Rohil Basmai Trek
Join an awesome 8-day Rohil Basmai Trek from Srinagar Airport and explore Kashmir’s stunning beauty!
Hike 55-65 km through green Aru Valley, peaceful Lidderwat, and Rohil Valley to see the amazing Kolahoi Glacier, calm Handilsar Lake, beautiful Dodasar Lakes, and shiny Basmai Lake, up to 4,200m high.
With friendly guides, comfy tents, and yummy food, this easy trek is great for beginners who love meadows, lakes, and big mountains—book today for a super fun adventure!
Rohil Basmai
- Rohil Basmai Trek Base, Near Pahalgam, Kashmir Valley
₹14,000
Duration
8 days (including drives from/to Srinagar)
Distance
56 km over 5 trekking days
Altitude
2,400 m (Aru) to 4,200 m (Harbhagwan Lake)
Difficulty
Moderate to challenging
Natural Beauty
Get ready to be amazed by the Rohil Basmai Trek’s jaw-dropping scenery in the Himalayan range! Start with a scenic drive from Srinagar Airport (1,585m) through lush valleys to Aru Valley (2,415m), where green meadows and the sparkling Lidder River glow under snowy peaks. Trek to Lidderwat (2,730m), surrounded by pine forests and wildflower meadows. In Rohil Valley (~3,150m), marvel at views of Kolahoi Peak (5,425m) and the icy Kolahoi Glacier, Kashmir’s largest. Hike to serene Handilsar Lake (~3,700m) and the stunning Dodasar Lakes (~4,000m) via Gumbar Pass (~4,200m), where alpine vistas steal your breath. The trek’s highlight, Basmai Lake (~4,000m), shines like a gem amidst rugged peaks and grassy valleys, making every step a picture-perfect adventure!
Cultural Significance
Dive into the heart of Kashmir’s rich culture on the Rohil Basmai Trek! In Srinagar, kick off with a magical Shikara ride on Dal Lake, surrounded by floating gardens, showcasing the city’s unique water-based lifestyle. As you trek through Aru Valley and Lidderwat, meet warm Gujjar and Bakarwal nomads, whose colorful huts dot the meadows, offering a glimpse into their pastoral traditions. In Rohil Valley, connect with the simple, high-altitude nomad life, where locals revere the Kolahoi Glacier as a sacred wonder, tied to spiritual stories. The trek’s remote trails and nomad encounters bring Kashmir’s vibrant heritage to life, making your journey unforgettable!
Ecological Importance
The Rohil Basmai Trek takes you through Kashmir’s fragile ecosystems, where every step matters! The Kolahoi Glacier, nestled below Kolahoi Peak, feeds the vital Lidder and Jhelum Rivers, sustaining farms and communities across the valley. However, this glacier is shrinking due to climate change, making eco-friendly trekking crucial. The alpine lakes—Handilsar, Dodasar, and Basmai—are glacier-fed havens for rare Himalayan plants and animals, like wildflowers and mountain birds. Meadows in Aru, Lidderwat, and Rohil Valley support unique biodiversity, but need protection from litter and overuse. By trekking responsibly and leaving no trace, you help preserve Kashmir’s pristine environment for future adventurers!
Rohil Basmai Trek 2025: Itinerary & Tips Journey Through Paradise 8 Days Adventure |
Rohil Basmai Trek 2025: Itinerary & Tips Journey Through Paradise 8 Days Adventure |
Detailed Itinerary
Altitude: 1,585 m (5,200 ft) at Srinagar; 2,415 m (7,923 ft) at Aru
Distance: 112 km drive
Difficulty: None (travel day)
Description: Kick off your Rohil Basmai Trek at Srinagar Airport! Arrive by 2 pm and drive 112 km (4 hours) to Aru Valley, passing green valleys and the Lidder River. Set up camp by the river in Aru’s meadows, ready for adventure!
Tips:
Book shared taxis (~INR 2,500-3,000/vehicle) through local operators.
Stay in a Srinagar houseboat the night before (~INR 2,000-4,000).
Arrive early to rest and adjust to altitude.
Altitude: 2,415 m (7,923 ft) at Aru; 2,730 m (8,957 ft) at Lidderwat
Distance: 12 km trek (5-6 hours)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate (moderate incline, then gradual ascent)
Description: Trek 12 km from Aru to Lidderwat, starting with a 30-45 minute climb overlooking Aru Valley. Walk through meadows and a Gujjar village, cross a log bridge over the Lidder River, and camp at the beautiful Lidderwat site!
Tips:
Wear comfy trekking shoes for the bridge and trails.
Carry a light day sack (4-6 kg) as porters handle gear.
Bring a camera for meadow views.
Altitude: 3,150 m (10,335 ft, estimated at Rohil Valley/Satlanjan)
Distance: 7-8 km trek (6-7 hours, estimated)
Difficulty: Moderate (gradual ascent, rocky terrain)
Description: Trek 7-8 km to Rohil Valley Camp, starting with a climb to Trun Khalan, then a flat walk. Cross boulders and streams, take a left before Satlanjan, and climb 45 minutes to the Rohil Valley campsite!
Tips:
Use trekking poles for rocky paths and streams.
Stay hydrated to adjust to higher altitude.
Pack warm clothes for chilly nights.
Altitude: 3,700 m (12,139 ft, estimated at Handilsar Lake)
Distance: 8-12 km trek (5-6 hours, estimated, round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate (gradual climb, flat sections)
Description: Trek from Rohil Valley Camp to Handilsar Lake, with a gradual climb to Tsangsar, a flat walk to Sunpathri, then another climb to the calm Handilsar Lake. Return to Rohil Valley Camp for a cozy night!
Tips:
Bring snacks for energy on the trek.
Wear layers for changing weather.
Follow guides for safe lake trails.
Altitude: 4,200 m (13,780 ft, estimated at Gumbar Pass); 4,000 m (13,123 ft) at Dodasar II
Distance: 8-12 km trek (6-7 hours, estimated, round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (steep ascent to pass, descent to lakes)
Description: Trek to Gumbar Pass via Gumbarsar for amazing views, then turn right to Dodasar II, the trek’s highest point. Descend to see smaller Dodasar I, then take a left to reach Basmai campsite after a 1-hour walk!
Tips:
Monitor for altitude sickness at 4,200m.
Use sunscreen for high-altitude sun.
Pack a camera for pass and lake views.
Altitude: 4,000 m (13,123 ft) at Basmai Lake
Distance: 6-10 km trek (4-6 hours, estimated, round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (steep/moderate ascent, boulder sections)
Description: Trek from Basmai campsite to Basmai Lake through Basmai Valley with steep and moderate climbs plus boulders. Reach the sparkling lake, a highlight of the Rohil Basmai Trek, then descend to camp at Satlanjan!
Tips:
Rest if feeling altitude effects at 4,000m.
Wear sturdy shoes for boulders.
Bring water for the tough climb.
Altitude: 3,150 m (10,335 ft) at Satlanjan; 2,415 m (7,923 ft) at Aru
Distance: 15 km trek (6 hours)
Difficulty: Moderate (flat and gradual descent, rocky patches)
Description: Trek 15 km from Satlanjan to Aru Valley, following flat trails and descents with rocky and boulder sections. Pass streams, pine trees, and meadows, then stay in Aru to wrap up your trekking adventure!
Tips:
Use trekking poles for rocky sections.
Rest legs after the long descent.
Enjoy meadow views and take photos.
Altitude: 2,415 m (7,923 ft) at Aru; 1,585 m (5,200 ft) at Srinagar
Distance: 112 km drive
Difficulty: None (travel day)
Description: Start at 7 am, driving 112 km (4 hours) from Aru to Srinagar Airport by 12 pm. Take home memories of the Rohil Basmai Trek’s stunning lakes and glacier views!
Tips:
Book taxi in advance (~INR 2,500-3,000).
Leave early to avoid delays.
Buy saffron or shawls as souvenirs.
Trek Location
- Rohil Basmai Trek Base, Near Pahalgam, Kashmir Valley
✅ 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
What is the Rohil Basmai Trek?
The Rohil Basmai Trek is an 8-day adventure in Kashmir, starting and ending at Srinagar Airport. You’ll trek through Aru Valley, Lidderwat, Rohil Valley, and visit stunning spots like Kolahoi Glacier, Handilsar Lake, Dodasar Lakes, and Basmai Lake, with altitudes up to 4,200m. It’s perfect for beginners seeking beautiful views and a taste of Kashmir’s charm!
How difficult is the trek?
The trek is easy to moderate, with some challenging sections. Daily treks range from 6-15 km (4-7 hours), with gentle climbs, flat trails, and rocky patches. The toughest days (Days 5-6) involve steep ascents and high altitudes (up to 4,200m at Gumbar Pass). Good fitness and some trekking experience help, but beginners can manage with preparation.
What is the altitude range and how do I prepare for it?
Altitudes range from 1,585m (Srinagar) to 4,200m (Gumbar Pass). Key points include Aru Valley (2,415m), Lidderwat (2,730m), Rohil Valley/Satlanjan (3,150m), Handilsar Lake (~3,700m), and Dodasar II/Basmai Lake (4,000m). To prepare:
- Arrive early in Srinagar to rest.
- Stay hydrated and walk slowly on high-altitude days.
- Watch for altitude sickness (headache, nausea) and inform your guide.
How long is the trek and what are the daily distances?
The trek covers 55-65 km over 6 trekking days, plus driving:
Day 1: 112 km drive (4 hours, Srinagar to Aru).
Day 2: 12 km trek (5-6 hours, Aru to Lidderwat).
Day 3: 7-8 km trek (6-7 hours, Lidderwat to Rohil Valley).
Day 4: 8-12 km trek (5-6 hours, round trip to Handilsar Lake).
Day 5: 8-12 km trek (6-7 hours, round trip to Dodasar Lakes via Gumbar Pass).
Day 6: 6-10 km trek (4-6 hours, round trip to Basmai Lake).
Day 7: 15 km trek (6 hours, Satlanjan to Aru).
Day 8: 112 km drive (4 hours, Aru to Srinagar Airport).
What should I pack and what is provided?
Pack: Warm layers (fleece, jacket), waterproof jacket, sturdy trekking shoes, day sack (4-6 kg), water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, trekking poles, snacks, medicines, ID (Aadhar/passport).
Provided: Tents, sleeping bags, mats, and meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea) for Days 2-7. Porters or horses carry heavy gear, and guides ensure safety.
Tip: Book with a reliable operator (e.g., Kashmir Treks) for smooth logistics and confirm inclusions.
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With guided hikes, cozy tents, and tasty meals, this easy-to-follow Kashmir trek blends adventure, culture, and nature’s wonders, perfect for anyone eager to explore the outdoors while respecting its ecological and cultural treasures!