Itinerary Description
Grade:
Moderate
Location:
India
Maximum Altitude:
4024 mts
Duration:
7 Days
Brief description: Undoubtedly, one of the most scenic treks in India. Tarsar Marsar lake trek is an alpine trek in the Jammu Kashmir region of India. Undoubtedly, one of the most scenic camping sites. Most importantly, it is not a much-crowded trek. Especially, in summer it is called the ?Switzerland of India?. Also, interestingly, it is known as the sister trek of Kashmir great lakes. The Tarsar Marsar lake trek should be on your bucket list. The settings of Kashmir are just astounding. The vast meadows, the tall pine forests, the glades and so much more. Tarsar lake is one of the prettiest lakes in Kashmir. Above all the beauty of this trek is you, you will ghetto camp right on the edge of the lake. Especially, around the glades, you get to witness the wonderful beauty. Tarsar Marsar trek location is enveloped in the most original form of beauty. The colour of the lake of Tarsar is aquamarine blue. Hanging cliffs on one side patched with snow and another side you camping on the glade. That experience itself will give you the energy to move further. Then you go to Sundarsar, Marsar. All these 3 lakes are camper's delight. These 3 alpine lakes of Tarsar Marsar make it special. Introduction: Tarsar Marsar is a high-altitude trek yet not a very difficult one. Besides, it is usually shrouded amidst clouds. The entire perimeter of the lake gives a whole new perspective. Tarsar Marsar lake trek is at an altitude of 3810 m. Furthermore, the trail is naturally at the brim with the most majestic views. It is surrounded by lush green meadows, pristine rivers, and snow-capped peaks. And amazing views of Dachigam valley park. The Tarsar Marsar lake trek is right at the center of Kashmir. Starting from the basecamp Aru valley to Lidderwat landscapes will sway you away. From the deep emerald rolling valleys of Shekhwas to gorgeous alpine lakes. Tarsar Marsar lake trek transforms your entire viewpoint. The camping site on the grassy glades is just so intimate. The rare moment entangled between the adventures and your heart will remain forever. Best Time to Trek: The most preferable time to do the Tarsar Marsar lake trek is from the beginning of July to the beginning of September. Even though it's a general monsoon month in India. But Kashmir doesn?t receive much rainfall. And the reason behind it is, the Pir Panjal ranges prevent the rain clouds from reaching Kashmir. July to September are the most comfortable months for Tarsar Marsar trekking. Because all the other months are shivering cold and a lot of snow. Which eventually makes the trek difficult. Also, interestingly the trek changes its colour in these 3 months. Usually, in July the temperatures are quite moderate between 5 degrees at night to 15-18 degrees during day time. And the snow also starts melting in early July. The site is indeed like a magic spell. Yet you will require 3-4 layers to protect yourself. As the air changes unpredictably. From July till September, the green vast meadows are visible. The whole valley is covered in wildflowers. Walking and relaxing after trekking on soft fresh green grass in most of august and September is calming. With the stunning backdrop of rugged mountains and visible peaks Difficulty Level: The Tarsar Marsar lake trek is moderate. You will have to walk 6 to 8 km every day. There are some tricky patches. But the altitude remains between 13,000 -14,000ft. You need to be physically and mentally prepared to do this trek 2-3 months ahead. Tarsar and Marsar are two high-altitude alpine lakes that are only accessible by trekking. It is located in Lidder valley. In this trek, previous trek experience is required. You should be able to cover a 5 km of distance in 30mins. Tarsar Marsar is not a difficult trek. There is not very big physical challenge or difficulties.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Srinagar to Aru Valley 103km drive (2449 m)
Day 2: Aru to Lidderwat 8km trek (2749 m)
Day 3: Lidderwat to Shekhwas 6km trek (3399 m)
Day 4: Shekhwas to Tarsar 4km trek (3799 m)
Day 5: Tarsar to Sundarsar via Sonamour pass 6km trek (3950 m)
Day 6: Sundarsar to Marsar lake via Homes 9km trek (4023 m)
Day 7: Homwas to Aru 13km trek & 103km drive (2449 m)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Day 1: Srinagar to Aru Valley 103km drive (2449 m)
Arrival at Srinagar. From there you will need to take a shared cab or bus to Aru valley. The drive roughly takes 3.5 hours. Or you can take a cab to Pahalgam which is 3 hours from Srinagar. Take a stop and then hop in again for Aru valley which is another 12 km from Pahalgam. Pahalgam to Aru is right across the Lidder river and it haves 30 mins to cross that. Overnight you will stay in camp on grassy land in Aru valley.
Day 2
Day 2: Aru to Lidderwat 8km trek (2749 m)
As we start the trek from Aru to Lidderwat there is gradual ascension. On the way, you can see the entire Aru valley and pretty warm houses from the far. The trail is filled with pines as you keep ascending. Also, you will walk along with the Flowing Lidder river you will come across a small tea stall where you can take a break for a few mins and enjoy tea. After that, there is a gradual ascent for 1 hour. From there you can see the Lidder forest guest house. You just need to cross the bridge and reach the camp. Overnight stay at camp on the other side of the river.
Day 3
Day 3: Lidderwat to Shekhwas 6km trek (3399 m)
There is continuous ascend for the first two hours as you begin the trail. You will witness and cross multiple streams and lush meadows. To reach Shekhwas campsite there is another steep ascent. You will get wonderful views of the high Himalayan peaks. Also, apart from that once you reach the Shekhwas campsite. There is another opportunity for you to visit Jadar lake which is a short hour hike. Staying overnight at camp.
Day 4
Day 4: Shekhwas to Tarsar 4km trek (3799 m)
The trail from Shekhwas to Tarsar is just wondrous. There is a gradual steep ascent and the views get grand at every step you take. It takes 2 hours to reach the first main destination which is Tarsar lake. It is surrounded by mountain ridges from 3 sides. You get to camp on the grassy glades of aquamarine Tarsar lake. Especially, the colour of the lake changes according to the season. You can spend the rest of the day exploring nearby trails surrounded by Himalayan grandiose peaks. Overnight stay will be at the camp.
Day 5
Day 5: Tarsar to Sundarsar via Sonamour pass 6km trek (3950 m)
As you begin the trail toward Sundarsar, you will have a moderately steep ascent in the beginning. Today you will have to cross the ridge and descend into the valley on another side. The view of the ridge is quite breath-taking. While descending you pass through the shepherd?s trail. You will see the lushest grassland ever. Keep walking along to the stream which drains from Sundarsar. Your overnight stay will be at Sundarsar camp.
Day 6
Day 6: Sundarsar to Marsar lake via Homes 9km trek (4023 m)
Today we will cross the boulder-laden trail. And cross the ridge as well. This trail is an hour to reach Marsar lake. Marsar lake has a vantage viewpoint from where you get to witness Marsar engulfed in the clouds. The unobstructed views are just so stunning. Also, you need to keep in mind that the weather is quite unpredictable at this height. So, after soaking in all the beauty of Marsar alpine lake we will head back to Homwas campsite. Overnight stay at Homwas.
Day 7
Day 7: Homwas to Aru 13km trek & 103km drive (2449 m)
You will be starting early morning with the sunrise and you will take the same route that you took on day one. The two hours gradual descent will lead to Lidderwat. You will come across the tall pine trail. Some epic views. From Lidderwat to Aru it will take 4 hours. Once you reach Aru you will be driven to Srinagar.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- ●Meals during the trek (from dinner on day 1, till lunch on Day 7)
- ●Forest Permits/Camping Charges/Permits, Trek Permit Fee/IMF Permission (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- ●Camping tents, Temp rated sleeping bags, mattress
- ●Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- ●Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with Wilderness Emergency Responder & Rescue. course from NIM Uttarkashi
- ●First Aid Certified Local guide, cook, helpers
- ●Porters or mules for carrying common luggage
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- ●Meals during road journeys
- ●Any kind of Insurance
- ●Any expense of personal nature
- ●Portage of personal backpack
- ●Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
- ●Transportation to and from Srinagar
Are you eligible for this adventure?
Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you to a height of 4,130M and is rated a moderate level trek for its long trekking distances. For its elevation and distances, it is recommended for trekkers with some prior experience in the high-altitudes.
Grade
Moderate
Max Altitude
4024 mts
Distance
46 km
WIMRS Level Required
Terrain
Prerequisite Skills
Fitness Benchmark
WIMRS Level Required
WIMRS 4
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a level 4 adventure on the Bikat Rating Scale.
This makes it mandatory for you to have high-altitude experience of preferably multiple treks marked at level 3 on the WIMRS. The altitude, the terrain, and the nature of the climb demand a certain level of endurance and a need for you to be aware of how your body reacts to the various features of the high-altitude environment.
If you do not know what level of WIMRS trek would suit you best, worry not! Fill out this Form:
We will send you a progression chart to help you comfortably get out of your comfort zone in order to level up and ultimately reach your highest potential in the big, bad world of outdoor adventure.
Packing List
This is a list of essential items for individuals doing the trek with Bikat Adventures. This list contains only those items which the participants are required to bring with them. The list excludes those items which are provided by Bikat Adventures on the trek. We have divided the items into five categories. All the items in the list are essential except for those marked as optional.
🟩 Trekking Gear
- Ruck sack bag with rain cover. Qty -1
- . Day Pack Bag - Recommended for treks with summit day
- Head Torch with spare Batteries. Qty -1
- U V protection sunglasses. Qty -1*
- Water Bottles: 2 bottles of 1 liter each*
🟩 Footwear
- Non-skid, deep treaded, high-ankle with water resistant trekking shoes Qty -1
- Pair of light weight Crocks/Sandals Qty -1
🟩 Clothing
- Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants. Qty – 2*
- Full sleeves T-shirts/ Sweatshirts. 1 for every 2 days of trekking
- Pair of thick woolen socks. 1 pair for every two days of trekking
- Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower. Qty-1
- Undergarments. Qty - 1 for every day of trekking
- Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck .Qty-1
- Full sleeves sweater. Qty -1
- Rain wear (Poncho/ Jacket & Pants) . Qty-1
- Pair of waterproof, warm gloves. Qty-1
- Woolen cap. Qty-1
- Sun shielding Hat. Qty -1
🟩 Toiletries
- Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)
- Sun screen lotion small pack. Qty -1 (Minimum SPF 30)
- Lip Balm small pack. Qty-1
🟩 Miscellaneous
- Camera (Optional)
- Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek.
- Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional)
Here are a couple of tutorials on What & How to pack your rucksack for your upcoming trek from our experts:
Note-
- *For long trek please carry one spare sunglass
- *In winter trek please try to carry one hot water bottle
- * For long and winter trek to carry warm pent one pair
Frequently Asked Questions
Tarsar Marsar Trek is a moderate level trek i.e. it requires more strength and endurance than easy level treks. It is recommended that you first gain an experience of trekking to altitudes higher than 3000 metres, and then move one level up with this trek. However, if you are a beginner but committed to prepare, then you need at least 2-3 months to prepare physically & mentally for this trek.
1 Jog/Run for 4 Kms in 35-40 mins or Walk continuously for 8 Kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better) - You would be required to produce a screenshot from a fitness app testifying the same
2 Hold your breath for 25-30 seconds
You must have done a small trek of 2-3 days before and hiked to an altitude of more than 3000 meters.
Know campsite basics like how to use a sleeping bag, sleeping tet, toilet tent.
Ascending & Descending technique for mountain trails.
Basic mountain mannerisms.
Kashmir has its own unique experience of trekking in its region. Tarsar Marsar is a less explored trek usually done in summers in the region of Kashmir, so-called "Switzerland of India".
June - September
The base of Tarsar Marsar trek is Srinagar. To get to Srinagar -
By Air:?There are multiple flights daily directly from Delhi to Srinagar, or connecting flights from all major cities. This is the easiest way to reach Srinagar.
By Rail:?Although Srinagar has a railway station, it is not linked to the Indian Railway network. The closest national railway station is Jammu Tawi, from where Srinagar is 270 km away. There are multiple trains from Delhi and Chandigarh to Jammu Tawi. From Jammu, you can make the road journey to Srinagar either via private or state run buses or private taxi.
By Road:?The road distance from Delhi to Srinagar is 800 km if you are taking a taxi or driving down in a private vehicle. Direct buses to Srinagar are available from Jammu.
All major networks have coverage till Aru. However, all outstation prepaid connections do not work in J&K. You will need either a postpaid connection or a local prepaid connection.
Dal Lake:?The jewel of Srinagar, the Dal lake is synonymous to a visit to Srinagar and almost a visual definition to the town. Spread over a straggling 26 sq.kms, it is the most photogenic stretch of this instance of paradise on earth and undoubtedly also the most sought after of attractions.
Mughal Gardens:?Built in the Mughal era, donning its majestic architecture, are the Mughal gardens. The garden is a combination of the Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens & Chashm-e-Shahi. The most prominent feature of the gardens its long stretches of cascading fountains makes this a must see for every traveler.
Nishant Bagh:?Laid out in 1633, the Nishant Bagh fondly known as the Garden of Joy. Its beauty is enhanced by the well-manicured landscapes, long avenues of Chinar & cypress trees, rare flowering plants, 12 terraces & several bubbling fountains that's cover the whole expanse of the garden.
Shankaracharya Temple:?Visit this effulgent, age old temple in Srinagar to feel closer to the gods. Situated at a height of about 1100 feet on the south-east of the city, this sacred temple offers splendid views of the valley and the snow clad mountains of the Pir Panjal range.
Hazratbal:?Hazratbal Mosque, situated on the western shore of the pristine Dal Lake, is a very sacred Muslim shrine in Hazratbal. Hazratbal's special significance is derived from the fact that it houses a heir of the prophet Muhammad, a relic, titled Moi-e-Muqqadas. The relic is only displayed to the public on religious occasions, usually accompanied by colourful fairs afterwards. The shrine commands a grand view of the lake and the mountain beyond, especially when its pristine white marble elegance is reflected in the waters of the lake.
The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
We will be camping during the entire course of the trail.
We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accomodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.
Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek.These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.
You will be provided with good quality of gaiters and microspikes from us depending upon the situation of the snow. Our trek leaders will also be carrying ropes and ice axe.
Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfil the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread and butter served for breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.
You can rent following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack.
The temperatures range from 20 degree to -3 degree celcius.
There might be snow on the higher reach depending on the season.
If you want to offload your rucksack, you will have to make a request for offloading a few days prior the trek through an email so that arrangement can be made in advance. You will be charged per day for offloading your rucksack. In case you decide to offload on the spot, you may have to pay a higher price than usual. However offloading your rucksack is not recommended since it is not a safe practice.
A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.
Yes, trekking pole is necessary. If you don?t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.
You can buy your essentials in Srinagar. However, do not leave anything for last minute purchases.
Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.
Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.
We can arrange reserve taxis on request from Srinagar to Aru and back. Use the "Additional Transport" add-on to book the transport with us. The vehicles will leave Srinagar at 1200 Hrs and reach Aru by 1500 Hrs. On the way back, the vehicle will start from Aru at around 1500 Hrs and reach Srinagar by 1800 Hrs.
Expect to reach Srinagar by evening.
ID Proof (Soft Copy to be sent to us in Advance & original to be carried) and Medical Certificate (Soft Copy to be sent to us & original to be carried) are the mandatory documents required for the trek.
Why Wanderin Man?
(SET- Safety, Expertise & Trust )
Safety
- ●Small Group Size in the ratio of 6:1 (participant to leader)
- ●No compromise on safety and sustainability promise
- ●Experienced and Certified Mountaineering Professional Leaders
- ●Region Mapped with Emergency Evacuation Plan
- ●Certified Standard Equipment by UIAA (International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation certification) & other Similar Bodies
- ●Minimized Risk Management Standard Operating Procedure are applied for every Trek and tour
- ●Certified First Aid Support and Doctors* with constant availability of Safety Equipments like Medical Kit, Rescue Kit
- ●Constant communication is aided with the help of Communication Devices
- ●Certified and registered Transporter for transportation purpose
Expertise
- ●Founders of the company have extensive experience of 15 years having organized 8k+ peak expeditions.
- ●Under the umbrella of Wanderin’ Man Adventures 15+ adventure activities Programs have been organized
- ●Founders have mountaineering certifications from the esteemed mountaineering institutes of India.
- ●Team is composed of experienced mountaineers and trek leaders with thorough understanding of norms and procedures.
Trust
- ●Trust has been the hallmark of our company since its inception be it any program on the list.
- ●Special emphasis is laid on the use of standard procedures and equipments as per the mountaineering norms
- ●95% of our clients have availed our service on repeat basis.
- ●Our business has expanded primarily based on the “word of mouth” from our existing clients to new ones
What Our Customers Say
Cancellation Policy
Cash Refund (All events including Friendship Peak Expedition except other Mountaineering Expeditions) - Cash refunds are only available for bookings made without any discounts, such as promotional codes or dynamic discounts. Additionally, cash refunds are not available for shifted batch bookings or if the booking status is "Booked". The amount of the refund will be determined based on the following guidelines:
Cancellations made up to 45 days before the departure date
Cancellations made up to 31 days before the departure date
Cancellations made between 30 and 21 days before the departure date
Cancellations made between 20 and 11 days before the departure date
Cancellations made less than 11 days before the departure date are not eligible for a cash refund.
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