Tarsar Marsar Trek
The Tarsar Marsar Trek is a 7-day, moderate to strenuous trek in Kashmir, starting and ending in Srinagar.
Covering approximately 50 km of trekking, it takes you through stunning alpine landscapes, meadows, and three pristine lakes—Tarsar, Sundarsar, and Marsar—with altitudes ranging from 2,400 m (7,950 ft) to 4,100 m (13,100 ft).
The trek combines scenic drives, gradual ascents, and high-altitude exploration, ideal for adventure seekers with moderate trekking experience.
Tarsar Marsar
- Aru Valley, Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir
₹14,000
Duration
7 days (including drives from/to Srinagar)
Distance
50 km over 5 trekking days
Altitude
2,400 m (Aru) to 4,100 m (Marsar Ridge)
Difficulty
Moderate
Natural Beauty
The Tarsar Marsar Trek is famous for its stunning landscapes in Kashmir, featuring three alpine lakes—Tarsar, Marsar, and Sundarsar. These lakes, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and green meadows, offer a peaceful and scenic experience. It’s a top choice for nature lovers, with views that make it one of India’s prettiest treks.
Cultural Significance
The trek holds cultural value, with Tarsar and Marsar lakes known as “twin sisters” in local folklore, tied to a myth of ghost sisters. It also passes through areas used by Gujjar and Bakerwal communities for grazing, letting trekkers see their traditional lifestyle
Ecological Importance
Research suggests the trek is important for ecology, passing through sensitive Himalayan areas like near Dachigam National Park. Organizations work to keep the trail clean, highlighting the need for conservation to protect this fragile environment for future generations.
Tarsar Marsar Trek 2025: Itinerary & Tips Journey Through Paradise 7 Days Adventure |
Tarsar Marsar Trek 2025: Itinerary & Tips Journey Through Paradise 7 Days Adventure |
Detailed Itinerary
Altitude: 2,400 m (8,038 ft)
Drive Distance: 112 km
Drive Time: 4 hours
Description:
Depart from Srinagar and drive to Aru, a scenic hamlet 12 km from Pahalgam.
The drive offers views of Kashmir’s valleys and Himalayan foothills.
Arrive at Aru and set up camp for the night.
Tips:
Shared taxis from Srinagar cost ~INR 2,500 per vehicle (Nomllers).
Consider staying in a houseboat in Srinagar the previous night for a unique experience (e.g., Hotel Chinar Inn).
Arrive in Srinagar a day early to rest and acclimatize.
Altitude: 2,800 m (9,022 ft)
Trek Distance: 8 km
Duration: 6-7 hours
Description:
Begin trekking from Aru through a dense pine forest.
The trail is a gradual ascent along the Lidder River, offering scenic views of meadows and mountains.
Reach Lidderwat, a serene campsite surrounded by lush greenery.
Tips:
This is a moderate day, ideal for warming up.
Carry enough water and snacks, as facilities are limited.
Altitude: 3,350 m (11,154 ft)
Trek Distance: 6 km
Duration: 5 hours
Description:
Trek from Lidderwat to Shekwas, involving a moderate to steep ascent.
The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Optional: Take a 1-hour round-trip hike to Jadar Lake, a hidden gem near Shekwas.
Tips:
Shekwas is a good spot for acclimatization before higher altitudes.
The Jadar Lake detour is recommended for its serene beauty.
Altitude: 3,800 m (12,467 ft)
Trek Distance: 4 km
Duration: 3-4 hours
Description:
A short but uphill trek to Tarsar Lake, an emerald-blue alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Spend the afternoon exploring the lake and its picturesque surroundings.
Camp beside Tarsar Lake for a memorable night.
Tips:
This is a highlight of the trek; take time to enjoy the lake’s beauty.
Be cautious of altitude-related symptoms.
Altitude: 4,000 m (12,960 ft)
Trek Distance: 6 km
Duration: 5 hours
Description:
Trek from Tarsar to Sundersar Lake via Sonamous Pass (12,960 ft).
The trail involves crossing a ridge with stunning views of the landscape.
Camp at Sundersar, another beautiful alpine lake.
Tips:
The pass crossing is moderately challenging; pace yourself.
Stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
Altitude: Marsar Ridge: 4,100 m (13,201 ft); Homwas: 3,500 m (11,500 ft)
Trek Distance: 9 km
Duration: 7 hours
Description:
Start early to visit Marsar Lake (12,946 ft), known for its color-changing waters.
Trek to Homwas via Marsar Ridge, the highest point of the trek.
Homwas is a small campsite with basic facilities.
Tips:
Weather can be unpredictable at Marsar Ridge; carry rain gear.
This is a long day, so start early.
Altitude: 2,400 m (8,038 ft)
Trek Distance: 13 km
Drive Distance: 112 km
Duration: 6-7 hours (trek) + 4 hours (drive)
Description:
Trek back to Aru, descending through scenic trails.
Drive from Aru to Srinagar, arriving by evening (around 7:00 PM).
Tips:
Start early to avoid trekking in the dark.
Arrange transport to Srinagar in advance.
Trek Location
- Aru Valley, Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir
✅ Inclusions
✅ Inclusions
- Accommodation in tents during the trek
- Vegetarian meals from Aru to the last day of trek
- All necessary trekking permits and forest entry fees
- Shared transport from Srinagar to Aru and back
- Sleeping bags, sleeping mats, and camping gear
- Dining tent, kitchen tent, and toilet tent setup
- Certified trek leader and experienced support staff
- Cook and helper team for all meals on trek
- Mules/ponies for carrying common equipment
- Basic medical kit with oxygen cylinder
❌ Exclusions
❌ Exclusions
- Personal expenses (laundry, snacks, tips, etc.)
- Off-route transportation or evacuation costs
- Meals during travel or in Srinagar
- Backpack offloading charges
- Personal trekking gear (shoes, clothes, rainwear)
- Travel insurance
- Any cost due to weather or natural calamities
- GST or government taxes (if applicable)
FAQs
How much fitness is needed for the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
If you can walk 5 to 6 kilometers daily without getting too tired, you are fit enough for this trek. Try to walk or climb stairs regularly for 3 to 4 weeks before your trip. A little preparation will help you enjoy the trek more.
What is the best time to do the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
The best time to visit Tarsar Marsar is from June to September. During this time, the weather is clear, the skies are blue, and the meadows are full of flowers. Daytime is warm, but nights can be cold. Sometimes, there might be snow near the lakes in early June.
Is Tarsar Marsar Trek safe for beginners?
Yes, this trek is good for first-timers. The trail is not too hard, and many people do it as their first Himalayan trek. Just make sure you are physically active and follow the instructions given by the guide. Children above 10 years can also join if they are active.
What will I get during the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
You will stay in clean tents with sleeping bags and mats. All meals will be hot and freshly made. There will be a guide, cook, and helpers to support you. Clean toilet tents will also be set up at every campsite. Everything is arranged to keep you safe and comfortable.
Will I get phone signal or electricity during the trek?
After Aru village, there is no mobile network and no electricity. You should carry a power bank or solar charger for your phone or camera. This trek is a great chance to take a break from screens and enjoy nature fully.
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