Kashmir
Location
Kashmir
Duration
7 days
Max Altitude
13800 ft
Trekking
56 km
Grade
Moderate to Difficult
Monday–Saturday: 10 AM to 06 PM (GMT +5:30)
Location
Kashmir
Duration
7 days
Max Altitude
13800 ft
Trekking km
56 km
Grade
Moderate to Difficult
Monday–Saturday: 10 AM to 06 PM (GMT +5:30)
The beauty of Kashmir is simply bewitching and treks like Kashmir Great Lakes Trek and Tarsar Marsar Trek stand as great examples. While these two treks are immensely popular, there are many other trekking trails in Kashmir that are equally as beautiful and unfold in front of you the pristine and untouched beauty of Kashmir Valley. Nafran Valley is one such trek.
The trek to Nafran Valley starts from Aru village which is about 112 km away from Srinagar. Throughout the Nafran Valley Trek, you will cross varied sceneries from green meadows, and mystical jungles to an alpine lake - a complete bouquet for a trekking enthusiast. Aru Valley, Harnag Lake, and Nafran Valley altogether make this trek an interesting destination for trekking in Kashmir.
The meadows of Nafran Valley are inhabited by shepherds between June to October and stay in mud houses. During these months you will see a lot of cattle and horses grazing in the Nafran valley and in winter these shepherds descend down to lower altitudes when the Nafran Valley isn’t habitable anymore.
If you are planning an offbeat adventure in Kashmir then the Nafran Valley Trek is an amazing choice. This is a high-altitude trek so there are chances of AMS.
Pay close attention to your body and keep alert if you notice any signs of AMS. If you do not feel well, are nauseated, or have a headache, you should immediately report to your Trek Leader so that immediate measures can be taken.
Day 1: Starts with a scenic drive from Srinagar to Aru Valley from where the Nafran Valley Trek starts. Reach Srinagar one day before the journey. Our representatives will pick you up from Srinagar and drive you all the way to Aru. The next day we start the Nafran Valley Trek from Aru to Araam Pathri, through a forest walk.
On Day 3: We trek from Araam Pathri to the gorgeous valley, we will stay in the valley for two nights. On the second night, we will go on an acclimatization walk to the beautiful Harnag Lake. The emerald lake presents a serene environment to rejuvenate yourself. The following day, we trek from Nafran Valley to Aaram Pathri. Aram Pathri is a big open meadow where you will camp for the night. This meadow gives a beautiful experience of what trekking in Kashmir is like.
Leaving this idyllic campsite behind, we trek towards Bhaj Margi, which is another large clearing with shepherd dwellings. This is the last leg of our Nafran Valley Trek. From Bhaj Margi, on the last day, we will trek to Aru and drive back to Srinagar ending the beautiful Nafran Valley Trek.
Nafran Valley Trek is a moderate to difficult grade trek. This means to embark on this trek, you need to have a good level of fitness and prior experiencewith a Himalayan Trek can be helpful. The trail is a blend of ascents and descents, and quite steeply so in some places. The trek takes you to an altitude of 14,127 ft and is a short trail with steep ascents, which can increase the difficulty level.
You can experience a series of unique landscapes on this trek. Apart from the lovely meadows, you will get to see jungles, glaciers, river streams, and even an alpine lake. The Nafran Valley Trek will surprise you with its sheer beauty. Between the months of June to October, you can see the Nafran meadows inhabited by shepherd troops, who then descend to lower altitudes as the weather gets colder. In the Nafran Valley, you will get to see the lifestyle of a shepherd who lives in the Nafran Valley feeding their livestock and earning a livelihood.
The best time to visit Nafran Valley is from the month of July to September when the entire valley is blooming with wildflowers and is verdant green. With the onset of July, the snow in the Nafran Valley begins to melt unveiling the green carpet of grass beneath and it also receives the most rainfall as compared to other months making the green even more striking. August is the blooming season, the valley is lush green with cattle grazing all over the valley. In September, the flowers begin to reduce but the valley is beautiful nonetheless and the skies are clear and beautiful. The temperature during these months stays between 12°C to 18°C in the daytime and 5°C to 10°C at night.
To reach the starting point of the Nafran Valley Trek, you have to drive approximately 112 km. The journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes, passing by quaint villages, lush valleys, and winding mountain roads. Upon reaching Aru village, you will be greeted with the serene ambiance of the Kashmiri countryside.
The Nafran Valley Trek is moderate to difficult and presents challenges that require a good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience in the Himalayas. Trekkers can expect to encounter steep ascents, rugged trails, and varying weather conditions during the journey. However, with proper preparation, guidance, and determination, trekkers of all skill levels can undertake this adventure and revel in its rewards.
While beginners are welcome to join the Nafran Valley Trek, they should undergo adequate preparation and training beforehand. Due to the trek's challenging nature and high altitude, prior experience in Himalayan trekking can greatly enhance the overall experience and ensure the safety and enjoyment of participants. Additionally, joining guided tours or trekking with experienced companions can provide valuable support and guidance along the way.
The optimal time to undertake the Nafran Valley Trek is during the months of July to September when the region is adorned with blooming wildflowers, lush greenery, and clear skies. This period offers favourable weather conditions with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor activities.
The Nafran Valley Trek boasts a plethora of highlights and attractions that add to its appeal. From the picturesque Aru Valley and tranquil Harnag Lake to the charming shepherd settlements scattered along the route, trekkers are treated to a feast for the senses at every step of the journey. Whether it's marvelling at the panoramic views of the Nafran Valley or interacting with the local shepherds and experiencing their way of life, each moment on the trek is filled with unforgettable experiences and memories to cherish.
Camping facilities along the Nafran Valley Trek are carefully arranged to provide trekkers with a comfortable and immersive outdoor experience amidst nature's grandeur. Designated campsites are chosen for their scenic beauty and strategic location, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and easy access to essential amenities. Tents are provided to shelter trekkers from the elements, while hearty meals are cooked to ensure nourishment and warmth during the trek.
While encounters with wildlife are not guaranteed, the Nafran Valley Trek offers ample opportunities for trekkers to observe and appreciate the rich biodiversity of the region. From Himalayan birds soaring overhead to elusive wild animals like ibex and musk deer glimpsed among the trees, the trek is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Trekkers are encouraged to maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and refrain from disturbing their natural habitat to ensure their safety and well-being.
Safety is paramount during the Nafran Valley Trek, and trekkers are advised to adhere to certain precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. It's essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially at higher altitudes where dehydration can occur more rapidly. Additionally, trekkers should be vigilant for symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, and fatigue, and notify their trek leader immediately if they experience any discomfort. Following the guidance of experienced trek leaders, sticking to designated trails, and carrying essential safety gear such as first-aid kits and emergency supplies are also crucial for ensuring a safe and successful trekking experience.
Yes, the Nafran Valley Trek involves trekking to altitudes of up to 14,127 ft, which can pose risks of altitude sickness for trekkers who are not adequately acclimatized. To mitigate these risks, the trek itinerary includes acclimatization days at strategic intervals, allowing trekkers to gradually adjust to the altitude and minimize the chances of altitude-related illnesses. Trekkers are advised to stay hydrated, avoid overexertion, and listen to their bodies for any signs of discomfort or distress. If symptoms of altitude sickness such as headache, dizziness, or nausea occur, trekkers should notify their trek leader immediately for proper assistance and medical attention.
When trekking with us, trekkers on the Nafran Valley Trek can expect to be well-provisioned with nutritious meals and safe drinking water throughout the journey. Experienced trekking teams and support staff ensure that trekkers are adequately supplied with hearty meals cooked using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, providing sustenance and energy for the rigorous demands of trekking. Water sources such as mountain streams and natural springs are readily available along the trekking route, allowing trekkers to replenish their supplies and stay hydrated during the journey. However, it's important to exercise caution and use water purification methods such as filtration or sterilization to ensure the safety and cleanliness of drinking water, minimizing the risk of waterborne illnesses and ensuring a healthy and enjoyable trekking experience for all participants.
Packing the right gear and essentials is crucial for a successful and enjoyable trekking experience in the Nafran Valley. Some essential items to pack include sturdy hiking boots, comfortable clothing suitable for layering, waterproof outerwear, a warm sleeping bag, a backpack with sufficient capacity, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a headlamp or flashlight, a first-aid kit, water purification tablets or filters, trekking poles, energy snacks, and personal hygiene products. Additionally, it's advisable to carry essential documents such as identification, permits, and emergency contact information, as well as any prescribed medications or medical supplies. Trekkers should pack light but ensure they have everything they need to stay comfortable, safe, and prepared for the challenges of the trek.
Yes, trekkers have the option to hire porters or mules to assist with carrying their belongings during the Nafran Valley Trek, especially for those who prefer to trek with lighter backpacks or have limited trekking experience. However, it's essential to negotiate fair wages and adhere to ethical treatment guidelines for porters and mules to ensure their well-being and welfare throughout the trek.
Mobile phone reception and internet connectivity may be limited or unavailable in remote areas along the Nafran Valley Trek route, some pockets of network coverage may be sporadically accessible depending on the trekking location and service providers. Trekkers should be prepared for intermittent connectivity and plan accordingly by informing family members or emergency contacts before starting the trek.
For restroom facilities, we typically provide portable toilet tents or designated toilet areas at overnight campsites to ensure hygiene and convenience for trekkers. These toilet facilities may consist of dry pit toilets or environmentally friendly composting toilets, which require minimal water usage and adhere to Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, trekkers are encouraged to practice responsible waste disposal by carrying out all non-biodegradable waste and minimizing environmental impact during the Nafran Valley Trek. It's essential to maintain cleanliness and respect the natural surroundings.
In the event of an emergency or medical issue during the Nafran Valley Trek, trekkers should immediately notify their trek leader or support staff for prompt assistance and intervention. We are always equipped with first aid kits, and emergency medical supplies to address common trekking-related ailments such as altitude sickness, minor injuries, or gastrointestinal discomfort. If necessary, evacuation procedures may be initiated to transport affected trekkers to the nearest medical facility or evacuation point for further evaluation and treatment. It's essential for trekkers to communicate any health concerns or symptoms promptly and follow the guidance of trek leaders to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants throughout the trek.
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Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form
1. If you are planning to fly to Srinagar which is well connected to all major airports in India, you can reach the Tourist reception center, Raj Bagh in appx 40 min via taxi from the airport (approx 13 Km).
2. If you’re coming by train, there are two railway stations.
3. If you are taking a bus from Jammu, then you have multiple options to take. There are two gates outside Jammu ISBT. You will get shared cabs from both of these gates.
4. If you are reaching the Railway Station, the share cabs to Srinagar will cost between Rs 700 to Rs 1000.
5. Shared cabs are more from the Jammu ISBT compared to the Railway Station. You can travel from the Railway station to the bus stand. The fare of the bus will be Rs 10. The auto will charge around Rs 80 to 120.
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To request a cancellation, please email us at info@trekthehimalayas.com using your registered email ID.
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
Cancellation Policy (Emergency Cases):
In case of a death in the immediate family (parents, siblings, spouse, children) or if the trekker is hospitalized (min. 48 hours) or suffers a fracture (leg/arm) within a week before the trek, even if canceled a day before:
90% trek fee refund in cash & 10% as a voucher (valid for 1 year, for any India trek).
Valid documents required. We’re here to support you during tough times.
Note:
Booking and Payments
Itinerary and Modifications
Cancellations and Refunds
Force Majeure
Government employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when they join us for a trekking expedition. As per Pay Commission guidelines, up to 30 days of Special Casual Leave can be availed in a calendar year for trekking or mountaineering expeditions conducted through a registered organisation.
Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator with the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and the Ministry of Tourism (MoT), making your trek eligible for SCL benefits.
To apply, email us at info@trekthehimalayas.com at least 30 days before the trek departure date, with the following details:
This benefit is exclusive to Indian Government employees and is applicable only for treks within India.
Since the inception of Trek The Himalayas, countless trekkers have chosen us to be a part of their trekking journey. Some experiences were learning moments, while many of you returned time and again, allowing us to be part of your most unforgettable adventures. Over the years, we have continuously evolved, improving our operations, and every detail that shapes your experience.

Through it all, you have shown us that we are not just another trekking company to you, we are family. Your trust, loyalty, and love mean more to us than words can express, and we cherish every step we have taken together in the mountains.
As a small way of giving back and saying thank you for choosing us again and again, we are excited to introduce something special: our heartfelt expression of gratitude to our valued and loyal trekkers.
We are launching two amazing policies to make your trekking journey even more exciting
YES! Not one, but TWO unbelievable policies
In the TTH Trek Ambassador Policy, anyone who has completed four treks with us gets the fifth trek absolutely free. You can choose from a variety of treks that we offer in himalayan states of India including Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim and West Bengal. You just need to start creating your trek bucket list and we are here to help you accomplish it.
Thinking, “I have already done more than 6 treks with TTH, what about me?” In this case you automatically qualify for the policy and therefore, your next trek will be on us . In fact, for every 8 treks you complete, 2 treks are on us.

As Unbelievable as it Sounds, Your 5th Trek is Sponsored by Us - Choose any Trek You Love
Love the Chadar Trek? It could be free! Your dream treks including Markha Valley, Bali Pass, Pin Bhaba Pass, or Lasermo La Trek (launching soon) can be yours at no cost under this policy.
Just like five stars make a perfect set, you are that fifth star for TTH. But this star does more than shine; it guides and inspires. You will share your tips, your stories, your experiences, and help new trekkers enjoy the journey as much as you do. That’s why this trek is special, and it’s your chance to be a TTH Trek Ambassador on the trail.
Being an avid trekker comes with excellent trekking knowledge and experience, and we would love you to share that and guide fellow trekkers along the way.
You will be introduced as our TTH Trek Ambassador to your fellow trekkers. Your experiences will glorify the shine of treks! And we can't wait, just to see how you make the journey just as beautiful as the Himalayan trails themselves!
What about those who are just getting started?
Those who are just starting their trekking journey are also eligible for this policy, they just need to complete any four treks/expeditions with us (weekend treks, panch kedar excursion, and multi-sport adventures count too) and they will get the chance to become a TTH Trek Ambassador with their fifth trek absolutely free of cost.
After you become a TTH Trek Ambassador with Trek The Himalayas, you will unlock our Loyal Customer Policy, a perk that keeps giving every time you share the joy of trekking.
Once you complete all four treks with TTH, you receive a unique referral code that you can share with your friends and family.
When someone books a trek using your code, you will receive trek points based on the difficulty level of the trek and the referred trekker will receive the same amount of discount while booking the trek. Here is the breakdown of the trek points and discount you and your friend will get.
Kindly Note: 1 Trek Point = 1 Rupee
These trek points get added to your loyalty points balance and you can redeem these points while booking for your next trek. The more you refer, the more your balance grows.
For Example :
If you collect 15,000 as your trek points, you can use them to book any trek within that value. As your balance grows, the possibilities expand and you could use your points for treks and expeditions of higher value anywhere in India, and abroad. Your loyalty points open the door to all kinds of trekking experiences in India and Internationally.
Another great part of this policy is its flexibility. You won’t believe it, but you can also transfer these loyalty points to anyone you like if you’re unable to use them yourself. You can either share or split them with friends or family.
You can also track your loyalty points balance anytime in your TTH dashboard, and we will also keep you updated through notifications whenever the trek points are added or redeemed
This initiative is our way of appreciating trekkers who continue to walk with TTH again and again. When you complete four treks with us, you reach an important milestone in your trekking journey. Your fifth trek is then offered by TTH as a gesture of appreciation. You will step in as a TTH Trek Ambassador, sharing your stories and inspiring others with your experience. Along with this, you also unlock Loyal Customer policy in which you can earn the trek points by sharing the referral code with your friends and family.
If your upcoming trek is your fifth trek with TTH, the trek fee for that trek will be completely waived. To ensure smooth planning, you need to register and make the full payment at the time of booking. Once you successfully complete the trek, TTH will refund the eligible trek fee within a week.
Please note that GST and trek insurance are fixed mandatory charges, so they will not be refunded. Any optional add-ons, like transport, gear rental, offloading, or special meals, are also outside the refund scope.
Yes, it absolutely can. And that’s what makes this policy special. If trekking in Ladakh has been your dream, this could be your moment. Iconic treks like Chadar Trek and Markha Valley Trek are available as options for your free fifth trek
Of course! A trek is a trek, and all your TTH treks, including weekend or two-day treks count toward your free fifth trek.
Yes, and this is one of the nicest parts of the policy. The free trek benefit works in groups of four treks. After completing four treks, your fifth trek is free. If you have completed eight treks, the benefit comes again, and your ninth and tenth treks will also be free. In short,for every four treks completed with TTH, you earn free treks along the way. The more you trek, the more TTH gives back.
Trek The Himalayas offers a wide range of treks be it easy to moderate treks like Kedarkantha, Har Ki Doon, Ranthan Kharak or moderate to difficult treks like Bali Pass, Pin Bhabha Pass or Chadar. By the time you complete four treks in the Himalayas, you have already grown into an experienced trekker.
Naturally, you would now like to prefer to take a step up and choose a difficult trek as your fifth one. Here is where Trek The Himalayas stands out as it offers a variety of difficult treks. And luckily all of them are qualified as free treks under the TTH Trek Ambassador policy. With TTH, you get a variety of trek options to choose from. You can pick a tougher trail or go for an Easy or Moderate trek; the choice is yours.
Yes definitely, we’re happy to offer this. Young trekkers bring fresh energy and enthusiasm to the trail, which makes the journey even more special. If your child has completed four treks with TTH, they can choose a Summer Camp as their fifth free trek.
You’ll be happy to know that any himalayan trek from easy to difficult level can be chosen as your free trek. The best part is that treks like Chadar Trek, Markha Valley, and many other beautiful himalayan treks are included. You may also choose higher-grade treks such as Bali Pass or Pin Bhaba Pass as part of your free trek.
As a TTH Trek Ambassador, your role goes beyond just trekking. You become a mentor on the trail. Someone who guides and shares real experiences with fellow trekkers. After completing multiple treks with TTH, you bring valuable knowledge and perspective that naturally encourages others and adds energy to the group.
Your stories and practical tips help first-timers and intermediate trekkers feel more comfortable and motivated. This is where your experience shines and lifts the overall trekking spirit of the group.
Challenging and peak summit treks, however, follow a slightly different approach. These treks are designed for highly experienced trekkers and climbers, where every participant is already well-prepared and self-driven. In such settings, there is limited scope for peer mentorship, as the structure and demands of the trek are very specific.
That’s why challenging and peak summit treks are kept outside the free fifth trek option, not because they are out of reach, but because the Trek Ambassador role is best experienced on trails where your guidance, encouragement, and shared journey can add value to others.
To claim your free trek, please send an email to info@trekthehimalayas.com, and our team will take it forward from there.
Yes, you do. You need to pay the full amount at the time of booking, just like any regular trek. Once you successfully complete the trek, we process the return of the eligible trek fee within one week. This process helps us plan treks better and ensures that all participants are fully committed.
Each spot on a trek involves planning, logistics, and local arrangements. If someone cancels at the last moment, it directly affects the team and the opportunity for another trekker. Collecting the payment upfront helps us manage this responsibly. Once you complete the trek, the amount is returned as promised. If you cancel, the standard TTH cancellation policy applies.
To keep your trek planning smooth and fair, we collect the trek fee upfront. Last-minute cancellations can affect team arrangements and local logistics, so this pay-and-refund process keeps everything running smoothly while still giving you this special benefit fairly.
The trek that you actually complete as your fifth eligible trek will be considered under this initiative. Even if you have several treks booked in advance, the benefit applies to the trek that completes your fifth-trek milestone.
All four treks must be registered under a single email ID. This helps us confirm that the same person has completed all four treks with TTH. Please ensure your records are linked to one email ID.
The free fifth trek is only valid for treks within India. International treks, including those in Nepal or other countries, don’t qualify as your free trek. However, any international trek you’ve completed does count toward your total number of treks with TTH.
Each unique trek you complete adds to your total. If you repeat a trek you’ve already done, it won’t be counted toward your free fifth trek.
The free trek includes only the trek fee itself. Any extra costs like trek insurance, transport, gear rentals, offloading, or special meals are not included and will need to be paid separately.
To be eligible for the free fifth trek, we count only treks you’ve completed with TTH. But don’t worry, even if you’ve done weekend treks, pilgrimages, or international treks with us, they all contribute to your count. By the time you’re eligible, you’ve likely completed more than four treks with TTH anyway.
The Loyal Customer Policy is a special perk for TTH Trek Ambassadors. After completing four treks with Trek The Himalayas, you receive a referral code. When someone books a trek using your code, both you and the referred trekker earn trek points and discounts based on the difficulty level of the trek.
You become eligible for the Loyal Customer Policy after completing four treks with Trek The Himalayas and becoming a TTH Trek Ambassador. Make sure all your four treks must be unique.
A referral code is a unique code provided to you once you become a TTH Trek Ambassador. You can share this code with friends and family. When they use it while booking a trek, both of you receive trek points and discounts.
There is no limit to the number of trek points you can earn. The more you refer, the more points get added to your loyalty points balance, which you can redeem while booking your future treks.
There is no minimum limit for redeeming your trek points under this policy. You can start redeeming your rewards with as little as one trek point. Every trek point you earn holds value, giving you complete flexibility to use your points whenever and however you choose without waiting to accumulate a fixed number.
Yes! One of the best parts of the Loyal Customer Policy is that you can use your trek points to book any trek with TTH, including international treks.
This is the flexibility of the policy. You can easily transfer your points to friends and family, and they can use them for their own trek planning with TTH. Even if you want to split the points and use them with your friends, you can do that too and enjoy trekking together!
You can easily track your trek points anytime in your TTH dashboard. Also, we’ll keep you updated with notifications whenever points are added or redeemed, so you always know your balance.
No. Referrals must be for completely new members. Anyone who has already registered or trekked with TTH earlier will not be counted as a valid referral.
The Loyalty Customer accumulated points is valid for two years from the date it is issued.