Hidden in the heart of stunning valleys, the Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek in Kashmir is a true showcase of nature’s brilliance. This 7 day trek, starting from the scenic village of Aru near Pahalgam, takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Indian Himalayas.
At an altitude of about 13,500 feet, the Tarsar Marsar Lakes in Kashmir Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through pristine alpine lakes, vast meadows, and towering mountains. Here are seven compelling reasons to add this trek to your bucket list.
1. The Magnificent Twins : Tarsar and Marsar Lakes
The highlight of the Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek is undoubtedly the two lakes—Tarsar and Marsar. These high-altitude gems, separated by a mountain range, reveal nature’s beauty in its purest form. Tarsar Lake, shaped like an almond and sparkling with emerald-blue waters, offers stunning views from every angle. Its beauty feels almost surreal, as though painted by nature itself.
Marsar Lake, seen from a high vantage point, is equally mesmerizing. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, it resembles an open-air theater, captivating trekkers with its grandeur. The lakes’ water shimmers in shades of emerald-blue, changing with the sun’s rays.
You’ll also encounter the stunning Sundarsar Lake, nestled in a valley and bordered by snow-covered mountains. The sunrise and sunset views here are magical, leaving memories that will last long after the trek.
2. Tarsar Marsar Trek in Kashmir : A Unique Himalayan Camping Experience
One of the highlights of the this trek in Kashmir is the opportunity to camp next to these remote alpine lakes—an experience few other hikes in India offer.
The Tarsar camp is located on the shores of Tarsar Lake, providing an up-close view of the crystal-clear water that flows from melting snow. The campsite offers stunning views, especially if you cross the Tarsar Pass. You can take a peaceful stroll along the lake’s edge, soaking in the natural beauty. There are two hikes around Tarsar that you won’t want to miss:
- Walking to the far end of Tarsar, where the views change dramatically.
- Exploring behind the campsite toward Shekwas, a peaceful trail that crosses lovely brooks and offers fresh perspectives of the area.
Camping near Tarsar Lake offers a serene experience, with opportunities to relax by the water and watch the lake change colors. You might also spot sheep grazing nearby, adding a touch of wildlife to the experience. The trek also passes through traditional Gujjar villages, giving you a glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle. Overall, the Tarsar camp is a peaceful sanctuary, letting you immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.
The Sundarsar camp, situated at 3,938 meters, is another standout. Nestled by the crescent-shaped Sundarsar Lake (also known as Chandrasar), this campsite offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows. Located between Tarsar and Marsar lakes, it provides easy access to several alpine lakes, making it a prime spot for nature lovers.
3. The Enchanting Meadows of Tarsar Marsar Trek in Kashmir
The Tarsar Marsar Trek passes through some of the most beautiful meadows in the Himalayas. As you begin your trek from Aru, you’re welcomed by expansive grasslands that seem almost too picturesque to be real.
Aru, situated at 2,414 meters above sea level, serves as the starting point for several treks, including those to the Kolahoi Glacier and Katrinag Valley. The meadows around Lidderwat and Shekwas are particularly stunning. Lidderwat is known for its incredible mountain views and crystal-clear rivers, making it a perfect camping spot for sunrise and sunset photography.
As you move toward Shekwas, situated at around 10,700 feet, you’ll hike through pine forests and cross streams that lead to the meadows. This area is home to local Gujjar shepherds, and the sight of their herds grazing amidst the breathtaking scenery adds a touch of culture to the experience.
The soft grass underfoot and the soothing sounds of streams create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reflecting on nature’s beauty.
4. The Picture-Perfect Base Camp: Aru Village
The trek begins in Aru Village (7,958 ft), a charming base camp that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. Located in the Anantnag District, Aru is about 53 kilometers from Anantnag and 12 kilometers from Pahalgam.
Aru is surrounded by lush green fields, thick forests, and the clear waters of the Lidder River. This picturesque village, with its European alpine charm, is the perfect place to acclimatize to the altitude. It’s also home to cozy guesthouses and campsites, offering a taste of traditional Kashmiri hospitality.
Aru is famous for its handicrafts, including Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri rugs, and wooden carvings. The local cuisine, featuring dishes like rogan josh and dum aloo, offers a delicious introduction to the region’s culinary delights.
5. Moderate Difficulty with Maximum Beauty
One of the best aspects of the Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek is its accessibility. Although the trek reaches a maximum altitude of 13,500 feet, it features gradual ascents that make it suitable for trekkers of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned adventurers.
The total distance of around 48 km is covered over 7 days, ensuring manageable daily stages. While there are some steep sections, particularly the climb from Shekwas to Tarsar, most of the trek is moderate, passing through meadows and valleys. The well-planned campsites provide adequate acclimatization, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness.
6. Rich Cultural Encounters
The Tarsar Marsar Trek offers unique opportunities to engage with the local communities. Along the trail, you’ll meet Gujjar and Bakerwal shepherds, who spend their summers in these high meadows. Their traditional mud huts, or dhokas, dot the landscape.
Interacting with these communities is a highlight of the trek. You may be invited to try traditional Kashmiri Kehwa (green tea) or Noonchai (salt tea) and sample local delicacies such as Maeshkraer (a mozzarella-like cheese). These cultural experiences enrich the trek, adding a deeper connection to the region.
7. Pristine, Less Crowded Trails
Another advantage of the Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek is its relative solitude. Unlike more popular treks, such as the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, this trail receives fewer visitors. This means you’ll experience the raw beauty of nature without the distractions of crowded campsites and busy trails.
The trek also offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. You may spot Bar-headed geese, Golden eagles, Choughs, and Black bulbuls. The Western Tragopan, a rare bird, is particularly noteworthy. The clean, mineral-rich streams along the trail add to the pristine nature of the hike, providing refreshing water throughout your journey.
Conclusion
The Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek in Kashmir is a journey through the heart of the Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of towering peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. The trek takes you through dense forests of rhododendrons and oak trees, across high-altitude meadows, and through traditional villages.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, the Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek promises an unforgettable adventure. With its mix of moderate and challenging sections, it offers a perfect balance of physical activity and scenic beauty. The tranquil environment, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, is the ideal escape to reconnect with nature.
If you’re looking to explore the hidden gems of Kashmir, the Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek is a must-do.
