Gangabal Lake trek
Gangabal Lake Trek is a mesmerizing journey in the heart of the Kashmir Valley, renowned for its stunning landscapes and serene beauty. Spanning about 5-6 days, this trek leads you to the sacred Gangabal Lake, situated at the base of the majestic Harmukh Mountain, one of Kashmir’s highest peaks.
Starting from Naranag, the trail winds through lush pine forests, meadows filled with wildflowers, and picturesque valleys. As you ascend, you’ll encounter beautiful campsites with panoramic views, culminating in the stunning sight of Gangabal Lake, which is often considered one of the most pristine and sacred lakes in the region.
The trek is moderately challenging, making it suitable for experienced trekkers as well as fit beginners. The best time to undertake this trek is from late June to early September when the trails are clear, and the weather is pleasant.
The Gangabal Lake Trek not only offers breathtaking natural beauty but also a chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region, making it a must-do for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Here is the day wise itinerary below ;
Day 1: – Arrival. Reception at Srinagar Airport
On arrival at Srinagar airport, our representative will receive you and transfer you to the houseboat at Dal Lake for an overnight stay.
Day 2: – Srinagar – Naranag – Trunkhol (3 hrs drive/ 5 hrs trek)
After breakfast at houseboat we drive to Naranag and we pack our load on horses and start our trek. Our trail a slightly steep, passes through pine forest of Butsheri and through the meadows of Bodpathri we camp at Trunkhol for an overnight stay.
Day 3: – Trunkhol – Gangabal Lake (4 hrs trek)
We leave Trunkhol meadow and walk through grassy fields. We camp at Gangabal Lake for an overnight stay. These are two lakes Gangabal and Nundkol situated at the foothills of Mount Haramukh.
Day 4: – Gangabal – Naranag. (6 hrs trek)
We leave Gangabal and Nundkol Lakes and trek through the meadows of Trunkol and descend to Naranag village through the pine forest of Bodpathri. Here ends our walking. We take our car and drive back to Srinagar houseboat for an overnight stay.
Day 5: – Departure day
Our representative will drop you at Srinagar airport. Departure.
Inclusions
- Pick Up and drop off from Srinagar Airport.
- 2 Nights stay in Houseboat with Breakfast and dinner.
- Transfers from Srinagar to Trekking Start Point and return.
- Qualified Guide, and Support staff.
- Meals while on trek (Veg & Egg).
- Trekking Permits.
- First-aid medical kits.
Exclusions
- Flight tickets.
- Insurance.
- Mules or porters to carry personal extra luggage. Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
- Something not specifically mentioned under the pinnacle.
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
Things to Carry
- Trekking Shoes (Do not carry sneakers/ sports shoes. Carry shoes that has good grip and ankle support)
- Backpack (40 -60 litres): A backpack with sturdy straps and a supporting frame. Rain cover for a backpack is essential.
- Daypack 20 litres: On the day of the summit, you’ll need a smaller backpack to carry water, snacks and your medical kit. Bring a foldable backpack.
- Layers/Warm Clothes/Thermals
- Trek Pants/T-shirts/Undergarments as per your convenience. Carry the actual number required and stay light Sunglasses, Suncap, sunscreen.
- Hand gloves, socks 2 pairs and woollen socks
- Headlamp/LED Torch is mandatory
- Trekking Pole
- Poncho/Raincoat
- Cutlery: Carry a spoon, coffee mug and a lunch box. (Mandatory)
- Personal Medikit
- Toiletries: moisturiser, light towel, lip balm, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitiser. Do carry wet wipes. One 1 litre water bottle.
- Plastic covers: carry a few extra plastic bags for wet clothes. Make sure you take them back and not litter the mountains.
- Before starting the trek, calculate your BMI (Ideal BMI should be between 18.5 and 24.9)
- Health and Safety checks mentioned below should be made before getting prepared for the trek
- A balanced mind and body is the first thing that should be given importance before taking off, because this is what will bring out the best of you in every condition.
- Your body should be fit enough to cover the entire trek with the backpacks on your back along with your body weight. That is why proper stamina and strength is needed. Also because trekking is done in uneven multi terrains and not on smooth paths. So in order to gain leg strength, perform simple squats.
- Flexibility is very important when it comes to trekking. A good flexibility will be an advantage while walking on trails, climbing and river crossing etc. Attain flexibility by simple stretching or yoga.
- As the Himalayan treks are basically ascending and descending the slopes, you will need a proper transmission of Oxygen from the lungs and heart to the body muscles. For this, trekkers should have a good cardiovascular endurance that can be gained by doing cardio exercises like running, swimming, cycling etc.
Cancellation Policy ;
It is good to make your booking two months prior in advance. In the event of cancellation of any trek/adventure activity due to any reasons, it is compulsory to notify us in writing. Cancellation charges will only be effective from the date we receive your request in writing.
If the trek is cancelled by us due to any reason (heavy snowfall, rainfall, natural disaster etc.) then the refund would not be initiated but you can go on the same trek another year. Top Class Holidays Family is always with you, Thanks The cancellation charges are as follows:
- (No bank charges deducted will be Refundable)
- Up to 30 Days – 90% cost is Refundable
- Between 21 to 30 Days – 50% cost is Refundable
- Less than 20 Days – No Refund
- (Refunds are initiated in 7-8 business days)