Max Altitude
13,100 FT
Grade
Moderate
Duration
7 Days
Trekking KM.
50 KM
Suitable for: | 10+ years. |
Experience: | First timer can apply, previous trekking experience is more appreciated. |
Fitness: | Cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without a stress. |
Trek Info
While Kashmir Great Lakes and Tarsar Marsar are two popular treks in Kashmir, not many people know about the wonderful Doodhpathri Trek. It is one of the lesser-known destinations in Kashmir that doesn rsquo t receive much tourism but showcases immense natural beauty and plenty of peace and tranquility. Located about 55 km away from Srinagar, this offbeat trek is a great choice if you want to experience the raw and seemingly untouched beauty of Kashmir.
Kashmir is known for its beautiful meadows, and the Doodhpathri Trek is undoubtedly one of the best scenic splendors of Kashmir. Lying under the shadows of the Pir Panjal Range and the Shailganga River cutting across the valley, the Doodhpathri Trek is full of beauty and peacefulness. The trail follows this beautiful River to its source near the Ashtar Glacier, with lush carpets of undulating green as far as eyes can see.
The Doodhpathri Trek lets you experience 6 wonderful lakes, which are so beautiful that they will completely enchant you. This region of Kashmir was out of bounds until a couple of years ago and now you have the opportunity to explore the unexplored part of Kashmir ndash its forests, valleys, meadows, streams, rivers, and lakes.
Along this trek, you will so see some of the most majestic valleys like Ashtar Valley, Guruwansar, Pamsar, and Gadtar Valleys. Each has a distinctive beauty of its own. With so much of nature rsquo s abundance, Doodhpathri Trek is a must-do for anyone who is not scared to go a little off-grid!
About The Trek
Doodhpathri is a 6-day long trek that starts from the Doodpathri Valley near Srinagar. Doodhpathri is a less-encountered stretch of Kashmir, which holds in itself a raw and pristine natural scenery. From Doodhpathri, you will journey towards the Ashtar Valley followed by camping at the Gurwansar Lake.
On Day 4, you will trek from Gurwansar to Duriem via the beautiful Pamsar Lake. The next day holds a lot of scenic wonders as you will trek from Duriem to Gadtar and spot Lake Bodhsar, Trastar Lake, Navkansar I, II and Damamsar Lake on the way. On the final day of the trek, you will trek from Gadtar to Tosamaidan and drive back to Srinagar, thus ending the wonderful journey in the beautiful valleys of Kashmir.
What Can You Expect At The Trek?
Doodhpathri is a newly opened trek by us in the Kashmir Valley. Until recently, these parts of Kashmir were out of bounds, and as such, this trek gives you an introduction to the untouched corners of Kashmir with their beauty unspoiled by commercialization. Being an off-grid trek, you can expect much less crowd in this region as compared to other popular treks.
Along the trek, you can see 6 major high-altitude lakes, which are no less in beauty than those of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek or Tarsar Marsar Trek. The Doodhpathri Valley and its adjoining forests are quite enticing and fill you with a sense of wonder. The end of the trek with Tosamaidan is like a cherry on top.
The Bodhpathri Lakes Trek is moderate-difficult and as such a good deal of physical stamina is essential for properly enjoying this beautiful trek. On average, you will be trekking 7 to 8 km every day. However, there are very few technical sections and easy exits, in case of emergencies.
There are some boulder sections in the trek, which can make it a little difficult. Make sure to follow the trek leader rsquo s advice to cross these difficult sections. The last part has a steep descent which can be quite difficult on your legs. Having a trekking pole and a kneecap is quite beneficial.
On the Bodpathri Lakes Trek, you go up to an altitude of 13,100 ft. Our itinerary is designed in a way that you do not gain too much altitude too quickly. However, you could be hit by AMS as you are at a high altitude. If you see any signs of altitude sickness, report to the team immediately so that adequate actions can be taken to prevent or reduce the symptoms of AMS.
The best time to do Doodhpathri Trek is from the beginning of July to the middle of September. At other times the trek is buried deeply in snow and trekking here is not possible. July to September is the time when peak summer transitions to Autumn and therefore the best time to trek in Kashmir. The landscape comes alive during this period.
Health Awareness
Government Employees {SCL}
Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when you join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and Ministry Of Tourism (MOT)
Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before trek departure date.
Note
The trek begins from a place called Doodpathri, which is approximately 55 km from Srinagar. Our representatives will pick you up from Srinagar around 10 in the morning and drive you all the way to the Doodhpathri campsite. Doodpathri is a relatively undiscovered spot for tourists, however, it is a beautiful picnic, and camping spot for the locals of Kashmir. The beautiful green meadows of Doodhpathri are quite similar to that of Gulmarg and the river flowing through the meadow gives you the hint of a similar scenery as that of Pahalgam. Tall pine trees loom around the meadows, making the meadows a perfect spot to camp for the night. You might even catch a few shepherds grazing their cattle around the meadows. You can roam around the meadows at your leisure in the evening and after a hearty dinner, retire to your camps for the night.
Trek Distance: 6km | 4-5 hrs
Altitude: 10,700
.
Distance: 5 km | 3-4 hrs
Alfitude: 11,500 ft
.
Today is also a fairly easy day of trekking as we trek to Gurwansar Lake. The trek is not difficult per se but what makes it a little tiring is that even though the ascent is gradual but the ascents are very long.
You cross some beautiful meadows and come across some river crossings on your way to Gurwansar Lake. The meadows are surrounded by a dense cover of pine trees, a beautiful sight to behold. This part of the trek is also great to spot a range of birds including the Golden Oriole. You will spot numerous sheep and lambs in the meadows herded by shepherds in the meadows. As you gain altitude, you will get inside cloud covers making for a surreal experience. The more you inch towards the lake, you will begin to see patches of snow depending on the time you are going on the trek.
The Gurwansar Lake sits in the middle of a meadow. In the month of May, the meadow is covered with floral bloom, especially Irish flowers. You can see a stream flowing from the Gurwansar Lake running through the middle of the valley creating a picturesque setting. During the winter months, the lake remains frozen. On the right of the Gurwansar, you can see a panoramic view of the Ashtar Valley that you had just crossed to reach up to the lake. We will camp by the lakeside tonight and in the vicinity of the campsite, you can spot numerous herbs like Saussurea costus, Taraxacum officinale, and Rheum Emodi. Enjoy your stay at this campsite marveling at its beauty of it.
From Gurwansar campsite, it’s 9 km to Duriem. We will start the day as early as we can, as we have a long distance to cover and the trail is also moderately difficult. Follow the slope towards the west of Gurwansar Lake to head to Duriem via Pamsar Lake. About 20 minutes into walking, you will come across a bouldered section. The boulder section can be quite thrilling and gives an adventurous feel to the trek, although, you definitely need a good deal of fitness to cross this section. Be mindful while you cross the boulders as some of the rocks may be loose and shift disrupting your balance. After a gradual hike through the boulder, Pamsar Lake becomes visible.
It is a huge lake and you may not see it all at once. As you slowly inch closer to the lake, it begins to reveal itself. The beautiful lake is surrounded by a serenity that will soothe your sense. Sit down, and relish a few quiet moments here before you head onwards on your journey towards Duriem.
From the lake, you have to ascend a ridge to reach Duriem. You will ascend through a boulder section to reach a ledge. Continue walking until you reach the top of the ridge and once you reach the top, you can start your descent towards Duriem. Before you arrive at your campsite, you will have a stream crossing, which is quite a refreshing experience after a tiring day. We will pitch our tents after the stream crossing and retire for the night after dinner. Today has been a long day so rest well and recover for the next day’s trek.
Today is going to be a long and interesting day as you spot not one or two but five beautiful lakes. Today also we will start the day early. From the campsite, you will start ascending towards to reach the first lake. After climbing for about 2.5 km, you will reach a point where you will go off the trail. From here you will start trekking towards Bodhsar Lake viewpoint. The viewpoint is about half a kilometer away towards the left. From this viewpoint, you can see the Duriem campsite. Also, keep an eye out for Tratsar Lake, also known as Lokutsar Lake.
After you have spent some time taking in the views and enjoying the beauty of the lakes, you will return back to the point where you started hiking toward Bodhsar Lake. Now you will ascend in the opposite direction through a bouldery section. The ascend becomes steep pretty soon. And continues for about a kilometer until you reach a flat portion of the ridge. This is a picturesque vantage point that unfolds a panoramic view of the lakes in front of you. Spending some time here, you will begin descending from the ridge and after about an hour of descending, you will begin to ascend again until you reach Damamsar Lake. The highest point of the ridge will give a beautiful bird’s eye view of Damamsar Lake as well as Navkansar I and II. This is a wonderful sight. One that stays with you for a long time. The lakes are formations from the snow that has melted from the surrounding mountains. Rejoicing in this captivating view for some time, we will descend all the way to the Gadtar campsite.
Today is the last day of trekking, albeit also the longest. Start early as you have quite a long distance to cover. The trek starts with a wonderful river crossing post which you start ascending to a grassy ledge. There will be a couple of stream crossings today. You will mostly stay around the same altitude as you make ascends and descends until you reach the top of the ridge. Once you reach the top, you will again descend towards the second river crossing of your day followed by a mud trail. This trail also connects to the Tosa Maidan side.
Follow the trail and you will come across a water source and the third stream crossing for the day. This is the last leg of your trek after the river crossing. You can rest for a while if you want. The Tosa Maidan region starts at the end of the descent and it unfolds a very gorgeous vista in front of you, which is a pure treat to the eyes. Now, you will ascend for a short stretch of about 200 meters followed by a U-turn, and then again begin descending towards the diversion. Follow this trail and you will reach the road head soon. Once you reach the road head, mobile networks also start working.
From here, you will be driven to Srinagar, ending this beautiful sojourn in the mountains.
Note:
Buffer Day, for all your travel plans include a buffer day to accommodate bad weather on the trek/political instability. This depends completely on the circumstances of the trek and the situation in Kashmir. The buffer day is highely recomended to keep in your itinerary.
Everyone needs to reach Srinagar
Pick-up location: Nishant Garden in Srinagar, once you reach at pick up location TTH will take care of your further travel arrangements. We advise you to come by air and avoid journey by bus. Do reach Srinagar one day before your trek date for safer side.
Pick- up Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Options to Reach Srinagar:
1. If you are planning to take a bus, you can reach bus stand in Srinagar from any major city. It will take approx. 30 minutes to reach Nishant Garden from bus stand.
2. If you are planning to fly to Srinagar which is well connected to all major airports in India, you can reach Nishant Garden by 45 to 60 minutes via taxi from airport.
3. If you’re coming by train, there are two railway stations.
- Jammu railway station is about 260 km away and takes around 8 hours by bus.
- Udhampur is 200 km away and from there it is 6 hours bus journey to Srinagar.
Trekkers will be dropped at Srinagar Nishant Garden by 06:00 PM, for onward journey from Srinagar it is advised to make arrangements for next day.
1. Accommodation. (Camping, two in one tent)
2. Transport from Srinagar to DoodhPathri and back (Tata Sumo/equivalent : non ac)
3. Meals while on trek (Veg & Egg)
4. Trek equipments like Sleeping bag, Mattress, Kitchen & dinning tent, toilet tent, utensils, crampon(if required)
5. Trekking Permits
6. First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder.
7. Qualified & experienced trek Leader, Guide and Support staff
8.TTH Staff insurance.
9.Mules to carry the central luggage
1. Hotel Stay in Srinagar.
2. Food during the transit.
3. Insurance (Mandatory).
4. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
5. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
Things can be provided on demand and availability (participant has to pay extra for these things)
1- Satellite phone/setphone - is a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links via satellites orbiting the Earth instead of terrestrial cell sites like cellphones. Therefore, they can operate in most geographic locations on the Earth's surface.
2- Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) - is a unique, portable hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.
3- AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) - are portable life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly
Normally TTH expect to carry your personal luggage on your own, if you wish to offload your backpack, you can give it to Mule.
Charges of offloading backpack:-
INR 1800/- if you make an online payment, 10 days in advance
INR 2000/- if you inform us after reaching Doodhpathri
The backpack cannot weigh more than 10 kgs. Backpack should have waterproof cover. Suitcases/strolleys/ bags will not be allowed.
Special Offers
Make a single payment and trek the number of times you want.
If you book a trek with Trek The Himalayas and are unable to complete the same or you have successfully completed that trek and want to do it again, you can repeat it multiple times without paying the cost of the trek.
Terms and conditions
The fee can be paid by online transfer/Check deposit/Cash deposit/Demand draft. Instruction for
payment will be forwarded along with your confirmation email. When your transfer is done, please
e-mail us a confirmation mail with your transfer details, so that we can follow up your reservation efficiently.
Cancellation terms:
For the cancellation of services due to any avoidable/unavoidable reasons, Trek The Himalayas must be notified of the same in writing at [email protected] At the time we receive your written cancellation, refunds based on the total fare are as follows.
Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek
Refund options
In the unlikely event that TTH cancels a trek prior to the scheduled departure date:
While it is extremely rare for TTH to cancel a trek, we understand that unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters may occasionally require us to do so before the scheduled departure. These circumstances could include continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that poses a risk to the safety of our trekkers. Additionally, unforeseeable events such as local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any similar situations that compromise the safety of the trekking experience may also necessitate a cancellation.
In the event of such a cancellation, TTH will provide you with a voucher equivalent to the amount you paid for the trek. This voucher can be redeemed for any of our treks within the next year, allowing you to still enjoy an adventure with us at a later date.
Note
In the rare event that TTH shifts a trek:
We would like to emphasize that weather conditions in high-altitude areas are highly unpredictable and can undergo sudden changes at any time, irrespective of the day. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, and lockdowns, may impact the feasibility of conducting a trek. In cases where we are unable to proceed with an event due to such circumstances that are beyond our direct control, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative trek that is safer and more suitable.
In such situations, we will issue a voucher to offset the cost difference between the originally scheduled trek and the alternative trek. This voucher can be redeemed at any time within one year from the date of issue. Please note that a refund fee or reimbursement of the cost difference is not applicable in these cases.
Note:
Cash Voucher Terms:
Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. "Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.
Back pack & rain cover | (50 - 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
Day pack + rain cove | 20 - 30 ltr (If hire a mule or porter) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water bottle/Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
T-shirts | 4 Full sleeves (Non-cotton) |
Fleece T-shirts | 1 Nos. |
Fleece jacket | 1 Nos. (Alternative: a woolen sweater) |
Down feather / Hollofil jacket | 1 Nos. |
Wind & waterproof (jacket & pant) | 1 Pair |
Trek pants | 3 Synthetic (avoid shorts, fitting denims, capris) |
Fleece/woolen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho | 1 Nos. |
Sunscreen cream | Moisturiser |
Hand sanitizer | Antibacterial powder |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | Lip balm / Chapstick |
Toilet Paper & wipes | Quick dry towel |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | 1 Nos. (Optional) |
Neck-gaiters | 1 Nos. |
Sunglasses | Dark with side cover, it should be U/V protected, People who wear spectacles- (A)- Use contact lenses. (B)- Photo chromatic glasses. |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle with good grip) |
Floaters/flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woolen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (TTH will Provide) |
Fitness regime for:
Moderate |
Calculate Your BMI :
Congratulations, your body is in good conditions!
BMI Range | Category |
---|---|
Less than 16.5 | Serverely Underweight |
16.5 - 18.5 | Underweight |
18.5 - 25 | Normal |
25 - 30 | Overweight |
Customise Trek
Similar Treks
Uttarakhand
Duration
9 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
43 Km.
Altitude
14800 Ft.
Ladakh
Duration
7 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
61 Km.
Altitude
17100 Ft.
Uttarakhand
Duration
7 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
44 Km.
Altitude
15100 Ft.
Himachal Pradesh
Duration
8 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
51 Km.
Altitude
16100 Ft.
Uttarakhand
Duration
6 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
50 Km.
Altitude
12300 Ft.
Uttarakhand
Duration
6 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
33 Km.
Altitude
12750 Ft.
Kilimanjaro Region
Duration
9 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
62 Km.
Altitude
19300 Ft.
Uttarakhand
Duration
5 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
40 Km.
Altitude
10800 Ft.
Uttarakhand
Duration
6 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
50 Km.
Altitude
14272 Ft.
Pokhara
Duration
9 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
50 Km.
Altitude
15650 Ft.
Himachal Pradesh
Duration
5 Days
Grade
Moderate
Approx
50 Km.
Altitude
13800 Ft.
The Doodhpathri Trek is located in Jammu & Kashmir Region of India.
The Doodhpathri trek starts from a place called Doodhpathri and is located 55 km from Srinagar. Doodhpathri is well-connected by roads from Srinagar.
The best time to do the Doodhpathri Trek is during the summer months from June to September. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the temperatures are mild, making it an ideal time to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
The Doodhpathri Trek is a 7-day long trek in Jammu & Kashmir.
Doodhpathri Trek is a moderate grade trek.
The maximum altitude of the Doodhpathri trek is 13,100 ft.
During the Doodhpathri Trek, you will stay in camps at different campsites. We offer twin-sharing tents during the trek.
Trekking in the Himalayas is mostly a hassle-free affair as all the permits and permissions are usually derived by our team. However, you have to bring some essential documents with you that are a must for any Himalayan Trek. The documents include:
1. Medical Disclaimer.
2. Original and printed copies of ID and address proof.
3. \"2 passport-sized photographs\".
When embarking on the Doodhpathri Trek, it is essential to carry the following items.
1. Trekking boots or shoes: Good quality, comfortable, and sturdy trekking shoes are essential for navigating rocky terrain and steep inclines.
2. Backpack: A good quality backpack with a capacity of 40-50 liters is essential to carry all your gear and supplies.
3. Warm clothes: Temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, even during the summer months, so it's essential to carry warm clothes such as a down jacket, fleece jacket, thermal wear, and gloves.
4. Rain gear: The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so carrying a waterproof jacket and pants is essential.
5. First aid kit: A basic first aid kit with essential items such as bandages, antiseptic cream, painkillers, and medicines for altitude sickness is crucial.
6. Sun protection: Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays.
7. Water bottles: Carry at least 2 liters of water per day to stay hydrated throughout the trek.
8. Snacks and energy bars: Carry energy bars, chocolates, nuts, and other high-energy snacks to keep yourself fueled during the trek.
9. Trekking poles: Trekking poles can help you maintain your balance and reduce the strain on your knees during steep descents.
Yes, Doodhpathri Trek is a safe trek to do.