Undoubtedly, one of the most stunning lakes in India is Tarsar Lake, where visitors often find true peace. It is said to seamlessly connect different places and provide a sense of ease. This trek encompasses three beautiful lakes: Tarsar, Marsar, and Sundersar.
Tarsar Lake is known for its azure waters, while Marsar Lake derives its name from the Kashmiri words for "life and death," and Sundersar Lake is also called Chandrasar due to its crescent moon-like shape.
The trek offers breathtaking views of endless grasslands, fragrant pine forests, and charming hamlets. Camping by the lakes and immersing oneself in the serene beauty of nature is a truly divine experience
The trek lasts for 7 days and covers a total distance of approximately 48 kilometers. Here are the day-wise details to help you plan better:
Day 1: Srinagar – Aru
Altitude: 2,426m
Travel Time: 3 hours by road
From Srinagar, it takes approximately three hours to drive to the Aru Valley, passing through the famous tourist destination known as the Valley of Shepherds (Pahalgam). Aru Valley serves as the base camp, allowing trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude and adjust to the surroundings.
Day 2: Aru – Lidderwat
Altitude: 2,426m to 2,780m
Trekking Time: 6 hours
Distance: 10 kilometers
The trek begins from Aru Valley to Lidderwat. This is a moderate-level trek, suitable for beginners. The route takes you through lush green meadows of Lider, offering a glimpse of paradise. After approximately two hours of trekking, you will cross a picturesque wooden bridge. Spend the night at Lidderwat meadows.
Day 3: Lidderwat – Shekwas
Altitude: 2,780m to 3,360m
Trekking Time: 5 hours
Distance: 6 kilometers
After witnessing the first sunrise of the trek and enjoying a delicious breakfast amidst the heavenly surroundings, the journey continues to Shekwas. This 6-kilometer trek will lead you to the base camp for the night, Shekwas.
Day 4: Shekwas – Tarsar Lake
Altitude: 3,360m to 3,790m
Trekking Time: 5 hours
Distance: 5 kilometers
The trek from Shekwas to Tarsar offers grander views of the mountains, with more snow-clad peaks coming into sight after around two hours of walking. On this day, you will witness the magnificent azure waters of Tarsar Lake, an experience that will make you feel as if you've reached heaven. The campsite near the snow-fed Alpine lake provides an opportunity to witness the changing colors of the lake as the sunlight reflects upon the water.
Day 5: Tarsar Lake – Sundersar
Altitude: 3,790m to 3,945m
Trekking Time: 5 hours
Distance: 5 kilometers
On this day, you will cross the ridge surrounding Tarsar Lake. After climbing to the ridge, you will descend into the breathtaking Zachmargi valley. Crossing the valley, you will reach Sundersar Lake, which also boasts a crescent shape. The campsite near the lake offers a truly heavenly experience.
Day 6: Visit Sundersar & Marsar Lakes and descend to Homwas
Altitude: 3,945m to 3,505m via Marsar Ridge (4,020m)
Trekking Time: 7 hours
Distance: 9 kilometers
Marsar Lake is an hour's trek from Sundersar. By following the trail, you will reach a vantage point that provides unparalleled views of Marsar Lake, often enveloped in clouds and mist. After taking in the beauty of the lake and its surroundings, you will return to Sundersar. From there, a three-hour trek will take you to the Homwas campsite, where you can rest for the night.
Day 7: Homwas – Aru – Srinagar
Altitude: 3,505m to 2,426m
Trekking Time: 6 hours
Distance: 13 kilometers
After a well-rested night and a satisfying breakfast, you can depart from the Homwas campsite and retrace your steps back to Aru, and then proceed to Srinagar.
While the aforementioned route is the most popular one for this trek, the trekking company Cliffhangers India offers an alternative route for the return journey. Instead of coming back the same way, trekkers can choose to cross Sumbal Pass from Sundersar, which leads to Sonamarg. Another option is taking the route from Shekwas to Yamharpass, then to Khemsar and Yemsar. This alternate route allows trekkers to visit the lakes of Khemsar and Yemsar, providing the opportunity to witness five lakes in the same number of days.
Cliffhangers India is a reputable trekking agency that has been organizing treks for years, guiding people from all around the world to this heavenly place and allowing them to experience unparalleled serenity.
The best time to undertake this trek is from June to September. It is considered a moderate to difficult level trek, making it a great alternative to the more challenging Kashmir Great Lakes trek.
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