About Tarsar Marsar lake trek
The ethereal beauty of Kashmir is undoubtedly impressive, it infatuates poets, nature lovers, and tourists. The state’s landscape is embellished with snow-covered mountains, velvety green meadows, fast-flowing rivers, alpine forests, beautiful alpine lakes, and whatnot. Truly, Kashmir deserves the title of “Heaven on Earth".
Keeping aside the natural beauty, Kashmir is also the place of several popular Himalayan trails. Tarsar Marsar trek is one of them.
The trail you follow on the Tarsar Marsar lake trek is unbelievably beautiful. In this extensive guide, I am going to discuss all the facts, attractions, and aspects of this trek.
About Tarsar Marsar Lake
Tarsar Lake and Marsar Lake are two alpine lakes situated at the altitude of 12500ft and 13000ft respectively in the Kashmir Himalayas.
These two lakes are similar and separated by a mountain. This is why they are called twin sisters.
Tarsar Marsar's location is 20 km to the east of Kolahoi Mountain in the Anantnag district of Jammu & Kashmir. Marsar Lake is specifically in the neighboring area of Dachigam National Park. The exquisite Tarsar Marsar Lake location and the incredibly pretty landscape of the area are the two things that have made people crazy about this trek.
Set in the backdrop of Kashmir is a beautiful trek to the almond-shaped twin lakes. The Tarsar Lake situated at an altitude of 12,450 (3,795m.) is surrounded by peaks of Kolahoi mountain and the water is so clear; that it changes with the reflection of the sky. Separated by a mountain is Marsar Lake, situated near Dachigam National Park. There are some things exclusively special to trekking on the twin lakes trek, crossing lovely meadows, and the ethereal landscapes on the way. It brings to you a view of Kashmir that you may have missed.
Tarsar Marsar Trek: Quick Facts
- Altitude Range: 7950 ft to 13,400 ft
- Location: Anantnag District, Jammu & Kashmir
- Duration: 7 Days
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Total Distance: 47.6 Km
- Starting Point: Srinagar
- Ending Point: Srinagar
- Base Camp: Aru
- Best Time to Visit: April to September
- Temperature: 15 to18 degrees (Highest), -3 to -5 degrees (Lowest)
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh-Ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar
- Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi
- Nearest ATM: Pahalgam
A short glimpse of the complete itinerary
Your journey starts at Srinagar. Our pick-up and drop service will drive you to the base camp at Aru via Pahalgam. The total distance is 112 Km you cover by road which takes 3 to 4 hours. On the way, the best view is the apple orchards and alpine trees. Aru is a picturesque hamlet at the banks of Lidder River at 7959 ft altitude where you spend the first night of your trip.
On the second day say goodbye to Aru and start an easy 10 km long ascent following the upstream of Lidder River. You have to trek for 6 hours on the second day. After crossing some local Gujjar settlements and two freshwater creeks you step into Lidderwat valley. The enchanting birds-eye view of Aru Valley and Aru village will motivate you to proceed further. The journey for this day will end with camping at Lidderwat Valley tucked at 9150 ft, close to the Lidder River.
On day 3 the journey of 5.5 Km starts from the meadow of Lidderwat and finishes at the valley of Shekwas. It generally takes 5 hrs.
From Lidderwat Valley the trail follows the Lidder River and enters a pine forest. A wooden bridge will take you to the other side of the Lidder River and after half an hour hiking along the river, you will reach Homwas, a small dell. Right after Homwas the path is straight and comfortable but not for so long. Trek a steep ascent afterward through a forest of Bhoj trees and some more valleys clearing you to step into Shekwas, another meadow at 11000 ft where you spend the night in a tent.
On day 4 you trek from Shekwas to the Tarsar lake, one of the three beautiful alpine lakes you are going to encounter in this trek.
The trail makes you cross several ridges on mountain streams. After steep climbing and trekking for two hours, you will get the first glimpse of the beautiful almond-shaped Tarsar Lake. The site energizes the beholder to reach the lake as quickly as possible. Trek to Tarsar Lake at 12500ft height takes 3 to 4 hours to complete and covers 5 Km distance on this day.
The crystal clear water of Tarsar Lake is quartz blue at night, and seems like dreamland amidst snow-covered mountains.
On day 5 you will witness surpassing beauty on your way from Tarsar to Sundersar Lake. The trek starts from Tarsar valley and heads towards Shekwas valley. Following the streams and shepherd’s trail, you will pass through lush green grasslands leaving behind Bakharwal Thatch. A hike of a total of 5 km taking 5 hours will unfold the coveted Sundersar lake and the valley adjacent to it. The journey for the day ends here with camping at 13000ft altitude at the lakeshore.
The next day your destination is Marsar Lake from Sundersar Valley.
Traversing the Sundersar Lake you will reach the other side where you have to follow the shorter pass out of two passes. Following a steep ascend through a boulder-filled area you will get into an amazingly beautiful green meadow, and streams intersecting it.
On this day (Day 6) the trek demands you to cover 9 Km in 7 hrs.
Marsar Lake is visible only after you climb to the ridges. Marsar, the twin lake of Tarsar is located at 13400ft. The lake is elusive, remains hidden behind the curtain of clouds most of the time. The landscape of the Marsar Lake at the base of mountains from an overhanging cliff is the best attraction of this trek.
On day 7, towards the end of the trip, you head back to Homwas through Jagmargi Valley, trekking 13 Km in 6 hrs.
Tips for Tarsar Marsar Trek
- The Tarsar Marsar Kashmir trek is 47.6 km long from the base camp. The trek takes you to the highest 13400ft on the mountain. Therefore, acute mountain sickness is common among first-timers or those who are more prone to AMS.
- Tarsar Marsar is a monsoon trek, so never forget to pack a raincoat, and plastic bags in your backpack. Also, carry a waterproof cover for your backpack.
- Pahalgam has the last ATM, but do not rely on the last ATM as it runs out of cash frequently. Withdraw cash at Srinagar or even before that.
- Mobile service works till Pahalgam. Also, the prepaid SIM does not work in Kashmir. So better take a postpaid phone connection, especially for this trek.
- Electricity is available till the base camp of Aru. Also, in Aru, there is no power backup, so if the electricity service shuts down it takes some time to come back. Therefore, carry a torch and some batteries with you.
- Do carry the original and a copy of the government-issued identity card. Voter card, Aadhar card, passport, driving license - any one of these is enough. Before trekking, you need to submit the documents to the forest department. Without this step, no one is allowed trekking.
Carry medications, check oxygens levels, and be attentive to your body. If feeling uneasy then drink water, take medicines, and rest for hours. If you are still not well then discontinue the trek.
How to Reach Tarsar Marsar
To get to the trek you must reach Srinagar. Don't forget to report at the tourist report center of Srinagar.
To Srinagar
Srinagar is well connected with the rest of the country by train and airways.
By air
Most airlines operate flights to Srinagar’s Sheikh-Ul-Alam airport. Metro cities like New Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Mumbai are directly connected to Srinagar by air.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Srinagar is Jammu. Jammu is again well connected to major junction stations of India.
From Jammu, one can take a flight to Srinagar which takes merely 40 minutes, or take a direct bus that takes around 10 hrs. Taxi and cabs are other options too taking 8 to 9 hrs to reach Srinagar.
Srinagar to Aru
At Moxtain, we provide you with pick up and drop car service from Srinagar to Aru and Aru to Srinagar.
If you want to arrange transportation on your own, then both shared cab and private cab services are available from Srinagar to Pahalgam. From Pahalgam, you need to change your taxi.
However, no bus service is available to Aru.
Best Time to Visit Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek
The best time for the Tarsar Marsar trek is from April to September.
The trail of the Tarsar Marsar trek in May remains clear and the landscape is greener. Trek to Tarsar Marsar in June is again a good time to go.
The best time of all for the Tarsar Marsar trek is in August and September. In these two monsoon months, there is little rainfall in the Kashmir valley and the weather remains clear and tourist-friendly.
Weather and Temperature
July to August is the coziest time for this trek. The daytime temperature roams around 15 to 18 degrees when sunny. In cloudy or rainy weather temperature ranges from 4 to 5 degrees. But at night temperature falls drastically to 1-3 degrees.
From mid-August to September Tarsar Marsar weather starts becoming colder. During this time temperature at night fluctuates from -3 to -5 degrees.
Difficulty Level of the Trek
Tarsar Marsar trek level is easy to moderate. Some portions of the trail have rough patches, steep ascent or descent, and boulder-filled zones that make this trek a little tricky for beginners.
The difficult descent through the pass that comes after Sunderser Lake, towards Marsar Lake, may be the biggest hurdle for any first-timer. Still, a well-prepared individual with good quality trekking shoes can easily overcome it.
If you don't have any experience of trekking but are committed and very passionate about taking this trip, then prepare yourself mentally and physically for 2-3 months.
For experienced trekkers, this trek is a big YES to go for.
Lastly, the Tarsar Marsar Lake trek has a lot to offer. There are very few lake treks in the Himalayas that are as magnificent, bold, and beautiful as this is in terms of scenery, and the mild challenges the trail throws to trekkers.
So, whatever your experience level is, this trek technically is for all except small children, families, and aged people.
Is This Trek Safe?
This trek is safe because the trail is located in a remote part of Kashmir, far away from urban settlements, and no probability of agitation and skirmish.
The only time when you come in contact with civilization is when you commute from Srinagar to Aru or return to Srinagar by road.
During this time, if you suddenly encounter unrest or a sudden curfew imposed, then don’t panic. Taking some precautionary measures can save you from an unpleasant and dangerous situation, like-
- Stay in tourist areas, never try to explore unknown areas and downtown on your own.
- Before booking any private transportation, ask for details and try to verify the information you have been provided with.
- Stay alarmed and informed with local news, and be vigilant about what is happening around you.
Tarsar Marsar Kashmir trek is operated by professional trek leaders who have sound knowledge of the respective terrain and other local circumstances. They are trained to handle AMS and other medical attention initially. The trek is also organized for 7 days so that you can acclimatize well and handle the physical strain of the journey.
So, if you trek to Tarsar Marsar Lake, rest assured that you are in the right hands with the right people.
- Tarsar Marsar lake trek
12000
Day 1: Srinagar to Aru base camp
- Altitude: 7,950ft
- Start the journey from Srinagar by 2 pm
- 4 hrs drive from Srinagar to Aru
- Prepaid SIM cards do not work in Kashmir
- Last access to mobile network and ATM is in Pahalgam
- Dinner & Stay in tents at Aru
The adventurous journey towards the twin lakes starts at 2pm from Srinagar as we drive through pahalgam to reach the Basecamp of Aru.
Your first day destination is picturesque village ?Aru? situated on the banks of river Lidder, 12 km off Pahalgam which is a 3 hour drive from Srinagar. Drive through a rural Kashmir with apple orchards and apricot trees along the way. The village Aru is a European setting of lovely cottages with slanted tin roofs and Willow trees amidst the green pastures. A clear stream flowing through its heart to add to it?s beauty. So landscaped, it feels heavenly. And what could savour the moment better, if not the evening snacks with a cup of hot tea followed by the dinner and long talks? When you get to Aru, we suggest you not to take a halt around your campsite but take a long walk around the pines, covering the lucid skies of Aru. The stay and food will be provided by Moxtain at the campsite at Aru base camp.
Day 2: Aru to Lidderwat
- Altitude: 7,950 to 9,150ft
- 10 km trek, to be covered in 6 hrs
- Terrain-Easy, gradual ascent
- Lunch on the go
- Dinner & Stay in tents.
Following the Lidder River upstream you will start your day early to complete a 10 km walk up the slopes, to a picturesque view of the Aru valley. The climb is gentle but long, following the trail straight out of the village.
A little after, you witness tumbling grassland, the fir trees and a birds eyeview of the village aru . Next as you go, the wide trail cuts across a little valley called dalla near the huts owned by Gujjar community. A 20 minutes undulating walk from dalla leads to Nandkei. Nandkei is known to be a cluster of the Gujjar settlements alongside the riverbank. You will cross two fresh water stream and an unnoticeable climb before you see the wooden bridge which is just an hour away from lidderwat.
This is the spot to take some rest along side the river and break for lunch. Walking on the wide trial, climbing a mound is a tremendous view to cherish. At the peak you will see the lidder river breaking into stream surrounded by fresh glades. The trail continues through a forest of lush greenery and a 10 minutes walk away are the astonishing meadows of lidderwat.
Take in the smell of the pines. The camp would be at a quiet spot close to the stream with enough time before sundown to walk around the peaceful fir tree shadowing the campsite, relishing the snacks. Once you have had your dinner, Lay out in the soft light casted by the moon upon gleaming streamside, on soft grass to soak in the tranquil. The sleeping bags will be provided by Moxtain to ensure a warm and comfortable stay.
Day 3: Lidderwat to Shekwas
- Altitude: 9,150 to 11,000ft
- 5.5 km trek to be completed in 5 hrs
- Terrain: Moderate, continuous ascent
- Lunch at campsite
- Dinner & stay in tents.
A 5-hour long trek starts today, crossing over a forest of pines, the Lidder River is left behind and the meadows have cleared. Following a straight trail without much challenges, the woods are not very thick, occasionally opening up to vivid skies.
Soon, you will find converging valleys and snowy elevations rising above the rim of the valleys with ample clear water streaming across the path.
You will be walking towards Homwas, which is a little clearing that falls on the other side of the river along your track. Right after a log bridge, you are welcomed with warm hospitality by these villagers and despite the exhaustion, the love, and warmth will fill you with a delight and make your day. The trail continues towards south west walking along the crystal waters flowing by your track, we now enter a grassy landscape. As green as it can be, unfolding as far as the eyes can see, the meadows of Shekwas welcome you for a stay after a tough climb. Unwind with seasoned snacks and star peppered night falling over the meadows seasoning the long conversations along the campsite.
Day 4: Shekwas to Tarsar and Explore Tarsar
- Altitude: 11,000 to 12,500ft
- 5 km trek to be completed in 4 hrs
- Terrain: Moderate, continuous gradual ascent
- Lunch on the way
- Sunset at Tarsar Lake
- Dinner & Stay in tents
The green pastures of Shekwas are best experienced bare feet. Try this as you set out towards Tarsar Lake today. The trail climbs into a ridge over a stream, after crossing through a few ridges towards west, two hours later the trail opens a little peek of Tarsar?s magnificent blue waters and all you will feel is a rush to run towards the shore.
It will take a total of 5 hours to reach Tarsar from Shekwas. The view of the Lake widening as we go down. You need to cross the stream, jumping adventurously before finally gliding into green pastures around the lake where we would camp the night. Watch the waters reflecting the passing hues of the sky as the day goes by. Time seems to stop by amidst of such silence. But we'll make sure you get food right on time just to avoid any growls.
Day 5: Tarsar to Sundarsar
- 12,500 to 13,100ft
- 5 km trek for 5 hrs
- Terrain: Moderate , steep ascent, followed by a descent and a gentle ascent to Sundersar
- Hot lunch at camp site at sundarsar/li>
- Dinner & Stay in tents
We start for the day from tarsar, climbing towards sundersar. The route chosen 5 km trek begins today to the adjoining Sundersar Valley through the Tarsar Pass. Delve into a connecting stretch first, leading to the meadows of Shekwas and Sundersar Valley. The trail gets steeper mellowing down to a gentle slope towards Sundarsar. The highlight of this stretch comes with a view of the Tarsar Lake across the pass.
Proceeding, we follow a brook collected at the feet of snow-melting elevations as a beautiful lake. The entire way is wrapped in green manifolds. You will find an unearthly frame capturing sheeps and horses along the green-scape, grazing lazily along the banks. The trail takes you through a high pass across the Bakkarval shelters on the left. Exit from this grassland to another vast patch but this one blooming bright with wildflowers. Soak in the nature?s delight as you walk towards the boulders covering the stream. A quick climb for next 15 minutes is the snowy mountain.
Later, a trail over the stream takes us to the Sundarsar Lake side. Towards your right is a flatland where we shall camp, with food served fresh and hot to mark the end of this remarkable day.
Day 6: Visit Marsar and then to Homwas
- Marsar ridge 13,400ft, Homwas 11,500ft/li>
- 9 km trek for 7 hrs
- Terrain: Moderate , a slight ascent continued by a gradual descent to homwas
- Lunch on the way./li>
- 50 minute continuous ascent to Marsar ridge
Kilting our way alongside Sundarsar shores, Today, we ascent higher up through Marsar Ridge. After crossing a partly grass covered and partly snow sheeted rock trail over on the Pass, we walk towards a flatland with occasional water flows. The ridge reveals the translucent blue Marsar Lake almost 600-700 feet below.
As we descend towards Sundarsar camps and then to Homwas, walking along the same way that we came by in about 50 minutes of descent, full of nostalgia. We reach Homwas before night fall, slightly exhausted
Following back to the Jagmargi valley we take a different route from Shekhwas to Homwas to camp at night.
Day 7: Homwas to Aru and drive to Srinagar
- Altitude: 11,500 to 7,950 ft
- 13 km trek, 6 hrs
- Terrain: Easy, Continuous gradual descent till Aru
- Lunch on the way./li>
- Reach Aru in between 2-3 pm
- Reach Srinagar in between 7-8 pm
Kilting our way alongside Sundarsar shores, Today, we ascent higher up through Marsar Ridge. After crossing a partly grass covered and partly snow sheeted rock trail over on the Pass, we walk towards a flatland with occasional water flows. The ridge reveals the translucent blue Marsar Lake almost 600-700 feet below.
As we descend towards Sundarsar camps and then to Homwas, walking along the same way that we came by in about 50 minutes of descent, full of nostalgia. We reach Homwas before night fall, slightly exhausted
Following back to the Jagmargi valley we take a different route from Shekhwas to Homwas to camp at night.
