Tarsar Marsar Trek
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Visit:
- For Snow: January to March
- For Spring: june,july,august and September (Best Time)
Temperature:
- Day: 15°C to 20°C (summer time)
- Night: 03°C to 05°C
Highest Altitude: 13201ft
Pickup Point: Srinagar
About Tarsar Marsar Trek
Tarsar and Marsar Lakes: These twin alpine lakes are the main attraction of the trek. Both are surrounded by lush green meadows in Kashmir's Aru Valley. The Tarsar Marsar Trek lies in the fascinating beauty of Kashmir, which is well known across the globe. On this trek, you’ll go deep into the heart of Kashmir and experience a unique side of trekking in India.
During the trek, you’ll get a chance to camp beside serene bluish alpine lakes. Along the way to Tarsar, you’ll get multiple sights of the same lake. Marsar Lake is the highest point of the trek at 13,201 feet (4,024 meters). Marsar Lake, on the other hand, often remains hidden under a sheet of clouds. You can witness its splendor from an overhang lying 600-700 feet below, but only when the clouds are clear. Tarsar Marsar is undoubtedly one of the prettiest lake treks in India.
The trail is often covered in a thick blanket of snow and green valleys. The lush verdant forests turn white, creating a small wonderland! The Tarsar Marsar trek is not only for experienced trekkers but is also suitable for amateurs, children, families, and school groups.
You may also get a glimpse of villagers in their traditional attire as they pass by. People grow rajma, potatoes, and rice for a living. They also weave their own wool and make jackets and coats.
Tarsar Marsar Trek Overview
The Tarsar Marsar Trek is a popular trekking route in the Kashmir Valley. Here are some of the main points of interest along the trek:
- Aru Valley: The trek starts from the picturesque Aru Valley, located about 12 km from Pahalgam.
- Lidderwat: After crossing the Lidder River, the trek leads to Lidderwat, a beautiful meadow surrounded by towering mountains.
- Sheeshnag: The next stop is Sheeshnag, a glacial lake nestled amidst the mountains. The lake is named after the seven peaks that surround it.
- Tarsar Lake: The highlight of the trek is Tarsar Lake, a stunning high-altitude lake located at an elevation of 3,962 meters.
- Marsar Lake: After Tarsar, the trek leads to Marsar Lake, another high-altitude lake situated at 3,798 meters.
- Homwas: The trek ends at Homwas, a small village located on the banks of the Wangath River.
Key Highlights
- Tarsar and Marsar Lakes: These twin alpine lakes are the main attraction of the trek.
- Kashmir’s Natural Beauty: The trek takes you through lush valleys, dense pine forests, and vast grasslands.
- Wildflower Meadows: In the summer, you’ll walk through meadows blooming with wildflowers.
- Shepherd Culture: The trek crosses many Gujjar settlements, offering a glimpse into the traditional shepherd lifestyle.
- Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for trekkers with moderate experience.
Best Time to Do Tarsar Marsar Trek
The best time to do the Tarsar Marsar Trek is from June to September. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the valleys are lush and green. The temperature during the day ranges from 5°C to 15°C, while at night, it can drop to 3°C to 5°C.
How Difficult is the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
The Tarsar Marsar trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It involves traversing through various terrains such as meadows, forests, rocky trails, and steep ascents. The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 13,500 feet (4,115 meters) at the Tarsar Pass.
Is Tarsar Marsar Trek Safe for Beginners?
The Tarsar Marsar trek can be moderate for beginners, but with proper preparation, guidance, and precautions, it can be a safe and enjoyable experience. Beginners should ensure they have a reasonable level of physical fitness and join a guided trek for support.
Why Choose Tarsar Marsar Trek?
The Tarsar Marsar Trek offers a captivating and serene trekking experience in the Kashmir Valley. It showcases Kashmir’s unspoiled natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. The trek is also relatively less crowded compared to other popular treks in the region.
What to Pack for Tarsar Marsar Trek
When packing for the Tarsar Marsar trek, it’s important to carry essential items such as layered clothing, waterproof gear, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, and a first aid kit. Make sure to pack light and only carry what’s necessary.
FAQs
- What is the altitude of the Tarsar Marsar Trek? The highest point is at 13,201 feet (4,024 meters) at Marsar Lake.
- How difficult is the trek? The trek is of moderate difficulty, suitable for trekkers with some prior experience.
- What is the best time to do the trek? The best time is from July to September.
- Is there electricity on the trek? No, there is no electricity during the trek.
- Is it safe to trek in Kashmir? Yes, the Tarsar Marsar region is considered safe for trekking.
- Total distance 112 km – 4/5 Hours journey
- Mode of journey – By taxi
- Altitude – Aru – 7958 feet
- Night stay – Hotel – on twin share basis Reach Aru Village in 3 /4 hours via Pahalgam, to Aru village, you can reach Pahalgam through two routes; Bijbehra is the famous tourist route and the drive is a picturesque one through rural areas of Kashmir. Witness trees and orchards along the way and in half an hour reach Aru, base camp of Tarsar Marsar trek, Aru village. 7958 feet above mean sea level. A small but beautiful hamlet with wooden homes on stilts.
- Total distance 10 km – 5/6 Hours journey
- Mode of journey – On foot
- Altitude Lidderwat – 9136 feet
- Night Stay – Our Campsite – on twin share basis After breakfast the start trek from Aru to Lidderwat is a long one. Start your trek through a village and follow the course of River Lidder. The trail is wide and from there whole Aru village is visible. Ahead, reach Dalla; a clearing. From here, enter a pine forest and come across Nandkei; a group of Gujjar settlement. After you cross this forest section, go further and come across open grasslands, there you can see Gujjar families. Half an hour walk from here will lead you to multiple streams, cross them and reach Lidderwat in another half an hour. Start trekking through the forest of pines, go higher and stare at the beautiful scenery offered. Now, enter the fir forests and after some minutes of walk reach Lidderwat. The Lidderwat have surpassing meadows and you can camp other side because there is open space for camping. Spend time exploring this place, and enjoy relaxing stay in tents.
- Trek Distance 06 km – 4/5 Hours journey
- Mode of journey – On foot
- Altitude – Shekwas – 11089 feet
- Night Stay – Our Camp site – on twin share basis Follow the course of River flowing along and take the trail through pine forest above. After a gradual climb, continue trekking through the pine forests and some small clearings for 30 minutes. Ahead, enter the Lidderwat valley, there are wide grasslands surrounded by mountains with some snow patches. The splendid valleys meet together and the trail goes upward. Towards the left are Bhakarwal shelters on the right of the river and en route come across small clear streams crossing the trail, you can also refill your water bottles from here. Now, trek down the river and cross it with the help of boulders and a bridge further. By following the river continue trekking on the trail and after 30 minutes you will reach a wide clearing “Homwas”. At Homwas you can see some Gujjar huts, trek through a grassy area which is a relief to the feet. After crossing this section come across a narrow valley and trek along the river. Ascend for one hour and reach a point with a group of Silver Birch trees and amazing scenery. Further, come across grassland beautiful and wide which leads to two soothing green valleys. Have a look at the meadows and pass through the trail with few Gujjar huts to reach your camping site Shekwas. It is an extraordinary ground with mesmerizing sights, spend your night here relaxing in tents.
- Trek Distance 05 km – 3/4 Hours journey
- Mode of journey – On foot
- Altitude – Tarsar Lake – 12500 feet
- Night Stay – Camp site – on twin share basis The trail to Tarsar is through a ridge which has an overhanging stream and further it leads to the hill in front. Cross some short ridges opening to awe struck sceneries and after two hours of trekking, get first sight of Tarsar Lake. The sight will energize you to reach the alpine Lake, cross a stream by hopping on boulders and reach the grassy field of Tarsar. It is a perfect camping spot. Pitch your tents anywhere on the ground. Camp along the snow fed clear bluish lake and get mesmerized by the idyllic setting. Overnight stay in camp
- Trek Distance – 05 km – 3/4 Hours journey
- Mode of journey – On foot
- Altitude –Sundersar – 12978 feet
- Night Stay – our Camp – on twin share basis The other side views of Tarsar are spellbinding and the stretches of grassy valley will leave you speechless because they seem never ending and trekking on the velvety grass of the valley is a bliss. This valley leads to the meadows of Shekwas. But, mostly people descend from Tarsar until the Shekwas leads to Sundersar valley, but climbing this pass saves 3-4 hours. Start descending through the shepherds’ trail which will take you to middle of the valley. Walk along the stream on the beautiful velvet like grass. En route see Bakkarval shelters lying on left, the trail lies behind these shelters through the boulder area. Further are lushest grasslands you will ever come across and amidst the meadows stream transforms into a large pond which is fed by the snow patches on the mountains. Cross this section in 30 minutes and come to the meadow’s end. Reach the base of ridge by crossing a stream with the help of boulders, ascend for 15 minutes through a narrow valley to reach the ridge top. Surprisingly a wide meadow pops in front with colorful bed of flowers. The views are enthralling from here and end route of this trek is also visible with a trail leading to mountains. Follow the trail and reach beautiful grassy land of Sundersar Lake, here you can pitch your tents anywhere on the flat ground, camping here is a delight. Enjoy in the serene beauty of Kashmir and comfortably stay in tents.
- Trek Distance –09 km – 6/7 Hours journey
- Mode of journey – On foot
- Altitude – Homwas camp – 11500 feet
- Night Stay – our Camp – on twin/three share basis Pass along the shores of Sundersar Lake to get far side and through two passes you can reach Marsar. Take the shorter trail and ascend through the boulder zone, be careful while ascending because there is snow over the boulders which make this section tough. In 30 minutes pass can be reached which is an amazing grassland with gentle trails leading to the flat grounds below. Reach the flat grounds and cross the small streams along the trail. Climbing to the ridge starts from here which offers heart racing view of Marsar. It is twin of Tarsar but remains hidden under the mist and clouds. Descend to Sundersar and reach there in 40 minutes. Spend some time at Sundersar valley and get back to Jagmargi valley, witness the grasslands again and admire the natural beauty. Do not cross the Tarsar pass but go through the different trail to Shekwas, from here you can reach Homwas in 30 minutes. Reach there, setup your tents, have delicious food after today’s long trek, retire for the night
- Total distance – 125 km – 8/9 Hours journey
- Mode of journey – – On foot – 13 km – By taxi 112 km Descend from Homwas to Lidderwat. The sights of today’s trek are beguiling and you can spot Kolahoi glacier on the way. Come across the Lidderwat pine forest, take a break at Lidderwat and then head to Aru. Now, Aru is 13 km away and you can reach there in another 4 hours. Vehicles will be arranged for you till Srinagar. Reach late evening 8 Pm
How to Reach Tarsar Marsar Trek
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport is the airport serving Dehradun, located about 25 km from the city. There is a daily flight from Delhi to Dehradun.
By Train
Take the overnight train to Dehradun from Delhi:
- Nanda Devi Express - Train no: 12205 (Departure: 11:50 PM, Arrival: 5:40 AM)
- Dehradun Express - Train no: 12687 (Departure: 9:10 PM, Arrival: 5:00 AM)
By Bus
There is regular bus service from Delhi to Dehradun, from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmere Gate.
We recommend taking only government buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Private buses ply from outside ISBT, and they are not trustworthy.
Usually, buses drop you at Dehradun ISBT. From there, you have to reach Dehradun Railway Station.
Note:
- Pick-up is included in the cost of the trek.
- You will reach Sankri by 5:00 PM.
- Food from Dehradun to Sankri is not included in the trek cost.
- Transport will be arranged from Dehradun Railway Station at 6:30 AM.
Inclusions
- Accommodation (Guest house, Home stay, Camping)
- Trek equipment: Sleeping bag, mattress, tent (twin sharing), kitchen & dining tent, toilet tent, utensils, and crampon (if required)
- Welcome refreshment
- Three times meals (Veg+egg): Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- All necessary permits and entry fees
- First aid medical kits, stretcher, and oxygen cylinder
- Mountaineering qualified & professional guide and support staff
- Transport from Dehradun to Sankri and return (According to itinerary)
- Porter or mule charges for carrying camping equipment and rations
- Morning Tea & Evening Tea with snacks
- Guide Charges
- Hot drinking water
- Trek completion certificate (Approved by Outside Explorers)
- Dry fruits, chocolates, biscuits, toffees provided during the trek
Exclusions
- Porter/mule for personal bags
- Any meals or services not mentioned in inclusions
- Any charges for video cameras or still cameras
- Charges for soft drinks or any other beverages
- Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, or telephone calls
- Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances like landslides, bad weather, or roadblocks
- Food during transit
- Insurance
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the inclusions
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges
🏔️ Things to Carry for This Trek
🧳 Essentials
- 🆔 Government ID (Aadhar, Passport, etc.)
- 📄 Permits & Trek Bookings
- 💵💳 Cash (Limited ATMs in Remote Areas)
- 📍 Trek Map & Itinerary
🎒 Backpack & Gear
- 🎒 Backpack (50-60L) with Rain Cover
- 🥾 Good Quality Trekking Shoes
- 🦯 Trekking Pole
- ⛺ Sleeping Bag (if required)
- 🔦 Headlamp / Torch with Extra Batteries
🧥 Clothing & Accessories
- 🧥 Waterproof Jacket / Windcheater
- 🩳 Quick-Dry T-shirts & Trek Pants
- 🧤 Woolen Gloves, Socks & Cap
- 🕶️ UV Protection Sunglasses
- 🩲 Thermal Innerwear (for high-altitude treks)
🛠️ First Aid & Personal Care
- 💊 Basic First Aid Kit & Personal Medicines
- 🧴 Sunscreen & Lip Balm (SPF 50+)
- 🚿 Wet Wipes & Sanitizer
- 🦟 Mosquito & Insect Repellent
📱 Electronics & Miscellaneous
- 📱🔌 Phone & Charger
- 🔋 Power Bank
- 📸 Camera / GoPro (optional)
- 🍫 Dry Fruits, Energy Bars & Snacks
- 🚰 Water Bottles / Hydration Pack
Why choose Triptoo for the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
Triptoo offers a well-organized trekking experience with expert guides, high-quality camping gear, and delicious meals to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Our team prioritizes safety, comfort, and responsible trekking, providing personalized assistance, small group sizes, and eco-friendly practices. With our deep local expertise, we take you on a breathtaking adventure through pristine alpine lakes, scenic meadows, and stunning landscapes, making your trek a truly unforgettable experience.
What is the best time for the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
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