Best time to do the Tarsar Marsar trek

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Category Guides To Choose Treks Month Wise Guides

By Swathi Chatrapathy

If there’s any other trek in Kashmir that can compare to the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek in terms of popularity, it has to be the Tarsar Marsar Trek. In fact, with heavy seasonal rush on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek nowadays, we often suggest trekkers to opt for Tarsar Marsar instead.

But they often asked how the scenery at the lakes and the overall trek experience varies from month to month. In this article, we’ll try to cover that.

So what is the best time to do the Tarsar Marsar trek? Let’s dive right into answering that.

The Trekking Season: July to September

The meadows of this trek are a painter’s dream- lush green carpets dotted with wildflowers, stretching endlessly Photo by Amit Anand

We all want to see turquoise blue lakes, green grass and wildflowers in full bloom. Maybe even a few patches of snow. That’s really Kashmir at its best. And to catch that version of Kashmir, the best time to do the Tarsar Marsar trek is July, August, and September.

This is a monsoon trek. But don’t worry—Kashmir lies in a rain shadow region. So you won’t face much rain that hampers your trek.

Between July and September, the trail is open and welcoming. Pick any of these three months, and the Tarsar Marsar lake trek will be beautiful.

July: Snow Patches and Fresh Trails

At Sundarsar, the campsite lies in harmony with the tranquil lake, offering a stunning view where the water mirrors the mountains. Photo by Santhosh

In July, the snow has just melted. It’s the start of the season. Everything feels raw, fresh, and full of life.

If you want to see snow patches near the lakes—especially Tarsar Lake—go in July.

August: Flowers and Peak Greenery

As you trek to Lidderwat from Aru, the path gradually ascends through verdant pine forests, and you come across picturesque glimpses of the surrounding valleys. Photo by Shreenath Ramachandramurthy

August is the peak of flower bloom. The greenery and wildflowers are at their best. There may be a little rain. But it helps bring out the colours.

This is the best time if you want a scenic, colourful trail on the Tarsar Marsar trek.

September: Clear Skies and Night Views

Here's a starry night sky view from the Sundersar campsite. Experiencing the starry Milky Way from such dark skies is an experience of a lifetime. Photo by Waleed

September is when the grass starts to turn brown. But the skies are the clearest. This is perfect for you if you take interest in astrophotography.

If you want Milky Way shots or to stargaze at night, plan your Tarsar Marsar trek in September.

So, When Should You Go?

Honestly, you can go anytime between July and September. Just avoid going before or after this window. There’s too much snow outside of it. But within these months, you’ll see the best of Tarsar Marsar Lake. It’s a stunning trek.

📌 Quick Facts for Trek Planning

Tarsar Marsar trek best time: July to September
Tarsar Marsar trek distance: Around 48 km
Tarsar Marsar trek map: Click here to view the route map for camp-wise trail details

Swathi Chatrapathy

Chief Editor

About the author

Swathi Chatrapathy heads the digital content team at Indiahikes. She is also the face behind India's popular trekking video channel, Trek With Swathi. Unknown to many, Swathi also writes a weekly column at Indiahikes which has more than 100,000 followers.

A TEDx speaker and a frequent guest at other events, Swathi is a much sought after resource for her expertise in digital content.

Before joining Indiahikes, Swathi worked as a reporter and sub-editor at a daily newspaper. She holds a Masters's in Digital Journalism and continues to contribute to publications. Trekking, to her, is a sport that liberates the mind more than anything else. Through trekking, Swathi hopes to bring about a profound impact on a person's mind, body and spirit.

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