Kashmir isn’t just about snow-capped peaks and apple orchards—it's also home to a network of mystical alpine lakes, many of which can only be reached on foot. These lakes offer a rare blend of solitude, scenic grandeur, and spiritual calm. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a curious traveler seeking offbeat experiences, this curated guide to 15 trek-only lakes in Kashmir for Summer 2025 will inspire your next adventure. From spiritual sites steeped in legends to turquoise gems cradled by wildflower meadows, these lakes are accessible only by foot—and completely worth the effort.
1. Dal Lake – The Icon of Srinagar
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Type: Popular
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Why Visit: Dal Lake is one of India’s most photographed destinations, known for its vibrant shikara rides, floating vegetable gardens, and houseboats. It's a cultural hub, buzzing with activity during all seasons.
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Bonus Tip: Start your day with a peaceful paddle boat ride before the tourists arrive.
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Useful Link: TripAdvisor Review
2. Wular Lake – One of the Largest Freshwater Lakes in Asia
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Type: Popular
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Why Visit: This Ramsar site is vital for regional biodiversity. Ideal for birdwatching, kayaking, and immersing yourself in the calm of Kashmir’s wetland ecosystem.
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Trek: No trek is needed, but it’s an ideal detour on the way to trekking circuits.
3. Gangbal Lake – The Ganges of Kashmir
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Type: Semi-popular, trek-only
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Trek Route: Via the Harmukh-Gangbal Trek
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Why Visit: Revered as the Ganges of Kashmir, this lake sits at the base of Mount Harmukh and glows turquoise under clear skies. Trekkers are rewarded with peaceful campsites and 360° alpine views.
4. Nundkol Lake – Serene Beauty Beneath Harmukh Peak
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Type: Hidden Gem
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Access: Trek from Naranag
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Why Visit: A lesser-known sibling of Gangbal, it carries spiritual energy believed to be linked to Lord Shiva. Camp here to experience the stillness of Harmukh.
5. Vishansar Lake – The Lake of Vishnu
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Type: Remote
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Trek: Part of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
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Why Visit: Located over 12,000 ft, this glacial lake is surrounded by peaks and is often fringed with wildflowers in July.
6. Krishansar Lake – Twin Sister of Vishansar
7. Gadsar Lake – The Lake of Flowers
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Type: Hidden
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Trek: Kashmir Great Lakes trail
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Why Visit: Known for meadows, colorful blooms, and myths of magical creatures said to guard its waters.
- Read more: Gadsar Lake
8. Satsar Lakes – A Cluster of Seven Lakes
9. Tarsar Lake – An Alpine Mirror
10. Marsar Lake – The Misty Mystery
11. Sheshnag Lake – The Serpent Lake
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Type: Popular with Pilgrims
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Why Visit: Integral to the Amarnath Yatra, believed to be the abode of Sheshnag, the serpent god. Offers a unique mix of myth and scenic grandeur.
12. Tulian Lake – The Ice-Lake Above Pahalgam
13. Alpather Lake – Below Gulmarg’s Apharwat Peak
14. Kausarnag Lake – The Sacred Trail in Kulgam
15. Naranag Twin Lakes (Trunkol & Gangbal)
BONUS: Pir Panjal Lake – The Hidden Alpine Surprise of 2025
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