ABOUT TWIN LAKE TREK IN HARMUKH VALLEY

Trekking in Kashmir is a dream for every hiker worldwide because of its paradise beauty and snow-capped mountains. The Gangabal Twin Lake in the Harmukh Valley of Kashmir is the only trekking destination with a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and exquisite experiences. This lake, located amid gigantic Himalayan ranges, takes hikers through enchanting meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped mountain peaks with every step. Gangabal is a pristine alpine lake with crystal clear water northeast of Srinagar.

The total trekking distance from Srinagar to the trailhead is 45km in the lap of Harmukh Mountain, the second-highest peak of Kashmir Valley. As trekkers explore the rich cultural heritage of the place, they come across the quaint villages and friendly locals in this remote location. This trek is not for the faint-hearted but is an unforgettable adventure because of its steep ridges and terrains. It takes about 8 to 10 hours, covering a 13km distance from Naranag to Gangabal for experienced trekkers.

Gangabal is a freshwater lake fed by the adjoined glaciers of the Himalayan ranges at an altitude of 3575 meters. The lake water remains cold throughout the summer season and fresh in taste. Another lake is located 100m below the Gangabal Lake, known as NundKhol Lake.

The lakes have accessible routes through mountain villages or the base camp called Naranag. Moreover, every hiker needs proper planning to reach the lake trailhead. The total trek distance from Naranag and return is 27km, where the hike starts through a zigzag route among the pine forests for about 4days.

So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

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The best time to do Gangabal Lake trek

The Gangabal Lake Trek at 3575 meters in the Harmukh Valley is best to visit from mid-June to mid-September.

It is a popular trekking destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Located in the beautiful state of Jammu and Kashmir in India, this trek offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and lush green meadows. If you plan to embark on this trek, it is essential to know the best time to do it according to the different seasons.

Summer in Kashmir(April to June):

Trekkers also visit Gangabal Lake during spring because the snow starts melting at the end of May. The temperature ranges from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, ideal for trekking. As the snow melts, the lush green meadows offer picturesque views of the surrounding Mt Harmukh ranges.

Monsoon in Kahmir(July to September):

This is the most suitable time to visit Gangabal Lake because the temperature remains 8 to 15 degrees Celsius at night. It provides a comfortable trekking experience, but the rain chances are high during this time. The Harmukh Valley trek becomes pleasant and comes alive with blooming flowers and vibrant colors. This time, the trek is less crowded, allowing people to enjoy nature's serenity. However, hikers need to be careful as the rocky terrains become slippery and dangerous due to heavy rain.

Autumn in Kashmir(October to November):

Autumn is another magical time for the Gangabal Lake trek because it starts snowing in the valleys and meadows. The weather becomes cool and harsh for trekking, where the grasses turn brown and yellow, freezing the region.

Winter in Kashmir(December to March):

Gangabal Lake trek is dangerous and unsuitable for winter because of the harsh weather conditions and heavy snowfall. The temperature falls below freezing point, making it challenging for trekking. All the trailheads are covered in snow, making it impossible for the hikers to walk.

How to reach Gangabal Lake?

Naranag to Gangabal trek distance is 13km, 45 km from Srinagar, and 36km from Sonmarg in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. Hikers can reach Srinagar by direct bus, flight, or train from any state of India.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Gangabal Lake is the Srinagar International Airport. This airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Jammu etc, and takes 1.5 hours from Delhi. Trekkers can hire a taxi or bus from the airport to reach Naranag base camp.

By Road:

Hikers can reach Srinagar via bus from Jammu or Delhi if they prefer to travel by road. It takes 15 hours for 850km from Delhi and 9 hours from Jammu for 248km. Then, people take a taxi or cab to reach the base camp from Srinagar.

By Train:

The nearest rail stations from Srinagar are the Jammu Tawi and Udhampur Railway stations because there are no direct trains to Srinagar. Trekkers can avail private cabs or state government buses to reach Srinagar from the stations. Then, It is a 3-hour drive to Naranag Base camp from Srinagar through orchards and rice plantations. People drive along the national highway with the Sindh River beside them.

TREK HIGHLIGHTS

• TRIP LENGTH- 27 km
• MAX ALTITUDE- 3575 m
• DIFFICULTY LEVEL- 7/10
• STATE- Jammu Kashmir
• CITY- Srinagar
• PICKUP LOCATION- Srinagar
• START POINT- Naranag
• ENDPOINT- Naranag
• BASECAMP- NARANAG (13 KM FROM GANAGABAL LAKE)
• DAYS- 3NIGHTS/4DAYS
• BEST TIME- JUNE TO SEPTEMBER

Detailed itinerary for Gangabal Lake Trek

DAY 1- SRINAGAR TO NARANAG BASE CAMP

1. Altitude- 2100m
2. Distance- 45km by driving in car
3. Expected arrival by afternoon
4. Accommodation and food in homestay
   
   

The trekking journey starts with a 3-hour drive from Srinagar to Naranag Base camp, covering a distance of 45 km. The national highway runs along the Sindh River and mountain ranges of 14km to the Naranag village. Hikers spend the day in acclimatization and enjoy evening snacks in the homestay in Naranag.

You will be taken towards the Dhumail region to explore the ancient ruins of Shiv temple in the evening. This temple, an archaeological site in India, has the best stone-cut structure. You can offer prayers in this temple, and there is a spring beside a small Shivlings.

People drink water from the clear spring water because it is the main drinking water source for the local population. In the Dhumail region, hikers can enjoy light meals with a bonfire beside the two water streams. It is an easy walk of 3km to reach the confluence of two streams and then return to the base camp for a delicious dinner.

DAY 2: NARANAG -BUDHSHERI TO TRUNDKHOL MEADOW

1. Altitude- 3200 m
2. Altitude gain from 2100 m to 3200 m
3. Accommodation and food at campsite
4. 7-8 hours of walking and expected arrival by evening
5. Trek distance 10km approx
   
   

The next day, the trail walk starts from the foothills of Mt. Harmukh with a gradual ascend at every step. The route passes through a pine forest in a zigzag pattern on the top of the ridge named Budhsheri, covering 6.5km. The gradient is moderate to difficult, which becomes challenging for beginners. Trekkers experience the roughness of the trail walk because of the loose stones and rocks throughout the route.

However, the view is awe-inspiring and mind blowing because of the small chain of valleys with several waterfalls from one side to the other. After reaching the altitude of 3000m, there is a gradual ascend of 200m more along the way meadows for 3.5km. Hikers can enjoy their hot lunch on the Budhsheri top and walk towards the campsite. Mt Harmukh looks impressive from the top with its snow-capped peaks from the Budhsheri top.

Trundkhol Meadow is at an altitude of 3400 m beside the bakerwal house. This place is silent and cozy, surrounding thick pine forests.

DAY 3: CAMPSITE TO GANGABAL LAKES

1. Altitude- 3575 m
2. Camping near Nundkhol Lake or Gangabal Lake
3. 3 hours of walking and expected arrival by evening
4. Accommodation and food in campsites
5. Trek distance 3km approx
6. Altitude gain 300 m approx
   
   

The third day starts with a mild trek towards the Gangabal Valley, and the day's gradient is easy. Hikers walk through the lush grasslands of this valley towards the lap of Mt. Harmukh. It takes about 2 hours to reach Gangabal and Nundkhol lake from Trundkhol.

The Nundkhol Lake is located on the northern side of Mt.Harmukh, with an inclination walk 30 minutes from Gangabal Lake, Kashmir. The lakes are famous for trout fishing, like rainbow or brown trouts. Hikers tour the lake and reach the base of Mount Harmukh (5142 m) to see the glacier. There is a small ridge between the Gangabal and Nundkhol Lake, separating them.

However, hikers need permission from the fisheries department before performing any fishing activities. The water of both lakes is clean and fresh, and you will notice a large water stream coming out of the lake. Return to the campsite and spend the night with a beautiful lake view and a delicious dinner.

DAY 4: CAMPSITE - NARANARG - SRINAGAR

1. Altitude- 2100 m
2. Descend from 3575 m to 2130 m
3. Time is taken 7 hours
4. Accommodation and food in Naranag base camp
   
   

On the fourth day, trekkers prepare for the gradual descent trek of 10km. You will get amazing views from Trundkhol campsite with a panoramic view of snow-capped mountains. It takes 6 hours to get down to Naranag from the campsite.

A parallel lake flows down from Gangabal Lake and enters villages before joining the Sindh River. Hikers enjoy walking beside the river and surrounding pine trees. With this view, you can enjoy a hot lunch and wait for the cab to reach Srinagar.

Difficulty level of the Gangabal Twin lake trek

If you are an adventure enthusiast, then Twin Lake or Gangabal Lake Trek is an ideal option in the Harmukh Valley in Kashmir. However, it requires physical fitness and experience to accomplish the trekking journey. The difficulty level of the trek is moderate to difficult, but it is also not easy for experienced hikers. The trail combines steep ascents in the beginning, rocky terrains, and narrow ridges.

Moreover, Gangabal Lake altitude, almost 4000 m, adds to the difficulty level.

The weather conditions in the Gangabal Lake Trek are sometimes unpredictable because the region receives heavy snowfall during winter. Even during the trekking season, i.e., June to September, hikers should be prepared for rain showers, strong winds, or low temperatures at night. Appropriate clothing and gear is advisable to ensure safety and comfort throughout the trek.

The Gangabal Lake trek journey starts from the Naranag Base camp, deprived of amenities or facilities. The way only has small villages where the local people reside.

The route is remote and isolated from Srinagar, with limited access to food and accommodation. Most hikers stay in the campsites because of less number of home stays available in that region. Despite the challenges and difficulty level, it is an excellent achievement for the trekkers to be close to nature.

To sum up, the Gangabal Lake Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences for every hiker in Kashmir treks. The trek offers breathtaking views of Mt. Harmukh and the serene beauty of the twin lakes.

However, every hiker should be well prepared physically and mentally because of the unforeseen conditions. It is an opportunity for the trekkers to connect with nature and immerse in the tranquility of the Himalayan ranges. Whether an experienced trekker or a novice, exploring Gangabal Lake, Kashmir, will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the natural wonder.