Gangabal Lake Trek Kashmir India

Srinagar is both the starting and finishing points of the trek to Gangabal (3,570 m), which takes 6-7 days to complete. The trek is flagged off from the capital city Srinagar and cutting and crossing Sonmarg, Nichinai, Krishansar, and Dubta Pani, one finally reaches the pristine Gangabal Lake. Needless to mention that Gangabal Lake is amongst the most beautiful places in Kashmir; also it is a less explored destination. The trekking route of Gangabal passes through many picturesque places, and one would be particularly stupefied by the sight of Himalayan wildlife and striking flora. The trek introduces many challenging situations for a trekker, and great skills are needed to overcome them. Giving the weary trekker a breather are the flower-strewn meadows, alpine lakes like Kishansar and Vishansar, and the lofty Mt. Haramukh (5,380 m). The nomadic tribes of Gujars and Bakarwals add an extra dimension to the trekking trail of Gangabal.

Cutting through the highlands of Sonmarg, a short drive to Nichinai leads to the starting point of the trekking route to Gangabal Lake. The trekking trail continues on the flower-strewn meadows, which lead to Kishansar and Vishansar Lake. The two lakes that lie next to each other offer some of the most spectacular views in the Kashmir region. After crossing the Gadsar high pass, trekkers can reach Gadsar Lake, which is another picturesque destination in Kashmir. A 19 km trek from Dubta Pani takes the trekker to the final destination of Gangabal Lake. En route Postpatri and Mangandub are two stopovers.

Gangabal Lake is an oligotrophic Lake, which is ideal for rainbow and brown trout fishing. It is 2.5 km in length and feeds Nundkol Lake and through Wangath Nallah it merges with the Sindh River. Camping facilities at both Nundkol and Gangabal are available.