The Durinar Lake Trek stands out as an exciting journey through Kashmir, beginning near Sonamarg and reaching three alpine lakes: Durinar I, II, and III (at 4,600 meters/15,092 feet). Starting from Sarbal Village – often considered as the last village in Kashmir – the trek is known only to a select few locals and tourists alike. As you ascend through Kashmir’s picturesque meadows, a steep ascent leads to breathtaking vistas of Lidder and Sindh valleys from Durinar III’s shores. At this vantage point, visitors are treated to spectacular views of Zoji La, Kolahoi peak and glacier, as well as many other peaks and passes of Kashmir National Park. Showcasing one unique aspect of Kashmir is the Durunar Lake Trek – three lakes are stacked atop each other for an extraordinary journey that promises an unforgettable experience for novice as well as veteran trekkers alike.
Trek Itinerary of Durinar Lake Trek
Day 1: Srinagar to Sarbal
On Day 1, embark on your journey by leaving Srinagar and traveling via Sonamarg to Sarbal Valley via Sonamarg, a four-hour scenic drive. When you arrive, spend your day discovering its beauty before setting up camp in the valley for the night under the stars.
Day 2: Sarbal to Durinar lakes
On the second day, embark on a seven-hour trek from Sarbal to the tranquil Durinar Lakes. Following breakfast, begin ascending toward your campsite near Durinar and spend your afternoon exploring its picturesque surroundings before settling in for the night at camp.
Day 3: Durinar to Tajwais glacier
On your third day, embark on a 7-hour trek from Durinar to the magnificent Tajwais Glacier and take in its breathtaking surroundings as you go, taking time to take in its magnificent landscape of Tajiwas massif before setting up camp amidst these amazing surroundings for the night.
Day 4: Tais Glacier to Sonmarg
On the fourth day, depart from the Tajwais Glacier after breakfast and embark on a 3-hour downhill trek towards Sonmarg. You should plan for this trek to take approximately 3 hours until reaching Sonmarg; from here, you will return by road to Srinagar.
Trek Highlights of Durinar Lake Trek
- Gaze upon the two Durinar Lakes, two sparkling blue lakes set among snow and scree.
- Cross meadows at high altitudes as well as boulder fields and glacial moraines.
- View stunning views of Nun-Kun Peaks, Brahma I & II Mountain Ranges, and the Greater Himalayan ranges from our viewpoint.
- Visit Paddar Valley, known for being an expanse of wilderness where both Buddhist and Hindu traditions come together.
- Find rare Himalayan wildlife such as marmots, golden eagles, and blue sheep.
- Start your outdoor experience right and experience peace and serenity like never before.
How To Reach Durinar Lake Trek
Based at Gulabgarh or Sohal in Paddar Valley (District Kishtwar, J&K).
By Air: Jammu International Airport is approximately 280 kilometres away from Kishtwar. Use a private or shared jeep from Jammu towards Kishtwar (10-12 hours of travel time).
By Road: Jammu to Batote to Kishtwar to Gulabgarh via National Highway 244, Final motorable location: Sohal Village (where trek begins).
By Train: Udhampur or Jammu Tawi Stations are the nearest railway stations for train travel.
Best Time to Visit Durinar Lake Trek
Middle of July through Early September. As the snow melts, access is granted to lakes. Treks and Meadows offer lush surroundings, while treks are wide for easy navigation. Weather conditions tend to be conducive for camping at high altitudes.
Avoid: June is when snowfall could obstruct higher treks. Beginning mid-September, Early snowfalls begin. From October through May, Access is prohibited due to landslides or snow cover in this region.
Head Of Mountain Experts
