The Tarsar Marsar trek is Kashmir’s most rewarding moderate trek — a 5-day loop through the Aru Valley that takes you to two of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Himalayas. Tarsar Lake and Marsar Lake sit above 3,500 metres in a landscape so remote that you can stand at the shore and see no sign of human settlement in any direction. This is the trek we recommend most often to first-time Kashmir trekkers: the trails are well-defined, the altitude gain is manageable, and the scenery at the lakes is genuinely world-class.
Tarsar Marsar Trek Overview
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Starting point: Aru Village, Pahalgam (approx. 96 km from Srinagar)
- Ending point: Aru Village, Pahalgam
- Maximum altitude: ~4,200 metres (Marsar Lake ridge)
- Difficulty: Moderate — suitable for fit beginners with some walking experience
- Best season: June to September
- Price: ₹13,500 per person (all-inclusive — see below)
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1 — Srinagar to Aru Village (Drive) + Acclimatisation
We drive from Srinagar to Aru Village (approximately 3 hours via Pahalgam), gaining altitude gradually along the Lidder River valley. Aru sits at 2,414 metres and is a beautiful meadow village in its own right — pine forests, grazing horses, and the sound of the Lidder River running fast and cold below the village. The afternoon is free to acclimatise, walk around the meadow, and get briefed by your guide on the route ahead. Overnight in Aru in tent camp.
Day 2 — Aru to Lidderwat (Trek: ~11 km, 5–6 hours)
The trail follows the Lidder River upstream through dense forests of pine, fir, and birch. The path gains altitude steadily without any extreme steep sections. Lidderwat, at 3,050 metres, is a broad meadow ringed by peaks — one of the most photogenic campsites on the route. On a clear evening, the reflection of the surrounding mountains in the river is extraordinary. Overnight at Lidderwat camp.
Day 3 — Lidderwat to Tarsar Lake (Trek: ~9 km, 5–6 hours)
Today is the most dramatic day of the trek. The trail climbs steeply out of the Lidderwat valley through alpine meadows and over a ridge before the lake appears — a sudden, startling view of deep turquoise water set in a cirque of grey granite and permanent snowfields. Tarsar Lake sits at approximately 3,700 metres. The colour of the water changes through the day depending on cloud and light — from deep blue to vivid green to almost black in evening shadow. Overnight at Tarsar camp.
Day 4 — Tarsar to Marsar Lake and back to Sundarsar (Trek: ~10 km, 6–7 hours)
An early start for the crossing to Marsar. The route climbs from Tarsar over the ridge at approximately 4,200 metres — this is the highest point of the trek and the views from the top are some of the finest in the Kashmir Himalayas: multiple lakes visible simultaneously, the Kolahoi Glacier visible to the northeast, and peaks stretching in every direction. Marsar Lake, slightly lower at around 3,800 metres, has a wilder, more remote feel than Tarsar. The descent to Sundarsar camp is steep but manageable with trekking poles. Overnight at Sundarsar.
Day 5 — Sundarsar to Aru Village (Trek: ~10 km, 4–5 hours) + Drive to Srinagar
The final descent follows a different route back to Aru, giving you new perspectives on the valley. Arrival in Aru by early afternoon, followed by the drive back to Srinagar. You will be back at your hotel or houseboat by early evening.
What is Included in the ₹13,500 Package
- Return transport Srinagar to Aru and back
- Experienced, certified local Kashmiri trek guide
- All meals on trail (breakfast, packed lunch, dinner) — 4 nights
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, common kitchen tent)
- Trek permit (if applicable)
- Horsemen and pack horses to carry camp equipment
Not included: Personal sleeping bag (we can provide on request — ₹500 extra), personal trekking insurance, any expenses outside the trek itself.
Who is This Trek For?
The Tarsar Marsar trek suits fit adults with no prior high-altitude trekking experience who are comfortable walking 10–12 km per day on mountain terrain. It is not a technical climb — no ropes, ice axes, or special mountaineering skills are required. The main demands are cardiovascular fitness and a tolerance for camping. If you exercise regularly (running, cycling, gym), you will manage this trek comfortably. If you are completely sedentary, we recommend the Doodhpathri day trip as a gentler Kashmir walking experience first.
The trek is not suitable for children under 12 or adults with significant cardiovascular or respiratory conditions. Altitude of 4,200 metres at the Marsar crossing is the crux — if you have any concerns, discuss them with us before booking.
What to Pack for Tarsar Marsar
- Broken-in trekking boots (waterproof, ankle-supporting)
- Trekking poles (essential for the steep Marsar descent)
- Warm layers including a fleece and a down jacket (nights at altitude drop to 0–5°C even in summer)
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Warm sleeping bag (we can provide if needed)
- Sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, and a hat
- Water bottle or hydration bladder (3 litres capacity recommended)
- Small daypack (5–10 litres) for day essentials — horses carry the main camp gear
Frequently Asked Questions — Tarsar Marsar Trek
Is Tarsar Marsar harder than the Great Lakes of Kashmir trek?
Yes, but only marginally. The Great Lakes trek is 7 days and covers more ground; Tarsar Marsar is 5 days and more focused. The maximum altitude is similar. Both are classified as moderate. If you have done one, the other is very accessible. If you have done neither, Tarsar Marsar is a good introduction before attempting the longer Great Lakes route.
When is the best time for the Tarsar Marsar trek?
June to September. July and August are the most popular months — meadows are fully green, flowers are blooming, and the weather is most stable. Early June can still have significant snow on the Marsar crossing; late September starts getting cold at altitude. We run fixed-departure batch treks every weekend from June to September.
Can I do this trek solo (without a group)?
Yes — we offer private departures for individuals, couples, and small groups on any date during the season, not just fixed-departure weekends. Private departures cost slightly more due to fixed camp and guide costs. Contact us to discuss options.
Ready to book or want to ask something first? WhatsApp us at +91 700 66 88 931 — we run this route every season and can answer any question about fitness, gear, timing, or customisation. You can also browse our other Kashmir trekking options.