Bodpathri Lakes Trek: A Trek Through Kashmir’s Unseen Beauty

If you're looking for an offbeat trekking adventure beyond the usual European hiking trails, the Bodh Pathri Lakes trek in Kashmir is a stunning alpine experience worth considering. This lesser-known gem offers breathtaking scenery, serene landscapes, and a chance to explore some of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in the Himalayas.

An Overview of the Bodh Pathri Lakes Trek

Starting from Doodhpathri, a picturesque meadowland in the Kashmir Valley, this trek spans around six days. With an easy to moderate difficulty level, it's an ideal choice for those who have some prior trekking experience in the mountains, such as exploring the Scottish Highlands or Snowdonia.

The real charm of this trek lies in its six stunning alpine lakes, with Bodsar and Pamsar Lakes being the most mesmerizing. As you hike through the trails, the Pir Panjal mountain range provides a dramatic and awe-inspiring backdrop, making every step of the journey feel like something out of a nature documentary.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this trek is its secluded nature—unlike the more popular Kashmir Great Lakes Trek or the Warwan Valley Trek, you won't encounter large crowds. Instead, the only company you'll have along the way are the occasional shepherd tending to their cattle in the lush meadows.

For a detailed itinerary and essential tips, check out this comprehensive guide to the Bodh Pathri Lakes trek.

Why You Should Consider the Bodh Pathri Lakes Trek

1. An Offbeat Trek

Unlike other famous treks in Kashmir, the Bodh Pathri Lakes Trek remains relatively untouched by heavy tourism, making it perfect for those who prefer quieter, more immersive outdoor adventures.

2. Scenic Alpine Lakes

The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly its collection of pristine alpine lakes, including Bodsar, Pamsar, and Damamsar. Imagine waking up in your tent to the sight of crystal-clear waters reflecting the towering peaks of the Pir Panjal range—an experience that's hard to find elsewhere.

3. Expansive Meadows

If you're someone who appreciates vast, rolling landscapes, this trek will leave you in awe. The trail takes you across lush green meadows that stretch endlessly, seamlessly blending with the surrounding mountains.

4. Authentic Cultural Encounters

While there are no permanent settlements along the trail, you will come across Kashmiri shepherds grazing their livestock. A quick chat with them offers a glimpse into their traditional way of life, a unique cultural experience you wouldn’t want to miss.

5. A Moderate Yet Thrilling Trek

Although this trek is considered easier than some other high-altitude routes, it still offers adventurous elements, such as crossing boulder patches and navigating tricky ascents and descents. If you've tackled hikes like Ben Nevis or the Lake District fells, this trek will be a step up in terms of both challenge and reward.

Best Time to Visit

Since the Bodh Pathri Lakes trek is a summer trek, the ideal time to visit is from June to September. During this period, temperatures range between 20°C and 25°C, though nights can be chilly, so carrying some warm layers is essential.

With the snow melted and the trails fully accessible, this is the perfect season for experiencing the full beauty of the trek.

Difficulty Level

The Bodh Pathri Lakes trek is rated as easy to moderate, making it a great choice for fit beginners looking for their first Himalayan trekking experience. The trek involves walking through meadows, crossing rivers, and navigating rocky terrains, but technical mountaineering skills aren’t required.

For those new to high-altitude trekking, some prior preparation—such as regular jogging, walking, and strength training—is recommended to ensure a comfortable experience.

How to Reach Doodhpathri (Base Camp)

doodhpathri base camp

Doodhpathri, the starting point of the trek, is 42 km from Srinagar, the summer capital of Kashmir. Here's how to get there:

By Air: Fly to Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport (Srinagar), which is about 15 km from the city. From there, you can hire a private cab to Doodhpathri.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Jammu, from where you can take a bus or shared cab to Srinagar and then a private taxi to Doodhpathri.
By Road: If you're feeling adventurous, a road trip from Srinagar to Doodhpathri in a private vehicle is a scenic and enjoyable option.

Cost & Trek Package

The complete Bodh Pathri Lakes trek package with Cliffhangers India is available for INR 15,000. The package includes:

Meals (four times a day)
Camping gear (tents, sleeping bags, etc.)
Experienced trek guides and support team
First-aid and medical assistance
Required permits and passes

For additional services like premium tents, private transport, or custom meal plans, extra charges apply. You can contact the trek organizers for further details.

Essential Packing List

To ensure a comfortable and safe trek, here’s a checklist of what to bring:

Clothing:

Warm layers (thermal wear, fleece, waterproof jacket)
Trekking pants and comfortable inner layers
Waterproof gloves and a hat

Footwear:

Sturdy trekking boots with good grip
Extra pairs of woolen socks

Gear & Essentials:

Backpack (with rain cover)
Trekking poles
Sunglasses & sunscreen (high SPF)
Headlamp/flashlight with spare batteries

Personal Items:

Basic toiletries (toothbrush, soap, quick-dry towel)
First-aid kit (including altitude sickness medicine)
Energy bars/snacks
Valid ID and permits

Inclusions & Exclusions

doodhpathri

What’s Included?

Accommodation in high-quality tents (double-sharing basis)
All vegetarian meals
Trek leader, guides, and cooks
Medical first-aid support (oxygen cylinder, emergency kit)
All necessary trekking permits

What’s Not Included?

Lunch on the first day
Personal expenses (snacks, souvenirs, etc.)
Offloading services (available at extra cost)
Transport from Srinagar to the base camp

For those in London who have already explored the Lake District, Scottish Highlands, or the Swiss Alps, the Bodh Pathri Lakes Trek offers a fresh and unique trekking experience in one of the world's most breathtaking mountain regions. Its offbeat charm, high-altitude lakes, and serene meadows make it an adventure worth considering.

If you're seeking an even more iconic trekking experience, Nepal offers a range of world-class trails, from the Annapurna Circuit to the Everest Base Camp trek. Nepal’s Himalayan landscapes provide trekkers with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in vibrant cultures and stunning natural beauty. The Annapurna Circuit, for example, is renowned for its diverse terrain, ranging from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, and its awe-inspiring views of some of the highest peaks in the world.

Whether you're traversing the foothills of the Himalayas or journeying to Everest Base Camp itself, Nepal’s trekking routes promise not just a physical challenge, but a chance to witness the incredible local traditions of the Sherpa people and other mountain communities.

With varying levels of difficulty, these treks cater to both beginners and seasoned adventurers, offering something for everyone who seeks an unforgettable high-altitude experience.