The Tarsar Marser trek is an excellent chance for those searching for breathtaking views of the Kashmir valley during snow combat. This trek reaches an elevation of around 13,450 ft and has a coverage of about 47.8 km. The streamline runs between the eminent Tarsar and Marsar lakes, making it one of the most exotic lake treks in the region. The trek is ideal for amateurs and seasoned trekkers, as it isn’t too difficult.
While hiking, you will taste the splendid views of Srinagar in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, alongside the dazzling royal blue alpine lakes, which will etch seamlessly into your mountaineering experience.
Since the trek is in proximity to the Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, there is a chance you will see the mystical Himalayan brown bear during your hike. During the hike, you will enjoy the views of rivers formed through snow melting, beautiful moving forests, wildflower greenery, huge mountains capped with tin of snow, and beautiful waterfalls.
Tarsar Lake has the shape of an almond, while the crescent-shaped lake Sundersar adds a different twist to the trek.
While on the Tarsar Marsar trek, if you are staying in the meadows in Kashmir when you wake up, it feels as though you have seen a touch of paradise when the golden beauty of the valley surrounds you. One famous Persian artist stated that if there is a heaven on earth, it is this.
The Tarsar Marsar Trek has the above features, such as velvety grasslands, blue waters of the pines, beautiful cottages, and glacial lakes to camp near.
In practical terms, the Tarsar Marsar Trek does not require too much physical fitness; one or two steps of acclimatization would set one right; therefore, trekkers who are physically fit and want to do some moderate trekking may choose this place.
The Tarsar Marsar Trek is located in the beautiful and famous Kashmir Valley, the northernmost part of India, Jammu & Kashmir. The trek will lead you to some of the most stunning vistas, including mountain meadows, alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains and thick pine forests.
With a summit altitude of 13,201 feet, the trek towers towards the moderate side. The reason why it’s classified as part of the moderate category is due to the long treks rather than the area being difficult to traverse. The Tarsar Marsar trek is an exception to the other difficult journeys as it is highly suitable for those with some trekking experience.
The term moderate explains quite a lot, so it must be cited to understand Tarsar Pass better. The journey tends to get longer, and there are few places where the ascents are steep. Compared to Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal, the Tarsar Marsar trek might be slightly more difficult; however, there are no technical aspects to it, making it suitable for those who have completed a couple of treks.
Beyond worrying about acute mountain sickness (AMS) after reaching elevated heights, trekkers especially need to be more careful when going down the Tarsar Pass.
While the Tarsar Pass has a short descent, this becomes difficult, especially during the monsoon season, as the trail can be wet and slippery. So ensure you have good trekking shoes that prevent slipping and keep you safe.
The trek spans 6 to 7 days, depending on the pace and itinerary chosen. It is designed to be a moderate to challenging adventure, where trekkers experience high-altitude camping and various terrains.
The trek permits enough time for tourists to take in majestic views of the Tarsar and Marsar lakes and appreciate the beauty of Kashmir’s wilderness.
The best months are July and September if you plan on going for the Tarsar marsar lake trek. Most parts of India see an influx of rain during this time, but the Kashmir Valley during July and September is mostly dry due to the Pir Panjal range blocking clouds. It is meant to be a moderate to strenuous grade adventure in which the trekkers are exposed to high-altitude camping and various terrains.
Even during the peak season of July to September, the Tarsar Marsar trek undergoes distinct transformations, each month offering a different experience in terms of landscape and weather.
In the months when the Tarsar Marsar trek the Himalayas is done, the beauty of the Himalayas is unparalleled. Walking through the Jagmargi plains, you will witness meadows blooming with wildflowers in various colours, such as violet, purple, yellow and white. The Tarsar and Sundarsar alpine lakes have started melting, and their colour has become a deep blue shade.
The Kashmir Tarsar Marsar lake trek starts to feel colder between the end of August and early September, shifting the atmosphere of the meadows and lakes.
The above conditions make this trek doable, but the comfort decreases due to the lower temperature during this time. Most people manage to get the entire trek through by the first week of September, with a few exceptions making the trip till the end of the month, so setting up for lower temperatures is essential for this period. However, be prepared for colder conditions during this time.
Snowy mountain tops, Kolahoi Glacier and gleaming alpine lakes in tandem with greens of meadows.
Duration: 3-4 hours | Distance: 100 km | Altitude: 7,960 ft (2,426 m)
While journeying along the scenic route, one can view the picturesque Dal and its rivers, the Mashkhoor Valley, and the famous Gulmarg. As two ways can be taken to reach Pahalgam, both enable one to have an eye-pleasing experience along Kashmir’s rustic feel.
However, we prefer the Bijbehra route, which is encapsulated with apple orchards, walnut trees and apricot groves, for this type of drive provides you with a beautiful image of Kashmiris countryside that is harmonious with nature. Such a ride serves as a picturesque vision of rural Kashmir, with features that blend seamlessly into the natural environment.
Pahalgam, located a hundred kilometres from Srinagar, is accessible from the Lidder River, around twelve kilometres from it. If the look is to spend the weekends near Lidder River, then travelling to Pahalgam is smooth as it only takes roughly three and a half hours from Srinagar. Through the river, Aru is exactly reachable.
Trek Duration: 7 hours | Distance: 10 km | Altitude Gain: 7,960 ft to 9,120 ft
Moderate trekking around Ladakh and Lumbini is about ten kilometres. Those who cover just about ten waters will finish the trek in around 6-7 hours. He added that the 25 minutes of the trek are mostly flat ground, followed by relatively gentle and cool ground, which is excellent for a long walk.
The valley opens up to you about twenty minutes into the hike, picturesque with little houses all around. After an hour, the trail leads you to the Lidder River, on the banks of which you will find sheep houses and little wooden bridges to cross. On the way, do not forget to observe traditional Kashmiri culture, which is rarely produced.
Gujjar huts dot the meadows near Dalla, where the trail will take you through – gradually sloping upwards through the fir trees. From here, the path levels out, leading you into open grasslands where you might spot Gujjars on horseback.
The path is peaceful and serene, with streams that you can stop by to rest and refresh. From Lidderwat, the first hour of the journey will take you across the wooden bridge encircled by small pine trees with a cosy tea stall for weary trekkers wishing to rest before carrying on.
The breathtaking camping options provided along the banks of the Lidderriver make the Lidderwat Meadows one of the best spots for overnight stays, while the stunning green meadows will make you forget it was endless grasslands that you just crossed through.
Pro Tip: Allow yourself evening amenities to walk to a Gujjar village. It is an experience interacting with a Gujjar community that few other treks can feature. Meandering streams weave their way through Lidderwat, further enhancing it as an ideal spot for camping. Also, Lidderwat stands out as a great hiking destination with the opportunity to immerse oneself in breathtaking scenery.
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Trek Distance: 5.6 km | Altitude Gain: 9,120 ft to 11,035 ft
Moving from Lidderwat towards Shekwas should be considered the highlight of the day; during the course of the hike, everyone pushes through as working towards an aim is highly motivating. The first 2 hours involve continuous climbing, with brief level sections allowing you to catch your breath. The trail takes you across multiple streams, passing through deep valleys and expansive meadows.
The trail begins behind the PDA huts, following the river as it climbs into a pine forest. The path is straightforward and not too challenging, making for a pleasant start.
After about 90 minutes of steady climbing, the landscape reveals stunning views of the Lidderwat valley. You’ll see vast, sweeping grasslands merging with towering mountains, some with patches of snow, creating a breathtaking vista.
As you continue, the trail ascends, heading left past the Bhakarwal shelters, staying to the river’s right. The clear streams that cut through the trail provide opportunities to refill your water bottles.
After crossing the river (using a few boulders and a makeshift long bridge), the trail continues upwards, leading you towards Homwas. This area offers a broad, grassy clearing and a few Gujjar huts, perfect for a quick stop to enjoy a cup of tea. The path here is mainly on soft grass, making for a pleasant walk as you head towards a narrow valley with the river’s blue waters running alongside you.
The climb continues as you pass a cluster of ancient Silver Birch trees, and soon, the view opens up to reveal even more spectacular scenery. Expansive meadows stretch before you, with two large green valleys in the distance. Snow-capped cliffs rise beyond the meadows, casting a dark shadow across the landscape.
After passing a few more Gujjar huts, the trail reaches the beautiful campsite of Shekwas. This site, located at a higher elevation, offers a stunning setting and a welcome break after the challenging climb.
Pro Tip: Take off your shoes in the evening and climb the grassy ridge just behind the campsite. Settle down in a comfortable position at a majestic location and plunge into the rapidly changing hues of the sunset with the assistance of a knowledgeable guide. Grabbing the opportunity to work at a picturesque location works wonders.
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Trek Distance: 5 km | Altitude Gain: 11,035 ft to 12,435 ft
Today’s trek is a moderate ascent, with steady inclines leading toward the stunning Tarsar Lake. The excitement builds as you climb one mound after another, each offering a new view and sense of anticipation.
If you have extra time, consider hiking to Marsar Point, the trek’s highest point, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of both Tarsar and Marsar lakes. Alternatively, you can head towards Tabaksar for another beautiful perspective.
After leaving Shekwas, the trail meanders through grassy slopes, gradually approaching Tarsar. The route climbs steadily into a ridge that overlooks the stream below, leading you in a general westerly direction. As you ascend, you’ll pass several false ridges, each opening up to new and enchanting views.
After two hours of steady climbing, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Tarsar. Even this fleeting view is enough to thrill you, as it marks the near arrival at the lake’s shores. Cross the stream over boulders and step onto the grassy meadows surrounding Tarsar. There are plenty of flat spots for camping, making it easy to settle down and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Pro Tip: As evening falls, stroll around the lake’s edge. Head to the far end for a different lake perspective if time permits. This side’s colors and views are unique compared to those at the campsite.
Tarsar Lake itself is a stunning display of nature’s beauty. Cynics will certainly scoff, but if there ever existed a location that allowed you to feel almost godly, the peaceful borders of Tarsar Lake, infused with ice patches, meet the Tarsar Lake.
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Trek Distance: 5 km | Altitude Gain: 12,435 ft to 12,945 ft via 13,140 ft
On this day, the Tarsar Pass will provide a view of the Sun Pass, which paves the way to cross over the Tarsar pass, making today’s journey slightly more difficult with a steep incline. The climb leads to the stunning waters of Sundersar, setting it up as the highlight of the trek. Another highlight of the day is the Jagmargi hills, best known for their knee-length water streams and the wild horses that don them.
An assortment of lakes in different shapes, the sunders stand out among the rest, with tranquillity perfected during the late nights, followed by stunning views during sunrises and sunsets.
After the pass has been crossed, one can see an arrangement of the beautiful terrain shrunk down within a valley, which can stretch on for quite a while, serving as a treat for trekkers. The view will be followed up with grazing trails used by shepherds and streams of water that meander around grassy components within the valley, and the rest of the valley brunch will be left to be explored.
Around the 10-minute mark of the hike, there are some Bakkarval huts on your left. After the hut, the path goes up a short pile of boulders and takes you to a knoll. The panorama beyond this knoll is even more gorgeous. Vast meadows open towards you with the view of mountains capped with snow on the horizon.
Flocks of sheep are seen chewing on the thick grass while horses race across the fields. In the meadow’s centre, a stream turns into a vast pond created by melted snow from the mountains nearby. It takes roughly 30 minutes to walk around this natural creation.
Recommendation: Jagmargi pastures are very beautiful. The meadow is filled with various flowers and a small river runs across it. It’s like a scene from a storybook. Next time you pass this area when trekking, let your eyes linger a little longer, as this breathtaking scenery deserves more than just a glance.
There is a trail alongside the stone where the stream emerges around the edges of the field, ending with large boulders. These boulders are so perfectly arranged they seem almost like they were intentionally laid out.
Carefully hop across the boulders, climbing for another 15 minutes until you reach the base of a ridge that separates the meadow from the valley above. The trail winds through a narrow boulder-lined valley for another 15 minutes to ascend the ridge.
Reaching the top of the ridge is another breathtaking moment. Beyond it, a larger meadow just as beautiful as the first one stretches out before you. The scenery is strikingly similar, with vibrant flowers covering the valley floor. In the distance, another ridge marks the exit of the Tarsar trek. From this point, look to your left and spot a grazing trail that leads into the mountain folds.
These folds lead to snowy, captivating mountain flanks. Follow the trail, which ascends past a stream running down the slope. The trail briefly hangs over more well-placed boulders, then continues for another 10 minutes, hopping over grassy mounds that lead you to the shores of Sundersar Lake.
On your right, you’ll find large, flat areas perfect for setting up camp. Sundersar is an idyllic spot to rest and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature after your trek from Tarsar.
Trek Duration: 7 hours | Trek Distance: 9 km | Altitude Gain/Loss: 12,945 ft to 11,300 ft via 13,165 ft
Today’s trek offers a moderate challenge, with a brief 40-minute ascent to Marsar and a gradual descent to Homwas. The path is mostly gentle, except for a boulder section, and the trail offers multiple exits, potentially leading to different regions of Kashmir.
From Sundersar, walk along the lake’s right side, making your way to the far end. There are two main passes you can take to reach Marsar.
The quicker option is the boulder-filled trail on the left. As you climb over the boulders, be mindful of the snow, which can make the approach tricky. Using an ice axe or trekking pole will provide added stability. The climb to the pass takes about 30 minutes.
Once you reach the pass, you’ll find a beautiful grassy area with clear trails leading to flatter ground below. Continue down the trail, crossing over small brooks along the path.
Follow the trail to the left, and you’ll soon spot a ridge that rises ahead and to your left.
After a short climb, you will reach the top of the ridge with a spectacular view of Marsar, which is nearly 600-700 feet downwards. Marsar is a secluded beauty, often veiled in clouds and mist.
It’s similar in size and appearance to Tarsar, with tall snow-covered cliffs rising above the lake. On the left, the lake’s waters flow down into a lush green valley leading towards Traal, while on the right, the edges of the Dachigam reserve forest nearly touch the lake’s shores.
After soaking in the view, retrace your steps back to Sundersar. The descent takes about 40 minutes. Once at Sundersar, enjoy breakfast before heading out towards Homwas.
Pro Tip: The return journey offers a fresh perspective on the trek. It’s as if you’re experiencing an entirely new trail, making the return leg to Aru all the more enjoyable.
From Sundersar, head back to Jagmargi Valley, passing through the meadows for the second time. Trekkers are fortunate to see these grasslands from a different angle.
Instead of crossing the Tarsar Pass, you’ll take an alternate route to Shekwas. After about an hour of walking from Shekwas, you’ll reach Homwas just in time for lunch. You’ll camp here for the night, completing another day in this beautiful landscape.
Trek Duration: 6 hours | Trek Distance: 13 km
Drive Duration: 3-4 hours | Drive Distance: 100 km
Altitude Loss: 11,300 ft to 7,960 ft
Difficulty: Easy. Gradual descent throughout the trek.
Highlights: Start your day early, watching the sunrise and the colors gradually changing on the mountain peaks. This is a beautiful, serene walk as you wrap up the trek and reach Aru.
Today, you will follow the inward route you previously traversed through Lidderwat. The road falls gradually, so moving down is time-efficient, and it took around Homwas two members to reach Lidderwat around 2 hours after landing.
What makes this section of the trek special is that you’ll see the views you missed the first time around, including the shrinking Kolahoi glacier. The pine forests of Lidderwat, which you passed through on day one, will appear in a new light as you revisit them.
After a rest at Lidderwat, continue your journey toward Aru. The 10 km walk from Lidderwat to Aru will take about 4 hours. Stop for lunch and aim to reach Aru by around 4 PM. Vehicles will transfer you to Srinagar when you reach 7 PM – 8 PM.
Covering an approximate distance of 12 kilometres on the trek, the Tarsar Marsar trek, which is located in Kashmir valley, passes through Arun’s little settled area that can easily be accessed by getting a taxi from Pahalgam to Aru base camp, which is not too far away. Here’s how to reach Tarsar Marsar, which comprehensively covers the various routes.
1) Arrival at Srinagar
The closest airport to the trek’s starting point is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar, about 95 km from Pahalgam and approximately 100 km from the Aru village. There are flights from big cities in India that go directly to Srinagar.
Recommended Travel Plan:
These are some comfortable options to rest and recharge for your trek.
2) From Srinagar to Pahalgam
Pahalgam, closest to Aru, is where you must be for the beginning of the Tarsar Marsar trek after you reach Srinagar.
3) From Pahalgam to Aru (Base Camp)
Aru is a stunning destination at the beginning of the trek, 12 kilometres from Pahalgam, where one can begin trekking.
Travel Tips
4) Onward Travel Options
If you travel from major cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Mumbai, or any other city, booking your flights for Day 0 (the day before your trek starts) is best. This allows enough time for acclimatization and a desired amount of rest. From here onwards, one of the two ways to travel to Srinagar can be selected:
5) Return Travel Options
After completing the Aru trek, you must reach Srinagar to catch your flight or train. Bear the following in mind:
For the Tarsar Marsar Trek, you must pack appropriate gear for high-altitude locations with various weather conditions. To better facilitate this, we have compiled a brief list of items you want to carry with you for this awe-inspiring journey of yours:
1) Trekking Gear
2) Clothing
3) Sleeping Gear
4) Food and Water
5) Personal Items
6) Navigation and Documentation
7) Miscellaneous Items
8) Optional Items
When planning your trek to Tarsar Marsar, clearly understanding the accommodation and food options available is essential. While the experience is thrilling and scenic, staying and eating along the trail require some consideration.
Accommodation Along the Trek
Accommodation during the Tarsar Marsar trek is generally in the form of camping. During the trek, you will cross many beautiful meadows and valleys and, therefore, have to camp outdoors. Most of the camping is around nature’s wonders, such as Sundarsar, Tarsar, and Marsar Lake. This allows for beautiful sceneries while enveloping you in the serenity of nature.
Most of the trekkers have been sleeping in the tented camps they rent from the trekking operators. These camps are simple yet warm and comfy. They are specially made for warmth after hard trekking.
A few campsites provide wearing bags And mattresses, sleeping inside a waterproof tent, so you remain comfortable. But a zip of sleeping bags at Muzaffar Camp Hotel would suffice if you have wet tents. It must be remembered that these are tent sites. British thermal units used worldwide are less than those used in hotels, but the contact with nature after camping is nice.
Your itineraries and shelters will already be handled if you’re travelling with mandated trekkers. It’s advisable to confirm with your trek operator to understand their camping experience, such as providing extra sleeping gear or other comfort features.
Food Options
During the Tarsar Marsar trek, the trek’s food is commonly provided by the trekking team at every campsite. The trek cook prepares the meals, which are plain but healthy enough to ensure optimal performance. The food options typically include:
Most trekkers notice that the food offered is sufficient and fills them with energy. But if you have specific dietary restrictions that need to be met, such as being ‘vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free’ or any other meals, then you need to inform your trek operator well in advance so they can take care of that accordingly. Snacks such as energy bars, nuts, and fruit are also a good idea to carry along for extra energy during the day.
Note: While the meals provided on the trek are wholesome, there might be some basic limitations in terms of variety due to the remote nature of the trek. Expect the food to be more rustic, and focus on nourishment rather than variety.
1) Stay Informed About Local Conditions
Kashmir, though a beautiful destination, has times of unrest that can affect travel plans. Before heading out, stay updated on the current situation by checking the news. Ask locals or tour operators about the condition of roads, transport options, and areas flagged as risky. Don’t let panic take over—stay calm, and if there’s any indication of a disruption, inquire about alternative routes and options.
2) Dress and Behave Appropriately
Kashmir has an appealing culture and history; others must respect the people’s customs. Next time you travel, try to wear slightly modest clothing and behave more politely to suit the crowd.
Drink water, wait for the inflated feelings to go down, and consider taking Diamox – but only after speaking to a medical expert. If things do not seem to get better, do not exert yourself.
3) Be Aware of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness)
The Tarsar Marsar trek takes you above 10,000 ft, increasing the AMS risk. Though the trek is mild regarding altitude gain, it’s crucial to pace yourself. You’ll trek for about 8 km daily over six days, with gradual ascents and descents. If you skip important stops, like camping at Shekwas, you may expose yourself to higher altitudes without proper acclimatization.
4) Know Your Exit Routes
While on the Tarsar Marsar trek, you should know the exits if you suddenly feel ill. You can go to Aru & Sumbal, which are the closest weapons to the shrine. Both roads lead you to safer areas, although one may be more convenient depending on location.
5) Prepare for Medical Emergencies
While on your itinerary, a medical emergency should always be possible, allowing you to take necessary precautions. In this case, ensure you have a first aid kit with basic medication for problems such as serious headaches, digestive issues and small injuries. Note that while there’s a hospital available in Pahalgam, worrying cases might require the attention of one in Srinagar.
6) Maintain Your Pace
While the altitude in the Tarsar Marsar area is challenging, it’s important to remain at a consistent speed. You are estimated to gain roughly 5243 ft in 6 days, and with the right pacing, you could achieve that quite comfortably. However, your stamina must be kept in mind; over-exertion will likely increase the chances of altitude sickness.
7) Hydrate and Fuel Up
The best way to ensure a successful trek is to remain hydrated to maintain your strength and energy levels and avoid depleting too quickly. Also, pack sufficient energy snacks with you for the day and lots of water to drink.
8) Pack Smart
When going for a Tarsar Marsar trek, start packing lightly but efficiently. For this type of trek, you will be going for temperature variations, trekking shoes, a sleeping bag, and your entire personal kit.
9) Respect the Environment
When trekking in a pristine or untouched region, be responsible for ensuring minimum environmental disturbance. Be respectful to the environment by carrying your waste in your backpack and not disturbing animals or plants in the region.
Are you ready to begin the Tarsar Marsar trek, or do you want to look for even more stunning places and treks to go to? You can go to cooltrails.com, where you can find an array of different and beautiful treks to start scheduling your next adventure today.
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Tarsar Marsar is a very appealing trekking destination because of the vast number of alpine lakes, meadows and mountains in the Indian Kashmir region, particularly in the Kashmir valley.
The region of Kashmir is relatively secure, so the Tarsar Marsar trekking is relatively safe. Tarsar Marsar treks safely with local guides, takes precautions, and monitors the local conditions.
Depending on the selected route and other factors, the Tarsar Marsar trek usually takes about 6-7 days to finish and is around 35 -45 km long.
Trekkers rate the Tarsar Marsar as more moderate and challenging than other treks due to its steep high altitudes and rough ascents. The keen hikers should have average fitness levels and tremendous trekking skills.
For a comfortable experience, one should maintain moderate fitness while trekking the Tarsar Marsar region. Cardiovascular exercises and regular walking and endurance training help prepare your body for the strenuous trek.
Especially from May to August, when there is a large influx of tourists, booking your Tarsar Marsar trek at least 2 to 3 months before reserving your space is recommended.
Unfortunately, mobile coverage is almost non-existent on the Tarsar Marsar trek due to extremely hilly and rugged terrains. Charging points, on the other hand, are often scarce; hence, they go equipped with a power bank.
Yes, those over the age of 58 can take the Tarsar Marsar trek if they are fit, have trekking skills, and are in good physical shape before the trek.
Tarsar Marsar trek allows the trekkers to use offloading facilities to get porters or mules to carry their backpacks and even their mules if they want to lessen the load while trekking.
