Tarsar Marsar Trek: How Kashmir Stole My Soul
Okay, imagine waking up to a lake so blue it looks like it’s been edited by a pro, with snowy peaks looming and wildflowers just everywhere. That’s the Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek, and let me tell you, it’s not just a hike—it’s like nature grabbed my heart and ran off with it. I’ve done my fair share of trudging through Uttarakhand and Himachal, but Kashmir? It’s a whole other beast. Think endless green valleys, pine trees that smell like a cozy cabin, and lakes so clear I wanted to dive in and live there. This trek was my love letter to the mountains, and I’m still not over it.
My Week in the Wild: Straight From My Trail Notes
Aru Village: Where It All Kicked Off
We started in Aru, this ridiculously cute village near Pahalgam that feels like it’s hiding from the world. The trail sucked me in right away—tall pines, little shepherd huts with smoke curling from their chimneys, and meadows so lush I kept stopping to take it all in. I felt like I’d wandered into a painting, and I was already hooked.
Lidderwat to Shekwas: Nature’s Big Flex
Once we hit Lidderwat, the valley just unraveled like a movie scene. Sheep dotted the meadows, nibbling away like they owned the place, and every turn was a new “whoa” moment. I swear, the mountains were showing off, and I was eating it up with a goofy grin.
Tarsar Lake: My Jaw-Drop Moment
The first time I saw Tarsar Lake, I legit forgot how to breathe. That turquoise water, with snowy peaks staring back at it? It was like the universe decided to go all out. We set up camp right by the shore, and at night, the stars were so bright I half-expected them to start whispering secrets. I could’ve stayed there forever.
Marsar Lake: A Hike Worth Every Sore Muscle
The climb to Marsar was a proper slog—steep, sweaty, and my legs were not happy. But when that lake came into view? Holy moly. It was all misty and mysterious, like it was guarding some ancient secret. I plopped down on a rock, totally spent, and just stared. It felt like the mountains were letting me in on something sacred.
The Bits I’ll Carry Forever
Dipping my toes in water so cold it made me yelp, sipping kahwa that warmed me to my bones, and yakking with Gujjar shepherds who had the best stories—these are the things that made this trek more than just a walk. It’s the kind of stuff that sticks in your heart long after your boots are back in the closet.
When to Go (Don’t Mess This Up)
Prime Time: Mid-June to mid-September.
Why? The lakes are all sparkly and thawed, wildflowers are out in full force, and the weather’s perfect for long days on the trail.
Don’t Bother: After September, snow starts crashing the party early in Kashmir, and it’s not the vibe you want.
Packing: What I Wish I Knew
What to Wear
- Thermals (base layer plus a fleecy hug)
- Waterproof jacket and pants (rain’s a sneaky jerk)
- Quick-dry tees and trekking pants (sweat’s real)
- A beefy down jacket for nights that feel like the Arctic
Gear That’s a Lifesaver
- 50–60L backpack (don’t pack your entire closet)
- Trekking poles (my knees owe them big time)
- Waterproof trekking shoes with killer grip
- Sub-zero sleeping bag (it’s no joke at night)
Random Stuff You’ll Need
- Headlamp (for those 2 a.m. nature calls)
- Power bank (your phone’s useless without it)
- Water purification tablets (pretty water ≠ safe water)
- Basic first-aid kit (band-aids save lives)
- Snacks and dry fruits (trail mix is my love language)
First-Timer Tips (From One Goof to Another)
- Take It Easy: Crash in Aru for a night to get your body altitude-ready. Headaches aren’t cute.
- Permits: Snag one in Pahalgam and keep your ID close. No permit, no trek.
- Phone Signal: Forget it past Aru. BSNL might tease you with a bar or two, but don’t bet on it.
- Don’t Be That Guy: Keep the music off, don’t leave trash, and be nice to locals. They’re the real heroes out here.
- Team Up: Don’t go solo. A guide or group makes it safer and way more fun.
Safety Stuff (Mountains Aren’t Kidding)
- Grab a local guide who knows every rock and tree.
- Check the weather every morning. Storms don’t send invites.
- Don’t cross snow bridges or streams in the afternoon—snowmelt turns them sketchy fast.
- Bring cash. ATMs? Ha, good luck past Pahalgam.
- Skip plastic. Reusable bottles and bags keep the mountains smiling.
The Route: My Five-Day Whirlwind
- Day 1: Aru to Lidderwat (9–10 km, nice and chill)
- Day 2: Lidderwat to Shekwas (meadow overload)
- Day 3: Shekwas to Tarsar Lake (hello, heaven)
- Day 4: Tarsar to Marsar Lake and back (legs, why?)
- Day 5: Back to Aru via Lidderwat (cue the sad music)
Why This Trek Messed Me Up (In the Best Way)
If you’re chasing a trek that’s got adventure, peace, and a straight-up soul punch, Tarsar Marsar is it. From meadows that feel like a warm hug to lakes that look like they belong in a fantasy novel, from the big grins of Gujjar shepherds to nights spent gawking at a sky full of stars—this trek is like falling in love with nature all over again. I’m already plotting my return. So, dust off your boots, pack some wonder, and go get lost in Kashmir’s magic. You’ll come back changed.
Final Thoughts: Your Himalayan Escape Awaits
If you’re craving a trek that blends peace, adventure, and a touch of magic, the Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek is calling your name. From lush meadows to glacial lakes, from the warm hospitality of Gujjar shepherds to quiet nights under starry skies—this trek is nature’s poetry in motion. Plan your escape today.
📌 Drop a comment with your thoughts or dreams for this journey.
📌 Follow Destinatinguruji on Instagram and Facebook [@destinationguruji] for more travel stories and real-time updates.
🌐 For more visit my website :- exploremountains.com
