Tarsar Marsar Trek vs Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Which Trek Has Better Scenery?

Both treks offer stunning views, but in different ways.

Tarsar Marsar Trek – Peaceful and Quiet

Tarsar Marsar Trek is known for its calm lakes and peaceful surroundings. This trek takes you through beautiful meadows, green forests, and clear lakes. It is less crowded, so you can enjoy nature in peace.

• Tarsar Lake is a calm, blue lake surrounded by meadows.
• Marsar Lake has a mystical, dreamy vibe, often hidden under clouds.
• Sundarsar Lake is tucked away between cliffs, offering a hidden paradise.

The beauty of this trek lies in its quiet lakes and calm camping spots. If you like peaceful hikes and less crowded trails, Tarsar Marsar is perfect.

Kashmir Great Lakes – Grand and Diverse

On the other hand, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is larger and has more variety. The trek has seven lakes, each more beautiful than the last. You’ll also pass through large meadows and tall mountains.

• Vishansar Lake is the first major lake you’ll see, surrounded by high peaks.
• Krishansar Lake is famous for its clear water and peaceful setting.
• Satsar Lakes are a series of smaller lakes with wide-open meadows.

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek offers a grand adventure with many lakes and dramatic mountain views. 

Which Trek is Harder?

Tarsar Marsar Trek – A Gentle Hike

Tarsar Marsar Trek is moderate in difficulty. The trails are not too steep, and the highest point is only 13,500 feet. The trek is great for beginners or those looking for a fun challenge without too much stress.

• Most of the trail has gentle hills and easy walking.
• The hardest part is the climb to Marsar Lake, but it’s short and manageable.

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek – More Challenging

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is more difficult. It’s longer, covering 72 km. The trek also goes up to 13,800 feet. It’s a test of your stamina and endurance, with steep climbs and rough trails.

• The trek involves longer days, with 7 to 9 hours of walking.
• The higher altitude may cause some trekkers to feel dizzy or tired.

If you’re an experienced trekker looking for a tougher challenge, Kashmir Great Lakes is the better choice.

Here is The Detailed Guide on: Difficulty Level of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek 

Camping: Where Will You Sleep?

Tarsar Marsar – Lakeside Camping

One of the best things about Tarsar Marsar Trek is its lakeside campsites. You camp right next to the lakes, waking up to incredible views.

• Sundarsar Lake is the best camping spot, offering beautiful reflections of the mountains in the water.
• The campsites are quiet and peaceful, allowing you to enjoy nature up close.

Kashmir Great Lakes – Moving Campsites

On the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, you change campsites every day. You sleep near different lakes and meadows, so you get to see a lot of variety. But not all campsites are right next to the lakes.

• Some campsites are near large meadows or high ridgelines.
• You’ll get to enjoy stunning views, but you might not always camp by the water.

If you prefer lakeside camping, Tarsar Marsar is the better option.

Get the Complete Details on: Campsites on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek 

Best Time to Visit

Both treks are best during the summer months, from July to September.

• Tarsar Marsar: The best time to visit is July and August, when the lakes are clear, and the meadows are green.
• Kashmir Great Lakes: For the wildflowers and clear views, best time to visit Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is in late July to early August.

After September, the weather starts to get cooler, and snow might start falling in the higher areas. 

Which Trek Has More Wildlife?

Both treks are home to interesting wildlife, but Tarsar Marsar has more chances for sightings.

• Tarsar Marsar: You might see marmots, golden eagles, and the rare Kashmir stag in the meadows and forests.
• Kashmir Great Lakes: There are some wild animals, but it’s a busier trail, so wildlife is harder to spot.

If you love seeing animals in the wild, Tarsar Marsar is the better option.