Tarsar Marsar Trek

Tarsar Lake
Tarsar Lake

Overview of Tarsar Masar Trek

The Tarsar and Marsar lakes are truly natural wonders nestled in the breathtaking Pir Panchal mountain range of the Lesser Himalayas. These pristine alpine lakes, located in Anantnag district of Kashmir, are surrounded by towering pinnacles, some rising 4000 to 5000 meters above sea level. The Tarsar Marsar trek, a spectacular journey through this serene region, offers an unforgettable experience for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Starting from Srinagar, the trek covers a distance of 94 kilometers to reach the trailhead at Aru Village, situated at an elevation of 2433 meters. The first campsite, Lidderwat, lies at 3000 meters, offering trekkers a perfect spot to rest and soak in the scenic views. From there, the journey continues toward Tarsar Lake, which sits at an impressive altitude of 3795 meters. The initial stretch of the trek, spanning approximately 10 kilometers from Aru to Lidderwat, is the easiest section, providing a smooth introduction to the trek's challenges. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, this portion offers a gentle ascent with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes, setting the stage for the more challenging, yet rewarding, portions of the trek. Embark on this remarkable journey to discover the unmatched beauty and tranquility of the Tarsar and Marsar lakes, making it a must-do trek for anyone seeking adventure in the heart of the Kashmir Valley.

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Inclusions of the trek

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The Landscape of the trek

Tarsar and Marsar lakes are no doubt 2 wonders of nature located in the lap of the Pir Panchal mountain Range of Lesser Himalayas. The Lakes are surrounded by the number of Pinnacles lying around 4000 to 5000 meters above sea level. The Tarsar Marsar trek comes across the district Anantnag in the Union Territory of Kashmir. The total distance from Srinagar to Aru Village is 94 km. The altitude of trailhead Aru is 2433 m, the first campsite named Lidderwat is located at an altitude of 3000 m, and the Tarsar Lake is located at an altitude of 3795 meters above sea level. The first stretch of 10 kms from Aru to Lidderwat is the easiest part of the trek.

During this journey of 7 days, you will witness the miracles of nature in the form of green lush meadows, inverted waterfalls, snow-fed rivers, snow-capped mountains, tall pine trees, gypsy life, wildflowers, valleys, and the open view of the lesser Himalayas including high mountain peak of Kashmir (Mt. Kolahoi 5425 m).The Tarsar Marsar Lakes trek is the only trek mentioned on the Lonely Planet guide for Indian Himalayas. The charming trek in the lap of majestic mountains peaks of Kashmir.  This pleasant trek is an adventure of a lifetime and a must-do trek of the Indian Himalayas.  

Tarsar Marsar Trek Expereince

The Tarsar Marsar trek provides the ultimate blend of adventure and fun while being close to nature. Starting the trek from Aru Village and entering treeline on the banks of river Lidder makes the trek melodious. The distance from Aru to the Tarsar Lake ridge is 24 km so the total distance of astounding Tarsar Marsar Lakes Trek is 48 km (29.82 miles).  The temperate remains cold even during peak summertime so proper winter clothing is recommended. When we are talking about the route of Tarsar Marsar Lakes, it is moderate just because a very small part of the trek has steep ascent and roughness. The difficulty level of the trek has been graded as moderate for the people who have some experience of high-altitude trekking.

Lidderwat
Lidderwat enroute Homwas
Tarsar lake route
On the way to Shekwas.

How to Reach Srinagar

Kashmir does have only one commercial Airport which we can reach by direct flights from Delhi (DEL) Airport, Bangalore, Jammu, And Hyderabad.  All the flights from other parts of India reach via Delhi to Srinagar (SXR), Kashmir.

Government and Private bus services to Jammu are available from from Delhi and from other parts of India. Jammu onwards you can again choose state government bus service or choose tourist taxi from Jammu to Srinagar. Tourist taxi, Public transport And UT Government Bus Service will be available easily from Jammu to Srinagar.

The train services can be used up to Jammu And Banihal only. Tourist taxi, Public transport And UT Government Bus Service will be available easily from Jammu to Srinagar. The distance of 270 Km from Jammu to Srinagar is usually been covered in 6 to 7 hours.

Aru to Lidderwat Map.

Map of Tarsar Marsar Trek

The Tarsar Marsar Trek has three main stretches. 1. Aru to Lidderwat – 10 Km. 2. Lidderwat to Shekwas – 6.Km.  3. Shekwas to Tarsar 6 Km. The first stretch of the trek is easiest part of the trek which can be identified easily on the map too.The Lidderwat is a triangular piece of land surrounded by pine trees and water streams. Lidderwat onwards it’s time to gain elevation through the route shown on the map. The coordinates of Tarsar Lake are 34°8′24″N 75°8′53″E and  34.144°N 75.110°E for the Marsar Lake. Reaching Homwas after the gradual ascent of 3 hours. As the map of Tarsar Marsar Lake shows the incline in the route. Crossing the river at Homwas and going through boulder walk for 20 min will take to Shekwas campsite.

The Tarsar Marsar Trek has three main stretches. 1. Aru to Lidderwat – 10 Km. 2. Lidderwat to Shekwas – 6.Km.  3. Shekwas to Tarsar 6 Km. The first stretch of the trek is easiest part of the trek. which can be identified easily on the map too.The Lidderwat is a triangular piece of land surrounded by pine trees and water streams. Lidderwat onwards it’s time to gain elevation through the route shown on the map. The coordinates of Tarsar Lake are 34°8′24″N 75°8′53″E and  34.144°N 75.110°E for the Marsar Lake. Reaching Homwas after the gradual ascent of 3 hours. As the map of Tarsar Marsar Lake shows the incline in the route. Crossing the river at Homwas and going through boulder walk for 20 min will take to Shekwas campsite.

Map of Tarsar Marsar trek

Short Itinerary of Tarsar Marsar Trek

Note: Trekkers are advised to reach Srinagar a day before the trek will commence. Our itinerary doesn’t include any buffer day but trekkers must add a buffer day in order to secure their departure. Bad weather conditions sometimes take an extra day to reach back on road safe and sound.

Day 1: Srinagar - Aru campsite

On the first day, we will send the tourist taxi at a programmed time and we will be heading towards the trailhead by covering a distance of 94 km. This will be an acclimatization day with a few km walk around the  Aru valley.  Night stay will be at Aru Campsite at an elevation 2433 m.

Day 2: Aru campsite - Lidderwat

Trek distance: 10 km 

Time Taken: 6 – 7 hours

Altitude gain: 400 meters

Trek type:  Easy + moderate trek through the rolling slopes of  Lidder Valley

Day 3: Lidderwat - Shekwas

Trek distance: 6 km 

Time Taken: 6 – 7 hours

Altitude gain: 582 meters

Trek type: The trek starts with a gradual ascent and the route turns flat at fewer places. After a boulder walk of 20 minutes followed by the river crossing, we will get to Shekwas.

Day 4: Shekwas to Tarsar Lake

Trek distance: 5 km 

Time Taken: 4 hours

Altitude gain: 430 meters

Trek type: Moderate ascent over the incline meadow of Tarsar Valley. Upon reaching altitude of 3500 m the route turns flat with little incline at the end. 

Day 5: Tarsar Lake - Sundersar

Trek distance: 5 km 

Time Taken: 5 hours

Altitude gain: 155 meters

Trek type: Ascent trek of 1 hours to cross the ridge which parrel to Tarsar Lake followed by descent and normal Walk. Ending with a gradual climb of 1 hour.

Day 6: Sundersar - Lidderwat

Trek distance: 15 km 

Time Taken: 7 hours

Elevation Loss: 800 meters

Trek type: Gradual descent trek through the valley of Tarsar and Homwas. 20 percent of the route is little rough.

Day 7: Lidderwat - Aru - Srinagar

Trek distance: 10 km 

Time Taken: 8 hours

Elevation Loss: 582 meters

Trek type: Descent through the rolling slopes of Lidder Valley and parallel to the Lidder river. 3 hours drive to Srinagar from Aru Village.

Day 8: Buffer Day

Trek distance: 0 km 

Time Taken: 0 hours

Height lose : 000 meters

 

Best Time To Do Tarsar Marsar trek

Tarsar Trek

Being the most astonishing trek of the Indian Himalayas. The best time to do Tarsar Masar Trek is from 1 June to 15 September. Peak Sumer season is the best time to explore this part of the Himalayas. During starting June the temperate remains cold and the landscape above 3000 meters is partially covered with snow. During July the meadows get in their bloom and snow can be found in the gullies and mountain peaks. In the month of August, the weather gets dry and fewer chances of rain when compared to June and July. During September the weather remains fully dry and also there is no conjunction on the trail. So the best time to visit Tarsar Marsar Lakes is from Starting June to the end of September and also permissible by the department of Tourism Kashmir (UT) for the said season.

In the month of October the weather gets harsh and the meadows turn brown and cold winds from Dras make the region freezing. As per the protocols of the Tourism Department, the trek is permitted from June to September only. Mountain Expeditions can take place in the area by permission of IMF and UT Tourism Authorities during peak summer time only. The best time to explore the alpine lakes of Kashmir is peak summertime only. When comparing Tarsar Marsar Lake trek to Kashmir great lakes trek the Tarsar Marsar open a month earlier than KGL trek. 

Fixed Depature Dates for 2025

Join the trek on fixed group departure dates with quality service or do it privately on your chosen date. We are based in Kashmir and are meant to provide you with quality services that fill joy in your adventure.

June

Early Season
10 Group Size
  • 2 June to 8 June
  • 10 June to 16 June
  • 18 June to 24 June
  • 26 June to 2 July
Open

July

Mid Season
12 Group Size
  • 04 July to 10 July
  • 11 July to 17 July
  • 18 July to 25 July
  • 27 July to 2 August
Open

August

Mid Season
12 Group Size
  • 4 Aug to 10 Aug
  • 11 Aug to 17 Aug
  • 18 Aug to 24 Aug
  • 26 Aug to 2 Sep
Open

September

End Season
15 Group Size
  • 4 Sep to 10 Sep
  • 12 Sep to 18 Sep
  • 20 Sep to 26 Sep
  • 28 Sep to 4 Oct
Open

Detailed itinerary of Tarsar Marsar

Arru Village, Pahalgam.

Day 1: Srinagar to Aru Campsite

We welcome you to an awesome adventure with Himalayan Bird Adventures. The driver will be sent to pick you up from any of the locations in Srinagar.  After meeting the trek coordinator, we will be heading to the Aru, which is 90 km away from Srinagar and takes 3 to 4 hours. The remaining time of the day will spent on acclimatization walk at the Aru Valley and end the day with the delicious meals. Aru Valley is going to be the campsite for the first day. Enjoying the time in the beautiful valley and getting ready by acclimatizing till the next morning.

Towards Lidderwat.

Day 2: Aru to Lidderwat

On leaving the  Aru Campsite 2400 m,  we will be walking in the treeline with the normal walk towards Lidderwat through the banks of river Lidder. The trekking route is 12  km from Aru to Lidderwat,  Most of the route is normal with very gradual gain in elevation . Lidderwat (2800 m) is the base camp for a number of multi-day and short treks like the Kolahoi Summit Trek and other alpine lakes trek. Camping at Lidderwat overnight and explore the surroundings.

Lidderwat

Day 3: Lidderwat to Shekwas campsite

Right after breaakfast at 7 in the morning, we will start a gradual ascent of 7 km from Lidderwat to Shekwas. As you go higher through the ridges and meadows of Tarsar Lake, the wider view of surrounding mountains makes the trek joyful. During the trek, you will walk parallel but opposite to the water stream which is the outflow of Tarsar Lake. Later this stream joins the Lidder river which itself is a tributary and the Jehlum river. On every step there will be the elevation gain and at this point, a little push is needed. Finally with 20 minutes of boulder walk followed by a river crossing will take you to the Shekwas campsite. The spectacular view of surrounding mountains reminds the fact that Kashmir is fully photogenic. Enjoy the tea and coffee in the evening bonfire at Shekwas campsite.

Shekwas

Day 4: Shekwas to Tarsar LAke CampSite

Spending the night a Shekwas verily helps trekkers to acclimatize properly.  By the morning it remains a little cold but as you start walking through the route the body temperature gets warm. The total distance from Shekwas to Tarsar Lake is 3.5 km through a slope of 40 degrees angle. The surrounding meadows are been used by Gujjars and Bakerwalls to graze their herd during the peak winter season on such high altitudes. After the trek of 2 hours, a flat landscape covered with spiky peaks named locally at marg. At once a sparkling view from one of its corners takes away all your tiredness because this is the adventure experience you were looking for. Reaching Tarsar Lake is the major part of the trek, the camping will be just 200 m away from the lake.

trekkers

Day 5: Tarsar to Sundersar

The next part of the trek is Sundersar Lake, it takes 1 to 2  hours to cross a nearby ridge that is parallel to Lake. After a steep ascent of an hour, it’s time to descent to a flat landscape, locally called at Zagi. Shepherds and Gypgy camps can be seen in the valley with herds of sheep and goats Going through one hour of ascent, we will be on the banks of Sundersar Lake. Wildflower beds can be seen during the end of July and starting August only. After having our lunch, we will head to the next milestone which is Marsar Lake. It takes just an hour to reach the ridge from where Marsar Lake can be seen. The Lake is 1 km in the length and 500 m in width. This almond-shaped lake remains under clouds which results in a cold temperate nearby the Lake.

Sundersar Lake

Day 6: Sundersar to Lidderwat

Now onwards on every step, we will lose the altitude. Reaching Lidderwat campsite is a little bit challenging but not difficult. The total distance of 14 km will be covered in 8 to 9 hours. While the decent there will be more pressure on the knees and on the front portion of the feet, using the two hiking poles can help to avoid much pressure. Turing left near the ridge of Tarsar Lake will bypass the lake and we reach very close to the Shekwas. The temperature remains 20 to 30 degrees Celcius during peak summertime but due to the long walk, it feels too hot. Staying hydrated is important in order to remain fit on the trek. Ending the day on the awesome campsite of Lidderwat is a relaxing moment in the lap of mountains.

Tarsar Masar Trek route

Day 7: Lidderwat to Aru to Srinagar

Ending an awesome adventure with its never lost beautiful memories. It will be a trek of 3 to 4 hours from Lidderwat to Aru. Walking down on the rolling slopes and parallel to the flow of River Lidder. Taking packed meals on banks on river shore gives a melodious experience. Upon reaching Aru, our cabs will be ready to drop you at Srinagar. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Tarsar Marsar

01. Is Tarsar Marsar Safe?

The situation in the valley after 2016 has been improved dramatically and millions of tourists and trekkers visited the valley till now. Currently, a large number of educated youth are part of the tourism industry and are playing a good role to take this industry to a higher level. Department of  Tourism Kashmir has been awarded for handling the highest number of tourists throughout the country in  2021. Talking about the Safety of the Tarsar  Marsar Trek, Tarsar Marsar lakes lies in the forest block of Aru. Thousands of trekkers complete the Tarsar Marsar trek every month safe and Happily. The area is full of tourists during summers mostly and the route is busy with the trekkers, porters, mules with loads. Solo trekking could be dangerous on the trek because is a living place for a number of wild animals including Himalayan brown and black bears, leopards, and poisonous vipers.

02. Tarsar Marsar Trek Heigh?

The maximum elevation you will reach during the trek is 4000 m (13,123 foot). The trek starts from the elevation of 2433 m, the elevation of Lidderwat is 3000 m, and the Tarsar Lake is located at an altitude of 3795 m ASL. The scenic beauty of Sundersar always amazes the trekkers and is located at an elevation of 4000 m and last alpine lake is Marsar Lake located at an elevation 3870 m above sea level.

03. How do you get from Pahalgam to Tarsar Lake? How do you get to Tarsar Marsar Lake?

Pahalgam is an awesome tourism destination and gives birth to a number of multiday and short trekking trails. Aru Village is popular trailhead for many beautiful Treks which includes the Tarsar Marsar trek also. Getting to Tarsar Marsar from Pahalgam needs proper planning and logistics. It takes only 30 to 40 minutes to cover the distance of 12 km from Pahalgam to Aru. One must choose an adventure company if they want to do Tarsar Marsar Trek. You can join the fixed dates of different companies or can do it privately through a local operator. The trekking will start from Aru onwards. The first day of camping will be at Lidderwatt which gives another thrill to this adventure. After a gradual ascent of 6 hours, you will be at Shekwas. Next, you will see the miracle of Nature in form of Tarsar Lake. 

04. Where is Tarsar Marsar located?

Tarsar Marsar lakes are located in the lap of the Pir Panchal mountain Range of Lesser Himalayas. The area comes under District Anantnag of Kashmir (UT). It takes 4 to 5 hours from Srinagar to reach the trailhead of the trek which is Aru Village. The Aru is 94 km away from Srinagar and 12 km from Pahalgam. The trek is surrounded by dominating mountain peaks including Mt. Kolahoi Getting an awesome adventure experience in the wilderness of this green Himalayan region is an adventure of a lifetime.

05. How tough is Tarsar Marsar Trek? Is Tarsar Marsar difficult?

The Tarsar Marsar Lakes trek is graded as a moderate trek when compared to other treks of the Indian Himalayas. For beginners, it could be a little difficult to trek because of their inexperience. The route of the trek contains a roughness of 30 percent only. During the trek, the altitude gain takes place very gradually even the first stretch is very moderate. The total distance of the trek is 48 Km in which more than 40 percent is walking on a flat meadow and rolling slopes. The trek is one the best trek for beginners because the route of the trek doesn't require too much push and because of the gradual ascent of the trek. 

06. Tarsar Marsar Trek In August

The season for the Tarsar Marsar trek starts from the second week of June and still depends on the scale of snow present on the route. During the starting season, the meadows and valleys remain partially covered by snow and the temperature remains very low. During this season the traffic of trekkers remains low. Doing Tarsar Marsar in August is one of the best decisions you can make to explore the trek in an awesome way. During August the wildflowers are already covering the meadows. The landscape is fully green and very few chances of rain are in August when compared to June and July. When it comes to the best time to do Tarsar Marsar Trek it is from Starting July to the end of August. In August the scenic beauty of the trek is at its fullest with a google flow of trekkers on the trek.

07. Which two lakes are known as twin sisters?

Tarsar And Marsar Lakes are called twin Lakes because they look very much similar. The Marsar Lake is just a 2-hour trek away from Tarsar Lake. They are just separated by a mountain ridge at an elevation of 4000 m. The alpine lakes have been also included in the poetry of Yusuf Shah Chak. " When I remember the two tresses of the comely beloved, Tears begin to flow from my eyes like streams from Tarsar and Marsar." The outlet of Tarsar Lake is a major tributary of Lidderiver which itself is tributary of Jhelum river.  There is a myth too that there were twin ghost sisters named Tarsar and Marsar and they died in 2 different nearby places where lakes are formed.

08. How long is Tarsar Marsar Trek?

The Tarsar Marsar is trek is a total 48 km long trek. Starting the trek from Aru village of the Kashmir Valley. It takes up to 4 to 5 hours to cover the distance of 94 km from Srinagar to Aru. The first part of the adventure is through the rolling slopes and meadows of Lidder Valley. The stretch is 10 km and ends at Lidderwat, an awesome campsite covered with water, streams, and pine trees on all sides. The second stretch is to reach Shekwas which needs a little bit of push but the experience is amazing during these 7 kms. Reaching.The next part is Marar Lake which is just 1 hour away from the campsite.

09. Tarsar Marsar Lake Trek Price/Cost?

The average cost of the 7 Days Tarsar Marsar Trek is 15000 INR but it still depends on the trek inclusions. It is recommended by the Tourism Jammu and Kashmir department that a trekker must do his/her trek with a registered Adventure tour operator only. The price that we have mentioned doesn't include transportation and load ferrying (Offloading) but includes the 3 meals a day, professional guide, All camping equipment, permits with trek 360 trek insurance, First Aid and helper. The operator will include staff like Cooks, guides, porters, and mules to carry loads. Trekkers must check the things to carry before arriving for the trek.

Terms And Conditions

Cancellation Policy

  • The cancellation of any trek or tour must be notified by sending an email to info@himalayanbird.com.  Cancellation will be accepted only by receiving an email from our official email address.
  • If the cancellation is requested 40 days before the first day of the trek, 90 percent of that amount will be refunded.
  • Cancellation requested between 40 to 30 days prior to the trek only partial refund will be provided. 
  • If cancellation is requested 30 days before the first day of the trek, in such a situation there will be only 30 percent amount refunded.
  • The decided trek fee can be changed if group size is decreased from the client end.
  • In case of any untoward situation like a natural disaster, national emergency, terrorist activity, bad weather conditions take place, we will be fully responsible to take decisions. 

Physical Fitness

  • Getting a medical certificate from a registered medical officer is must before starting your trek. If you suffer from severe lung/heart/muscle disorders or any disease that can turn fatal, You cant take part in any trek with us.
  • In case you lack the required fitness or are suffering from any disease that can turn fatal in the mountains, Himalayan Bird reserves the right to bar your participation from doing the trek without any refund/compensation.
  • Trekkers are advised to focus on physical fitness inorder to remain fit during the trek and explore better. Following endurances can help beginners and experienced trekkers to remain fit and explore better during the trek.

       Endurance Exercises:

  • Brisk walking or jogging.
  • Yard work (mowing, raking)
  • Dancing.
  • Swimming.
  • Biking.
  • Climbing stairs or hills.
  • Playing tennis or basketbal

Travel Insurance

Having travel insurance is an important protocol all trekkers should follow. The cost of the trek doesn’t include any sort of insurance. Trekkers/Travelers travel insurance must cover accidents, injury, illness, and death medical expenses including any related to pre-existing medical conditions, emergency repatriation including helicopter rescue and air ambulance where applicable, and personal liability.

Promotional Material

  • Himalayanbird.com reserves the right to take photographs/videos of participants and use them for any marketing/promotional activity. 
  • Indian Tourists must provide valid identity proof in order to get enrolled for the trek permissions. A valid passport and visa for all the tourists who are from outside India.
  • Objects should be some on our email address before starting the trek.

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