About

The Sheshnag Lake Trek, nestled in Jammu and Kashmir, stands out as a premier alpine lake journey, especially during the summer months. Known for its crystal-clear waters, which remain pristine due to minimal algae presence, the lake serves as a vital stop for Hindu pilgrims on their way to the sacred Amarnath Yatra. The Amarnath cave, a destination of deep religious significance, lies about 25 kilometers away from the lake. Stretching over a length of 1.1 kilometers and a width of 0.1 kilometers, Sheshnag Lake is encased by towering mountains, offering a serene getaway for visitors. Explorers can delve into the vast beauty of Pahalgam’s valleys and lakes through organized sightseeing tours.

For those seeking adventure, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is another exhilarating option to consider.

Venturing on the Sheshnag Lake Trek, travelers will encounter lush meadows, challenging ascents, staircases, and clearly marked paths. The lake, often referred to as the “King of Snakes,” promises a short yet enchanting trekking experience, achievable within one to two days, with the lake itself being the main highlight. The trek affords stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and is also a haven for various fish species, making it an ideal spot for trout fishing. Suitable for beginners and rated as easy to moderate in difficulty, this trek is accessible to a wide range of adventurers.

The prime time for embarking on this journey is from June to October, when the lake’s beauty peaks. During the winter, the lake transforms into a frozen expanse, making access challenging due to the snow. The trek also features captivating views from the Pissu Top, offering a panoramic vista of the Lidder Valley, enhanced by the presence of numerous waterfalls along the trail.

How difficult is the Sheshnag Lake Trek

The Sheshnag Lake trek is classified as ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, making it accessible to a wide array of trekkers, including beginners. The most challenging segment is the climb to Pissu Top, characterized by its steep, zigzagging path. However, the remainder of the journey is less strenuous, allowing for a more relaxed trekking experience. This expedition, capable of being completed within a single day, guides participants through enchanting meadows and alongside the captivating Lidder River. Nestled at an elevation of 3590 meters above sea level, Sheshnag Lake is among the more approachable treks within the Kashmir region. For those looking for a slightly longer adventure, the Tarsar Marsar Trek is another option, offering an easy to moderate difficulty level over the span of a week.

Best Time to do the Sheshnag Lake Trek

The optimal period for embarking on this trek spans from June to October. This season showcases the lake's surroundings, adorned with vibrant wildflowers in full bloom, creating a visually stunning landscape. Thus, summer emerges as the ideal time to undertake this journey. Conversely, during the winter months, the lake becomes inaccessible, with its surface frozen and the surrounding area blanketed in thick snow, making it an impractical time for trekking.

How to Reach Sheshnag Lake

Several travel options are available for reaching Sheshnag, encompassing air travel, rail, and road journeys.

Air Travel: The closest airport to the starting point is Srinagar International Airport, which offers connectivity to various major cities across India. After landing in Srinagar, you can hire a taxi directly to Pahalgam, covering a distance of approximately 102 kilometers. Upon reaching Pahalgam, a subsequent taxi ride, lasting about 30 minutes, will take you to the Chandanwari base camp.

Rail Travel: For those preferring rail, the Jammu Tawi Railway Station serves as the nearest railhead. From Jammu, you can opt for a taxi or a shared taxi service to Pahalgam, with the journey lasting about 6-7 hours. Once in Pahalgam, arrange for another taxi to Chandanwari base camp, which is about 16 kilometers away.

Road Travel: If you’re traveling by road, Union Territory buses frequently operate from Jammu to Srinagar. After reaching Srinagar, continue your journey to Pahalgam by hiring a taxi. From Pahalgam, another taxi ride of 30-40 minutes will get you to the Chandanwari base camp, marking the commencement point of your trek