About Kausar Nag Lake Trek
Kausar Nag Lake Trek is one of the most fascinating as well as challenging treks for one to undertake in the scenic beauty of the Kashmir valley-India. This picturesque trail takes you across lush green meadows, narrow pine forests and beautiful alpine pastures. Finally Kausar Nag Lake is a serene water body with a turquoise hue.
The tour starts from the beautiful village of Naranag where the walk starts gradually on the most picturesque meadows filled with exquisite wildflowers. Some of the sections that will be seen as the climber progresses higher are the steep ridge on the south side which passes through the montane coniferous forests that offer cool spaces in the hot season. The smell of pine needles and songs sung by birds help to appease the feeling of the soul and spiritually overwhelms the feeling of unity with nature.
Going further, the track rises gradually again and then again the landscapes that appear in front of you are unveiled with beautiful views of the Himalayan mountain range. The sky high peaks with glistening snow enveloping them offer great scenic beauty and every phase of trekking is full of enjoyment. The trail sometimes follows a frontage of clear flowing streams and waterfalls and this natural feature brings out the beauty of the environment more.
Thus, the primary goal of the trek and its highlight is undoubtedly Kausar Nag Lake. Located in an alpine setting, this beautiful lake is as clear as the expectancies of the organized communities and mirrors the surrounding mountains. The water has formed a teal color due to the melting glaciers, and it cannot even be described.
Solo camping is also done along the lakeside while trekking so that trekkers can extend it and enjoy the natural tranquility. Getting to share something as simple as sleeping under the stars with the sound of water as a background music will be something you will always cherish in your lifetime.
Therefore, the brutal and grueling Kausar Nag Lake Trek is not only a rigorous hike but it is a journey that feeds one’s spirit. The snow-capped mountains, the serene beauty of the area, and nature offering people a chance to get away from chaotic life make this trek one of the more valuable parts of the region in the Kashmir Valley.
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Quick Facts about Kausar Nag Lake Trek
| Trek Location: |
Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir |
| Adventure Type: |
Trekking |
| Grade: |
Moderate |
| Distance: |
36 Km |
| Altitude: |
11500 ft. |
| Best Time to Trek: |
June to September |
| Duration: |
4 Days |
Top Attractions Near Kausar Nag Lake Trek
- Naranag Temple:Â This group of temples representing Hindu architectural style is at a place not far from the beginning of the trek and it is believed to have been established in the 8th century AD. Trying to make it more elaborate, these temples are famous for the fine carving work done on stones and gigantic structures.
- Aru Valley:Â Located just close to the village Naranag, Aru Valley is a beautiful place which is famous for its beautiful lush green meadows, gushing streams and majestic peaks of the mountain. Hiking, picnicking and they get to see many interesting things such as natural hot springs, lakes, waterfalls and geyser basins.
- Betab Valley:Â This scenic valley is a few kilometers shy of the Kausar Nag Lake from the actual path. It also provides a magnificent view of the famous Harmukh and Ghansa Mountains and also affords scopes for camping and trekking.
- Vishansar Lake:Â Vishansar Lake is one of the popular high altitude lakes of kashmir valley which is offered as a side trek from Kausar Nag Lake. The lake is enclosed with towering peaks and it has one of the beautiful natural scenes that anyone would wish to behold.
- Gangabal Lake: Nestled nearby is another attractive alpine lake, Gangabal lake which is another place trekkers and nature enthusiasts love to visit. This trek to Gangabal Lake is rated moderately stiff but has stunning views upon the arrival at the lake.
- Yousmarg:Â Filled with beautiful flora and colorful local spirits and a favorite tourist hill station, Yousmarg in essence lies 40 kms from the start location of the Kausar Nag Lake Trek. It provides a breathtaking view of nearby Pir Panjal range and one can enjoy there by indulging in various activities like trekking and horse riding.
- Dachigam National Park: This park is identified to be roughly about 22 kilometers distant from Srinagar as the state’s only national park and is marked by significant bio density and numbers of endangered Hangul commonly known as the Kashmir Stag.
- Srinagar City:Â Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, offers a rich natural beauty, parks, lakes and unique Shikara houses. It is also a tourist hub and is used as a stop over either before or after the Kausar Nag Lake trek.
How to Prepare for Kausar Nag Lake Trek
- Physical Fitness:Â The trek to Kausar Nag Lake is comparatively mid-hours terrain with a distance of about 12-14 KMs and an altitude of about 1000 meters. As you begin the training, ensure that you gradually increase your training capacity and endurance in cardiovascular exercises such as walking, jogging or cycling.
- Acclimatization:Â Since one has to go to higher altitudes during the trek, it is important to deal with altitude issues that may occur. If it is possible, it is better to spend 1-2 days in the nearby city like Srinagar or Sonamarg prior to the trekking.
- Gear and Clothing: Try to carry a company of good reputation with proper fitting, strong ankle support and good grip at the sole. Don’t forget warm clothes such as thermal inners, fleece jackets, and some outercoats will be necessary at some times depending on the weather conditions. Also, it is advisable to bring a small daypack, trekking poles, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen as well.
- Hydration and Nutrition:Â Have as much water as possible and small energy rich snacks such as nuts, energy bars, dried fruits all along the trekking. It is also advisable to pack some electrolyte supplements because some fruits, vegetables and other high potassium eating options will also be avoided.
- Camping Gear:Â If you would like to stay overnight near the lake, you definitely require a good quality tent, sleeping bag, and a camping mattress. Also, it has bearings that fishing is viable and bring along a camping stove and fuel for cooking.
How Difficult is Kausar Nag Lake Trek
The Kausar Nag Lake trek is located in the sweatering region of the Kashmir Himalayas and falls under moderate to difficult grade trekking. Due to a rise in altitude, this trek is moderately strenuous requiring one to spend several days acclimatizing to high altitude in order to avoid common symptoms like headache, nausea and flu-like weakness.
The trail itself, despite being clear, is slightly rough and rocky at some places though not difficult, it has some portions of the trail that become slippery during rainy and winter season so proper trekking shoes especially with a good grip is recommended. In this regard, it is also worth noting that in this area, one can experience sudden changes in the weather when it goes from warm to cold with rain or snow and even gusts of wind, which can complicate an already challenging situation and raise the potential of slipping and falling. As with any trek on this part of the world, right acclimatization, physical conditioning, and prior trekking experience are very important in enhancing the chances of enjoying the Kausar Nag Lake trek.
Best Time to do Kausar Nag Lake Trek
As for the Kausar Nag Lake trek, the terrain is ideal for walking during the summer time that runs from July to August where the temperature is mild and relative with less occurrences of rain, which is very appropriate for trekking in the region known as the Kashmir Himalayas.
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