Ready to trade the city heat for snow-kissed peaks and sapphire lakes? Welcome to Kashmir’s summer wonderland—where emerald meadows meet glassy alpine lakes, and every trail leads to something magical. Nestled high in the Himalayas, these hidden gems are only accessible by foot, rewarding trekkers with views straight out of a dream. From the mystical mist of Marsar to the flower-fringed shores of Gadsar, each lake is a postcard come to life. Lace up your boots—paradise awaits! (Image: Canva)
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1. Tarsar Lake Hidden deep in the Aru Valley, Tarsar stuns with its shifting shades of turquoise, teal, and green. Surrounded by grassy slopes and scattered boulders, it's a trekker’s paradise. Camp by its shores and watch the sunrise turn the lake into liquid gold, reflecting the peaks in a dance of light. (Image: Canva)
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2. Marsar Lake Often cloaked in morning mist, Marsar is elusive and hauntingly beautiful. Located just beyond Tarsar, it remains partially hidden behind ridges, adding to its mystery. Legends speak of its depth and untamed spirit—perfect for those who love a little enigma with their adventure. (Image: Canva)
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3. Gangbal Lake Cradled below the mighty Mount Harmukh, Gangbal is more than just scenic—it’s sacred to Kashmiri Hindus. The twin lake with Nundkol, it sparkles under a clear sky, fed by glacial melt and framed by sprawling meadows that explode with wildflowers in summer. (Image: Canva)
4. Vishansar Lake Tucked near Sonamarg, Vishansar is the kind of lake you stumble upon and never forget. Its crystal-clear waters mirror the sky and nearby peaks, while herds of sheep graze peacefully nearby. It marks the beginning of the famous Kashmir Great Lakes trek. (Image: Canva)
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5. Krishansar Lake Just over a ridge from Vishansar, Krishansar takes the drama up a notch. This high-altitude lake, with its sapphire hues and panoramic views, is often encircled by mist, adding an ethereal quality to its rugged beauty. Trout fishing here is a local specialty. (Image: Canva)
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6. Gadsar Lake They call it the ‘Lake of Flowers,’ and rightly so. Gadsar is ringed by blooming alpine flora and guarded by snowy cliffs, often kissed by snow even in July. Sitting at over 12,000 feet, it feels like a scene from a fairytale—a dreamy stopover on the KGL trek. (Image: Canva)
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7. Satsar Lakes Not one, but a series of seven high-altitude lakes greet you here. Scattered like sapphires along a remote trail between Gadsar and Gangbal, Satsar is perfect if you love solitude and raw, untamed beauty. Each lake has its own character, hidden amidst rocky terrains. (Image: Wikipedia)
8. Nundkol Lake A stone’s throw from Gangbal, Nundkol is tied to ancient legends and is nestled in a valley of pine and rhododendron. The Harmukh peak towers above, making it a surreal setting. It’s a peaceful pause after the climb—and a spiritual one for many pilgrims. (Image: Canva)
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9. Alpather Lake Near Gulmarg but worlds apart in vibe, Alpathar stays frozen well into summer. Nestled at the foot of Apharwat Peak, it offers an ideal short trek through meadows and snowy patches. Perfect for beginners craving an alpine thrill without a multi-day expedition. (Image: Wikipedia)
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10. Sheshnag Lake Part of the sacred Amarnath Yatra route, Sheshnag is mythical, mystical, and downright majestic. Its emerald waters are flanked by sharp ridges, and its serpent-like lore draws pilgrims and trekkers alike. The trail here is as rewarding as the lake itself. (Image: Wikipedia)
Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytelling—both visual and textual—across travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences.
