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Detailed Route
A dramatic 3-day strike starting from the tourist hub of Pahalgam. Trek through pine forests, camp at the beautiful Kanimarg meadows, and summit the lake on Day 2.
Standard RouteThis is the standard mountain pacing for this trek. Specific operators may add an acclimatization day or alter the starting point. Check individual operator schedules for their exact logistics.
Duration
3 Days
Total Distance
28.0 KM
Max Altitude
12,100 FT
Trek Type
circuit
Permit Cost
Where to Get
Pahalgam Forest Office
Documents
Aadhar Card / Passport
Foreign Nationals
No special restrictions, standard permit applies. Passport copy must be submitted.
Foreigner Process
Standard forest registration. Keep passport copies handy for random checkpoints.
Nearest Embassy Hub
New Delhi
Camp Alt
9,500 ft
Day Gain
+2,300 ft
The trek begins right from the bustling town of Pahalgam. You immediately ascend a steep, well-trodden pony trail through dense pine forests to reach Baisaran, a massive, flat meadow often called 'Mini Switzerland'. After leaving the tourist crowds at Baisaran, the trail narrows and plunges deeper into the virgin forest, following the Lidder river's tributaries until you break the tree line at Kanimarg (Tulian Valley), a spectacular rolling meadow where you will establish base camp.
Key Landmarks
Staying At
The route moves through forested zones. The environment transitions into open alpine meadows. The route follows the river valley.
Field Notes
KEY ACTIONRiver Crossings
Plan to cross early in the day before snowmelt swells the water levels. Unclip backpack waist belts before crossing.
Camp Alt
9,500 ft
Day Gain
0 ft
Today's Objective
Leave your heavy backpack at camp and start early. The trail leaves the soft meadows and becomes a harsh, steep climb over loose rocks, boulders, and glacial moraine. As you crest the final steep ridge, the turquoise Tulian Lake reveals itself, tucked in a deep bowl surrounded by towering, 15,000 ft snow-capped peaks. Spend time exploring the figure-eight shoreline before carefully descending the steep moraine back to Kanimarg.
Key Landmarks
Staying At
The environment transitions into open alpine meadows. The route ascends to an exposed ridge line.
Field Notes
Stow Poles
Requires hands-on rock scrambling. Stow trekking poles to free up your hands.
INFOSlower Progress
Progress will be significantly slower and more taxing on your ankles than trail distance suggests.
Camp Alt
7,200 ft
Day Gain
-2,300 ft
Break camp and begin the long descent back to civilization. The trail is mostly downhill, retracing your steps through the thick pine forests and passing back through Baisaran. You will reach the Pahalgam taxi stand by early afternoon, leaving plenty of time to drive back to Srinagar.
Key Landmarks
The route moves through forested zones. The path breaches the mountain barrier crossing the watershed.
Experienced mountaineers can link the Tulian valley over technical passes to connect with the famous Tarsar Marsar lakes.
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