- Camping
- Fall Treks
- Jammu Kashmir
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- Moderate Grade Treks in Himalayas
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- One Week Trek
Tarsar Marsar Trek: A Kashmiri Gem Unveiled
Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting Kashmir Valley with the Tarsar Marsar Trek, a hidden gem that has been gaining the admiration of trekkers. This picturesque trek, adorned with secluded alpine lakes, meandering rivers, lush meadows, and vibrant wildflowers, unveils its magic during July and August.
Trail Highlights:
- Trek Base Camp – Aru: Commencing from Aru, an upper valley beyond the famous Pahalgam town, the adventure unfolds. Aru sets the stage, leading us to the pristine Lidder River, surrounded by cedar and conifer forests.
- Lidderwat Campsite: A day’s trek along the Lidder River brings us to the mesmerizing Lidderwat, one of Kashmir’s most beautiful campsites. It marks the confluence of two streams, originating from the Tarsar and Kolahoi glaciers, shaping the Lidder River.
- Meadows of Sekhwas: Venturing into a valley on one side, the trail meanders through the lush meadows of Sekhwas, gradually revealing the beauty of Tarsar.
Brief Itinerary:
- Day 1: Start from Srinagar (or airport) by noon – Drive to Aru (~2440 m/8000 ft) via Pahalgam – 110 Km – 4 hours. Twin sharing tent accommodation.
- Day 2: Trek from Aru to Lidderwat (~2800 m/9180 ft) – 10 Km – 5/6 hours. Camp.
- Day 3: Trek from Lidderwat to Shekwas camping ground (~3380 m/11100 ft) – 6 Km – 4/5 hours.
- Day 4: Trek from Shekwas to Tarsar Lake (~3800 m/12465 ft) – 5 Km – 4 hours. Explore around. Camp.
- Day 5: Trek from Tarsar to Sundersar (~3950 m/12950 ft) via Sonamous/Tarsar Pass (~4000 m/13120 ft) – 5 Km – 3/4 hours. Camp. Visit Marsar Lake (~3960 m/13000 ft) in the afternoon and return to camp (2 hours).
- Day 6: Trek down to Lidderwat (~2800 m/9180 ft) via Shekwas – 14 Km – 6 to 7 hours. Camp.
- Day 7: Lidderwat to Aru (~2440 m/8000 ft) – 10 Km – 4 hours – Drive to Srinagar – 110 Km – 4 hours. Reach Srinagar city by 8 pm. Accommodation on your own.
- Day 8: Fly out of Srinagar
Important Notes on the itinerary:
- Ensure arrival in Srinagar by noon on Day 1. After the trek, return to Srinagar on Day 7 by 8 pm. Plan tickets and stay accordingly.
- Shared transportation from Srinagar to Basecamp Aru and return can be arranged. The fare is ₹5000 one way (Tata Sumo, 5 to 6 sharing), payable directly to the driver.
- The cost of the mandatory reserve day (Day 8) is NOT included in the TREK FEE. If used during trekking, an additional ₹2500 per person will be collected at Aru.
- If the reserve day isn’t utilized, return to Srinagar on Day 7 evening. Enjoy optional activities like a Shikara ride on Dal Lake or a houseboat stay in Srinagar.
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Tarsar Marsar Trek is welcoming to first-timers, provided:
- You maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
- Possess sufficient physical fitness to endure 5/6 hours of hiking daily with your backpack.
- Seek proper guidance, logistical support, and assistance with some personal clothing and gear.
Best Season for Tarsar Marsar Trek: Weather Insights
The prime season for the Tarsar Marsar trek spans from late June to late September. July and August unveil the essence of Kashmir Valley with gushing brooks, verdant meadows, and wildflowers.
- After mid-September, meadows transition to hues of yellow. In October, as autumn sets in, expect colder weather.
- Anticipate a minimum temperature of 0° to 5°C at Tarsar or Sundersar campsites, with some windchill. A waterproof layer is essential.
Rains in July-Aug?
While there is no “monsoon wind” in Kashmir, July and August may experience occasional rain showers or thunderstorms, lasting around an hour. Be prepared with a waterproof layer.
Clothing Recommendations:
- Base layer (moisture-wicking): Quick-dry t-shirt, trekking pants (synthetic, wind- or water-proof).
- Mid layer (warm clothing): Warm jacket (synthetic, fleece, down jacket).
- Outer layer (weatherproofing): Windproof and waterproof jacket or poncho.
Remember, we don’t provide gear renting facilities, so it’s advisable to carry your own. Consult our comprehensive list of things to carry for a Himalayan trek and explore how to choose the right trekking gear.
Reaching Trek Basecamp (Aru near Pahalgam):
Our basecamp Aru, located 10 Km ahead of Pahalgam, is accessible via a 3 to 4-hour drive from Srinagar. We offer a shared car pick-up from Srinagar airport to Aru and return. A Toyota Innova charges ₹4500 one way (4 to 5 people can share), payable directly to the driver.
The most convenient way to reach Srinagar is by flight to Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport (Code: SXR). Alternatively, the nearest railway station is in Jammu (Code: JAT), around 10 hours away from Srinagar.
Embark on the Tarsar Marsar Trek, where every step unravels the beauty of Kashmir. Join Great Himalayan Vacations for an unforgettable adventure, blending nature’s wonders with the thrill of exploration.
Duration: 6 days of trek; Srinagar to Srinagar in 7 days. Adding a mandatory buffer day it is 8 days, Srinagar to Srinagar.
Prerequisite: Prior trekking experience is nice to have. Good physical fitness is always desired in any trek.
Grade: Moderate
Physicality: 6/10
Trail Length: 50 Km
Highest Point: Tarsar ~ 3800 m/12465 ft, Marsar ~ 3960 m/13000 ft, Sundersar ~ 3950 m/12950 ft.
Seasons: July to September
Further Option: From Naranag drive to Sumbhol and trek to Tarsar and Marsar
Access: Trek starting point is Aru near Pahalgam, 110 Km from Srinagar
Railway station: Jammu Tawi (STN Code: JAT)
Airport: Srinagar (Code: SXR)
Upcoming Scheduled Dates for Tarsar Marsar Trek:
- For your convenience, you can review the scheduled Fixed Departure dates in the calendar provided within the Booking Form or the REGISTER NOW form. The starting dates of the tour are highlighted according to our 8-day itinerary.
- Currently, the BOOK NOW functionality is disabled. However, you can still receive all the necessary information via email by completing the REGISTER NOW form.
- In case you’re part of a group and the available dates don’t align with your schedule, you have the option to choose the Custom date mode. Simply click on “Select your custom date” and fill in the displayed form accordingly.
- You can also refer to our TREK CALENDAR to get a quick overview of all the available dates.
- Participants are required to arrive in Srinagar by noon on Day 1 of the trek. The return journey to Srinagar is scheduled for Day 7 in the evening, around 8 pm. Please make sure to arrange your tickets for both the inward and return journeys accordingly.
Getting to Aru (The Trek Base):
- We facilitate car pickups from Srinagar to Aru and return, with the cost shared equally among the team members availing the service.
- The most convenient option to reach Srinagar is by flight, with direct flights available from Delhi and other major cities.
- For those traveling by train, the journey involves reaching Jammu first. From there, a drive to Srinagar takes around 12 hours, covering a distance of approximately 300 km.
Arrival in Srinagar and Drive to Aru
Start from Srinagar (or airport) by noon and embark on a picturesque drive to Aru (~2440 m/8000 ft) via Pahalgam, covering a distance of 110 km in approximately 4 hours.
Upon arrival in Aru, settle into twin-sharing tent accommodation amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Trek from Aru to Lidderwat
Begin the trek from Aru to Lidderwat (~2800 m/9180 ft), covering a distance of 10 km over 5/6 hours through scenic landscapes and lush greenery.
Set up camp upon reaching Lidderwat and immerse yourself in the serenity of the campsite surrounded by nature.
Trek from Lidderwat to Shekwas Camping Ground
Trek from Lidderwat to the Shekwas camping ground (~3380 m/11100 ft), a journey of 6 km taking approximately 4/5 hours.
Enjoy the enchanting views along the trail as you make your way to the next campsite amidst the stunning Himalayan wilderness.
Trek from Shekwas to Tarsar Lake
Embark on a trek from Shekwas to Tarsar Lake (~3800 m/12465 ft), covering a distance of 5 km in around 4 hours.
Explore the beautiful surroundings of Tarsar Lake and soak in the breathtaking vistas before setting up camp for the night.
Trek from Tarsar to Sundersar via Sonamous/Tarsar Pass
Trek from Tarsar to Sundersar (~3950 m/12950 ft) via Sonamous/Tarsar Pass (~4000 m/13120 ft), a journey of 5 km taking 3/4 hours.
Visit Marsar Lake (~3960 m/13000 ft) in the afternoon and return to camp after a memorable exploration lasting 2 hours.
Trek Back to Lidderwat
Trek back from Sundersar to Lidderwat (~2800 m/9180 ft) via Shekwas, covering a distance of 14 km over 6 to 7 hours.
Enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility of the surroundings during the return journey to Lidderwat campsite.
Trek from Lidderwat to Aru and Drive to Srinagar
Trek from Lidderwat to Aru, covering a distance of 10 km in approximately 4 hours.
After reaching Aru, embark on a drive back to Srinagar, covering a distance of 110 km in around 4 hours.
Reach Srinagar city by 8 pm and arrange accommodation on your own to relax after the trekking adventure.
Departure from Srinagar
Trek Fee: ₹ 15,500 per person (Aru to Aru) + 5% GST.
Inclusions:
All meals during the trek, including vegetarian options with occasional servings of eggs. Tea is served in the morning and evening.
Accommodation in tents during the trek on a twin-sharing basis.
Professional Guide, Cook & Helper.
Porters/Packed animals to carry the central logistics.
Camping equipment like Sleeping bag, Carry mattress, Dining tent, Toilet tent, Gaiters, Microspikes/crampons.
Permit fee, camping charges, and forest levy as required in the trek.
Basic Medical & First Aid kit.
Travel and Medical Insurance Policy covering high-altitude trekking tours.
Exclusions:
Transportation from Srinagar airport to trek base Aru and return. ₹ 5000 one way for a Tata Sumo.
Rucksack/Backpack offloading charge of ₹ 2500 for the entire duration of the trek if preferred.
Any tip or gratuity to the HT support staff.
Anything that is NOT mentioned in the “Inclusions” or personal.
Booking:
- We assume that you have read and understood our “Terms & Conditions” (https://greenvalleyhimalayas.com/terms-and-conditions) before Booking a trek/tour.
- To reserve your place in a scheduled Fixed Departure trek or a Customised/Private trek pay 25% of the TREK/TOUR FEE as the initial “Booking Deposit”. You can pay by Net banking/Draft/Cheque/Credit/Debit/AMEX cards. This will ensure your participation in the desired trek and we will reserve your place on the scheduled date. You need to pay the remaining amount at least 15 days before the Trek Starting Date.
- If you book a Trek/Tour before 14 days or less from the Trek/Tour Starting Date, you need to pay the full TREK/TOUR FEE.
Cancellations:
- “Booking Amount” i.e.25% of the TREK/TOUR FEE is Non-Refundable at any stage.
- If in case you are not able to make it due to unavoidable reasons (s), we provide you avery flexible choice of Shifting to another trek within the next one year. One year is counted from the starting date of the trek/tour you booked initially with us.
- In case you postpone your trip you need to inform a minimum of 15 days before the trek/tour starting date. (Though we suggest to inform us earlier if know)
- In case you postpone a trek/tour 15 days before the scheduled Trek/Tour Starting date or prior, you may shift to another group of the same trek/tour scheduled in the same season or within the next one year. You may shift to another suitable route also. For changing any, you need our approval first. Your request must be in written communication through your registered email with us.
- If you cancel/postpone a trek/tour from 14 days to 8 days before the tour starting date, your Booking Amount is Non-Refundable. We will not take any requests for shifting dates. We will charge 50% of the amount as Cancellation Charges and process a refund of the remaining 50%. You may also shift to another group within next year but 25% Booking Amount will be deemed as Cancellation Charge and the rest amount will be transferred to the shifted group.
- If you cancel a trek/tour 7 days (i.e. a week) before the Trek/Tour Starting Date or later, there will be NO REFUND.
- In case of any unforeseen incident including but not limited to natural calamities like flood, earthquake, landslide, forest fire, or any political unrest, if we are compelled to cancel the trek/trip, you will be entitled to redeem the full amount for the same/similar kind of trek/trip within next one year.
If you need more clarifications write to info@greenvalleyhimalayas.com
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