The Sacred Nafran Valley
Embark on a less-traveled journey to the heart of the Nafran Valley, visiting the sacred Harnag Lake and the high-altitude marvel of Harbhagwan Lake.
Drive: 112 km | 4 hr approx.
Altitude: 2,400 m / 7,950 ft.
Your journey starts with a 4-hour drive to the beautiful Aru Valley. Aru serves as our base camp and is one of the most scenic villages in Kashmir. Spend the evening acclimatizing and exploring the village landscape.
Trek: 12 km | 5-6 hr.
Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,700 ft.
Today we trek through dense forests and open meadows to reach Araam Pathri. The 12 km trail is steady and offers stunning views of the valley. We camp in the meadows of Araam Pathri tonight.
Trek: 10 km | 6-7 hr.
Pass: 12,500 ft | Lake: 12,100 ft
A challenging day as we cross the Harnag Pass (12,500 ft). The descent from the pass leads us to the sacred Harnag Lake. The lake is considered holy by locals and is surrounded by snow-dusted peaks. Camp beside the lake for a magical night.
Trek: 8 km Round Trip | 5-6 hr.
Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,800 ft.
Today we take a side trip to the majestic Harbhagwan Lake. Situated at a high altitude of 13,800 ft, this lake is often partially frozen and offers a turquoise hue that is truly mesmerizing. We trek back to our campsite at Harnag Lake for the night.
Trek: 8 km | 4-5 hr approx.
Altitude: 3,200 m / 10,500 ft.
We move deeper into the Nafran Valley, descending to Dhingapani. This stretch is incredibly scenic, featuring waterfalls and massive rock formations. The valley's lushness is a stark contrast to the high-pass rocky terrain.
Trek: 10 km | 7-8 hr.
Altitude Bhajmargi: 9,500 ft.
Crossing the Bhajmargi Pass today. This trail takes us through diverse flora and offers a different perspective on the Kashmiri mountains. We reach the high-altitude pastures of Bhaj Margi for our final camp in the wilderness.
Trek: 8 km | 3-4 hr.
Drive: 104 km back to Srinagar
On our final day, we trek down to Mondlan. This is a relatively easy descent of 8 km. From Mondlan, we drive back to Srinagar, passing through scenic landscapes. The trek concludes as we reach Srinagar by late afternoon.
- July 10 – July 16 Open
- Aug 12 – Aug 18 10 Seats Left
End Of Trip
By Air
- Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the most convenient.
- It's well-connected with major Indian cities.
By Train
- Jammu Tawi (JAT) is the nearest major railhead.
- From Jammu, it's an 8-10 hour drive to Srinagar.
By Bus
- JKSRTC and private buses run between Jammu and Srinagar.
- Shared cabs are also a popular and faster option.
Note that prepaid SIM cards do not work in J&K. Ensure you have a postpaid connection. Carry original ID Proof for permits.
- Age Requirement: Minimum 14 years.
- Experience: First-timers are welcome, though prior trekking experience is preferred. Good fitness is a must.
- Fitness Criteria:
- Ability to cover 5 km in 30 mins or 10 km in 70 mins without stress.
- For cycling enthusiasts: Ability to cycle 18 km in 50 minutes.
- Backpack Load: 10-12 kg (Self-carry) or 3-5 kg (Off-load option).
- Ideal BMI Range: 18.5 - 27.
Calculate Your BMI
Your BMI is within the healthy range.
Keep up the good work and maintain your fitness for the trek.
Enter your details to calculate your BMI and trekking eligibility.
- Pulse rate at rest must be between 60 to 100 bpm.
- BP Reading: 75-85 (DIA) / 100-130 (SYS) mm Hg.
- Respiratory rate: 12 to 20 breaths per minute.
- No history of chronic liver or kidney issues.
- No severe Diabetes, Asthma, Heart problems, or Hypertension.
- No pacemaker implants or similar devices.
- Consult our coordinator for Sinus issues or Epilepsy.
Complete packing list for your upcoming adventure. Ensure you have everything for a safe and comfortable journey.
| Item Name | Requirement |
|---|---|
|
Backpack with rain cover
|
(50 - 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
|
Day pack with rain cover
|
20 - 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
|
Walking stick
|
Advisable (At least one) |
|
Water Bottle / Hydration pack
|
2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
|
Small size tiffin/lunch box
|
1 Nos |
|
Snacks
|
Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
|
Personal Medical Kit
|
Consult your doctor |
|
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry)
|
2 Full & 2 Half sleeves |
|
Fleece T-shirt
|
2 Nos |
|
Fleece jacket
|
1 Nos |
|
Windproof Jacket
|
1 Nos. |
|
Down feather / Hollow jacket
|
1 Nos. |
|
Thermal inner (Upper & Lower)
|
1 Pair |
|
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry)
|
3 Nos. |
|
Fleece Pant
|
1 Nos. |
|
Waterproof gloves
|
1 Pair |
|
Fleece / woollen gloves
|
1 Pair |
|
Poncho / Waterproof Jacket & Pant
|
1 Nos. |
|
Head torch
|
1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
|
Sun Cap
|
1 Nos. |
|
Woolen cap
|
1 Nos. |
|
Balaclava
|
1 Nos. |
|
Buff / Neck-gaiters
|
1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen |
|
Sunglasses
|
UV with dark side cover. (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses for spectacle wearers. |
|
Trekking shoes
|
1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle, good grip) |
|
Floaters / flip-flops
|
1 Pair |
|
Cotton socks
|
8 pairs |
|
Woollen socks
|
3 pairs |
|
Gaiters
|
1 Pair (Next Peak provides when required) |
|
Micro spikes
|
1 Pair (Next Peak provides when required) |
|
Sunscreen
|
1 Nos. |
|
Moisturiser
|
1 Nos. |
|
Chap-stick / Lip balm
|
1 Nos. |
|
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
|
1 Nos. |
|
Toilet paper & Wipes
|
1 Nos. |
|
Soap / Hand Sanitizers
|
1 Nos. |
|
Antibacterial Powder
|
1 Nos. |
|
Quick Dry Towel
|
1 Nos. |
