About Gadsar Lake
Gadsar Lake is an alpine glacial lake at about 3,600 metres elevation in Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir, approximately 28 kilometres from Sonamarg. Located along the Kashmir Great Lakes trek route near Gadsar Pass, it is fed by glaciers and snowmelt. Known locally as Yemsar or the Lake of Flowers, it is noted for its clear waters, surrounding meadows, and brown trout population, and remains frozen from November to June.
Visitors guide
Visitors reach Gadsar Lake via a strenuous high-altitude trek from Sonamarg through Shitkadi and Nichnai Pass. The lake lies in a rugged alpine valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks, rocky slopes and seasonal flower-covered meadows. The water is clear, cold and reflects the surrounding mountains. There are no built structures, shops or permanent facilities at the lake. Visitors can view the lake, photograph the landscape, rest briefly and continue along the Great Lakes trail. Access is seasonal and weather dependent.
Key highlights
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High-altitude alpine glacial lake at ~3,600 metres near Gadsar Pass (approx. 4,200 metres)
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Part of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek between Vishansar and Satsar lakes
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Known as Yemsar - Lake of Fishes - for its brown trout population
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Surrounded by alpine meadows known for seasonal wildflowers
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Frozen from November to June with clear glacial waters in summer
Culture & Context
Locally known as Yemsar and Valley of Flowers Lake; the name Gadsar means Lake of Fishes in Kashmiri, reflecting its noted trout population; associated with seasonal pastoral use of surrounding meadows
Route
| By air | Fly to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar (SXR), then drive to Sonamarg and trek to the lake |
|---|---|
| By train |