The Gangabal Twin Lakes trek is a serene and lesser-known expedition that commences from Naranag. This picturesque terrain offers a profound sense of tranquility through its simplicity. The lush trees and flourishing farms emit an invigorating aura that is impossible to overlook; one cannot help but feel a deep connection with the surroundings. Along the way, you will be captivated by the vibrant farms meticulously tended to by both men and women. As you traverse the Sindh river, you will gradually distance yourself from the bustling crowds, eventually arriving at the serene hamlet of Naranag – a quaint Gujjar village comprising a mere 100 houses.
The Gangabal Twin Lakes trek follows an unconventional route, meandering through enchanting Pine forests, leading you to the breathtaking Nundkol Lake and finally to the awe-inspiring Gangabal Lake. Known as Harmukt Ganga, the Gangabal Lake holds immense religious significance for the Kashmiri Pandits, often referred to as the ‘Haridwar of Kashmir’. This sacred body of water is nourished by the glaciers of Mount Harmukh, as well as by precipitation and natural springs. Spanning an impressive length of 2.7 kilometers and a width of 1 kilometer, it serves as the primary source for Lake Nundkol, which subsequently empties into the majestic river Sindh.
Embarking on the Gangabal Twin Lakes trek promises an unforgettable journey through untouched landscapes, where serenity and natural beauty intertwine harmoniously. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this hidden gem and allow the captivating allure of the Gangabal Twin Lakes to leave an indelible mark on your soul.
*THIS TREK SERVICES INCLUDES:
- Mule Support for personal backpack (*during hike only carry day pack)
- Varieties of food menu on daily basis (Additional snacks evening teatime)
- Drinking Hot water services at Campsites
- Lunch box kit included in the package.
- Filtered water during the trek and at campsites available.
- Spacious comfortable Tents/Sleeping bags/Mats provided for trekking (*Option to upgrade to Single Tents)
FITNESS LEVEL: This hike is suitable for people who can hike comfortably up to 10-15km per day on an average of 5-7hours of walking in a day with some steep terrain. Highest Altitude we will be hiking is less than 4200meters with some unforgettable breathe taking views. A memory which will last you like a lifetime experience.
DIFFICULTY: 5/10
MAX Altitude: 13750 ft
EVENT DURATION: 5D4N
EVENT DATES: 26-30 July 2024
EVENT COST:
- SGD600/Pax (Twin sharing basis)
- *Single supplement available upon request at additional cost
*Group size minimum 10pax – 30Pax
BOOKING CONTACT DETAILS:
WhatsApp: +6592700908
Email: contact@sgtrek.com
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
- 26 July 2024 Day 00: Overnight Singapore Airlines flight to Delhi
- 26 July 2024 Day 01: Delhi to Srinagar Airport. Transfer to Naranag Basecamp (Tents – D)
- 27 July 2024 Day 02: Hike to Gangabal Twin Lakes (B, L, D)
- 28 July 2024 Day 03: Hike to Zaj Pass and explore other lakes around the area (B, L, D)
- 29 July 2024 Day 04: Hike back to Naranag Basecamp and transfer to Srinagar Boat House (B, L, D)
- 30 July 2024 Day 5: Depart from Srinagar to Delhi to Singapore (B)
Note:
- B = Breakfast, L = Lunch and D = Dinner
- *All Accommodation on twin sharing basis (Tents camping during trek and boat house stay stay in Srinagar)
- *Medical Certificate from certified Doctor will be needed to apply the permits. Do check with us on the Medical Form.
Overview of Itinerary:
Do contact us for the flight booking. We want everyone to arrive Srinagar by morning first flight so that we can have enough time to drive to Naranag Basecamp and rest early for the night.
If you have requested the flight booking, we will help to book your flights.
DAY 1: SRINAGAR – GETTING TO THE BASE CAMP – NARANAG BASECAMP
- Time taken: 4 hours.
Group pickup from Srinagar Airport based on the flight timing given to the group. Drive to Naranag Basecamp from Srinagar which is around 3-4hours drive based on the traffic along the route.
Lunch stops at Srinagar prior to departure. (*Meals on own costing)
Enjoy the scenic route along the way from Srinagar. Arrive at the basecamp and rest for the night. Free and easy to explore around the are some of the historical sites.
Camping is in tents. (Twin Sharing Basis)
Day 02: Hike to Gangabal Twin Lakes (B, L, D)
- Altitude: 7,450 feet to 11,500 feet
- Distance: 13-15km
- Time taken: 8-10 hours.
The day commences with an early morning breakfast, typically served around 6-7 a.m., followed by an ascent to the Budhshire trail. This trail is well-marked and spacious enough to accommodate a few trekkers at a time. It is renowned for being one of the most challenging day treks. Once you reach the summit of Budhshire, the route becomes relatively easier as you make your way towards Trundkhol. From this vantage point, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of the majestic Harmukh summit and Glacier.
Continuing on, you will ascend to Kolsar Lake, and as you progress further, the trail will lead you to Gangabal Lake. Upon reaching Nundkhol, a perfect spot for camping, you can take a well-deserved break and indulge in some refreshing tea or coffee. In the evening, you will have the opportunity to visit Gangabal Lake, where you can partake in the delightful activity of trout angling and fly fishing.
Day 03: Hike to Zaj Pass and explore other lakes around the area (B, L, D)
Today is a designated rest day, allowing those with ample energy to venture out and explore the surrounding area.
During this time, we will have the opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of Gangabal and Nundkol lakes. These two remarkable bodies of water offer a tranquil setting for relaxation and introspection, providing a much-needed respite from the challenges of our trek.
Gangabal, the largest lake on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, presents a breathtaking sight. Its vast expanse, framed by towering mountains, evokes a sense of awe and wonder. Take your time to fully appreciate this magnificent lake. Stroll along its shores, find solace by its edge, or simply marvel at the way its shimmering waters reflect the clear blue sky above.
Nundkol Lake, with its calm waters and peaceful ambiance, is another hidden gem waiting to be explored. Its close proximity to Gangabal Lake allows for a convenient visit to both lakes in a single day.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, we encourage you to embark on a trek to the Zaj Pass. This exhilarating journey can be completed within a day, leading you to a ridge line at an impressive altitude of 4000m. Here, you will be rewarded with a firsthand encounter with the awe-inspiring beauty of Mother Nature.
At the end of the day, we will return to our campsite, where we will rest and rejuvenate. The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Day 04: Hike back to Naranag Basecamp and transfer to Srinagar Boat House (B, L, D)
- Altitude: 7,450 feet to 11,500 feet
- Distance: 13-15km
- Time taken: 6-8 hours.
The day’s trek can be quite challenging for your toes and knees, as it involves a gradual descent followed by a steep one. Starting from the Gangabal campsite, you will head down along the stream towards the tree line.
After about an hour from the campsite, you will reach the outskirts of the tree line. The meadows are adorned with beautiful pine trees, and you may also notice signs of civilization, such as a log hut. It is important to avoid venturing directly into the forest, but instead, stick to its edges and proceed towards the right. As a distinctive feature of this trek, you will not lose altitude at this point, but rather begin a slight ascent. You will drop to an elevation of 10,800 feet at the tree line, only to climb again to 11,000 feet. For approximately 6 kilometers, you will maintain a consistent altitude around 10,800 feet, navigating in and out of the Pine forest until finally entering it fully. It is only after covering about two-thirds of the distance that the true descent begins. This descent is notably steep, with a well-trodden muddy trail cutting through the dense pines. Over the last 4 kilometers, you will descend more than 3000 feet.
The final stretch of the last day can indeed test your endurance, but before you know it, the stone-paved village track will appear, leading you to the main road of Naranag.
We will depart Srinagar from here a 3-hour journey to the Boathouse at Dal Lake where we will spend our night. Dinner will be served at the boat house. A traditional experience of staying in the boathouse. Rest for the night.
Day 5: Depart from Srinagar to Delhi to Singapore (B)
After waking up we will depart to Srinagar airport and catch our flights back home country. End of a memorable trip.
*Itinerary may change accordingly based on the day/weather conditions.
*Medical Certificate from certified Doctor will be needed to apply the permits. Do check with us on the Medical Form.
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Group Transportation & Pick up service from Srinagar Airport / Drop Off
- All Food on Trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) as stated in itinerary.
- All Permits and Permission for hikes
- Camping Tents (2person sharing)
- Sleeping bags
- 1 Night Stay in Boathouse at Dal Lake Sharing Basis (Breakfast)
- Local Guides/Staffs.
PACKAGE EXCLUDES:
- International / Domestic Flights
- Visa to India
- Any other personal expenses
- Any other food/meals/Drinking other than stated in itinerary
- Tips for guide/Porter/Driver
- Single Supplement package
- Travel Insurance
- Evacuation / Medical Assistance etc.
- Any other things other than itinerary
Recommended Flights:
- (Singapore – Delhi – Singapore via Singapore Airlines)
- (Delhi – Srinagar – Delhi via Air India)
SINGAPORE AIRLINES
AIRINDIA
*Prices subjective to change
Please note the following items to bring on our own :
HIKING GEAR
- Daypack
Optional:
- Trekking poles
CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR
- underwear
- T-shirts
- Quick-drying pants/shorts
- Long-sleeve shirts (for sun and bugs)
- Lightweight fleece or jacket
- Boots or shoes suited to terrain
- Socks (synthetic or wool)
- Extra clothes * (beyond the minimum expectation)
Additional items for rainy and/
or cold weather:
- Rainwear (jacket and pants)
- Long underwear
- Warm, insulated jacket or vest
- Fleece pants
- Gloves or mittens
- Warm hat
Optional:
- Bandana or Buff
- Gaiters (for rainy, snowy, or muddy conditions)
FOOD & WATER
- Water bottles and/or reservoir *
- Trail snacks
EMERGENCY ITEMS
- First-aid kit or supplies *
- Lighter/matches & fire starter *
- Emergency shelter *
- Whistle
- Headlamp or flashlight * (with extra batteries)
- Camera
HEALTH & HYGIENE
- Hand sanitizer
- Menstrual products (if needed)
- Prescription medications (if needed)
- First-aid kit or supplies
- Sun protection:
- Sunscreen *
- Sunglasses * (+ retainer leash)
- Sun hat *
- SPF-rated lip balm *
Optional
- Insect repellent *
- Toilet paper
- Urinary products
- Sanitation trowel (if no toilets)
- Baby wipes
- Alcohol or antiseptic wipes
- Blister treatments.
By Joining this trip, YOU:
- Acknowledge all the TERMS & CONDITIONS: https://sgtrek.com/terms-conditions/
- Acknowledge that YOU have read and agreed to RELEASE OF LIABILITY, WAIVER OF CLAIMS, EXPRESS ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT FORM of (SGTREK) : https://sgtrek.com/sgtrek-indemnity-form/
- YOU have read all the above paragraphs and YOU know, understand, and appreciate these and other risks that are inherent in The Activity. YOU hereby assert that your participation is voluntary and that YOU knowingly assume all such risks.
- YOU acknowledge the agreement freely and voluntarily, and intend by completing this form and unconditional release of all liability to SGTREK PTE. LTD.
TERMS & CONDITIONS: https://sgtrek.com/terms-conditions/
For any queries related to the event do contact below person:
Phone: +65 92700908 (WhatsApp)
Email : contact@sgtrek.com
This trip is organized by:
SGTREK PTE. LTD.
Reg. No. 201816267K
STB License No. 03160
Address: 28A, Kandahar Street
Singapore 198889
Email: contact@sgtrek.com
WhatsApp: +6592700908
Website: https://sgtrek.com
