u/AltitudeSeeker03

I first did the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek in August 2023, and it completely changed what I look for in travel.

I planned to return in 2024, but my batch was cancelled because of bad weather. In 2025, permits were never issued, and this year there’s still no official update. I wanted to go again, but decided not to book until there’s confirmed permission from the authorities.

Looking back, I feel incredibly lucky that I experienced it when I did. I went in early August, which meant fewer crowds and an even more peaceful experience.

Some FAQs that usually come up:

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult. It’s not technically difficult, but the long trekking days, altitude, and steep ascents make it physically demanding. A good fitness level will make a huge difference.

Cost: Around ₹25,000 with Indiahikes or Trek The Himalayas (TTH). This usually includes transport from Srinagar, accommodation during the trek, meals, permits, insurance, and trek support.
Flights or trains to Srinagar, along with a hotel stay before and after the trek, are additional expenses.

Solo friendly? Absolutely. Most people in my batch had joined solo, and by the end of the trek everyone felt like a group of friends.

Repeat trek policy: Both Indiahikes and TTH let you repeat the trek after you’ve successfully completed it, although the policies work differently and you still pay certain mandatory charges. It’s worth checking their websites for the latest details.

Hopefully permits return soon because I’d love to experience these trails again.

If you’ve done KGL, what was your favorite section? If you’re planning your first trek, feel free to ask me anything about fitness, gear, or budgeting.

Kashmir Great Lakes was my first Himalayan trek back in 2023, and it completely changed what I look for in travel.

I tried returning in 2024, but the trek was cancelled because of bad weather. In 2025, permits were never issued, and this year there is still no clarity from the government. I had planned to go again, but decided not to book until there’s an official confirmation.

Looking back, I feel incredibly lucky that I experienced it when I did. I went in early August, which meant fewer crowds and an even more peaceful experience.

If you’re planning KGL in the future, the trek usually costs around ₹25,000 with organizations like TTH or Indiahikes, including transportation, permits, and insurance. You’ll also need to budget for your flights or train tickets, plus a night’s stay before and after the trek, which can add another ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per day depending on your preferences.

One thing I really appreciate about both organizations is their repeat trek policy. TTH allows you to repeat the trek for up to 5 years, while Indiahikes offers a lifetime repeat policy, each with its own terms and conditions. It’s worth reading the details on their websites.
Until I get to walk these trails again, I’ll keep reliving the memories through videos like this.

Have you done Kashmir Great Lakes, or is it on your bucket list?

Kashmir Great Lakes, my first trek. Forever my favorite.

Now it’s your turn. Share your best trekking photos or videos in this group. Let’s build a collection of unforgettable mountain memories together.