section. Be careful with your steps. You will be traversing this section with care; the boulders are big and at times wet with the water that flows below them. Just after the boulder section is the campsite for the night.

Day 4: Sekwass to Tarsar-6 kms

  • Altitude: 3,365m (11,034 ft) to 3,794m (12,450 ft)
  • Time taken: 5 hours
  • Distance: 6km
Post breakfast, you will be heading towards Tarsar Lake. The gradient of the day is moderate. The trail is dominated by the boulder and rocky section. You will be walking on the boulders and in between the thin trail of boulders. The river runs beside you towards your right. The boulder section almost ends at the river crossing. The bride is of wood and slim; however, the crossing is short. The trail then has a short gradual ascent, and you will meet the shepherd's house. The family most of the time welcomes the trekkers. The shepherds roam around this place with their flock. The trail is then a succession of small ascends and descends. The walk in the middle of the meadow is surrounded by mountains. Tarsar Lake altitude is the highest you will go on this day. Once the meadows finish, you will see yourself walking towards the ever-gorgeous alpine lake of Kashmir. Tarsar Lake is almond-shaped and one of the prettiest lakes in Kashmir. You will feel the thrill of seeing this lake; it is so mesmerizing that you will not stop before thronging around this lake the moment you see it. The lake is so famous that sometimes this trek is called the Tarsar Lake Trek. The campsite will be ready here for the night stay.

Day 5: Tarsar to sundersar-5 kms

  • Altitude from 3794M (12449ft) to 3946 M (12946ft)
  • Time taken: 5 hours
  • Distance: 5 km
The gradient of the day is moderate. The trail starts with a sharp ascent for around an hour to the Tarsar Pass. The ridge is just parallel to the lake, which takes you to the other side of Tarsar Valley. Once you have reached the top of the ridge, you get a fascinating view of Tarsar Lake. All the pics that you have seen of Tarsar Lake with a wider view are from this top. All the trekkers stop here for pictures and videos and rest for some time. The descent from this ridge is equally sharp; be careful with your steps and trail. After you have descended, there is a boulder crossing, and thereafter you enter into a terrific, beautiful meadow that connects Shekiwas to Sundersar. The meadow has been named Silent Valley owing to its calmness. It has lush grass in between the two mountain stretches. The land is filled with small river streams and water ponds. After the meadow, there is a short ascent and descent that will take you to your Sundersar campsite.

Day 6: Sundersar To Marsar back to sekiwass-10 kms

  • Altitude: 12,946 ft (3,946 m) to 13,201 ft / 4,024 m (Marsar Ridge) to 11,500 ft (3,505 m)
  • Time taken: 7 hours
  • Distance: 10 km
From your campsite, you will reach within half an hour the stunning Sundersar Lake. The lake is small and exquisite, with the small mountains surrounding it from three sides. The lake is glacial and circular. To visit Marsar Lake, you will have to go round to the Sundersar Lake and ascend a ridge. It takes half an hour to climb that till you reach a flat land, and within minutes you are beholding the eternal Marsar Lake, placed there in all the calmness and beauty. The lake is wide and enticing. You will see this lake from the vantage point where you get the view of an entire lake. Enjoy the view of the lake, and take pictures and videos to capture this moment. This is also the highest altitude point of the entire trek. You will be standing at an altitude of around 4020m. After seeing Marsar, you will take the same route back via Sundersar Lake and descend towards Homwas. The trail is through the meadow and boulder section. Most of this trial is a repeat of.

Day 7: Sekiwas to Aru and back to Srinagar

  • Altitude from 11,500 ft (3,505 m) to 7,958 ft (2,426 m)
  • Time taken: 6 hours
  • Distance: 13km
This is the last day of the trek. The trail is long, and that which you have already traversed in the first two days of your trek is from Aru. The trail will go to Aru via Lidderwat and follow the same route. The trek ends at Aru, the way it starts. From Aru, take a cab that drops you at Srinagar.

Inclusions

  • Food during the trek.
  • Passes and permits.
  • Camping tents, temperature-rated sleeping bags, and mats.
  • Certified Trek Leaders.
  • Cooking staff and helpers.
  • Porters or mules for carrying common rations and camping equipment.
  • Insurance

Exclusions

  • Any expense of personal nature
  • Offloading or Porter service of personal backpack (2500 extra for offloading)
  • Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
  • Transportation to and from Srinagar

Other Details

Highlight

  • Day 1 Arrival at Aru (8,038 ft)-103 km drive
  • Day 2 Aru to Lidderwat (9,022 ft)—8 kms
  • Day 3 Lidderwat to Sekhwas (11,154 ft)-6 kms
  • Day 4 Sekhwas to Tarsar Lake (12,467 ft)—4 kms
  • Day 5 Tarsar to Sundersar (12,960 ft) via Sonamous Pass (12,960 ft)- 6 km
  • Day 6 Visit Marsar Lake (12,946 ft) and go to Homwas (11,500 ft) via Marsar ridge (13,201 ft)- 9 km
  • Day 7 Homestay in Aru (8038 ft) to Srinagar-13km. Drive 103 km to Srinagar

Pick-Up Points

Karanagar (near National School)
Timing: 6:00 am

Other Pick-Up Points:

  • Bemina
  • Tengpora (near Flyover)
  • Sanatnagar
  • Nowgam

Packing List

  • Small day hike bag
  • Carry water bottle minimum 1 L.
  • Carry a raincoat or poncho
  • Carry a warm jacket/fleece
  • Wear good sports shoes or hiking shoes
  • Pack energy bars and light snacks
  • Pack lunch (if you opted package without lunch)
  • Wear a hat or cap
  • Wear sunglasses
  • Carry sunscreen and basic toiletries
  • Carry ID proof

Why Trekking Cougars?

Small Group Size:

Enjoy intimate experiences with smaller groups capped at 15-25 for day treks, maintaining a trek leader to trekker ratio of 1:7. This ensures individual attention to each trekker, fosters better group dynamics, and allows for a more cohesive journey. For high-stakes expeditions, our premium group sizes are even smaller, with a ratio of 1:3, providing optimal support and safety.

Best Price:

Benefit from genuine prices that offer value for money without compromising on quality. We believe in providing exceptional experiences at competitive rates, ensuring you get the most out of your adventure.

Qualified Trek Leaders:

Our trek leaders are certified mountaineers with extensive experience and undergo rigorous training to handle any situation that may arise. Trained in basic medicine and first-aid response, they are equipped to ensure your safety and well-being throughout the trek.

Variety of Treks:

Explore diverse landscapes with a wide range of trek options catering to all skill levels and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned adventurer, we have the perfect trek for you to discover the beauty of nature.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation of trek before 30 days of departure: full refund: Full Refund

Cancellation of trek before 15 days 75% Refund: Cancellation Fee 75%

Cancellation before 10 days 50% Refund: Cancellation Fee: 10%

Cancellation before 7 days: No Refund -However, you can transfer your trek (same trek, same batch) to a friend.

Note: Upland Adventurers will deduct 5% for cancellation charges from the total amount before the refund is processed: Cancellation Fee: 5%

Departure Dates

January

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February

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March

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April

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May

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June

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July

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August

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September

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October

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November

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December

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Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellation due to weather, road blocks, government restrictions, or natural conditions is handled case by case by the team.
  • Client cancellations are reviewed against the confirmed booking date and payment status.
  • Payment link is shared only after availability, group size, inclusions, GST, and final price are confirmed.
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