Tarsar Marsar Trek in Kashmir

Accomodation
Camps / Guest House
Arrival City
Srinagar
Best Season
July-September (Only season)
Departure City
Srinagar
Maximum Altitude
Approx. 13,800 feet
Meals
Veg Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner during trek)
Transportation
Tempo Traveller / Bolero (base travel)
Walking Hours
5–8 Hours per day (Summit day 10–12 hrs)
Trip Type
Treks

Overview

The Tarsar Marsar Trek is one of the most beautiful lake treks in Kashmir. It takes you to two stunning high-altitude lakes, Tarsar Lake and Marsar Lake, surrounded by green meadows, snow-covered mountains, and wide open valleys. This trek is perfect for those searching for the best trek in Kashmir, beautiful lake trek in India, or a moderate Himalayan trek for beginners.

Located in Jammu and Kashmir, the trek usually starts from Aru Valley near Srinagar. Over 7 days, trekkers walk around 45–50 kilometers through pine forests, river crossings, rolling grasslands, and high mountain passes. The maximum altitude reaches around 13,000 feet, making it a moderate difficulty trek suitable for fit beginners and experienced trekkers alike.

The main highlight of the Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek is camping beside the crystal-clear alpine lakes. Tarsar Lake is wide and deep blue, reflecting the surrounding peaks, while Marsar Lake often appears mysterious with clouds floating above it. The peaceful atmosphere, fresh mountain air, and untouched natural beauty make this trek one of the most scenic trekking routes in Kashmir.

The best time to do the Tarsar Marsar Trek is from July to September, when the meadows are lush green and the weather is stable. During this period, trekkers can enjoy clear views of the mountains and vibrant landscapes.

For anyone looking for a Kashmir trekking package, alpine lake trek in India, or a 7 days Himalayan trekking experience, the Tarsar Marsar Trek offers the perfect mix of adventure, natural beauty, and peaceful camping in the lap of the Himalayas.

Highlights

Twin Alpine Lakes – Tarsar & Marsar: The main attraction of the Tarsar Marsar Trek is camping beside two stunning high-altitude lakes. Tarsar Lake shines in deep blue shades, while Marsar Lake looks magical with mist and clouds floating above it, making it one of the best alpine lake treks in India.
Scenic Meadows & Open Valleys: The trail passes through vast green meadows and wide valleys filled with fresh mountain air, offering peaceful surroundings and breathtaking views throughout the journey.
Forest Trails & River Crossings: Trekkers walk through dense pine forests, cross wooden bridges, and follow clear mountain streams, making it a complete Kashmir trekking experience.
Panoramic Mountain Views: The trek offers grand views of the Pir Panjal range in Jammu and Kashmir, with snow-covered peaks visible from many campsites.
Moderate Difficulty Level: With a maximum altitude of around 13,000 feet, this moderate Himalayan trek is suitable for fit beginners looking for a high-altitude trekking adventure.
Peaceful & Less Crowded Route: Compared to the famous Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, this trek is less crowded, giving trekkers more quiet time in nature.
Best Time – July to September: During these months, the meadows turn bright green, wildflowers bloom, and the weather stays pleasant, making it the ideal season for the Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek.

Day 01 :

Srinagar to Aru Valley – Drive to Base Camp

Pickup from Srinagar: The journey starts from Srinagar, where trekkers are picked up for the scenic drive to Aru Valley.
Beautiful Mountain Drive: The 3–4 hour drive passes through local villages, green valleys, and river views of Kashmir.
Arrival at Aru Village: Aru Valley is the base camp of the Tarsar Marsar Trek and is known for its peaceful surroundings.
Check-in at Campsite: After arrival, tents are allotted and you can relax after the road journey.
View of Snow Peaks: Aru offers clear views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains.
Trek Briefing Session: Guides explain the trekking route, safety rules, and altitude details.
Acclimatization Time: Short walks around the village help your body adjust to the altitude.
Local Culture Experience: You may see traditional Kashmiri houses and meet local villagers.
Preparation for Trek: Final gear check for the next day’s forest trek.
Overnight Stay in Camps: Dinner and rest at Aru Valley campsite before the real trekking begins.

Day 02 :

Aru to Lidderwat – Forest and Riverside Trek

Start of Trekking Journey: The Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek begins with a gradual trail from Aru.
Walk Along Lidder River: The route follows the beautiful Lidder River flowing beside the trail.
Pine and Oak Forest Trail: Dense forests provide shade and fresh mountain air.
Wooden Bridge Crossings: Small bridges and streams make the walk scenic and enjoyable.
Gentle Ascent Trail: The climb is steady, making it suitable for beginners.
Green Open Meadows: Large grasslands appear as you move closer to Lidderwat.
Wildflowers in Season: During July and August, colorful flowers bloom along the path.
Photography Points: Snow-covered peaks can be seen from open sections.
Arrival at Lidderwat Campsite: A wide meadow surrounded by tall mountains.
Camping Under the Stars: Overnight stay in tents at Lidderwat after a 5–6 hour trek.

Day 03 :

Lidderwat to Shekwas – Meadow Walk

Morning Mountain Views: Fresh sunrise views over the valley.
Gradual Climb Begins: The trail slowly gains height from Lidderwat.
Wide Valley Landscapes: Large open valleys make this day visually stunning.
Peaceful Trekking Route: Less crowded trail with calm surroundings.
River Streams on the Way: Small water crossings refresh the walk.
Clear View of Peaks: Snow peaks become more visible at higher altitude.
Perfect Himalayan Scenery: Green meadows stretch as far as the eye can see.
Steady Trek Duration: Around 5–6 hours of moderate trekking.
Arrival at Shekwas Camp: A beautiful campsite at around 3,000 meters.
Rest and Acclimatization: Evening rest at Shekwas before heading to alpine lakes.

Day 04 :

Shekwas to Tarsar Lake – Reach the First Alpine Lake

High Altitude Trail: The route climbs gradually through open grasslands.
Panoramic Mountain Views: Clear views of the Pir Panjal range in Jammu and Kashmir.
Fresh Mountain Air: The air becomes cooler as altitude increases.
Rolling Meadows: Smooth green slopes make the walk enjoyable.
First View of Tarsar Lake: The lake appears suddenly between mountain ridges.
Crystal Clear Water: The deep blue water reflects surrounding peaks.
Lake Side Camping: Camps are set up beside Tarsar Lake.
Photography Opportunity: Sunrise and sunset views are breathtaking.
Peaceful Environment: No noise, only wind and nature sounds.
Overnight at Tarsar Lake: One of the biggest highlights of the Kashmir lake trek.

Day 05 :

Tarsar Lake to Sundersar – Cross High Pass

Morning Lake Reflection: Early morning reflection of mountains in Tarsar Lake.
Climb Towards Ridge: Gradual climb towards higher mountain pass.
View of Marsar Side Valley: Scenic high-altitude landscapes on both sides.
Rocky Mountain Path: Slightly challenging section compared to earlier days.
Snow Patches in Early Season: Possible snow crossings in July.
Open High Meadows: Wide green land at higher altitude.
Arrival at Sundersar Lake: Another beautiful alpine lake at around 4,200 meters.
Remote Camping Experience: Quiet and less crowded campsite.
Clear Starry Night: Perfect sky for stargazing.
Rest at High Camp: Overnight stay near Sundersar Lake.

Day 06 :

Sundersar to Lidderwat – Descend Back to Valley

Morning at High Altitude Camp: Cool and refreshing mountain morning.
Start Descending Trail: The path slowly moves downhill.
Green Valleys Reappear: Meadows become wider as you descend.
Forest Section Entry: Pine forests welcome you again.
Long Trekking Day: Slightly longer walking hours compared to previous days.
River Views Along the Way: Lidder River visible again near campsite.
Return to Familiar Landscape: Recognizable trails from earlier days.
Comfortable Descent Route: Easier walking compared to ascent.
Arrival at Lidderwat: Reach campsite by evening.
Final Night in Camps: Celebrate completion of major trekking route.

Day 07 :

Lidderwat to Aru – Drive Back to Srinagar

Final Trek Day Begins: Start 13 km descent towards Aru Village.
Walk Through Forest Trail: Same scenic forest path as Day 2.
Cross Wooden Bridges Again: Streams and river crossings.
Gradual Downhill Route: Easy walking compared to previous days.
Arrival at Aru Valley: End point of the Tarsar Marsar Trek.
Drive to Srinagar: Vehicle transfer back to Srinagar.
Scenic Road Journey: Relaxing 4–5 hour drive through Kashmir Valley.
Completion of 7 Days Trek: Around 45–50 km trekking distance completed.
Memories of Alpine Lakes: Experience of Tarsar and Sundersar stays unforgettable.
Departure with Mountain Memories: Trek ends with beautiful memories of the Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek.

Includes/Excludes

Inclusions

Accommodation in Camps: Stay in quality tents on twin or triple sharing basis from Aru Valley to all high-altitude camps like Lidderwat, Shekwas, Tarsar Lake, and Sundersar Lake. Sleeping tents are weather-resistant and suitable for Himalayan conditions.
All Meals During Trek: Nutritious vegetarian meals are provided from Day 1 dinner to Day 7 breakfast. The food includes breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner. Meals are freshly prepared at camps to maintain hygiene and energy levels during the trek.
Professional Trek Leader & Guide: Experienced and certified trek leaders guide the group throughout the Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek. They ensure safety, manage the route, and provide support during difficult sections.
Experienced Support Staff: Skilled local staff, including cooks and helpers, assist in setting up camps and preparing meals. Their knowledge of the Kashmir trekking route adds safety and comfort.
Camping Equipment: Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, and common dining tents are included. Sleeping bags are suitable for cold temperatures at high altitude.
Transportation from Srinagar to Aru and Return: Pickup and drop service from Srinagar to Aru Valley and back is included in most trekking packages, making travel easy for participants.
First Aid & Medical Support: A basic medical kit is carried by the trek leader. Oxygen cylinders or emergency support are available for high-altitude situations.
Permits & Forest Entry Fees: All required trekking permits, local entry fees, and camping permissions for trekking in Jammu and Kashmir are included in the package cost.
Kitchen & Dining Setup: Proper kitchen tents, cooking equipment, and dining arrangements are provided at every campsite during the 7 days Himalayan trek.
Safety Equipment: Basic safety gear and communication support are arranged to ensure a secure trekking experience in remote mountain areas.

Exclusions

Travel to Srinagar: Flight tickets, train tickets, or bus fare to reach Srinagar are not included. Trekkers must arrange their own travel to and from Srinagar before and after the trek.
Personal Expenses: Any personal shopping, snacks, bottled water, cold drinks, tea at local shops, or extra food items are not included in the package cost.
Trekking Gear Rental: Personal trekking gear like trekking shoes, jackets, gloves, backpacks, rain covers, and walking sticks are not included unless specifically mentioned. These items can be rented separately if required.
Porter Charges for Personal Luggage: The package usually includes staff to carry common camping equipment, but if you want a porter to carry your personal backpack during the Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek, extra charges will apply.
Travel Insurance: Any kind of travel insurance or medical insurance for high-altitude trekking in Jammu and Kashmir is not included. Trekkers are advised to arrange their own insurance.
Emergency Evacuation Cost: In case of serious illness, injury, or weather-related evacuation, the cost of helicopter rescue or special transport is not included in the trek price.
Extra Stay in Srinagar: Hotel stay in Srinagar before or after the 7 days Himalayan trek is not part of the package unless clearly mentioned.
Tips & Gratitude: Tips for trek leaders, guides, cooks, and support staff are not included and are completely optional.
Any Cost Due to Natural Conditions: Expenses caused by landslides, road blockages, bad weather, or changes in itinerary are not included. Any additional transport or stay due to such reasons must be paid by the trekker.
Anything Not Mentioned in Inclusions: Any service not clearly listed under “Tarsar Marsar Trek Inclusions” will be treated as an exclusion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand all

Where is Tarsar Marsar Trek located?

The Tarsar Marsar Trek is located in Jammu and Kashmir. The trek starts from Aru Valley, which is around 3–4 hours by road from Srinagar. It is one of the most beautiful lake treks in Kashmir.

What is the total distance of Tarsar Marsar Trek?

The total trekking distance is around 45 to 50 kilometers. It is completed over 7 days, making it a perfect 7 days Himalayan trekking experience.

What is the maximum altitude of Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek?

The maximum altitude is around 4,200 meters (13,800 feet) above sea level near Sundersar Lake. Proper acclimatization is important during this high-altitude trek in Kashmir.

Is Tarsar Marsar Trek difficult for beginners?

This is a moderate difficulty trek. Beginners with good fitness can complete it. There is no technical climbing, but daily walking of 5–7 hours is required.

What is the best time to visit Tarsar Marsar Lake?

The best time for Tarsar Marsar Trek is from July to September. During this season, the meadows are green, the weather is pleasant, and the lakes look clear and beautiful.

How many hours do we walk every day?

On average, trekkers walk for 5 to 7 hours daily. Some days may be slightly longer depending on the route and altitude gain.

Do we really camp near Tarsar Lake and Sundersar Lake?

Yes, camping beside Tarsar Lake is one of the biggest highlights of this Kashmir lake trek. Camps are also set near Sundersar Lake, offering peaceful mountain views.

How cold does it get during the trek?

During the trekking season, daytime temperature is comfortable. At night, especially near high-altitude lakes, temperature can drop close to 0°C.

Is mobile network available on the trek?

Mobile network works in Srinagar and sometimes in Aru Valley. After that, most of the trekking route has no signal.

How do I reach the starting point of the trek?

You need to reach Srinagar first by flight, train, or bus. From Srinagar, a vehicle takes you to Aru Valley, which is the base camp of the Tarsar Marsar Trek.

What type of accommodation is provided during the trek?

Accommodation is in tents on sharing basis at different campsites like Lidderwat, Shekwas, Tarsar Lake, and Sundersar Lake.

Is Tarsar Marsar Trek safe?

Yes, it is safe when done with experienced guides and proper safety arrangements. Following instructions and staying hydrated is important during this high-altitude trekking adventure.

About Us

Social Account

Tarsar Marsar Trek

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map