Doodhpatri Trek
Kashmir: Paradise Found
Kashmir
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20th-28th August 2026
The Doodpathri trek is a hidden gem in the heart of Kashmir, offering an offbeat alternative to the more crowded Himalayan trails. This trek takes you through the pristine wilderness of the Pir Panjal range, where vast, undulating meadows like Dishkal and Ashtar rival the beauty of Gulmarg. In summer, the trail is a vibrant display of emerald-green pastures and wildflower-strewn valleys, following the Shailganga River to its glacial source. You will encounter seven majestic alpine lakes, including the turquoise Bodsar and Pamsar, while camping in remote valleys that feel untouched by time, eventually concluding your journey in the legendary, expansive grasslands of Tosamaidan.
At A Glance
ITINERARY
Day 01
Your journey begins with a short, scenic drive from Srinagar to Doodhpathri, often called the "valley of milk." The landscape here is breathtaking, with rolling green hills and a sparkling river flowing through the center. You will spend the afternoon exploring the meadows and local shepherd life while your body begins to adjust to the higher altitude.
Day 02
The first day of trekking involves a steady climb through thick pine and deodar forests. As you break through the treeline, you emerge into the stunning Dishkal meadow. In summer, this is a massive carpet of green that offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Mt. Tatakoti.
Day 03
Today’s walk is a gentle traverse across high-altitude grasslands. The trail stays relatively flat, following the ridge and offering continuous views of the Pir Panjal range. You will camp in the wide, boulder-strewn Ashtar valley, a serene location where the river winds through the meadow near the base of the Ashtar glacier.
Day 04
A moderate day of trekking that takes you deeper into the high mountains. You will cross several small streams and climb gradual slopes to reach the beautiful Gurwansar Lake. The summer light reflecting off the water, surrounded by jagged ridges, makes this one of the most picturesque campsites on the trek.
Day 05
This is a challenging day involving a steep ascent over a high ridge. You will reach Pamsar Lake (3,980m), the highest point of the trek, which is often surrounded by patches of summer snow. After enjoying the views, you descend into the Duriem valley, a high-altitude grazing ground for nomadic Bakarwal tribes.
Day 06
A highlight day where you encounter multiple lakes. The trail climbs to Bodsar Lake, a deep turquoise body of water nestled under high cliffs. You will then cross a ridge to see the Damamsar and Navkansar lakes before a long descent to the Gadtar campsite, located in a lush valley.
Day 07
On your final day, you trek across the legendary Tosamaidan, one of the largest meadows in the world. The descent is gentle, allowing you to soak in the vastness of the grasslands before meeting your vehicle at the road-head. You will then drive back to Srinagar, arriving by late evening.
Day 08
Leisurely breakfast followed by departure.
Inclusions and Exclusions
- Transport:
Pick-up from and drop to Srinagar including airport transfers.
All sightseeing in a dedicated mountain-ready vehicle (Ertiga or similar).
Transport for trekking trailheads as per the itinerary. - Accommodation:
Standard comfortable hotels in Srinagar.
Stays in mountain guesthouses or homestays in higher reaches, including breakfast and dinner - Trek
Guided trek with professional camping gear. - Meals: All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and dinner and breakfast for the remaining itinerary.
- Extra Tours: Any excursions or activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Permits & Fees: Forest department entry fees, trekking permits, and local state tolls.
- Staff: English-speaking tour leader, experienced local mountain guides and camping staff..
- Offloading: Porter and mule charges for ferrying all luggage except personal day pack.
- Insurance: Mandatory travel insurance.
- Personal Gear: Personal equipment (thermal wear, hiking poles, etc).
- Meals: Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Beverages: Any drinks including soft drinks, bottled water, or alcoholic beverages.
- Extra Tours: Any excursions or activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Tips: Gratuities for the local guides, drivers, and hotel/lodge staff.
- Taxes: All applicable taxes and transactional fees.
- Contingency Fee: Any additional expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, road blocks or unrest, that result in an extension or change in the program, or emergency evacuation for medical reasons.