Tarsar Marsar Trek Overview
- Trek Name: Tarsar Marsar Trek
- Trek Duration: 6 nights, 7 days
- Distance : 48 Kms
- Highest Altitude: 13,200 feet (4,023 meters)
- Country: India
- Location: Kashmir
- Suitable for: 12- 60 years
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate
- Base camp: Aru Village Pahalgam
- Month: July | August | September |
- Railway station: Srinagar Railway station
- Airport: Srinagar (sheikh ul-alam international)
Tarsar Marsar Trek brief description
Kashmir is known for its stunning trekking routes and Tarsar Marsar twin lake trek is one of them. This trek comprises of two lakes one is Tarsar and another one is Marsar. which gives this trek the name of Tarsar Marsar Trek. Since this trek is less explore and not popular as Kashmir great Lakes trek and is usullay done in the months of July, August and September.
The distance of this trek is around 48 km and the highest point is at 13,450 ft, takes around 7 days to complete the trek.Due to its moderate difficulty any one cab go for this trek, but having a previous short trek experience can enhance you trek experience.
During this trek you will going to witness the snow fed clear crystal streams, waterfalls, wild flowers, alpine treeks and snow capped mountains. In this page you will get complete info about Tarsar Marsar trek like Route, Itinerary, Photos and best season.
Complete itinerary of Tarsar Marsar twin lakes trek
Our aim is to keep trekkers well-informed before starting the Tarsar Marsar Trek. With good knowledge, you can make your trek safe and risk-free. In this section, you will find detailed information about the Tarsar Marsar Twin lakes trek. We have created two itineraries a short itinerary for a quick overview and a detailed itinerary which includes a detailed information for Kashmir Tarsar Marsar trek. It covers what to expect each day and how to prepare.
A Short and Quick Itinerary of Tarsar Marsar Trek
Day 1: Day 1: Arrive in Srinagar and transfer to Aru Valley (112 km).
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Srinagar to Aru. Spend the night in a cozy campsite, preparing for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Trek from Aru to Lidderwat (10 km).
Trek through picturesque trails, passing by the Lidder River and charming villages. Camp under the starlit sky at Lidderwat.
Day 3: Lidderwat to Shekwas(06 km)
Ascend through verdant meadows and forests, arriving at Shekwas. The views here are simply spectacular.
Day 4: Shekwas to Tarsar Lake (4 km)
Reach the highlight of your trek: Tarsar Lake. Its crystal-clear waters are surrounded by towering peaks, making it a perfect spot for reflection and rest.
Day 5: Tarsar to Sundersar via Marsar Lake (6 km)
Cross the Tarsar Pass and head towards Sundarsar Lake.
Day 6: Visit Marsar Lake, then Homwas (11 km)
Begin your descent towards Homwas, enjoying the changing landscapes and serene atmosphere.
Day 7: Homwas to Aru by Trek and then drive to Srinagar (13 km)
Conclude your trek with a peaceful walk back to Aru, followed by a drive to Srinagar, carrying memories of an extraordinary journey.
A buffer day in trekking is an extra day built into the itinerary to account for unexpected circumstances or delays. And also note that prepaid sim cards will not work in Kashmir.
Detailed Tarsar Marsar Trek in Kashmir
This detailed itinerary provides a comprehensive, day-by-day guide to help you plan and prepare your Twin Lakes trek in Kashmir with confidence. From daily activities and highlights to essential tips, you will have Know everything you need to make the most of your experience.
Day 1
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar and Transfer to Aru Valley
Distance: 103 km
Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours
Altitude: Srinagar (5,200 ft) to Aru Valley (7,920 ft)
Activities:
Arrive in Srinagar and meet your trek leader.
Drive to Aru Valley, enjoying the scenic beauty of Kashmir.
Check into a homestay or campsite upon arrival.
Overnight stay with meals provided..
Day 2
Day 2 : Aru Valley to Lidderwat Trek
- Trek Distance: 10 km
- Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Altitude Gain: Aru (7,920 ft) to Lidderwat (9,150 ft)
- Activities:
- Begin your trek from Aru Valley, passing through lush meadows and pine forests.
- Enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
- Arrive at Lidderwat, a beautiful campsite surrounded by nature.
- Overnight camping at Lidderwat with dinner provided.
Day 3
Day 3 : Lidderwat to Shekwas
- Trek Distance: 6 km
- Trek Duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Altitude Gain: Lidderwat (9,150 ft) to Shekwas (11,000 ft)
- Activities:
- Trek from Lidderwat to Shekwas, following a trail that gradually ascends.
- Cross streams and enjoy the serene environment.
- Set up camp at Shekwas for an overnight stay.
Day 4
Day 4 : Shekwas to Tarsar Lake
- Trek Distance: 4 km
- Trek Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours
- Altitude Gain: Shekwas (11,000 ft) to Tarsar Lake (12,500 ft)
- Activities:
- Trek towards Tarsar Lake, known for its stunning beauty and crystal-clear waters.
- Explore the area around Tarsar Lake and enjoy the breathtaking views.
- Camp near Tarsar Lake for an overnight stay.
Day 5
Day 5 : Tarsar Lake to Sundersar Lake
- Trek Distance: 6 km
- Trek Duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Altitude Gain: Tarsar Lake (12,500 ft) to Sundersar Lake (13,000 ft)
- Activities:
- Depart from Tarsar Lake and trek towards Sundersar Lake via Tarsar Pass.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and lakes along the way.
- Set up camp at Sundersar Lake for an overnight stay.
Day 6
Day 6 : Visit Marsar Lake and Return to Homwas
- Trek Distance: Approx. 11 km (to Marsar and back)
- Trek Duration: Approximately 7 hours
- Altitude Loss/Gain: Marsar Ridge (13,100 ft) and Homwas (11,500 ft)
- Activities:
- Trek to Marsar Lake, which is known for its unique almond shape and stunning views.
- After exploring Marsar Lake, return to Homwas for an overnight stay in tents or camps.
Day 7
Day 7 : Homwas to Aru Valley and Departure to Srinagar
- Trek Distance: Approx. 13 km
- Trek Duration: Approximately 6 hours
- Altitude Loss: Homwas (11,500 ft) to Aru Valley (7,920 ft)
- Activities:
- Trek back to Aru Valley through scenic landscapes.
- Upon reaching Aru Valley, drive back to Srinagar.
- Conclude your trek with a drop-off at your hotel or airport in Srinagar.
Inclusion / Exclusion
Inclusions
- Meals: Vegetarian and egg-based meals provided from Day 1 evening to Day 8 lunch.
- Permits and Fees: All necessary permits and fees (equivalent to Indian nationals) covered.
- Camping Equipment: Twin-share tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses provided.
- Safety Equipment: Static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, and pulleys included.
- Trek Leadership: Certified mountaineering trek leader with first aid and rescue training.
- Local Support: Experienced local guide, cook, and helpers included.
- Luggage Transport: Porters or mules for carrying shared luggage.
- Medical Kit: Exhaustive first aid kit with portable oxygen cylinder.
Exclusions
- Meals: Participants are responsible for meals during road journeys.
- Insurance: Any type of insurance is not covered.
- Personal Expenses: All personal expenses are to be borne by the participant.
- Additional Costs: Any expenses not explicitly mentioned in the package inclusions are not covered.
- Luggage: Participants are responsible for carrying their personal backpacks.
- Transportation: Transportation to and from Srinagar is not included.
How to reach
Before going for the Tarsar Marsar trek , you should be aware of the travel plan. Here we provide we provide complete details such as how to reach the base camp, where to camp for night during your Tarsar Marsar Trek.
- Fly or travel to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir.
- From Srinagar, you need to travel to Aru valley, which is usually the starting point for the trek. This is about 48 km from Srinagar and takes around 2-3 hours by road. We provide the transportation service from Srinagar to the base camp.
- It is always best to keep a buffer day. If your trek is completed on time, you can utilize this buffer day for local sightseeing in Srinagar and can enjoy activities like Shikara ride in Dal lake.
Options to reach Srinagar:
- Direct flight: Srinagar Airport has excellent connectivity with major airports across India. You can also choose our Srinagar airport cab service for a comfortable journey.
- By Railway: If you are arriving by train, the nearest railway station is Srinagar Railway Station. The railway section between Jammu and Srinagar is not fully connected, so you may need to hire a cab from Jammu to Sangaldan Railway Station. From there, you can proceed directly to Srinagar Railway Station. For a hassle-free journey, consider our Srinagar Railway Station cab service.
- By Road: If you are traveling by road, there are multiple options to reach Srinagar, such as a private cab, a bus, a shared cab, tempo travelers, or even you can pre-book a cab from Jammu to Srinagar online.
- Drop-off Information: The specified location for drop-off is Srinagar, at 6 pm.
Who can participate in Tarsar Marsar Trek
Anyone above 12 years of age can participate in this trek. First-time trekkers can also join, although having some short trek experience is appreciated. Participants should be fit enough to cover a distance of around 5-6 kilometers continuously without any stress.
How difficult is the Tarsar Marsar Trek
The Tarsar Marsar trek is not moderate. During this trek you will gain a height of around 13.200 feet which is considered as mild and will cover a distance of around 48 kilometers in 6 days.
On an average you will cover 7-8 kms every day with small ascends and descends. Except the last day where you will trek around 13 kilometers.
In short Tarsar Marsar trek is not difficult and considered as a moderate trek in Kashmir.
How Long is the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
The Kashmir Tarsar Marsar Trek takes around 6 to 7 days to complete. During this time, trekkers cover a total distance of approximately 48 kilometers. The trek is usually done at a moderate pace, allowing time for acclimatization to the high altitude and for enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.
Also check : Other famous treks in Kashmir
Tarsar Marsar trek permits?
For Tarsar Marsar trek you will need some permissions like Inner Line Permit, and Wildlife Permit. But when you trek with Travel My Kashmir all the necessary permits will be obtained for you. So relax and prepare for the Tarsar Marsar trek in Kashmir.
How many lakes are there in the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
There are two alpine lakes in Tarsar Marsar trek, one is Tarsar and the another one is Marsar situated at an altitude of 12500 ft. These stunning lakes are the highlights of the trek and offer breathtaking views surrounded by the beautiful Kashmir valley
Best Time to Do the Tarsar Marsar Trek
The best time to undertake the Tarsar Marsar Trek is from June to September, with each month offering unique experiences and conditions. Here’s a detailed breakdown.
- June (Early Season)
- Weather: The temperatures are generally mild, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day, while nights can be cooler, dropping to around 0-5°C (32°F to 41°F).
- Conditions: Early June sees pockets of snow along the trails, making it ideal for snow enthusiasts. The landscape begins to bloom, providing a beautiful contrast between the remaining snow and emerging greenery.
- Highlights: This is a great time for those who enjoy a quieter trekking experience as fewer tourists are present.
- July (Peak Summer)
- Weather: Daytime temperatures remain pleasant at around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), while nights are cooler.
- Conditions: July marks the peak of summer, with lush green meadows filled with blooming wildflowers. The snow has melted in most areas, revealing vibrant landscapes.
- Highlights: This month offers breathtaking views of the meadows and is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the colorful scenery.
- August (Late Summer)
- Weather: Similar to July, with comfortable daytime temperatures and cooler nights.
- Conditions: August typically has clearer weather with less rainfall compared to June and July. The meadows remain lush and vibrant.
- Highlights: This is one of the best months for trekking as the weather is generally stable, allowing trekkers to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes.
- September (Early Autumn)
- Weather: Temperatures begin to cool down as autumn sets in, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
- Conditions: The meadows start changing colors, transitioning from green to shades of yellow and brown. This period offers a different aesthetic appeal compared to summer.
- Highlights: September is ideal for those interested in photography, as the changing foliage creates picturesque views. Additionally, trails are less crowded as the peak trekking season winds down.
What to pack for Tarsar Marsar Trek?
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Clothing | Quick-dry T-shirts, Long-sleeve shirts, Fleece jacket, Down jacket, Trekking pants, Thermal underwear, Rain jacket and pants, Warm hat and gloves, Sun hat or cap, Socks (woolen or synthetic) |
| Footwear | Trekking boots (sturdy and waterproof), Camp shoes or sandals |
| Gear and Equipment | Backpack (40-60 liters, with rain cover), Sleeping bag (suitable for cold temperatures), Sleeping pad or mat, Trekking poles, Headlamp or flashlight, Water bottles or hydration system, Personal first-aid kit, Sunscreen and lip balm, Sunglasses |
| Miscellaneous | Toiletries (including biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes), Towel (quick-dry), Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruits), Personal identification and permits (in waterproof pouch), Camera (with extra batteries or power bank) |
| Optional | Gaiters, Portable charger, Books or entertainment, Trekking umbrella |
Documents required for tarsar marsar trek?
Here is the list of documents you must carry with you when starting the trek.
- Identification Proof: Carry a valid government-issued ID proof such as Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License. This is essential for any identification checks during the trek. Keep both the original as well as photocopy of it.
- Medical certificate: The forest department requires a medical certificate completed by an MBBS doctor to grant permission for your trek. Without this certificate, you won’t be able to obtain the necessary permits. Download Medical certificate
- Parental Consent Form : A prental consent form is required for people under 18 years of age.
- Self Attestation Form: For those who are above 18 years of age need a self attested form to go for the trek. For self attestations form click here
While there is not permenant check posts in Tarsar Marsar trek but may be some rangers will check your documents near Aru village.
Preparation tips for Tarsar Marsar trek
- Fitness Level: While the Tarsar Marsar Trek is suitable for moderately experienced trekkers, good physical fitness is essential due to the altitude and terrain.
- Gear Recommendations: Make sure to pack appropriate trekking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, and a good-quality sleeping bag for camping nights.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated throughout your trek by drinking plenty of water. Carry a reusable water bottle and purification tablets if necessary.
About Mobile Network connectivity during Twin lake trek(Tarsar Marsar)
The mobile connectivity is limited during the Tarsar Marsar trek. Once you begin your trek from Aru Village, you will lose mobile network connectivity. The trek takes you into remote areas where signal reception is unavailable. That means you will be cut off from the world during this 7 days trek.
The last point where you can expect to have a mobile signal is in Pahalgam. If you need to contact anyone or inform them about your trek, it’s advisable to do so before leaving Pahalgam, as there will be no service once you start the trek.
Note: Postpaid Connections Recommended
For those traveling to Kashmir, it is recommended to use a postpaid SIM card or a prepaid SIM specifically issued in Kashmir, as outside prepaid connections do not work in this region. Read more about which sim works in Kashmir
Important Guidelines and Tips for a Safe and Hassle-Free Trek
- Allow your body time to adapt to high altitudes, as weather conditions differ significantly from lower regions.
- Follow instructions provided by your trek leaders or guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
- Bring basic medications and a first-aid kit to handle minor health issues during the trek.
- Carry a valid ID proof for verification purposes.
- Keep your luggage minimum to avoid any difficulty during the trek.
- Personal expenses, meals not included in the package, and items of personal nature will be at your own cost.
- Mobile and laptop charging points may or may not be available at campsites, and if provided, they will be at a shared location.
- Avoid using plastic bags to help preserve the natural environment and maintain ecological balance.
- Pack warm clothing and bring suitable trekking shoes to stay comfortable and protected.
- In case of emergencies or natural calamities, the management may alter the trek itinerary. However, any changes due to factors beyond control are not included in the package cost.
Things To Carry for Tarsar Marsar Trek
- Hiking shoes
- Warm clothes
- Back pack
- Day pack
- Water bottle
- Caps
- Extra pair of socks
- Walking stick
- Rain cover
- Head torch
Tarsar Marsa Trek Photos?
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Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
The Tarsar Marsar Trek typically takes 7 days, including travel time to and from Aru Village, which serves as the base camp.
What is the total distance of the trek?
The total trekking distance for the Tarsar Marsar trek is approximately 47-48 kilometers. Daily trekking distances can range from 5 to 10 kilometers, depending on the itinerary.
What is the maximum altitude reached during the trek?
The trek reaches a maximum altitude of around 13,500 feet at Tarsar Pass, which can pose challenges related to altitude sickness.
What is the difficulty level of the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
The trek is rated as moderate Scale, making it suitable for trekkers with some prior experience. A reasonable level of physical fitness and endurance is recommended.
What type of accommodation is provided during the trek?
Accommodation during the trek typically involves camping at various locations along the route. Basic facilities such as tents and sleeping bags are provided by trek organizers
How do I reach the starting point for the trek?
The starting point for the Tarsar Marsar Trek is Aru Village, which can be reached by taxi from Srinagar (approximately 103 km away).
What is the best time to do the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
The best time for the Tarsar Marsar Trek is from June to September, when the weather is pleasant, and the trails are clear of snow. During this time, you can witness lush green meadows, blooming flowers, and pristine lakes.
Do I need a guide for the trek?
Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a guide or join a trekking agency. The trails can be tricky, and a local guide ensures safety and navigation.
Are there any network or connectivity options on the trek?
Mobile connectivity is limited or non-existent on the trek. It is advised to inform your family before starting and stay connected at the base camp.
Is the Tarsar Marsar Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trek is suitable for beginners with good fitness levels. However, some prior trekking experience can be helpful.
What are the costs for the Tarsar Marsar Trek?
The cost varies ranges from ₹12,000 to ₹17,000 per person, including permits, meals, and camping equipment. For more Information you can contact Travel My Kashmir at +91-9796466052.