The Tarsar Marsar Trek is a popular high altitude trek located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The trek takes you through some of the most scenic and remote regions of the Kashmir Valley, offering stunning views of snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, dense forests, and crystal-clear lakes. The trek is named after the two alpine lakes that it passes through - Tarsar Lake and Marsar Lake. Tarsar Lake is a large alpine lake located at an altitude of 12,000 feet, while Marsar Lake is a smaller lake located at an altitude of 14,000 feet. Both lakes are known for their stunning beauty and clear blue-green waters. The Tarsar Marsar Trek is a moderate to difficult trek that requires a good level of fitness and endurance. The trek takes around 7 to 8 days to complete and covers a distance of approximately 50 kilometers. The trek starts from the picturesque village of Aru, located in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir, and takes you through several high altitude passes, including the Shekwasar Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The trek is best undertaken during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is mild and the skies are clear. The trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the unspoiled beauty of the Kashmir Valley and to experience the rich culture and traditions of the local Gujjar and Bakarwal communities who inhabit the region.

Highlights of the Trek

Scenic beauty: The trek takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the Kashmir Valley, including alpine meadows, dense forests, gushing streams, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear lakes.

Tarsar Lake: The trek takes you to the stunning Tarsar Lake, a large alpine lake with clear blue-green waters, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Marsar Lake: The trek also takes you to the smaller Marsar Lake, located at a higher altitude than Tarsar Lake, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

High altitude passes: The trek takes you through several high altitude passes, including the Shekwasar Pass and the Tarsar Pass, which offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

Rich flora and fauna: The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to alpine meadows, providing opportunities to spot a wide variety of flora and fauna, including Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and a variety of bird species.

Rich culture and traditions: The trek takes you through remote villages inhabited by the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities, providing an opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of these ethnic groups.

Camping: The trek involves camping in some of the most picturesque locations in the Kashmir Valley, providing an opportunity to enjoy the pristine beauty of the region at its best.

About the Trek

The Tarsar Marsar Trek is a thrilling adventure that takes you deep into the heart of the Kashmir Valley. It's a journey that offers breathtaking scenery at every turn, with snow-capped peaks, shimmering alpine lakes, and verdant meadows all around you. The trek itself is challenging, but the rewards are well worth it. Over the course of 7-8 days, you'll hike through dense forests, cross gurgling streams, and traverse high-altitude passes that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You'll also get to camp out under the stars in some of the most beautiful locations in the region, including next to the crystal-clear waters of Tarsar and Marsar Lakes. One of the most exciting aspects of the Tarsar Marsar Trek is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the local Gujjar and Bakarwal communities. These communities have been living in the region for centuries, and their unique way of life is fascinating glimpse into a world that few outsiders get to experience

Quick Overview

Duration : 8 Days and 7 Nights

Start Point: Srinagar

End Point: Srinagar

Inclusions

Transportation to and from the starting point of the trek.

Accommodation during the trek, usually in tents or basic guesthouses.

All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).

Services of a local trekking guide and support staff, such as porters and cooks.

Permits and entry fees to the national park and any other required permissions.

Trekking equipment such as sleeping bags, tents, and trekking poles.

First aid and emergency medical kit.

Pre-trek briefing and orientation.

24/7 support from the tour operator. 

Triposcape Checklist:

Here are some must-do things on the Tarsar Marsar Trek:

Explore the stunning alpine lakes: The Tarsar and Marsar lakes are the highlight of the trek, and offer breathtaking views. Take some time to explore the lakes and their surroundings.

Camp under the stars: The Tarsar Marsar Trek offers numerous campsites with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. Spend a night under the stars and take in the natural beauty of the region.

Cross the Shekwas Bridge: The Shekwas Bridge is a suspension bridge over the Lidder River that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Cross the bridge and take some time to enjoy the views.

Visit the Aru Valley: The Aru Valley is the starting point of the trek, and is known for its scenic beauty. Take some time to explore the valley and its surroundings before starting the trek.

Spot local wildlife: The Tarsar Marsar Trek is home to a variety of wildlife, including musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard. Keep an eye out for these animals while on the trek.

Enjoy local cuisine: The local cuisine of the region is delicious and offers a unique culinary experience. Sample some of the local dishes, such as kehwa (a type of Kashmiri tea) and rogan josh (a lamb dish).

Meet the locals: The Tarsar Marsar Trek takes you through several small villages, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.

Remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the local culture and environment while on the trek

How To Reach:

 By Air: Srinagar International Airport is the nearest airport in Srinagar which has flight connectivity to major cities of India.

 By Rail: The closest railway station to Srinagar is in Jammu Tawi which also has trains connectivity all over India.

 By Road: Buses from Dellhi to Jammu are available, from where cabs or buses can transport you to Srinagar directly.

Packages

Budget Package

Our budget package is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of the trek without breaking the bank. The package includes basic accommodation in tents, all meals during the trek, services of a local trekking guide and support staff, and permits and entry fees. Prices start from just INR 14,999 per person.

Standard Package

For those who want a bit more comfort and convenience, our standard package includes accommodation in comfortable tents or guesthouses, all meals during the trek, services of an experienced trekking guide and support staff, permits and entry fees, transportation to and from the starting point of the trek, and trekking equipment such as sleeping bags and trekking poles. Prices start from just INR 24,999 per person.

Luxury Package

For those who want the ultimate luxury trekking experience, our luxury package includes all of the above, plus additional amenities such as luxury accommodation, gourmet meals, private transportation, and more. Prices for our luxury package start from just INR 49,999 per person.

Terms and Conditions

1) Payment: A non-refundable advance payment of 50% of the total package cost is required at the time of booking. The remaining 50% must be paid at least 15 days prior to the trek start date.

2) Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation by the participant, the advance payment is non-refundable. However, if the cancellation is made at least 15 days prior to the trek start date, the participant may transfer the booking to another date within 6 months of the original booking date.

3) ID proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of booking, and also upon arrival. PAN card will not be considered as a valid address proof

4) Travel Insurance: Participants are strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers accidents, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations.

5) Health and Fitness: Participants must be in good health and physical condition to undertake the trek. They should inform the trek leader of any medical conditions or medications they are taking before the start of the trek.

6) Trek Itinerary: The trek itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, group size, and other factors that may affect the safety and comfort of the participants.

7) Liability: Participants are required to sign a liability waiver before the start of the trek, releasing the trek organizers from any liability for injury, loss, or damage to personal property.

8) Conduct: Participants are expected to behave responsibly and respectfully towards other participants, trek leaders, support staff, and the environment.

9) Emergency: In case of any emergency, the trek leaders will take necessary actions to ensure the safety of the participants. Participants are required to cooperate with the trek leaders and support staff in case of any emergency.

Note: These terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Participants are advised to check the latest terms and conditions before booking the trek.

Things To Carry

1) Backpack with rain cover

2) Trekking shoes

3)  Warm clothing (fleece jackets, woolen caps, gloves, thermal wear)

4) Windcheater or rain jacket

5) Personal medication (if any)

6) Water bottles and hydration pack

7)  Headlamp or torch with extra batteries

8)  Sunscreen lotion, lip balm, and sunglasses

9)Quick-dry towels

10)  Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, etc.

11)  Insect repellent

12)  Energy bars and snacks

13)  Personal identification (Passportor Aadhar card)