The Kashmir Great Lakes (KGL) Trek is widely regarded as one of India’s most spectacular high-altitude trekking experiences. Stretching approximately 72 kilometers through the pristine landscapes of Kashmir, the trek takes adventurers across lush alpine meadows, high mountain passes, and a chain of breathtaking glacial lakes including Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangabal, and Nundkol. Renowned for its ever-changing scenery, vibrant wildflower-covered meadows, and stunning views of Mount Harmukh, the trek attracts thousands of outdoor enthusiasts every year during the monsoon season. However, uncertainty surrounding permissions and operational approvals has cast doubt over the trek’s availability for the 2026 season. The trek has remained non-operational since the Pahalgam incident on 22 April 2025 involving tourists in the region.
Current Status: No Official Trek Permissions Issued for the 2026 Season
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek remains non-operational for the 2026 season as the necessary permissions and clearances from the concerned authorities have not yet been issued. Despite regular follow-ups with the local administration and the State Tourism Department over the past 2–3 months, no positive response or official green signal has been received so far.
In the absence of these mandatory permissions, trekking activities on the Kashmir Great Lakes route cannot be conducted, leading us to suspend departures and advise trekkers to consider alternative Himalayan trekking destinations for the upcoming season. Given the preparation timelines required for high-altitude expeditions, Trekup India has decided to suspend operations for the 2026 season.
Impact of Security Reviews Following the 2025 Kashmir Incident
Following the security incident in the Pahalgam region in 2025, authorities in Jammu & Kashmir initiated a comprehensive review of tourism and adventure activities across sensitive areas of the Union Territory. As part of these precautionary measures, trekking routes passing through remote and high-altitude regions, including the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, came under heightened scrutiny.
Multiple government departments, including local administration, security agencies, forest authorities, and tourism officials, have been assessing safety protocols, logistical preparedness, and risk management measures before granting permissions for organized trekking activities. This ongoing review process has resulted in delays in issuing trekking permits, creating continued uncertainty for operators and trekkers planning expeditions in the region for the 2026 season.
Impact on Trekkers: Summer Plans Reconsidered
The uncertainty surrounding the operation of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek in 2026 has led many trekkers to reassess their summer adventure plans. Trekkers who were eagerly waiting to experience one of India’s most iconic Himalayan trails have been compelled to cancel or postpone their bookings due to the absence of official permissions.
Trekup India has been actively communicating with affected participants, offering refunds, credits, or alternative trekking options wherever possible. Many trekkers are now opting for alternative Himalayan treks such as:
Operations Manager
Nanda Rawat holds a Master’s degree in Tourism & Hospitality and brings over 16 years of experience in adventure and leisure travel. He has led multiple Himalayan expeditions, contributed to ATOAI, and is trained in first aid by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation. A strong supporter of sustainable and ethical tourism, he plays a key role at Trekup India. Write to him at: nanda@trekupindia.com
