Warwan Valley Trek

Distance: 265 km
Duration: 8-9 hours

Our journey begins in Srinagar, the city of houseboats nestled along the banks of the Jhelum River. Known for its beauty and warm hospitality, Srinagar sets the tone for our adventure. We gather at a pre-decided location and embark on a scenic 9-hour drive to Panikhar. The route is a visual treat, passing through iconic destinations like Sonamarg, Dras, Kargil, and Sankoo. Along the way, we’ll spot numerous military camps, soldiers training in the fields, and camouflaged structures.

We’ll take a short break in Kargil for snacks before continuing into the Suru Valley. The silky Suru River accompanies us on the right side of the road, eventually splitting into smaller streams. As we enter the valley, the towering peaks of Mt. Nun (7,135M) and Mt. Kun (7,077M) greet us with their snow-capped grandeur. Mt. Nun, the highest peak in the Zanskar Valley, is a coveted challenge for mountaineers worldwide. If we arrive before 6 PM, we’ll witness a breathtaking sunset over these twin peaks. After another 2 hours of driving, we reach our homestay in Panikhar by 8 PM

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Today is dedicated to acclimatizing to the high altitude. We’ll stay active and participate in a short acclimatization walk to help our bodies adjust.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Distance: 7 km
Duration: 4-5 hours

After a hearty breakfast, we begin our trek from the Chalong River point. The trail is relatively flat and easy, offering stunning views as we leave Panikhar village behind. Walking alongside the shimmering Chalong River, we’ll encounter small mountain springs after 3 km, our first source of drinking water for the day. The landscape gradually transforms from barren lands to lush meadows, leading us to the picturesque Denora campsite.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Distance: 8 km
Duration: 5-6 hours

Today’s trail is a thrilling mix of easy gradients and challenging terrain. We start at 9 AM, navigating through grey boulder fields and ascending minor elevations. After 3 km, we reach a stunning river delta basin, where multiple streams compete to flow ahead. The trail dips into the water, requiring us to cross icy streams twice.

As we ascend, the landscape shifts dramatically—brown turns to green, then to red, as if nature has rolled out a red carpet for us. The final stretch reveals a vast expanse with glacial ranges, boulder sections, and barren hills. We descend 500 meters to reach Kalapari, our campsite nestled within a shepherd’s structure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Distance: 22 km
Duration: 11 hours

This is the longest and most challenging day of the trek. We start early at 7 AM, navigating narrow ridges, moraine sections, and steep descents. The trail begins with asymmetrical boulders and leads us past the ancient Na-Mithung cave, once a deep shelter for shepherds.

As we ascend, we’re rewarded with views of the Kalapari Range and a stunning olive-green glacial lake. The trail then transitions to a flat ice plain, offering a thrilling 3 km walk on hard ice. After crossing the Ghansla Pass, we encounter an even larger glacial lake, where we stop for lunch.

The descent takes us through moraine sections and crevasses, offering a front-row view of the colossal Kaintal Glacier. The final stretch involves a steep 45-degree descent and a slippery ice-moraine section before reaching the Kaintal campsite.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Distance: 16 km
Duration: 7 hours

Today’s trek is relatively easier, with flat trails and small ascents. We follow the Kaintal stream, crossing icy streams and walking through pebble-strewn terrain. The landscape alternates between grasslands, rocks, and slush, with occasional shepherd huts (Kota) dotting the route.

As we progress, the Ladakh range fades, and the Kashmir valley comes into view. The trail ends at Humpet, a vast expanse resembling 10 golf courses combined. Enjoy the serene sunset and the privacy of this expansive campsite.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Distance: 18 km
Duration: 7 hours

Today marks our entry into the Warwan Valley. The trail begins with a gradual ascent through lush meadows, where we’ll spot playful marmots. After crossing a ridge, we descend into the valley, walking alongside the roaring Kaintal stream and under the shade of silver birch trees.

The trail leads us to a confluence point where the Sheshnag and Kaintal streams meet, forming the Sain Nallah. We navigate through waterfalls, river streams, and slippery sections before reaching an old wooden bridge. The final stretch takes us through dense forests and clearings, ending at the lush Sukhnai village.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Distance: 200 km
Duration: 8 hours

Our pre-booked vehicle picks us up from Gumri for the drive back to Srinagar. The journey takes approximately 8 hours, arriving by late evening. It’s ideal to spend the night in Srinagar and plan your return journey the next day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Morning after breakfast, transfer to Srinagar Airport for your flight. Trek ends with unforgettable memories of the journey.

Meals: Breakfast.