Trek Duration
6 Days
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
Location
Kashmir
Trek Distance
38 Km
An amazing Trekking Experience in northernmost region of Kashmir
The Gurez Valley Trek offers a peaceful getaway into the natural beauty of Kashmir. Located in the northernmost part of India, it’s known for it’s quiet surroundings, making it ideal for escaping city life. The trek follows an old shepherd’s path, giving stunning views of forests, fields, and lakes that are unlike anywhere else.
What makes this trek special is its location near the Kashmir border, where you can see both sides near the Line of Control. The landscape is rugged and untouched, creating lasting memories for visitors. It’s moderately challenging and good for beginners who are in shape, best enjoyed from June to September.
A highlight is meeting the local Shina people, who live in simple mud and log homes and have a peaceful way of life. The trek also has varied terrain with rocky and green mountains, gradual climbs, and wide open meadows that are great for exploring.
Gurez Valley itself is a scenic area surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, snowy peaks, dense forests, and the clear Kishenganga River. The locals, mainly Dard Shina speakers, have a rich cultural heritage with lively traditions in stories and music. This Trek promises an unforgettable journey into Kashmir’s natural beauty and culture, away from the usual tourist spots.
Trek Details
₹19450
₹18,980
Highlights of the Gurez Valley Trek
- Traveling around Gurez Bandipora Road is beautiful: The beautiful landscape along the way makes the almost seven-hour drive to Gurez enjoyable. You'll travel along the well-known Kishanganga River and via lovely villages, thick woods, and green meadows. Amazing views of mountain peaks, valleys, forests, and tiny settlements await you as you approach Razdan Pass.m both India and Pakistan on your drive or trek. The Kishanganga River that separates the two nations appears to blur the line. Seeing the Indian army stations and hamlet settlements so near to one another is a fascinating experience.
- Experience Border Tourism: Border tourism is growing in popularity in Gurez. You will pass army stations from both India and Pakistan on your drive or trek. The Kishanganga River that separates the two nations appears to blur the line. Seeing the Indian army stations and hamlet settlements so near to one another is a fascinating experience.
- Majestic Patalwansar Lakes: This trek features two beautiful alpine lakes, the Patalwansar Lakes. These glacier-fed lakes are covered in snow for about 8 months and remain frozen during that time. Although they share similar names, the twin lakes have distinct shapes and formations, offering unique and stunning views. These highlights make the Gurez Valley Trek an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the natural beauty and unique experiences of Kashmir.
Quick Itinerary
- Distance: 141 km
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Pick-up Point: Sheikh Feroze Tours & Travels, Srinagar at 7 am
- Cost: Rs 6000 per vehicle (non-AC)
- Details: You’ll enjoy a scenic drive through beautiful meadows, forests, and along the famous Kishanganga River. The journey includes a stop at Razdan Pass for breathtaking views. The long drive is made easier by the stunning surroundings. Overnight camping in Dawar
- Distance: 5 km
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Altitude Gain: 7,870 ft to 10,340 ft
- Details:
- Start your trek from Dawar, heading towards Dison.
- The trail offers beautiful landscapes and a gradual ascent, making it accessible for beginners.
- You’ll trek through serene nature, with opportunities to see local wildlife.
- Arrive at Dison and set up camp for the night.
- Distance: 8 km
- Duration: 6 hours
- Altitude Gain: 10,340 ft to 11,300 ft via 11,722 ft
- Details:
- Continue your trek from Dison to Khaari, passing through Dawar Heights.
- The route provides stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
- You’ll reach an altitude of 11,722 ft before descending slightly to Khaari.
- Set up camp in Khaari and enjoy the evening in this beautiful setting.
- Distance: 8 km
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Altitude Gain: 11,300 ft to 12,650 ft via 12,795 ft
- Details:
- Trek from Khaari to Patalwansar I Lake, passing by Patalwansar II.
- The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, including alpine meadows and scenic views.
- You’ll encounter the stunning Patalwansar lakes, known for their unique shapes and formations.
- Camp by Patalwansar I Lake and take in the serene surroundings.
- Distance: 12 km
- Duration: 7 hours
- Altitude Loss: 12,650 ft to 10,340 ft
- Details:
- Begin your descent from Patalwansar I Lake back to Dison.
- The trek offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and gradual descents.
- Arrive at Dison and set up camp for the night, enjoying the return to familiar surroundings.
- Trek Distance: 4.6 km
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
- Drive Distance: 141 km
- Drive Duration: 6-7 hours
- Altitude Loss: 10,340 ft to 5,220 ft
- Details:
- Complete a short trek from Dison to Dawar.
- From Dawar, you’ll embark on the drive back to Srinagar.
- Enjoy the scenic drive once again, passing through the beautiful landscapes and Razdan Pass.
- Arrive in Srinagar, marking the end of your trek.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
Accommodation: 5 nights in tented accommodation at individual campsites, on a twin-sharing basis.
Meals: Freshly cooked, simple, nutritious, vegetarian meals from dinner on Day 1 to tea and coffee on Day 6.
Transpor: Transportation from Srinagar to Srinagar and back.
Trek Insurance (Optional):Optional but highly recommended trek insurance to cover unexpected events during the trek. The cost starts from INR 210.
Trek Equipment:Sleeping bags, sleeping tents, kitchen tent, dining tent, and toilet tent.
Amenities:All utensils, sleeping mattresses (black foam mats), crampons, and gaiters for snow.
Health & Safety:First aid box, oxygen cylinders, stretchers, oximeters, and BP machines.
Exclusions
Packing for the Gurez Valley Trek
Head Gears
Don’t forget to carry headgear to protect your head and face from the elements while trekking.
Headgear is essential for safety and comfort during your trek. Make sure to pack headlamps for night trekking, hats or caps for protection from the sun and wind, sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV rays, and buffs or balaclavas to keep your neck and face warm
- Headlamps: Illuminate your path while keeping your hands free, crucial for night trekking.
- Hats or Caps: Protect your head from the sun during the day and the cold at night.
- Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and improve visibility in different weather conditions.
- Buff / Balaclava: Versatile gear to keep your neck and face warm, can be used as a neck warmer, face mask, or headband.
Clothes
When trekking at high altitudes, layering is key to staying warm and comfortable.
In the mountains, temperatures can change quickly, so wearing layers helps trap heat and allows you to adjust your clothing easily. In spring, summer, and monsoon, wear a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket. In autumn, add another fleece. For winter treks, you’ll need thermals, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
- T-shirts / Long Sleeve Shirts: Bring three T-shirts and two quick-dry trek pants. Long sleeves offer UV protection.
- Hiking / Trekking Jacket: Down jackets (-5 to -10°C) or multi-layer jackets for insulation.
- Thermals: At least two pairs to keep warm in cold weather.
- Undergarments: Carry according to personal hygiene needs.
- Gloves: One pair to keep your hands warm.
- Trek Pants: Comfortable and quick-drying, bring 2-3 pairs.
- Rainwear (Raincoat or Poncho): Essential for staying dry during rains or snowfalls.
Foot Gears
The right footwear is crucial for a safe and comfortable trek.
Trekking shoes should be waterproof and offer good ankle support. Comfortable sandals are useful at campsites or for crossing streams, while sneakers can be handy for casual use.
- Trekking Shoes: Waterproof with ankle support for rugged terrain.
- Walking / Hiking Sandals: For use at campsites and stream crossings.
- Sneakers (Optional): Comfortable for casual wear or lighter activities.
Personal First Aid Kit
A personal first aid kit is a must-have for any trek to handle unforeseen medical needs.
Your kit should include antiseptic wipes, bandages, medicines for common issues like diarrhea and headaches, ORS pouches for rehydration, and bug repellent. Always consult your doctor for any personal medications.
- Antiseptic Wipes and Bandages: For cleaning and dressing wounds.
- Medications: For diarrhea, colds, flu, fever, headaches, and pain relief.
- ORS Pouches: To prevent dehydration.
- Bug Repellent: To protect against insect bites.
- Nutrition/Energy Bars: Quick energy boost for the trek.
Gadgets And Other Items
Bringing the right gadgets and accessories enhances your trekking experience.
Trekking poles provide stability. Bring a mobile phone and a camera to capture memories. Pack portable chargers to keep your devices powered, and flashlights or headlights for night activities. Use a waterproof bag to protect your gadgets, and consider a journal or books for downtime.
- Trekking Poles: Provide balance and reduce strain on your legs.
- Mobile Phone and Spare Batteries: For communication and navigation.
- Camera and Binoculars: Capture the beauty of the trek and observe distant views.
- Portable Charger (Power Bank): Keep your devices charged.
- Flashlight or Headlight: For visibility at night.
- Waterproof Bag: Protects your electronics and valuables from water.
- Plug/Converter: For charging devices.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during the trek.
- Journal and Pen: For recording your journey.
- Books or Guidebook: For entertainment and information.
Hygiene & Personal Toiletry
Maintaining hygiene is important for a comfortable trekking experience.
Pack sunscreen for UV protection, quick-drying towels, toilet paper, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, and sanitary items for female trekkers. Lip balm prevents chapping, and biodegradable soap helps you stay clean while being kind to the environment.
- Sunscreen: Protects your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Quick-Drying Towels: Dry off quickly after rain or sweat.
- Toilet Paper, Tissues, or Wet Wipes: For maintaining hygiene.
- Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Mouth Freshener: Keep your mouth clean.
- Deodorant or Talcum Powder: Stay fresh and odor-free.
- Shampoo: Keep your hair clean.
- Sanitary Pads or Tampons: For female trekkers to manage menstrual cycles.
- Lip Balm: Prevents dry and chapped lips.
- Biodegradable Soap: Environmentally friendly option for staying clean.
- Nail Clipper and Personal Hygiene Items: For personal grooming.
By organizing your packing list this way, you’ll ensure you have everything you need for a well-prepared and enjoyable trekking experience in Gurez Valley.
Safety During Gurez Valley Trek
When you trek with KashmireX for the Gurez Valley Trek, your safety is our top priority. Our team of trek leaders is qualified in Wilderness first aid and is well-versed in handling high-altitude challenges. We carry a comprehensive first-aid kit on every trek, ensuring we are prepared for any situation. Before joining us, we ask that you confirm your medical fitness, as your health is paramount.
Pioneering Safety in Indian Trekking
Since our establishment, KashmireX has continuously set new safety standards in Indian trekking. We introduced microspikes and mandated emergency bottled oxygen for all treks. Our trek leaders monitor your pulse oximeter readings daily, and we utilize radio walkie-talkies for safety communication.
Ensuring Your Trek Safety
While many trek organizers overlook these safety measures, we at KashmireX have set a benchmark that others are beginning to follow. Our commitment to safety includes a large team of over 100 professionally trained guides and trek leaders, educated at the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Indian Mountaineering Foundation Delhi, and Hanifle Center Outdoor Education Mussoorie.
New Safety Protocols
To ensure your trek is as safe as possible, we have introduced several new safety checks:
- Daily Oxygen Saturation and Pulse Readings: Monitoring your health daily to detect any issues early.
- Stretchers Team: Appointed on every trek for emergency situations.
- Radios: For effective communication in remote areas.
- Trained Mountain Staff: Ensuring complete technical safety in the mountains.
- Additional Oxygen Cylinders: Readily available for high-altitude treks.
- Special Medical Kit: Tailored for high-altitude conditions.
- Microspikes: Used on all snow treks for added stability.
- Experienced Trek Leaders: Providing expert guidance and safety.
- Technical Team: On all snowy slopes to ensure safety.
Our Commitment to Your Safety
Our team, fluent in English and Hindi, has local knowledge to enhance your trekking experience. All trek leaders have undergone professional training in first aid, portable altitude chamber operation, CPR, environmental awareness, and advanced wilderness emergency medicine. We carry a complete medical kit on every trek and portable altitude chambers and medical oxygen for high-altitude treks.
FAQ's
The beautiful Kishanganga River flows through Gurez Valley. The local Dards, who speak the Sheena language, have deep ancestral ties to Gilgit Valley, now part of Pakistan.
If you’re an Indian citizen, you don’t need permits to visit Gurez Valley, though carrying your Aadhar card or voter ID is advisable for checkposts. Foreign nationals should obtain permission from the district commissioner’s office in Srinagar or Bandipora.
Gurez Valley, known as Kashmir’s Hidden Paradise, is not just breathtakingly scenic but also a cultural treasure. It’s the last sanctuary of the Dardic people in India, steeped in ancient history along the Silk Route connecting Kashmir to Gilgit-Baltistan and beyond.
Prepare to be awed by two pristine turquoise alpine lakes: Patalwansar I and Patalwansar II, nestled at a lofty 13,188 ft. You’ll even have the chance to camp beside one of these serene gems!
Over 5 adventure-filled days (including a 6-day trip with transportation), the Gurez Valley Trek covers about 36 km. You’ll trek through elevations ranging from 7,870 ft in Srinagar to the tranquil heights of Patalwansar II lake.
Absolutely! Despite its proximity to POK, Gurez Valley’s trekking routes are safe and well-monitored due to a significant military presence. We closely monitor political situations and ensure your safety by scheduling treks during non-curfew hours.
Trekking in Gurez Valley requires good fitness. To join us, aim to comfortably run 5 km in 35 minutes or maintain a steady cycling pace of 22 km in 60 minutes. Regular fitness is key to enjoying a safe and fulfilling trek.
To minimize ecological impact, we do not offer offloading services on the Gurez Valley Trek. We encourage all trekkers to responsibly carry their own gear.