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.
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 shepherds 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Doodhpathri, the starting point of the trek, is 42 km from Srinagar, the summer capital of Kashmir. Here's how to get there:
The complete Bodh Pathri Lakes trek package with Cliffhangers India is available for INR 15,000. The package includes:
For additional services like premium tents, private transport, or custom meal plans, extra charges apply. You can contact the trek organizers for further details.
To ensure a comfortable and safe trek, here’s a checklist of what to bring:
For those based 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 well worth considering.