![low-preview-299a1d7f cfc0 4a25 9cfe cd0543a49c20 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2833%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/299a1d7f-cfc0-4a25-9cfe-cd0543a49c20_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2833%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=606%2C0%2C750%2C1000&w=660&h=880&blur=80&func=crop)
![low-preview-13a0b016 212b 4644 ab2d fee6aafbb390 gurez valley trek nitesh kumar indiahikes 25](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/13a0b016-212b-4644-ab2d-fee6aafbb390_Gurez+Valley+Trek_Nitesh+Kumar_Indiahikes-25.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=400%2C0%2C800%2C1067&w=660&h=880&blur=80&func=crop)
![low-preview-2c4e80e9 2f20 4313 98eb 92e5e7b0e922 gurez valley trek nitesh kumar indiahikes 28](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/2c4e80e9-2f20-4313-98eb-92e5e7b0e922_Gurez+Valley+Trek_Nitesh+Kumar_Indiahikes-28.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=219%2C0%2C800%2C1067&w=660&h=880&blur=80&func=crop)
![low-preview-a63cea33 71e3 46fc 900f 08b546a842be gurez valley trek nitesh kumar indiahikes 20](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/a63cea33-71e3-46fc-900f-08b546a842be_Gurez+Valley+Trek_Nitesh+Kumar_Indiahikes-20.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=387%2C0%2C800%2C1067&w=660&h=880&blur=80&func=crop)
![low-preview-299a1d7f cfc0 4a25 9cfe cd0543a49c20 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2833%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/299a1d7f-cfc0-4a25-9cfe-cd0543a49c20_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2833%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=606%2C0%2C750%2C1000&w=660&h=880&blur=80&func=crop)
![low-preview-13a0b016 212b 4644 ab2d fee6aafbb390 gurez valley trek nitesh kumar indiahikes 25](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/13a0b016-212b-4644-ab2d-fee6aafbb390_Gurez+Valley+Trek_Nitesh+Kumar_Indiahikes-25.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=400%2C0%2C800%2C1067&w=660&h=880&blur=80&func=crop)
![low-preview-2c4e80e9 2f20 4313 98eb 92e5e7b0e922 gurez valley trek nitesh kumar indiahikes 28](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/2c4e80e9-2f20-4313-98eb-92e5e7b0e922_Gurez+Valley+Trek_Nitesh+Kumar_Indiahikes-28.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=219%2C0%2C800%2C1067&w=660&h=880&blur=80&func=crop)
![low-preview-a63cea33 71e3 46fc 900f 08b546a842be gurez valley trek nitesh kumar indiahikes 20](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/a63cea33-71e3-46fc-900f-08b546a842be_Gurez+Valley+Trek_Nitesh+Kumar_Indiahikes-20.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=387%2C0%2C800%2C1067&w=660&h=880&blur=80&func=crop)
![low-preview-299a1d7f cfc0 4a25 9cfe cd0543a49c20 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2833%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/299a1d7f-cfc0-4a25-9cfe-cd0543a49c20_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2833%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=606%2C0%2C750%2C1000&w=660&h=880&blur=80&func=crop)
Gurez Valley Trek
A spectacular trek in the northernmost part of Kashmir
Did you know Brammah Valley in Jammu is still open in Sept & Oct, while all other Kashmir treks are closed?Check out the trek here
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
7 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
13,188 ft
A spectacular trek in the northernmost part of Kashmir
India ends at Gurez. The significance of this is enormous. If you look at our country as a whole, we travel upwards from Kanyakumari. There comes the point where we cannot travel any further north. That part of our country is Gurez.
The significance is that the Gurez is the last latitude of India, which is why it is very unlike any other part of Kashmir. The topography changes totally even though it is only 6 hours north of Srinagar. You will notice it in the trees especially. The trees are different, and so are the way they are laid out in the valley. The Razdan pass you cross to get to Gurez pushes you to a very different landscape. Just like how it is when you cross the Rohtang Pass in Manali. In fact, our trek in Gurez reminds us more of our treks in Kyrgyzstan and Georgia than they do of our treks in Kashmir -- so different is the landscape. We feel we are in a different locale even though we are in Kashmir.
The Gurez valley trek has astoundingly different forests, grasslands and two lovely lakes (and one we camp beside). The scenery is spectacularly unusual.
Note: This trek will be run in our Do-It-Yourself (DIY) style. Which means trekkers along with a trek leader are going to be doing the trek all without a support system. You will be helping in carrying a few of the gears and equipment as a team. So we expect your backpack to weigh about 12 kg per trekker.
India ends at Gurez. The significance of this is enormous. If you look at our country as a whole, we travel upwards from Kanyakumari. There comes the point where we cannot travel any further north. That part of our country is Gurez.
The significance is that the Gurez is the last latitude of India, which is why it is very unlike any other part of Kashmir. The topography changes totally even though it is only 6 hours north of Srinagar. You will notice it in the trees especially. The trees are different, and so are the way they are laid out in the valley. The Razdan pass you cross to get to Gurez pushes you to a very different landscape. Just like how it is when you cross the Rohtang Pass in Manali. In fact, our trek in Gurez reminds us more of our treks in Kyrgyzstan and Georgia than they do of our treks in Kashmir -- so different is the landscape. We feel we are in a different locale even though we are in Kashmir.
![low-preview-hqdefault](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://img.youtube.com/vi/purxYSl2XrU/hqdefault.jpg?w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-hqdefault](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://img.youtube.com/vi/LRUya_6_Gfs/hqdefault.jpg?w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-hqdefault](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://img.youtube.com/vi/urhEcpqeL28/hqdefault.jpg?w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Gurez Valley - Complete Trek Information
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Gurez Valley Trek. It has in-depth information about each trekking day, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
![low-preview-zlgdhkwthyxtt61r gurezvalleytrekmap 1](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/ZlgDHKWtHYXtT61r_GurezValleyTrekMap-1-.jpg?auto=format,compress&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Study this map to know this trek at a glance
Day 1
Drive from Srinagar to Dawar
Drive Distance: 141 km | Drive Duration: 6-7 hours | Pick-up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Sheikh Feroze Tours & Travels, Sathu, Barbara Shah Chowk, near Flourmill, Srinagar | Pick-u time- 7 am.
The transport cost is Rs 6000 per vehicle and must be paid directly to the driver. The vehicle will be non-AC.
Please note: You arrive at Sheikh Feroze on Day 0 to collect rentals and submit cloakroom at 6 pm.
Day 2
Trek from Dawar to Dison
Trek Distance: 5 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude gain: 7,870 ft to 10,340 ft
Day 3
Trek from Dison to Khaari via Dawar heights
Trek Distance: 8 km | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Altitude gain: 10,340 ft to 11,300 ft via 11,722 ft
Day 4
Trek from Khaari to Patalwansar I Lake via Patalwansar II
Trek Distance: 8 km | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Altitude gain: 11,300 ft to 12,650 ft via 12,795 ft
Day 5
Trek from Patalwansar I to Dison
Trek Distance: 12 km | Trek Duration: 7 hours | Altitude loss: 12,650 ft to 10,340 ft
Day 6
Trek from Dison to Dawar. Drive to Srinagar
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
Please note: The distance between campsites may vary by 100 meters depending on weather conditions and your route. The altitude may also vary by 100 feet for similar reasons.
Day 7
Buffer Day
All your travel plans include a buffer day to accommodate bad weather on the trek/political instability. This depends entirely on the circumstances of the trek and the situation in Kashmir. The buffer day is mandatory to keep in your itinerary.
If the buffer day is used, you have to pay us Rs 1,800 per day +5% GST. The money will be collected by the Trek Leader only if we use the buffer day.
![low-preview-zlgdhkwthyxtt61r gurezvalleytrekmap 1](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/ZlgDHKWtHYXtT61r_GurezValleyTrekMap-1-.jpg?auto=format,compress&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Study this map to know this trek at a glance
IMPORTANT POINTS
➤DIY Style of Trekking: This trek will be run in our Do-It-Yourself (DIY) style. Which means trekkres along with a trek leader are going to be doing the trek all without a support system. So we expect your backpack to weigh about 12 kg per trekker
➤Advisory Note: In case of emergencies, we will reroute treks to other trails. Please ensure you're mentally prepared in case such situations arise.
➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a photocopy of their photo id along with the mandatory documents of the Medical Certificate and Disclaimer form. This is required for trek permissions before and during the trek.
➤Stay facility: You will be staying in tents on all days of the trek. Trekkers must make arrangements to stay in Srinagar at the end of the trek.
➤Note for foreign trekkers: Gurez can not be done by foreign trekkers. Permissions are issued only for Indian citizens.
Day 1
Drive from Srinagar to Dawar
Drive Distance: 141 km | Drive Duration: 6-7 hours | Pick-up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Sheikh Feroze Tours & Travels, Sathu, Barbara Shah Chowk, near Flourmill, Srinagar | Pick-u time- 7 am.
The transport cost is Rs 6000 per vehicle and must be paid directly to the driver. The vehicle will be non-AC.
Please note: You arrive at Sheikh Feroze on Day 0 to collect rentals and submit cloakroom at 6 pm.
Day 2
Trek from Dawar to Dison
Trek Distance: 5 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude gain: 7,870 ft to 10,340 ft
Day 3
Trek from Dison to Khaari via Dawar heights
Trek Distance: 8 km | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Altitude gain: 10,340 ft to 11,300 ft via 11,722 ft
Day 4
Trek from Khaari to Patalwansar I Lake via Patalwansar II
Trek Distance: 8 km | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Altitude gain: 11,300 ft to 12,650 ft via 12,795 ft
Day 5
Trek from Patalwansar I to Dison
Trek Distance: 12 km | Trek Duration: 7 hours | Altitude loss: 12,650 ft to 10,340 ft
Day 6
Trek from Dison to Dawar. Drive to Srinagar
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
Please note: The distance between campsites may vary by 100 meters depending on weather conditions and your route. The altitude may also vary by 100 feet for similar reasons.
Day 7
Buffer Day
All your travel plans include a buffer day to accommodate bad weather on the trek/political instability. This depends entirely on the circumstances of the trek and the situation in Kashmir. The buffer day is mandatory to keep in your itinerary.
If the buffer day is used, you have to pay us Rs 1,800 per day +5% GST. The money will be collected by the Trek Leader only if we use the buffer day.
IMPORTANT POINTS
➤DIY Style of Trekking: This trek will be run in our Do-It-Yourself (DIY) style. Which means trekkres along with a trek leader are going to be doing the trek all without a support system. So we expect your backpack to weigh about 12 kg per trekker
➤Advisory Note: In case of emergencies, we will reroute treks to other trails. Please ensure you're mentally prepared in case such situations arise.
➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a photocopy of their photo id along with the mandatory documents of the Medical Certificate and Disclaimer form. This is required for trek permissions before and during the trek.
➤Stay facility: You will be staying in tents on all days of the trek. Trekkers must make arrangements to stay in Srinagar at the end of the trek.
➤Note for foreign trekkers: Gurez can not be done by foreign trekkers. Permissions are issued only for Indian citizens.
![low-preview-96f54d7c 42f0 4f1c b58f c092aec37b75 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2854%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/96f54d7c-42f0-4f1c-b58f-c092aec37b75_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2854%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-9108c662 8e8b 4505 93fc 2a89e0dddf8c gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2853%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/9108c662-8e8b-4505-93fc-2a89e0dddf8c_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2853%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-736271e4 2aea 4e6a af04 1e46931a711c gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2849%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/736271e4-2aea-4e6a-af04-1e46931a711c_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2849%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-e054dd7f 02f1 46f9 aa69 e58b9d3d3f23 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2855%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/e054dd7f-02f1-46f9-aa69-e58b9d3d3f23_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2855%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-96f54d7c 42f0 4f1c b58f c092aec37b75 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2854%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/96f54d7c-42f0-4f1c-b58f-c092aec37b75_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2854%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-9108c662 8e8b 4505 93fc 2a89e0dddf8c gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2853%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/9108c662-8e8b-4505-93fc-2a89e0dddf8c_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2853%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-736271e4 2aea 4e6a af04 1e46931a711c gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2849%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/736271e4-2aea-4e6a-af04-1e46931a711c_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2849%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-e054dd7f 02f1 46f9 aa69 e58b9d3d3f23 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2855%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/e054dd7f-02f1-46f9-aa69-e58b9d3d3f23_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2855%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-96f54d7c 42f0 4f1c b58f c092aec37b75 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2854%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/96f54d7c-42f0-4f1c-b58f-c092aec37b75_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2854%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-9108c662 8e8b 4505 93fc 2a89e0dddf8c gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2853%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/9108c662-8e8b-4505-93fc-2a89e0dddf8c_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2853%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-736271e4 2aea 4e6a af04 1e46931a711c gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2849%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/736271e4-2aea-4e6a-af04-1e46931a711c_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2849%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Day 1 (Pick-up day) - Srinagar to Dawar (Gurez)
![img](/Duration.png)
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Drive Distance: 141 km
![img](/shoes.png)
Altitude gain: 5,220 ft to 7,870 ft via 11,550 ft
Gurez (Dawar) is about 140 km north from Srinagar taking around 6-7 hours for the entire journey.
The travel to Gurez can be divided into two parts. 1) The upward travel to Razdan Pass at 11,550 ft. 2) The second leg of your travel will be from Razdan Pass down to the base town of Dawar at 7,870 ft.
First section of the drive takes you through Srinagar city and the city outskirts. The drive is about an hour away. Once you cross the city, you have the Kashmir valley opening up. The drive becomes extremely picturesque hereone. You drive through crisp pin forests, valleys and mountain passes. It is anything unlike Kashmir. The drive ends at the beautiful Dawar Valley on your right.
Expect to reach Dawar by 4pm.
Note: If you are travelling in Kashmir before Day 1, please ensure you reach the campsite well before time.
![low-preview-e054dd7f 02f1 46f9 aa69 e58b9d3d3f23 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2855%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/e054dd7f-02f1-46f9-aa69-e58b9d3d3f23_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2855%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-96f54d7c 42f0 4f1c b58f c092aec37b75 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2854%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/96f54d7c-42f0-4f1c-b58f-c092aec37b75_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2854%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-9108c662 8e8b 4505 93fc 2a89e0dddf8c gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2853%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/9108c662-8e8b-4505-93fc-2a89e0dddf8c_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2853%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-736271e4 2aea 4e6a af04 1e46931a711c gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2849%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/736271e4-2aea-4e6a-af04-1e46931a711c_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2849%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Gurez (Dawar) is about 140 km north from Srinagar taking around 6-7 hours for the entire journey.
The travel to Gurez can be divided into two parts. 1) The upward travel to Razdan Pass at 11,550 ft. 2) The second leg of your travel will be from Razdan Pass down to the base town of Dawar at 7,870 ft.
First section of the drive takes you through Srinagar city and the city outskirts. The drive is about an hour away. Once you cross the city, you have the Kashmir valley opening up. The drive becomes extremely picturesque hereone. You drive through crisp pin forests, valleys and mountain passes. It is anything unlike Kashmir. The drive ends at the beautiful Dawar Valley on your right.
Expect to reach Dawar by 4pm.
Note: If you are travelling in Kashmir before Day 1, please ensure you reach the campsite well before time.
![low-preview-fe8621e8 1535 4145 b1cb 5fe7f0fd8d45 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %283%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/fe8621e8-1535-4145-b1cb-5fe7f0fd8d45_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%283%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-00a1aef6 e8f1 4be1 ab62 0c37d33328b6 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %287%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/00a1aef6-e8f1-4be1-ab62-0c37d33328b6_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%287%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-9443b55a 046d 4bbd ab47 22d0e5b58954 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2814%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/9443b55a-046d-4bbd-ab47-22d0e5b58954_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2814%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-70c68bee d0f7 453c a669 87817da6890b gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2813%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/70c68bee-d0f7-453c-a669-87817da6890b_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2813%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-fe8621e8 1535 4145 b1cb 5fe7f0fd8d45 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %283%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/fe8621e8-1535-4145-b1cb-5fe7f0fd8d45_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%283%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-00a1aef6 e8f1 4be1 ab62 0c37d33328b6 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %287%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/00a1aef6-e8f1-4be1-ab62-0c37d33328b6_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%287%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-9443b55a 046d 4bbd ab47 22d0e5b58954 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2814%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/9443b55a-046d-4bbd-ab47-22d0e5b58954_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2814%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-70c68bee d0f7 453c a669 87817da6890b gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2813%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/70c68bee-d0f7-453c-a669-87817da6890b_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2813%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-fe8621e8 1535 4145 b1cb 5fe7f0fd8d45 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %283%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/fe8621e8-1535-4145-b1cb-5fe7f0fd8d45_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%283%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-00a1aef6 e8f1 4be1 ab62 0c37d33328b6 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %287%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/00a1aef6-e8f1-4be1-ab62-0c37d33328b6_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%287%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-9443b55a 046d 4bbd ab47 22d0e5b58954 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2814%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/9443b55a-046d-4bbd-ab47-22d0e5b58954_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2814%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Day 2: Trek from Dawar to Dison
![img](/Duration.png)
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Trek Distance: 5 km
![img](/shoes.png)
Altitude gain: 7,870 ft to 10,340 ft
Today is a short but exciting day! You start by walking for a short distance of around 500 metres along the Dawar Valley till you reach a football ground on your left. This is where the ascent starts.
You trek for another 800 metres in grasslands before coming across some treeline. This is where the forest starts. It's a refreshing zig-zag climb into the pine forest. The forest you see in Kashmir is not as dense as those in Uttarakhand or Himachal Pradesh. It's airy and sparse.
After 2 kilometres of ascending, you pop into a wide meadow clearing. This is Gurez Valley. As you climb for another 15 minutes - you'll reach a viewpoint, and on your left, you'll witness the Habba Khatoon mountain and a few villages. This viewpoint has the best view of the mountain. The LOC border is also precisely here- dividing the villages into India and Pakistan!
From this viewpoint, descend down for 10 minutes. You'll see a shepherd hut. This is where you'll camp for the day. Camp close to the shepherd hut.
The day is easy on the legs, so after setting up camp, explore the surrounding area. You see massive silver birch trees surrounding you.
![low-preview-70c68bee d0f7 453c a669 87817da6890b gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2813%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/70c68bee-d0f7-453c-a669-87817da6890b_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2813%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-fe8621e8 1535 4145 b1cb 5fe7f0fd8d45 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %283%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/fe8621e8-1535-4145-b1cb-5fe7f0fd8d45_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%283%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-00a1aef6 e8f1 4be1 ab62 0c37d33328b6 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %287%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/00a1aef6-e8f1-4be1-ab62-0c37d33328b6_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%287%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-9443b55a 046d 4bbd ab47 22d0e5b58954 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2814%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/9443b55a-046d-4bbd-ab47-22d0e5b58954_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2814%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Today is a short but exciting day! You start by walking for a short distance of around 500 metres along the Dawar Valley till you reach a football ground on your left. This is where the ascent starts.
You trek for another 800 metres in grasslands before coming across some treeline. This is where the forest starts. It's a refreshing zig-zag climb into the pine forest. The forest you see in Kashmir is not as dense as those in Uttarakhand or Himachal Pradesh. It's airy and sparse.
After 2 kilometres of ascending, you pop into a wide meadow clearing. This is Gurez Valley. As you climb for another 15 minutes - you'll reach a viewpoint, and on your left, you'll witness the Habba Khatoon mountain and a few villages. This viewpoint has the best view of the mountain. The LOC border is also precisely here- dividing the villages into India and Pakistan!
From this viewpoint, descend down for 10 minutes. You'll see a shepherd hut. This is where you'll camp for the day. Camp close to the shepherd hut.
The day is easy on the legs, so after setting up camp, explore the surrounding area. You see massive silver birch trees surrounding you.
![low-preview-7c3a3e74 058e 47e1 a425 63781f2629ae gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2820%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/7c3a3e74-058e-47e1-a425-63781f2629ae_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2820%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-2f6d546d 7abd 4642 b1f8 ae0f91f6ee79 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2822%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/2f6d546d-7abd-4642-b1f8-ae0f91f6ee79_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2822%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-b3dd9e80 a849 4b2e ba09 d00ea3799041 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2825%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/b3dd9e80-a849-4b2e-ba09-d00ea3799041_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2825%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-0d2ba087 0910 473f 8593 55238c00ec2a gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2823%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/0d2ba087-0910-473f-8593-55238c00ec2a_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2823%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-7c3a3e74 058e 47e1 a425 63781f2629ae gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2820%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/7c3a3e74-058e-47e1-a425-63781f2629ae_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2820%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-2f6d546d 7abd 4642 b1f8 ae0f91f6ee79 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2822%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/2f6d546d-7abd-4642-b1f8-ae0f91f6ee79_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2822%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-b3dd9e80 a849 4b2e ba09 d00ea3799041 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2825%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/b3dd9e80-a849-4b2e-ba09-d00ea3799041_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2825%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-0d2ba087 0910 473f 8593 55238c00ec2a gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2823%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/0d2ba087-0910-473f-8593-55238c00ec2a_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2823%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-7c3a3e74 058e 47e1 a425 63781f2629ae gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2820%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/7c3a3e74-058e-47e1-a425-63781f2629ae_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2820%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-2f6d546d 7abd 4642 b1f8 ae0f91f6ee79 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2822%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/2f6d546d-7abd-4642-b1f8-ae0f91f6ee79_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2822%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-b3dd9e80 a849 4b2e ba09 d00ea3799041 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2825%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/b3dd9e80-a849-4b2e-ba09-d00ea3799041_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2825%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Day 3: Trek from Dison to Khaari
![img](/Duration.png)
Trek Duration: 6 hours | Trek Distance: 8 km
![img](/shoes.png)
Altitude gain: 11,340 ft to 11,300 ft via 11,700 ft
Today you’ll start inching towards the higher altitude of 11,300 ft. Though it is a gradual ascent and descent.
Start your trek by ascending from the Dison campsite to a high point of Dawar Heights at 11,700 ft. The trail is extremely well laid and green.
Turn and descend to your left and trek for 3 kilometres on a ridge before reaching a shepherd hut.
From the Shepherd hut, you’ll see an army camp on your left. It's a small walk towards the camp.
As you reach and trek from the Army camp, you’ll notice a diversion. The one that is straight ahead takes you to Patalwansar Pass. You have to take the right.
Right as you snake through this diversion, you see small boulders. This is Khaari. You will be camping here today.
After setting up camp, explore the surrounding area. Go up the Patalwansar Pass. Walk along the horse trail around the campsite.
![low-preview-0d2ba087 0910 473f 8593 55238c00ec2a gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2823%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/0d2ba087-0910-473f-8593-55238c00ec2a_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2823%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-7c3a3e74 058e 47e1 a425 63781f2629ae gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2820%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/7c3a3e74-058e-47e1-a425-63781f2629ae_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2820%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-2f6d546d 7abd 4642 b1f8 ae0f91f6ee79 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2822%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/2f6d546d-7abd-4642-b1f8-ae0f91f6ee79_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2822%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-b3dd9e80 a849 4b2e ba09 d00ea3799041 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2825%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/b3dd9e80-a849-4b2e-ba09-d00ea3799041_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2825%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Today you’ll start inching towards the higher altitude of 11,300 ft. Though it is a gradual ascent and descent.
Start your trek by ascending from the Dison campsite to a high point of Dawar Heights at 11,700 ft. The trail is extremely well laid and green.
Turn and descend to your left and trek for 3 kilometres on a ridge before reaching a shepherd hut.
From the Shepherd hut, you’ll see an army camp on your left. It's a small walk towards the camp.
As you reach and trek from the Army camp, you’ll notice a diversion. The one that is straight ahead takes you to Patalwansar Pass. You have to take the right.
Right as you snake through this diversion, you see small boulders. This is Khaari. You will be camping here today.
After setting up camp, explore the surrounding area. Go up the Patalwansar Pass. Walk along the horse trail around the campsite.
![low-preview-bd02420a a414 4add a887 17caf9499e25 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2838%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/bd02420a-a414-4add-a887-17caf9499e25_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2838%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-8ab9ca98 e3c7 4d88 a069 70d6c9e74199 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2846%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/8ab9ca98-e3c7-4d88-a069-70d6c9e74199_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2846%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-43774f7c 1c0e 40b3 8125 738e183c39ce gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2861%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/43774f7c-1c0e-40b3-8125-738e183c39ce_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2861%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-c0b5353e a690 4075 8d9b 8d7ddd31885a gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2827%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/c0b5353e-a690-4075-8d9b-8d7ddd31885a_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2827%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-bd02420a a414 4add a887 17caf9499e25 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2838%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/bd02420a-a414-4add-a887-17caf9499e25_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2838%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-8ab9ca98 e3c7 4d88 a069 70d6c9e74199 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2846%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/8ab9ca98-e3c7-4d88-a069-70d6c9e74199_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2846%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-43774f7c 1c0e 40b3 8125 738e183c39ce gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2861%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/43774f7c-1c0e-40b3-8125-738e183c39ce_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2861%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-c0b5353e a690 4075 8d9b 8d7ddd31885a gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2827%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/c0b5353e-a690-4075-8d9b-8d7ddd31885a_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2827%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-bd02420a a414 4add a887 17caf9499e25 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2838%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/bd02420a-a414-4add-a887-17caf9499e25_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2838%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-8ab9ca98 e3c7 4d88 a069 70d6c9e74199 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2846%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/8ab9ca98-e3c7-4d88-a069-70d6c9e74199_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2846%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-43774f7c 1c0e 40b3 8125 738e183c39ce gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2861%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/43774f7c-1c0e-40b3-8125-738e183c39ce_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2861%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Day 4: Trek from Khaari to Patalwansar Lake I via Patalwansar Lake II
![img](/Duration.png)
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Trek Distance: 8 km
![img](/shoes.png)
Altitude gain: 11,300 ft to 12,650 ft via 12,795 ft
Today is an adventurous day! You’ll trek to Patalwansar I lake via Patalwansar II. Both lakes are completely different. The Patalwansar II lake is huge while the Patalwansar I is as long as your eyes can see!
Start today by trekking on massive boulders. It will be 3 km long. So make you warm up well before starting the trek. Again, as you reach the end of the boulder section, you’ll come across a mountain that is a diversion. One leading to Patalwansar I lake on the right and the other leading to Patalwansar II straight ahead. Take the straight.
Ascend for around 2 km straight and turn right to reach Patalwansar II lake. The scale of this lake is huge.Spend some quiet serene moments here.
From here, head towards Patalwansar I Lake. You will have a moderate ascend of about 1.4 km before reaching a viewpoint. From here you’ll start seeing a blue coloured tail snaking towards the right.
From here, you have a steep 200 metre descent. As you descend, follow the tail to see a huge long lake opening up and presenting itself. This is Patalwansar I Lake. Walk another 500 metres around the lake. You will be camping here today right next to the lake.
After setting up camp, explore the surrounding area. Walk around the Patalwansar II Lake. It’s absolutely surreal.
![low-preview-c0b5353e a690 4075 8d9b 8d7ddd31885a gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2827%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/c0b5353e-a690-4075-8d9b-8d7ddd31885a_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2827%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-bd02420a a414 4add a887 17caf9499e25 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2838%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/bd02420a-a414-4add-a887-17caf9499e25_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2838%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-8ab9ca98 e3c7 4d88 a069 70d6c9e74199 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2846%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/8ab9ca98-e3c7-4d88-a069-70d6c9e74199_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2846%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
![low-preview-43774f7c 1c0e 40b3 8125 738e183c39ce gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2861%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/43774f7c-1c0e-40b3-8125-738e183c39ce_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2861%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Today is an adventurous day! You’ll trek to Patalwansar I lake via Patalwansar II. Both lakes are completely different. The Patalwansar II lake is huge while the Patalwansar I is as long as your eyes can see!
Start today by trekking on massive boulders. It will be 3 km long. So make you warm up well before starting the trek. Again, as you reach the end of the boulder section, you’ll come across a mountain that is a diversion. One leading to Patalwansar I lake on the right and the other leading to Patalwansar II straight ahead. Take the straight.
Ascend for around 2 km straight and turn right to reach Patalwansar II lake. The scale of this lake is huge.Spend some quiet serene moments here.
From here, head towards Patalwansar I Lake. You will have a moderate ascend of about 1.4 km before reaching a viewpoint. From here you’ll start seeing a blue coloured tail snaking towards the right.
From here, you have a steep 200 metre descent. As you descend, follow the tail to see a huge long lake opening up and presenting itself. This is Patalwansar I Lake. Walk another 500 metres around the lake. You will be camping here today right next to the lake.
After setting up camp, explore the surrounding area. Walk around the Patalwansar II Lake. It’s absolutely surreal.
![low-preview-94129695 fb1f 4bad ace3 7fcc367df679 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2847%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/94129695-fb1f-4bad-ace3-7fcc367df679_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2847%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
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![low-preview-94129695 fb1f 4bad ace3 7fcc367df679 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2847%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/94129695-fb1f-4bad-ace3-7fcc367df679_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2847%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
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![low-preview-94129695 fb1f 4bad ace3 7fcc367df679 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2847%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/94129695-fb1f-4bad-ace3-7fcc367df679_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2847%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
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Day 5: Trek from Patalwansar I to Dison
![img](/Duration.png)
Trek Duration: 7 hours | Trek DIstance: 12 km
![img](/shoes.png)
Altitude loss: 12,650 ft to 10,340 ft
Today is a long day. You will be trekking for almost 12 km, all in descent.
Start of the trek by leaving Patalwansar I Lake campsite to Khaari. The trail is 3.5 kms long and full of boulders.
From Khaari you will head to Dison campsite. The trail is completely meadowy with long descent walks of about 9 kilometres. The trail is extremely green and enjoyable.
Camp at Dison cmapsite. After setting up camp, explore the surrounding area again. You see massive silver birch trees surrounding you, Habba Khatoon mountian and enjoy the sunset.
![low-preview-de092eb3 2f44 4fa4 95de b28d99d6edf8 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2828%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/de092eb3-2f44-4fa4-95de-b28d99d6edf8_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2828%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
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Today is a long day. You will be trekking for almost 12 km, all in descent.
Start of the trek by leaving Patalwansar I Lake campsite to Khaari. The trail is 3.5 kms long and full of boulders.
From Khaari you will head to Dison campsite. The trail is completely meadowy with long descent walks of about 9 kilometres. The trail is extremely green and enjoyable.
Camp at Dison cmapsite. After setting up camp, explore the surrounding area again. You see massive silver birch trees surrounding you, Habba Khatoon mountian and enjoy the sunset.
![low-preview-30f0f998 2197 4105 b7c9 4df8a66f8a4f gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2859%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/30f0f998-2197-4105-b7c9-4df8a66f8a4f_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2859%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
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Day 6: Trek Dison to Dawar. Drive from Dawar to Srinagar
![img](/Duration.png)
Trek Duration: 3 hours | Trek Distance: 4.6 km
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours | Drive Distance: 141 km
![img](/shoes.png)
Altitude loss: 10,340 ft to 5,220 ft
It’s the last day of the trek today. But it’s a challenging day, and you’ll end the trek on a high!
The day begins with a steep descent from Dison to Dawar from the other side. You descend along a ledge surrounded entirely by rocks and pine forests. The descent is 2 km long. Witness the view of Dawar from here. It's absolutely stunning!
Once the descent ends, walk along Dawar for another 2 km before having lunch.
Head back to Srinagar after lunch.
![low-preview-30f0f998 2197 4105 b7c9 4df8a66f8a4f gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2859%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/30f0f998-2197-4105-b7c9-4df8a66f8a4f_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2859%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
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![low-preview-8c4a8a19 dfa4 4d41 bd85 a23cbc91cc1a gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2852%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/8c4a8a19-dfa4-4d41-bd85-a23cbc91cc1a_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2852%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
It’s the last day of the trek today. But it’s a challenging day, and you’ll end the trek on a high!
The day begins with a steep descent from Dison to Dawar from the other side. You descend along a ledge surrounded entirely by rocks and pine forests. The descent is 2 km long. Witness the view of Dawar from here. It's absolutely stunning!
Once the descent ends, walk along Dawar for another 2 km before having lunch.
Head back to Srinagar after lunch.
Day 7: Buffer Day
For all your travel plans include a buffer day to accommodate bad weather on the trek/political instability. This depends completely on the circumstances of the trek and the situation in Kashmir. The buffer day is mandatory to keep in your itinerary.
If the buffer day is used, you have to pay us Rs 1,800 per day +5% GST. The money will be collected by the Trek Leader only if we use the buffer day.
For all your travel plans include a buffer day to accommodate bad weather on the trek/political instability. This depends completely on the circumstances of the trek and the situation in Kashmir. The buffer day is mandatory to keep in your itinerary.
If the buffer day is used, you have to pay us Rs 1,800 per day +5% GST. The money will be collected by the Trek Leader only if we use the buffer day.
![low-preview-d47a26a0 7e66 4105 b377 fa98952e4735 difficult](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/d47a26a0-7e66-4105-b377-fa98952e4735_Difficult.png?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Moderate Level 3
Suitable for fit beginners
At Indiahikes, while rating a trek difficulty, we consider several factors. These include altitude gained every day, length of a trek every day, highest altitude, nature of the terrain, weather etc. Based on this, we rate a trek as easy, difficult, or somewhere between.
Gurez Valley Trek, which climbs to 13,188 ft, is not too difficult. It is rated as 'Moderate Level 3'. The trek of Gurez Valley Trek is slightly more manageable compared to Bodpathri. However, the trek is more challenging compared to Tarsar Marsar.
A moderate rating refers to marginally longer trekking days hovering at altitudes of around 12,000 feet on most of the days. You will be trekking for 7-8 km on average every day.
But the trek has easy exits, and there are fewer technical sections.
The second factor in rating this trek under Moderate level 3 would be the boulder sections after Khaari Campsite & a steep descent towards Patalwansar II lake. You need good legs and a sense of control when navigating these sections. Trekkers who are not confident in placing their footing will find navigating and going swiftly through these boulder patches challenging.
The last point would be the long descent on the 5th day of the trek n route to Dawar. You need to be careful about a few patch s of the descent. Having a trekking pole and knee cap (for those with knee niggles) helps.
Safety on the Gurez Valley Trek
Is the Gurez Valley Trek Safe? The answer would be - Yes. Trekking to Gurez Valley is safe even though it lies in the remote trails of Kashmir, away from civilization. The reason for this is the strong presence of the army. There is a check post at Bandipora. There are army base camps even on the trail. Hence, there is tight security and it is safe to do this trek even if it lies very close to the border of Pakistan.
Coming back to the trail, being mentally prepared for the trek is as important as being physically prepared to stay safe. For this, it is crucial to have a clear mental picture of the trek. Quickly, here it is:
| Trek in a nutshell: On the Gurez Valley Trek, you go up to an altitude of 13,188 ft. The days are divided so that the altitude gain is not too much. However, you could be hit by AMS on any of these days. At Indiahikes, we believe that as long as you are well-informed and well-prepared, you can easily survive at high altitudes.
To do this effectively, let’s break down and examine various aspects of the Gurez Valley Trek from the perspective of safety:
What you must know about AMS
Safety while trekking in Kashmir
Exit points on the Gurez Valley Trek
The closest hospital to the Gurez Valley Trek
The mountains are well shielded from even the worst of the unrest. While the trekking trail is safe during the unrest, getting to the base camp or onto the trail might be difficult.
So, here are specific pointers to keep in mind when you are travelling in Kashmir:
- If you’re staying overnight at Srinagar, stay in touristy areas like Dal Lake or Lal Chowk.
- Blend in with the crowd in terms of dressing and behaviour.
- Avoid going to downtown areas. Stick to tourist spaces as they tend to be safer and well-protected during times of unrest
- Don’t panic if there is a curfew. Keep indoors and wait for it to pass.
- If you need to move to the basecamp on days of unrest, our Indiahikes pickups happen in the early hours before dawn.
When you are exposed to trekking at high altitudes, your body might not be well-rested or acclimated to the altitude. There are always risks of AMS, even for the fittest and the most experienced trekkers. You must pay close attention to your body and the symptoms on a high-altitude trek. Stay alert for any signs of altitude sickness.
Attend to your uneasiness and take curative measures. Check your vitals before you start the trek - Your BP reading and oxygen saturation levels at every campsite at least twice. If you feel uneasy, you can even take a remedial course of Diamox. Hydration and rest are critical as well. If you do not feel normal after a few hours or overnight, do not proceed further on the trek.
To help you understand AMS better, we've put together a complete guide about it. This is a series of videos you must watch before you get onto any high-altitude trek:
- What Is Altitude sickness? A Quick Look At AMS, HAPE And HACE
- How To Treat Altitude Sickness – AMS, HAPE, & HACE
- How To Prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), HAPE and HACE
- 3 Life Saving Drugs You MUST Have To Tackle Altitude Sickness – AMS, HAPE and HACE
If you experience any symptoms of AMS, even in the slightest, start taking steps to treat the sickness.
At Indiahikes, our Trek Leaders are trained and equipped to take care of any emergencies related to AMS.
Medical Emergencies can strike on any trek. The key to dealing with them lies in knowing your exit points. Learn how to get out and reach the nearest hospital quickly.
On Gurez Valley Trek, the only exit point is Dawar. So you need to be alert and watch out for symptoms of AMS closely.
Closest Hospital To Gurez Valley Trek
In case of a medical emergency, the closest hospital is at Dawar. You have a medical facility to handle emergencies.
For any major emergencies, Bandipora is the best place for getting any treatment.
In case of a medical emergency, the closest hospital is at Dawar. You have a medical facility to handle emergencies.
For any major emergencies, Bandipora is the best place for getting any treatment.
The best time to be on this trek is from the beginning of July to the middle of September. That’s the only time you can trek here. In all the other seasons, Kashmir trails are buried under snow.
This season brings up many questions in the mind of a trekker. Primarily because it is monsoon in the rest of the country, will it rain heavily on the trek? Well, most trails in Uttarakhand are shut during this time. But things are different in Kashmir.
If you observe the map, you see the Pir Panjal range separating Kashmir from the rest of the Indian subcontinent. This range is 288 km long and 40-50 km wide. It blocks most rain clouds from crossing over into the Kashmir Valley.
This divide determines the nature of precipitation and the vegetation in this rainshadow area. All of which stand very different from the rest of the country.
July to September is peak summer, transitioning to Autumn and the best time to trek in Kashmir. The landscape comes alive during this window. And even though the window is tight, you notice the landscape changing colour and texture as the months proceed.
Gurez Valley in early July
Day time temperature: Between 15 °C and 20 °C | Night time temperature : Between 2 °C and 7 °C
Presence of snow: Snow remains at higher altitudes. But the trek is more or less accessible. As the snow melts, colourful flowers start appearing on the meadows. You see flowers throughout the Kashmir trekking season. But the colours of these flowers vary based on the month. The landscape has lush green meadows punctuated with alpine lakes that are still frozen in parts.
No. of warm layers required: 3-4 warm layers
This is peak summer in Kashmir. The upper reaches of the trek start crawling out of the snow blanket in July. It’s warm, and you experience light evening showers during this month.
The trail to Gurez Valley opens in the first week of July. Snow remains at higher altitudes. But the trek is more or less accessible.
As the snow melts, colourful flowers start appearing on the meadows. You see flowers throughout the Kashmir trekking season. But the colours of these flowers vary based on the month.
The landscape has lush green meadows punctuated with alpine lakes that are still frozen in parts.
Gurez Valley from mid-July to third week of August
Day time temperature: Between 15 °C and 20 °C | Night time temperature : Between 4 °C and 8 °C
Presence of snow: Most snow has melted by now. Frozen chunks of ice in Patalwansar I & II would have melted.
No. of warm layers required: 3-4 warm layers
After mid-July, a robust trekking season begins in Gurez Valley. Expect bright sunny mornings with some evening showers. Rains are still mild compared to rains in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
The trail is carpeted with green meadows everywhere. The best part is that these meadows are densely dotted with wildflowers!
Gurez Valley from Aug-end to second week of September
Day time temperature: Between 14 °C and 18 °C | Night time temperature : Between 0 °C and 5 °C
Presence of snow: You can expect snowfall during the second week of September
No. of warm layers required: 4 warm layers
After the end of August, cold sets in. Rains reduce, giving way to one of the best times to do the trek. The clouds part during this time of the year, and you witness brilliant blue skies. Their reflection deepens the blue of the alpine lakes.
Another stark change that happens in early September is the change in the colour of the meadows. The grass no longer retains the soft, fresh green tinge. The flowers change. And yet, there's a beauty to this change of tone.
We usually stop our trek after the second week of September. It turns colder, and the chances of snowfall increase. That raises the trek's difficulty, and crossing the pass is no longer possible. The trail on the other side becomes inaccessible.
It is great to see you going on the Gurez Valley Trek. While it is an excellent trek to do, you need to get your travel plan worked out perfectly.
The trek of Gurez Valley starts from Dawar, one of the lesser-known hill stations of Kashmir. To reach Dawar, the best way to reach will be to use a shared taxi or private vehicle.
If you are taking the pickup through Indiahikes, your Experience Coordinator will share the details a week before your trek date. The cost from Srinagar to Dawar comes to Rs 6,000 per vehicle.
If you are trekking alone, you get a shared taxi from Mundi Bus Stand, Srinagar, to Bandipora. It takes about 2 hours to reach Bandipora and costs you Rs 120.
From Bandipora to Dawar, take another shared taxi. It takes about 4 hours to reach Dawar. It costs Rs 300 for an Innova and Rs 500 for Bolero. Note that no taxi services are available from Bandipora post 2 PM. Also, you’re not allowed to stay there due to military reasons. So plan your travel accordingly.
Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do next. Use this guide and nothing else to plan your travel.
1. Here’s a quick view of how to plan your travel
Day 0: Book your air ticket to Srinagar. If you reach in the morning, you can think about travelling to Dawar on the same day instead of staying at Srinagar. Click here for more explanation.
Note: Some stay options if you have an extra day at Srinagar: Hotel Chinar Inn , Royal Athena Houseboats and Alhamra Retreats.
Day 8: Book a return flight ticket from Srinagar. Do not book plane tickets to your hometown from Srinagar on Day 7. Click here for more explanation.
Note:
- While getting to Srinagar, we recommend you arrive a day earlier and stay at Srinagar. Staying at Srinagar gives you a well-deserved rest for the night. Plus some bonus sightseeing.
- On your return, your trek ends in Dawar. We again arrange for transport for trekkers to reach Srinagar. You reach Srinagar between 5 and 6 pm.
2. Planning your onward flight/train booking
If you are travelling from Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Mumbai or any other city, book your air tickets for Day Zero, the day before Day 1 on the itinerary. If your trek start day is 24 July, book your air tickets for 23 July to either Srinagar.
There are two options.
Option 1: Fly directly to Srinagar
We recommend this. It gives you an added rest day at Srinagar.
Option 2: Taking a train/bus to Jammu and reach Srinagar
(This option is not recommended during the pandemic. Many roadblocks en route from Jammu to Srinagar take as long as 24 hours to open. If you opt to travel via Jammu, keep at least 2 days in buffer)
If you are taking a bus to Jammu, you have multiple options. There are two gates outside Jammu ISBT. You will get shared cabs from both these gates.
If you are reaching the Railway Station, the share cabs to Srinagar will cost between Rs 700 to Rs 1000.
Tip: Shared cabs are more from the Jammu ISBT than the Railway Station. You can travel from the Railway station to the bus stand. They call it “Bus Adda”. The cost of the bus will be Rs 10. The auto will charge around Rs 80 to 120.
Pro Tip: Go to Banihal and catch a train to Srinagar (Naogaon) (Reaching Banihal will be again via shared cabs, which cost Rs 500 to Rs 700)
Auto from Srinagar Railway station to Dal Gate, around Rs 150 to Rs 200
This is faster than coming by cabs directly to Srinagar.
3. Planning your return flight/train booking
Booking your return tickets requires some thought. First, always book your return ticket, keeping in mind the buffer day.
The drive to Srinagar from Dawar is about 3 hours. You will reach Srinagar by 5 pm. There are no flights from Srinagar late in the evening. So it would be best if you stayed in Srinagar. Take the flight the next day. You can book your flight tickets at any time on Day 8. You must include the buffer day in your itinerary. Day 7 is your buffer day. So plan your return journey for Day 8.
Note: The security check at the Srinagar airport is quite stringent. You will have 3 rounds of security checks. Reach the airport at least a couple of hours before your departure time.
Option 1: Flying out from Srinagar
Book your flight out from Srinagar.
Option 2: Taking a train/bus from Jammu
If you are taking the option of moving from Jammu, you will find shared cabs from Srinagar TRC to Jammu. The share cabs to Jammu will cost between Rs 700 to Rs 1000
| Pro Tip: Go to Srinagar (Naogaon) and catch a train to Banihal
From Banihal, you can take a shared cab to the Jammu bus stand or Railway station. The cost will be around Rs 500 to Rs 700
4. Planning your hotel/stay
Hotel options at Srinagar
Hotel Chinar Inn is one option. It has clean rooms with good amenities.
If you are trekking with Indiahikes, the cost will be Rs 1,500 per person for a stay and meals (dinner and breakfast). This is for a twin sharing room.
For a single person per room, it costs Rs 2,300 per person for a stay and meals (dinner and breakfast)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/5V3CgXgAyD2biGcK6
Contact Number: 7006608852 (Firoz)
Royal Athena Houseboats is another option. In addition to good amenities, it gives you the experience of staying in a boathouse.
If you are trekking with Indiahikes, the cost will be Rs 1,750 per person including dinner and breakfast.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Zq4BCzTGuBGzawP18
Contact Number: 7006608852 (Firoz)
Alhamra Retreats is a guest house with good facilities available.
If you are trekking with Indiahikes, the cost of a twin-sharing room is Rs 2,100. For an extra bed in the same room, it costs Rs 700 extra. Triple sharing is Rs 2,800 and four sharing is Rs 3,500.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6DCEkw7k7gDGwM449
Contact Number: +91 95965 56700 (Rehan Bakshi)
Other hotel options that are close to the pick-up point:
Hotel Care is just next to our Base, the pick-up location of the trek. Hotel Adlife and Hotel Centre Point are two other recommendations.
These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.
- Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. Either having an Aadhar card or passport will do. The forest department requires this for your identification.
- Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record. The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate
- Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate
Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.
Consultation fee: Rs 300
PRO TIPS
Keep essential documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet. You need to show your ID card even while trekking at a couple of army check-posts.
![low-preview-hqdefault](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://img.youtube.com/vi/PFtBdafs_PM/hqdefault.jpg?w=1920&blur=80&aspect_ratio=1.8)
1. Trekking Shoes:
Gurez Valley Trek requires sturdy trekking shoes, good grip, ankle support, and can handle snow. You have a long distance to cover every day. Also, there is a bouldery section to cross after the Satsar campsite, along with a few stream crossings. Here is a quick video on how to choose your trekking shoes.
| Buying Tip: The Trek and MH series are good options by Decathlon. They are tried and tested. There isn’t any necessity to buy the higher-priced models. Here is a list of other budget shoes that trekkers are using.
| Rental: We have the Trek series and the MH series are available for rent from the Crosstrek Rental store. They are already broken into and in good condition. Rental shoes are not dirty or unhygienic. This is how they are kept clean. Rent here - MH 100 and Trek 100.
2. Backpack:
For a trek like Gurez Valley, you need a 50-60 litre backpack. Make sure your backpack has good hip support, shoulder support and quick access pockets. Here is a guide on how to choose a backpack.
| Buying Tip: Wildcraft, Decathlon and Adventure Worx usually make good backpacks. While Wildcraft has more expensive ones, the other two brands have budget-friendly backpacks to choose from.
| Rental: The 55-litre backpack is available for rent from the Indiahikes store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Rent them if you don’t have a backpack. Rent here.
3. Clothes:
Wearing layers is the mantra in the mountains. Layers give you maximum protection from all elements. And when the weather changes in the mountains (as it happens every few hours), you take off or put on layers as required.
Base Layer:
3 T-Shirts:
Wear one T-shirt and carry two. Carry full-sleeve dry-fit T-shirts (preferably collared). These prevent your arms and neck from getting sunburnt. In the rarified air on the trek, especially at high altitudes, UV rays can burn you in no time.
Dry-fit T-shirts quickly dry your sweat, they are easy to wash and in case of a rainy day, they dry quicker. Round neck T-shirts are ok, but collared ones are better.
| Cotton or Synthetic? As Indians, we love cotton. Down in the plains when the heat is blistering 40°C it makes sense to wear cotton. But it takes a long time to dry when it gets wet. In the mountains, where it is cooler, synthetic is what you wear. They wick sweat rapidly and keep you dry. (But they do tend to smell quickly, so carry a roll-on deodorant with you.)
| Pro Tip: If you are extra susceptible to cold, you could get a set of thermal inners. In our experience, wearing two T-shirts over another works as a better thermal. And they save you weight and space since you’re already carrying them.
3 Insulation Layers:
The highest altitude you reach on this trek is 13,850 ft. At these altitudes, it can get cold even in the middle of summer. You will need at least 3 insulation layers for this trek.
You will need 2 light fleece layers and 1 full-sleeve light sweater. Do not get your grandma-stitched sweaters, which can be very heavy. You need sweaters and fleece jackets that can fold into compact rolls.
1 Outer Layer:
A padded jacket serves the purpose here. You don’t need a water-resistant material. But you need an outer padded jacket that keeps the wind and cold out. Ensure your padded jacket has a hood as well.
| Do you need a down/feather jacket? Not really. A regular padded/shell jacket will do. This video here will help you to learn more about the difference.
Note: Down/feather jackets are not available these days. Many jackets masquerade as down/feather jackets. They are essentially fine polyester-filled jackets. They mimic the function of a down jacket but are usually expensive.
| Rental: Padded jackets are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. They are custom-made for Indiahikes and trekkers find them terrific, even in winter. Rent here.
Two Trek Pants:
Two pairs of trek pants should suffice for this trek. Wear one pair and carry two just in case it rains. Trek pants with zippered cut-offs at the thighs are very suitable for treks. Also, choose quick-dry pants over cotton. They dry up soon in case of small stream crossings/rain.
| Buying Tip: Go for pants with zippered pockets. They come in handy to keep your phone, handkerchief, or pocket snacks.
| Track Pants or Trek Pants? Stretchable track pants make a good backup and can double up as your thermal bottoms. But track pants are not trekking pants -- so don’t use them as your main outerwear. Keep them only as a backup.
Mandatory Accessories, without these too you won’t be able to do the trek.
These accessories are mandatory. Don’t go to Gurez Valley without them. Trekkers generally put off purchasing / borrowing the accessories for the last minute. We suggest the opposite. Start gathering these accessories first.
1. Sunglasses:
Sunglasses are to prevent snow blindness. On a trek like Gurez Valley, Expect to walk on stretches of snow, especially during July. A small overexposure to direct sunlight on snow can lead to snow blindness (about a half hour’s exposure). That’s because fallen snow is like thousands of mirrors that reflect direct UV rays. So you need sunglasses with UV protection.
| Tip: Try getting sunglasses that wrap around instead of those that have openings on the side. Even peripheral UV ray exposure is not a good idea.
Wear sunglasses if the trekking day is bright and sunny (on open sections, meadows). On a snowy section, you must never take off your sunglasses until the section has been fully crossed.
| Rental: The polarised hiking sunglasses are available for rent from the Indiahikes store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Rent them if you don’t have a pair of sunglasses. Rent here.
| If you wear spectacles: If you wear spectacles, you can get oversized sunglasses that you wear over your regular glasses (available at Decathlon). If that is cumbersome, photochromic lenses work equally well. Here’s a quick guide on managing sunglasses with spectacles.
| Contact lens users: If you use contact lenses, you can use them on the trek too. The lens solution will not freeze. You will also not face any problems in changing your lens in your tent. Just carry enough cleaning solution with you to clean your fingers well. Wear your sunglasses over your contact lens.
2. Suncap:
A sun cap is mandatory. Trekking without a sun cap can lead to headaches, sunstrokes, quick dehydration and a sharp drop in trekking performance.
| Tip: In the mountains, the general rule is to keep your head covered at all times. During the day a sun cap protects you from the harsh rays of the sun (it is doubly stronger with naked UV rays). A sun cap keeps your body temperature in balance. In the evening/early morning, the reverse is true. Your head loses your body heat quickly. A woollen cap prevents heat from dissipating from your head.
| Buying Tip: The Crosstrek suncap is available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. It is custom-made for our Himalayan treks with UV Protection and an adjustable strap. Buy here.
| Pro Tip: Sun caps with flaps are a blessing for trekkers. They cut out almost all UV leaks. They prevent sunburns in every possible way. They are a lot more effective than sunscreen lotion. A wide-brimmed sports hat also helps to prevent sunburn in a big way.
3. Synthetic Hand Gloves:
On a trek like Gure Valley Trek, you are going to be handling snow quite a bit during July. You’ll need gloves to grip something or to steady yourself in snow. More than snow, the evening cold winds through the wide valley will give you the chill. You also want the gloves to keep you warm. Get synthetic hand gloves that have waterproofing on the outside and a padded lining on the inside. If you find the combination difficult to get (not likely), wear a tight-fitting fleece hand glove inside a synthetic hand glove. Hand gloves are mandatory on this trek.
| Buying tip: The Crosstrek Waterproof gloves are available at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Buy here.
4. Woollen Cap or Balaclava:
Ensure these cover your ears. In the cold mountains, you lose maximum heat from your head, not from your hands, feet, or the rest of your body. This is why you need to keep your head protected, especially when the sun is down. Early mornings, late evenings, and a cold trekking day are when you must use your woollen cap.
Your ears are sensitive too, so a woollen head cap that covers your ears is essential. A balaclava is a modern version of the woollen cap. It covers your ears, neck and parts of your face as well. Do not get a woollen cap that only covers your head.
| Buying Tip: The Crosstrek Fleece cap and the Crosstrek neck warmer are available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. Buy here - Crosstrek Fleece CapandCrosstrek Neck Warmer.
5. Socks (3 pairs):
Apart from two sports socks, take a pair of woollen socks. Sports socks give you cushioning plus warmth. Again the mantra is to wear synthetic socks or at least a synthetic blend. Cotton socks soak in water and sweat. They are very hard to dry. As for woollen socks, they help you to keep warm and snug at the night. If you cannot get woollen socks, wearing two sports socks serves the purpose as well.
| Buying Tip: Waterproof socks are available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Buy here.
6. Headlamp:
Trekkers are often confused about whether they need to get a headlamp or a handheld torch. You need to get a headlamp because it leaves your hands free to do other activities. On the Gurez Valley Trek, you’ll need your hands free to wash dishes, pitch tents and hold your trek poles.
| Buying Tip: Ensure your headlamp covers a wider area and is not too focused as a single beam. On a trek, your headlamp must help you see around you as much as ahead of you.
| Rental: Headlamps are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
7. Trekking Poles (a pair):
Trekking poles give you stability and balance. They reduce your energy consumption by almost 40%. On the Gurez Valley Trek, there are steep ascents and descents. A pair of trekking poles will make the difference between a comfortable and a strenuous trek. In India, we tend to use a single trekking pole. However, two trekking poles give you greater stability and balance. They also increase your walking pace.
| Rental: Imported side-locking trekking poles are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
8. Rainwear:
On a trek, the weather can change quickly. A bright sunny day can turn into a downpour in a matter of minutes. Carry a poncho or a rain jacket to tackle this. A poncho is a big rain cover with openings for your arms and your head. It is extremely effective because it covers both you and your backpack. It is extremely light and weighs next to nothing.
Rain jackets are more streamlined and less cumbersome but weigh more. Rain pants are not required. Dry fit trek pants dry quickly even if soaking wet.
| Rental: High-grade ponchos are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
9. Rain Cover for your Backpack:
Backpacks are your life. You carry all your dry clothes and your warm gear in your backpack. Your backpack must stay dry at all times. Modern backpacks usually come with built-in rain-covers. If your backpack does not have a rain cover, ensure you get a rain cover by either (a) buying a rain cover or (b) or cutting a large plastic sheet to the size of your backpack. You can roll the plastic sheet around your backpack and keep it in place with a string or elastic.
| Pro Tip: It's good practice to compartmentalise your clothes, accessories and other things in plastic covers inside your backpack. That way, even if it rains and your backpack gets wet, your things are water-proof inside the backpack.
| Rental Tip: Rain covers are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
10. Daypack (20-30 litres, optional):
In your daypack, you carry essentials like water bottles, rainwear, emergency medicines, a headlamp, some snacks and a warm layer. Your main backpack that carries most of your equipment is accessible only at the campsites.
A day pack is a smaller backpack that is usually of 20-30 ltr capacity. Laptop bags are not day packs. Do not get them.
Other mandatory requirements
1. A Toilet Kit:
Keep your toilet kit light. Carry just the basics -- toothbrush, toothpaste, small soap, toilet tissue roll, a small moisturiser, lip balm, and a roll-on deodorant. You will not be able to have a bath on the trek, so don’t overload on soaps and shampoos.
| Pro tip: Carry miniature-sized items. You will not need more than that. If you’re travelling in a group, share one toothpaste for all.
Avoid getting large toilet rolls. The smallest size roll is more than enough for a trek like Gurez Valley
| For women: If you are likely to have your periods on your trek date, don’t worry about it. On the trek, you can use your pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. There will be toilet tents where you can get changed. Make sure you carry ziplock bags to bring back your menstrual waste. Don’t leave behind any waste in the mountains. Watch this video to learn how to dispose of your sanitary waste.
2. Cutlery:
Carry a lunch box, a coffee mug, and a spoon. Your lunch box must be leakproof. You are expected to wash your cutlery. Trekkers often expect Indiahikes to wash their cutlery. When you allow Indiahikes to wash your cutlery, your cutlery becomes part of a mass washing system. You immediately invite germs, and bacteria to settle on your cutlery. The incidence of stomach disorders rises exponentially.
| Pro tip: Carry stainless steel cutlery. Avoid fancy high-grade plastic cutlery. Stainless steel cutlery is infinitely easier to wash in cold water. Grease is easier to remove and hygiene is at its highest. Watch this video on why steel cutlery is better than plastic.
| Rental Tip 1: Tiffin boxes can be rented at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
| Buying Tip: The 'Trekker for Life - All purpose mug' is available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. Buy here.
| Two 1 litre bottles or a 2-litre hydration pack: Gurez Valley has many hours of trekking every day (approximately 6 hours). You need to carry two one-litre water bottles to keep yourself hydrated over the distance. If you are used to a hydration pack, then that is ok too. If one of the two bottles is a lightweight thermos, then that helps you to store warm water on a really cold day or for late evenings and early mornings.
| Rental Tip 2: You could rent lightweight thermos flasks from the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
| Rental Tip 3: Water bottles can be rented at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
3. Plastic Covers:
Carry 3-4 old plastic covers to keep your used clothes. You could use them even for wet clothes. Re-use old plastic bags for this and do not buy new ones.
![low-preview-afea78e2 106a 4b8d ac1c 3375698896b6 how to pack for a multi day trek](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/afea78e2-106a-4b8d-ac1c-3375698896b6_How-to-pack-for-a-multi-day-trek.jpg?auto=compress,format&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medication unless you have consulted your trek leader.
- Diamox (1 Strip): Be on a course of a half tablet of Diamox starting from Delhi every 12 hours (125 mg). Being on a preventive course of Diamox dramatically reduces the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness on the Gurez Valley Trek
- Dexamethasone (1 Strip): This is part of the Live Saving Drugs kit. Do not take this on your own. Your trek leader will inform you in case the need arises.
- Nifedipine (5 tablets): Again, part of the Live Saving Drugs kit. Do not take this on your own. Your trek leader will inform you in case the need arises.
- Dolo 650 (5 tablets): This is a paracetamol. It helps to tackle fever and mild pain.
- Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this, especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.
- Combiflam (5 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol.
- Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your trek leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS.
- ORS (6 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually the mid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking. Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.
- Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known knee pain issues.
Our trek leaders carry a high-altitude medical kit with them which also consist of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency, our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines.
Pro Tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek, please donate unused medication to your trek leader. Some medicines get distributed to villages on the trek, and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.
We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness target:
To do this trek comfortably, you must be able to cover 5 km in under 35 minutes. This is the minimum fitness required for this trek.
![low-preview-597ecfa0 8ad5 4e91 9b99 b1a48d05b3fe fitness moderate treks](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/597ecfa0-8ad5-4e91-9b99-b1a48d05b3fe_Fitness-Moderate+Treks.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
How to achieve this fitness?
- Start jogging at least 4 days a week
- If you cannot run 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.
- Once you’re able to run 5 km, increase your pace day by day.
- Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 35 mins.
- You must be able to run 5 km in 35 mins consistently for at least 2 weeks before the trek.
This trek requires at least 6-8 weeks of preparation. The longer, the better. So plan your trek soon and start preparing.
Here's a complete guide to get you trek fit.
Strength training tips:
How to get Fitness Approval from the Indiahikes team:
Every trekker needs fitness approval from the Indiahikes team 20 days before the trek date. Without this, you will not be allowed on the trek.
What to upload?
- A minimum of 3 screenshots of your runs/jogs/walks/cycling
- Monthly summary of your routine
Why fitness matters:
Every high-altitude trek comes with a set of challenges. Steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, snow walks, stream crossings, pass crossings, and summit climb. Even the easiest of treks have some of these challenges if not all of them. Without fitness, trekkers struggle, get injured easily, lag behind, or simply fail to complete the trek.
At Indiahikes, we take pride in the fact that our trekkers are among the fittest in the country. Those who do not meet the fitness requirements are often sent back. Our philosophy is that trekking and fitness go hand in hand. Without fitness, there’s no trekking.
On the Gurez Valley Trek, you'll come across 2 pristine alpine lakes. They are turquoise blue. You’ll get to witness all these lakes on Day 4 at almost 13,188 ft and youll even be camping next to one!
- Patalwansar I
- Patalwansar II
On the Gurez Valley Trek, you cover around 36 km in 5 days (6 days including the drive to and from the trek). The altitude ranges from 7,870 ft in Srinagar to Patalwansar II lake at 13,188 ft. You’ll trek long distances, around 7 km on average, every day.
A lot of poeple are enquiring about the safety of The Gurez Valley trek. We want to say that this trail is completely safe even though its next to POK. It is in the remote regions of Kashmir, away from the hotbed of turmoil. Theres also high military presence around the trek. So the trekking trail itself is completely safe.
However, political unrest, curfews and clampdowns have occurred in the past during our trekking season. We have tackled these efficiently, never compromising on the safety of trekkers. We travel during non-curfew hours and take measures to safely pick up or drop trekkers at the airport.
Sometimes, we call off treks if the situation is too serious (for instance when Burhan Wani was shot and the political situation in Kashmir was out of control). Calling off a trek is a worst-case scenario and has not occurred too many times in the past.
Keep in mind that if we are running the Bodpathri Meadows Trek, you can assume that it is safe. We would not compromise on anyone’s safety and run it during dangerous times.
A Himalayan trek like Gurez Valley requires a good fitness level. The trek has long climbs and walks daily. As a measure of your fitness, we need you to:
Run at least 5 km in 35 minutes before your trek. Consistency of your workout also matters, so aim to jog 20 km a week or 80 km in a month. It's a minimum mandatory requirement if you wish to trek with us
OR
Alternatively, cycle for at least 22 km in 60 minutes. Aim to cycle 110 km a week or 440 km in a month. However, running is better suited for your trek preparation.
Once you get confirmed for your trek, we will diligently follow up on your fitness routine. Our team will also assist in putting you through a fitness plan. It will ultimately help you have a safe trek experience.
Yes, you can!
If you are above the age of 58 years, you’ll need to submit a Treadmill Test (not older than 12 months) within a week of completing your trek registration. Apart from this, you should also be able to jog 5 km in 45 minutes.
Having more footprints through porters or mules on any trail isn’t good for the ecosystem. Keeping this and the spirit of trekking in mind, there will be no offloading available on this trek.
We have a cloakroom facility available at the basecamp for extra luggage. It costs Rs 200 per luggage. You can keep up to 10 kg.
(The luggage could be a backpack/suitcase/duffel bag or anything similar.).
Photo Gallery
![low-preview-c8bfe01e ea2c 47f4 9b3d 577fbdff7b8b gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2856%29 %281%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/c8bfe01e-ea2c-47f4-9b3d-577fbdff7b8b_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2856%29+%281%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&rect=0,388,1491,550&w=1491&h=550&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Expert Speak
Nitesh Kumar, Chief Explorer & Senior Trek Leader
![low-preview-85397 author img 2562 scaled e1607681599358](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/85397_author_IMG_2562-scaled-e1607681599358.jpg?auto=compress,format&rect=0,78,787,787&w=900&h=900&blur=80&w=90&h=90)
Nitesh Kumar, Chief Explorer & Senior Trek Leader
Nitesh is the Chief Explorer and one of the Senior-most Trek Leaders at Indiahikes. He has led & explored the most famous treks across our country, like Bodpathri Meadows and Gidara Bugyal. He is also the mastermind behind the design of the Gurez Valley Trek itinerary. Read what he has to say about the trek here.
What I Like About the Gurez Valley Trek
What I Like About the Gurez Valley Trek
![low-preview-85397 author img 2562 scaled e1607681599358](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/85397_author_IMG_2562-scaled-e1607681599358.jpg?auto=compress,format&rect=0,78,787,787&w=900&h=900&blur=80&w=90&h=90)
Nitesh Kumar, Chief Explorer & Senior Trek Leader
Nitesh is the Chief Explorer and one of the Senior-most Trek Leaders at Indiahikes. He has led & explored the most famous treks across our country, like Bodpathri Meadows and Gidara Bugyal. He is also the mastermind behind the design of the Gurez Valley Trek itinerary. Read what he has to say about the trek here.
1. The scenic drive from Srinagar to Dawar
The entire drive from Srinagar to Dawar is picturesque. You get to drive on paths that are rarely accessed by tourists. You drive through the forests, the villages and the high mountains.
When you are at the Razdan pass, it feels like you are at the pass on one of the Uttarakhand treks. You are at such a height that you see forests, valleys, meadows and everything below you. It’s a beautiful sight to behold. As this was not enough, you enter the Gurez side. The views for sure take your breath away!
![low-preview-e054dd7f 02f1 46f9 aa69 e58b9d3d3f23 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2855%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/e054dd7f-02f1-46f9-aa69-e58b9d3d3f23_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2855%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Driving to towards Dawar. Picture by Nitesh Kumar
2. A glimpse of the other side
Gurez is the most extreme part of our country. While trekking in Gurez, you’re at the northernmost part of India. You even see the dreamy frames of the Gilgit-Baltistan range. You see the valleys, the villages and the mountain ranges of POK. At one point, you see the villages of India and Pakistan simultaneously!
Not just the geographical location of the valley but the entire landscape of the Gurez is stunning. As the Gurez Valley is close to the borders of Tajikistan, it has flavours of both Trans-Himalayas and Kashmir Himalayas. This adds a whole new drama to the place.
![low-preview-f0c2548e 0c65 4206 8bc5 e17ceaa6a3cd gurez villages](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/f0c2548e-0c65-4206-8bc5-e17ceaa6a3cd_gurez+villages.png?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Gilgit- Baltistan ranges. Picture by Nitesh Kumar
3. The pristine pine forest section from Dawar to Dison
The trek dives right into the forest section. Throughout Day 2, you trek in the secluded pine forests of Gurez. It’s the one to treasure because forest sections on Kashmir treks are so rare.
What makes this section even more special is, it is not just a plain walk in the forest section. It’s an ascent. When I say it’s an ascent, you start from the foot of the pine trees and within a few minutes, you are at the tip of them!
![low-preview-511adaec 29ba 42d0 b5b7 e7bff42f1996 gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %285%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/511adaec-29ba-42d0-b5b7-e7bff42f1996_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%285%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Trekking along pine forests from Dawar to DIsan. Picture by Nitesh Kumar
4. The panoramic views of the surroundings
After you come out of a treeline on Day 2, you start seeing the rich green meadows of Gurez. Compared to other parts of Kashmir, the meadows here are so different. It’s impossible to express it in words, you’ve to be there to experience it!
On each day, you reach beautiful heights that offer panoramic views of the surroundings. You see the stack of lush green and barren mountains in the same setting. This colour contrast is so pleasing to the eyes.
![low-preview-c7314169 2aa9 4278 b340 7da6e05899dd gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %288%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/c7314169-2aa9-4278-b340-7da6e05899dd_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%288%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Dison Campsite. Picture by Nitesh Kumar
5. Patalwansar Lakes
On Gurez Valley trek, you trek to two pristine alpine lakes - Patalwansar I and Patalwansar II. Though the names are similar, these two lakes are like non-identical twins. They are radically different from each other. The settings of these lakes get imprinted on your mind and stay with you long after your trek is over. Such is the charm of these lakes.
Cherry on the top is that you get to camp right beside Patalwansar I. This is a luxury that you rarely get on other treks.
![low-preview-99c8e64e e72d 49e8 a14a d08a49f5a9ae gurez valley indiahikes nitesh kumar exploration 2022 %2838%29](https://cvsqtgaxsa.cloudimg.io/https://images.prismic.io/indiahike/99c8e64e-e72d-49e8-a14a-d08a49f5a9ae_Gurez+valley_Indiahikes_Nitesh+kumar_Exploration_2022_+%2838%29.jpg?auto=compress,format&w=1920&blur=80&org_if_sml=1)
Trekker walking along Patalwansar Lake II. Picture by Nitesh Kumar
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