Bodpathri Trek
Trek in Central Kashmir's Most Enchanting Meadows
Did you know Brammah Valley in Jammu is still open in Sept & Oct, while all other Kashmir treks are closed?Check out the trek here
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate-Difficult
TREK DURATION
7 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
13,060 ft
SUITABLE FOR
12 to 62 years
Trek in Central Kashmir's Most Enchanting Meadows
Our Remote Trek Documenter, Saliyah Ahmad and our Senior Trek Leader, Nitesh Kumar, who has designed our Gidara Bugyal, the Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek and the recent Ranthan Kharak trek, explored the Bodpathri trek and put it down in a very simple line. They said, "One emotion to describe this trek is in a word — ZABARDAST!"
Do you know the story of how this trek came to life? Read this article to learn what happened behind the scenes when Indiahikes explored this trek.
There are treks like Kashmir Great Lakes and Tarsar Marsar. People post about these treks and go gaga. But the Bodpathri Trek, like an older brother, was waiting for its time. After being under the army's jurisdiction for decades, the trek can now stand up on its own and claim its place among the greatest treks of Jammu & Kashmir.
There are several reasons why anyone will feel this trek is one of the greatest in Jammu & Kashmir:
- Trekkers have never stepped into such a beautiful part of Jammu & Kashmir. This region was out of bounds until a few years ago. Even now, you see remains of army bunkers and trenches on the trail. What has stayed in the untouched beauty that no one has seen before — the forests, meadows, valleys, rivers and lakes. All come together to show you a side of Jammu & Kashmir that none of our other treks has shown.
- There are 6 majestic alpine lakes to see. Two of them, the Bodsar and the Pamsar, are at par with our lakes on the KGL and Tarsar Marsar. Lakes like the Pathrisar, Lokutsar and Damansar are no pushovers either. Then there are the cute Navkansar twin lakes.
- Trekkers traverse through the mind-boggling carpeted beauty of the Ashtaar valley. And then discover there are 4 more such beautiful valleys to trek through. The Guruwansar, Pamsar, Bodsar and the Gadtar valleys. Each is distinctly beautiful. Each has a strong character.
- The start of the trek itself feels like paradise. There is a reason why it is called Doodhpathri (the valley of milk). The golf course-like bowl-shaped valley stuns anyone with its velvety green splendour.
- The forest trails outside Doodhpathri are very enchanting. The coniferous trees are so tall that we cannot see their tops.
- The KGL and Tarsar Marsar treks boast of some great meadows. On the Bodpathri trek, the meadows are the highlights. They are vast and endless, like a sea, in every direction. You are in the middle of it. It is 360 degrees of manicured alpine meadows — for days.
- Rarely will you witness a golden sunrise as beautiful as from the camps around the Gurwansar lake. The sun rises from the meadows torching everything in a golden light. The alpenglow on the snow-capped mountains only adds to this splendour.
- On this trek, you camp beside the most picturesque meadows, valleys, rivers and river delta. If you think you have camped at some exotic locations on your other treks, then the campsites of the Bodpathri trek will make you rethink those campsites.
- You finally enter the forbidden meadows of Tosamaidan. The beauty of Tosamaidan makes you end the trek on a high.
Our Remote Trek Documenter, Saliyah Ahmad and our Senior Trek Leader, Nitesh Kumar, who has designed our Gidara Bugyal, the Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek and the recent Ranthan Kharak trek, explored the Bodpathri trek and put it down in a very simple line. They said, "One emotion to describe this trek is in a word — ZABARDAST!"
Do you know the story of how this trek came to life? Read this article to learn what happened behind the scenes when Indiahikes explored this trek.
There are treks like Kashmir Great Lakes and Tarsar Marsar. People post about these treks and go gaga. But the Bodpathri Trek, like an older brother, was waiting for its time. After being under the army's jurisdiction for decades, the trek can now stand up on its own and claim its place among the greatest treks of Jammu & Kashmir.
Bodpathri - Complete Trek Information
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Bodpathri Trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
Day 1
Drive from Srinagar to Doodhpathri
Drive distance: 55 km | Drive Duration: 2.5 hours | Pick-up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Sheikh Feroze Tours & Travels, Sathu, Barbara Shah Chowk, near Flourmill, Srinagar
Important Note: Reach the pick up point on your own and meet the Indiahikes team at 8 AM for your rental gear collection and cloak room.
Transport will be organized at 10 AM. The cost of the cab is Rs 600 per person and needs to be paid directly to the driver. The vehicle will be non-AC
Day 2
Trek from Doodhpathri to Dishkal
Trek distance: 6.2 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude gain: 8,900 ft to 10,606 ft
Moderate. Gradual to steep ascent through forests, and meadows. A lot of boulders.
Day 3
Trek from Dishkal to Ashtaar Valley
Trek distance: 4.3 km | Trek Duration: 5 hours
Altitude gain: 10,606 ft to 11,525 ft
Moderate-Diffcult. A steep ascent through meadows and a ridge.
Day 4
Trek from Ashtaar Valley to Gurwansar
Trek distance: 7.1 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude gain: 11,525 ft to 12,514 ft
Moderate. Long gradual Ascents on meadows with boulders along with river crossing.
Day 5
Trek from Gurwansar to Duriem via Pamsar Lake
Trek distance: 9 km | Trek Duration: 7 hours
Altitude gain: 12,514 ft to 12,621 ft via 13,060 ft
Moderate- difficult. Long walks and steep ascents through boulder sections
Day 6
Trek from Duriem to Gadtar via Bodsar Lake, Trastar Lake, Navkansar I,II & Damamsar Lake
Trek distance: 10.5 km | Trek Duration: 8 hours
Altitude gain and loss: 12,621 ft to 12,545 ft via 13,000 ft
Moderate- Difficulty. Long walks, steep ascents & descents through boulder sections enroute to Bodsar Lake & Navkansar I.
Day 7
Trek from Gadtar to Tosamaidan. Drive to Srinagar via Sitaran
Trek Distance: 11 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude loss: 12,545 ft to 10,080 ft
Drive Distance: 80 km | Drive Duration: 3.5 hours
The cost for the return journey will be approx Rs 1,100 per trekker. You take a shared vehicle from Tosamaidan to Srinagar.
Moderate. Gentle descents all the way along with river crossing on rocks.
Tip: For all your travel plans include a buffer day to accommodate bad weather on the trek/political instability. This depends completely on the circumstances of the trek and the situation in Kashmir.
IMPORTANT POINTS
➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a photocopy of their photo id along with the mandatory documents of the Medical Certificate and Disclaimer form. This is required for trek permissions before and during the trek.
➤Unforseen Changes: In case of emergencies, we will reroute treks to other trails. Please ensure you're mentally prepared in case such situations arise.
For all your travel plans, include a buffer day to accommodate bad weather on the trek/political instability. This depends entirely on the circumstances of the trek and the situation in Kashmir.
➤Stay facility: You will be staying in tents on all days of the trek. Trekkers need to make their arrangements for a stay in Srinagar at the end of the trek.
Day 1
Drive from Srinagar to Doodhpathri
Drive distance: 55 km | Drive Duration: 2.5 hours | Pick-up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Sheikh Feroze Tours & Travels, Sathu, Barbara Shah Chowk, near Flourmill, Srinagar
Important Note: Reach the pick up point on your own and meet the Indiahikes team at 8 AM for your rental gear collection and cloak room.
Transport will be organized at 10 AM. The cost of the cab is Rs 600 per person and needs to be paid directly to the driver. The vehicle will be non-AC
Day 2
Trek from Doodhpathri to Dishkal
Trek distance: 6.2 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude gain: 8,900 ft to 10,606 ft
Moderate. Gradual to steep ascent through forests, and meadows. A lot of boulders.
Day 3
Trek from Dishkal to Ashtaar Valley
Trek distance: 4.3 km | Trek Duration: 5 hours
Altitude gain: 10,606 ft to 11,525 ft
Moderate-Diffcult. A steep ascent through meadows and a ridge.
Day 4
Trek from Ashtaar Valley to Gurwansar
Trek distance: 7.1 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude gain: 11,525 ft to 12,514 ft
Moderate. Long gradual Ascents on meadows with boulders along with river crossing.
Day 5
Trek from Gurwansar to Duriem via Pamsar Lake
Trek distance: 9 km | Trek Duration: 7 hours
Altitude gain: 12,514 ft to 12,621 ft via 13,060 ft
Moderate- difficult. Long walks and steep ascents through boulder sections
Day 6
Trek from Duriem to Gadtar via Bodsar Lake, Trastar Lake, Navkansar I,II & Damamsar Lake
Trek distance: 10.5 km | Trek Duration: 8 hours
Altitude gain and loss: 12,621 ft to 12,545 ft via 13,000 ft
Moderate- Difficulty. Long walks, steep ascents & descents through boulder sections enroute to Bodsar Lake & Navkansar I.
Day 7
Trek from Gadtar to Tosamaidan. Drive to Srinagar via Sitaran
Trek Distance: 11 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude loss: 12,545 ft to 10,080 ft
Drive Distance: 80 km | Drive Duration: 3.5 hours
The cost for the return journey will be approx Rs 1,100 per trekker. You take a shared vehicle from Tosamaidan to Srinagar.
Moderate. Gentle descents all the way along with river crossing on rocks.
Tip: For all your travel plans include a buffer day to accommodate bad weather on the trek/political instability. This depends completely on the circumstances of the trek and the situation in Kashmir.
IMPORTANT POINTS
➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a photocopy of their photo id along with the mandatory documents of the Medical Certificate and Disclaimer form. This is required for trek permissions before and during the trek.
➤Unforseen Changes: In case of emergencies, we will reroute treks to other trails. Please ensure you're mentally prepared in case such situations arise.
For all your travel plans, include a buffer day to accommodate bad weather on the trek/political instability. This depends entirely on the circumstances of the trek and the situation in Kashmir.
➤Stay facility: You will be staying in tents on all days of the trek. Trekkers need to make their arrangements for a stay in Srinagar at the end of the trek.
Day 1 (Pick-up Day): Drive from Srinagar to Doodhpathri
Drive Duration: 2.5 hours | Drive Distance: 55 km
Altitude: 8,900 ft
The travel to Doodhpathri can be divided into two parts. The first part is reaching Budgam and the second leg of your travel will be from Budgam and reaching the base town.
The first section of the drive takes you through Srinagar city and the city outskirts. The drive is about an hour away. Later once you cross the city, you have the Kashmir valley opening up. Along with the cultivations, the sight of the meadows sprawling in a few sections is a visual treat.
Note: If you are travelling in Kashmir before Day 1, please ensure you reach the campsite well before time.
The travel to Doodhpathri can be divided into two parts. The first part is reaching Budgam and the second leg of your travel will be from Budgam and reaching the base town.
The first section of the drive takes you through Srinagar city and the city outskirts. The drive is about an hour away. Later once you cross the city, you have the Kashmir valley opening up. Along with the cultivations, the sight of the meadows sprawling in a few sections is a visual treat.
Note: If you are travelling in Kashmir before Day 1, please ensure you reach the campsite well before time.
Day 2: Trek from Doodhpathri to Dishkal Campsite
Trek Distance: 6.2 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude gain: 8,900 ft to 10,606 ft
Moderate. Gradual to steep ascent walks through forests and meadows.
Water Sources: Carry sufficient water from Doodhpathri. You can refill your water bottles from streams on the way.
Today’s trek is easy on your legs. You start by walking for a short distance on the road till you enter the gate of Doodhpatri. From here, it’s a refreshing ascend into the pine forest. The forest you see in Kashmir is not as dense as those in Uttarakhand or Himachal Pradesh. It’s airy, sparse.
Just after 1 kilometre of ascending, you pop into a wide clearing. You may use this as a short rest point. The trail moves back into the pine forest and zigzags its way to the next clearing. Around this time, you also cross the Afsaar river.
After crossing the river, you ascend to a flat forest ledge. You’ll come across another clearing after this. For the first 4 km, till you are within the tree line, you alternate between pine forest and clearings.
After the clearing, notice a diversion going to the right. This is a shorter route to Gurwansar, but avoid taking it. There are no camping spots on that route. A better option would be to take the route to the left which leads you to Dander meadow.
Just after the diversion, the tree line ends. Till now you are around 6 km into the trail. You’ll cross shepherd huts on your left. The Dishkal campsite is located just ahead.
Today’s trek is easy on your legs. You start by walking for a short distance on the road till you enter the gate of Doodhpatri. From here, it’s a refreshing ascend into the pine forest. The forest you see in Kashmir is not as dense as those in Uttarakhand or Himachal Pradesh. It’s airy, sparse.
Just after 1 kilometre of ascending, you pop into a wide clearing. You may use this as a short rest point. The trail moves back into the pine forest and zigzags its way to the next clearing. Around this time, you also cross the Afsaar river.
After crossing the river, you ascend to a flat forest ledge. You’ll come across another clearing after this. For the first 4 km, till you are within the tree line, you alternate between pine forest and clearings.
After the clearing, notice a diversion going to the right. This is a shorter route to Gurwansar, but avoid taking it. There are no camping spots on that route. A better option would be to take the route to the left which leads you to Dander meadow.
Just after the diversion, the tree line ends. Till now you are around 6 km into the trail. You’ll cross shepherd huts on your left. The Dishkal campsite is located just ahead.
Day 3: Trek from Dishkal to Ashtaar Valley
Trek distance: 4.3 km | Trek Duration: 5 hours
Altitude gain: 10,606 ft to 11,525 ft
Moderate - Difficult. A steep ascent through meadows and a ridge.
Treat Dishkal as the beginning of Dander meadows. You’ll find water sources trickling amidst the boulders. If you are unable to find a water source near the shepherd huts, move further into the gradual meadows. You’ll find another water source.
As soon as the meadows end, start gradually ascending to the top of a mountain ridge. You’ll come across a diversion. One way takes you straight and the other towards the right. Take the path to the right.
Soon after, you reach the highest point on the ridge. You’ll see the vistas opening up. The Ashtaar valley lies sprawling in front of you. The valley, you’ll notice, has boulders strewn around.
From the top of the ridge, descend into the boulder section. Meander through these boulders to the river crossing. Across the river, you’ll see shepherd huts. Camp close to these shepherd huts, along the river. The land around is not marshy, so it’s easy to find dry, flat ground.
The day is easy on the legs, so after setting up camp, explore the surrounding area. Go further into the valley. On a clear evening, you’ll see the majestic snow-clad Pir Panjal range from here.
Treat Dishkal as the beginning of Dander meadows. You’ll find water sources trickling amidst the boulders. If you are unable to find a water source near the shepherd huts, move further into the gradual meadows. You’ll find another water source.
As soon as the meadows end, start gradually ascending to the top of a mountain ridge. You’ll come across a diversion. One way takes you straight and the other towards the right. Take the path to the right.
Soon after, you reach the highest point on the ridge. You’ll see the vistas opening up. The Ashtaar valley lies sprawling in front of you. The valley, you’ll notice, has boulders strewn around.
From the top of the ridge, descend into the boulder section. Meander through these boulders to the river crossing. Across the river, you’ll see shepherd huts. Camp close to these shepherd huts, along the river. The land around is not marshy, so it’s easy to find dry, flat ground.
The day is easy on the legs, so after setting up camp, explore the surrounding area. Go further into the valley. On a clear evening, you’ll see the majestic snow-clad Pir Panjal range from here.
Day 4: Trek from Ashtaar valley to Gurwansar
Trek Distance: 7.1 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude gain: 11,525 ft to 12,514 ft
Moderate. Long gradual Ascents on meadows along with river crossing.
Water Sources: Carry 2 litres of water from Ashtaar Valley. You can refill your water bottles from streams on the way.
Today you’ll start inching towards the higher altitude of 12,500 feet, as much as the height of the Kedarkantha summit. You’ll climb 1000 feet today towards the end of the trek.
Start your trek by ascending from the campsite to a high point. Then start descending. There will be boulder patches here. After you descend, the trail again ascends a little. Suddenly, you see miles and miles of flat grasslands laid out in front of you. “I was taken aback by this sight,” shares Senior Trek Leader Nitesh Kumar who explored the trek.
Notice that this is not a valley. Until now the landscape was undulating. But this is a flat piece of landscape. These are called Rajdhani meadows. Take in the large, expansive feel of this landscape. You walk more than 2 km on these flat meadows and then you start climbing to reach the higher altitude.
Then you slowly turn. There are two ridges on your sides. Start trekking into the valley. It’s like a lush grazing ground for sheep, and you may come across a friendly flock. You are very close to the Gurwansar campsite now.
But before you reach, there’s a river crossing. Right after you reach the Gurwansar campsite.
Today you’ll start inching towards the higher altitude of 12,500 feet, as much as the height of the Kedarkantha summit. You’ll climb 1000 feet today towards the end of the trek.
Start your trek by ascending from the campsite to a high point. Then start descending. There will be boulder patches here. After you descend, the trail again ascends a little. Suddenly, you see miles and miles of flat grasslands laid out in front of you. “I was taken aback by this sight,” shares Senior Trek Leader Nitesh Kumar who explored the trek.
Notice that this is not a valley. Until now the landscape was undulating. But this is a flat piece of landscape. These are called Rajdhani meadows. Take in the large, expansive feel of this landscape. You walk more than 2 km on these flat meadows and then you start climbing to reach the higher altitude.
Then you slowly turn. There are two ridges on your sides. Start trekking into the valley. It’s like a lush grazing ground for sheep, and you may come across a friendly flock. You are very close to the Gurwansar campsite now.
But before you reach, there’s a river crossing. Right after you reach the Gurwansar campsite.
Day 5: Trek from Gurwansar to Duriem via Pamsar lake
Trek Distance: 9 km | Trek Duration: 7 hours
Altitude gain: 12,514 ft to 12,621 ft via 13,060 ft
Moderate- difficult. Long walks and steep ascents through boulder sections
Water Sources: Carry 2 litres of water from Gurwansar. You can refill your water bottles from streams on the way.
Today is an interesting day. You’ll trek via Pamsar lake. This lake is huge and it’s going to be an experience to be by this expansive water body. But it is a long day, so carry your packed lunch.
Again, start your day by ascending a ridge and then you descend into a valley. Throughout the trek, you alternate between valley and ridges. Walk on the grassy ledge for almost 3 km and then start descending. From here, you go off the trail to visit Pamsar Lake. Drop your bags here and then start ascending.
Ascend for around 1 km to reach Pamsar Lake. The scale of this lake is huge. You do not see it at once. But as you draw closer, the lake slowly reveals itself. Spend some quiet moments here. Then return to the bag drop point.
From the bag, the drop point starts ascending to a ridge. The ascent is gradual to a boulder ledge. Continue your ascend till you reach the top of the ridge. Start your descent to the Duriem from here.
On the way, you’ll come across a depression. There’s a water point here. The trek has been long, so fill your bottles. Ascend out of the depression. You’ll come across another boulder patch. As you cross this section, the whole river delta fans out in front of you.
Note: There’s no trail as you descend through the boulder patches. So be mindful of your step as you meander through the boulder patches.
Again, you’ll come across a stream crossing. Notice how you are consistently crossing streams before you camp. It is a refreshing experience after a long day’s trek.
Today is an interesting day. You’ll trek via Pamsar lake. This lake is huge and it’s going to be an experience to be by this expansive water body. But it is a long day, so carry your packed lunch.
Again, start your day by ascending a ridge and then you descend into a valley. Throughout the trek, you alternate between valley and ridges. Walk on the grassy ledge for almost 3 km and then start descending. From here, you go off the trail to visit Pamsar Lake. Drop your bags here and then start ascending.
Ascend for around 1 km to reach Pamsar Lake. The scale of this lake is huge. You do not see it at once. But as you draw closer, the lake slowly reveals itself. Spend some quiet moments here. Then return to the bag drop point.
From the bag, the drop point starts ascending to a ridge. The ascent is gradual to a boulder ledge. Continue your ascend till you reach the top of the ridge. Start your descent to the Duriem from here.
On the way, you’ll come across a depression. There’s a water point here. The trek has been long, so fill your bottles. Ascend out of the depression. You’ll come across another boulder patch. As you cross this section, the whole river delta fans out in front of you.
Note: There’s no trail as you descend through the boulder patches. So be mindful of your step as you meander through the boulder patches.
Again, you’ll come across a stream crossing. Notice how you are consistently crossing streams before you camp. It is a refreshing experience after a long day’s trek.
Day 6: Trek from Duriem to Gadtar via Bodsar lake, Tratsar Lake, Navkansar I II & Damamsar lake
Trek Distance: 10.5 km | Trek Duration: 8 hours
Altitude Loss: 12,621 ft to 12,545 ft via 13,000 ft
Moderate- Difficulty. Long walks, steep ascents & descents through boulder sections enroute to Bodsar Lake & Navkansar I.
Water Sources: Carry 2 litres of water from Duriem. You can refill your water bottles from streams on the way.
It is a long day today where you will climb ridges to spot the lakes.
Start your day by ascending almost 2.5 km to a point from where you again go off the trail. Drop your bags here and start trekking to the Bodsar lake viewpoint. It’s almost half a km away on your left. From the high point, look back and you’ll also see your Duriem campsite. Also, watch out for Tratsar Lake aka Lokutsar lake.
After the viewpoint, return to the bag drop point. Pick your bags and start ascending in the opposite direction. This is a bouldery patch. Soon you come to a steep ascend. This continues for around 1 km until you reach the flat portion of the ridge. You can see the lakes from here. After spending a few picturesque moments at this vantage point. Start descending from the ridge. After descending for about a kilometre, you start ascending.
The trail gradually ascends to Damamsar Lake. Note that you are walking on a ridge. From the highest point of the ridge, you can see Damsar, Navkansar I and II lakes. It’s a sight that will remain with you for long. These lakes are formed by snow melting from the surrounding mountains.
From here the trail consistently descends to the Gadtar campsite.
It is a long day today where you will climb ridges to spot the lakes.
Start your day by ascending almost 2.5 km to a point from where you again go off the trail. Drop your bags here and start trekking to the Bodsar lake viewpoint. It’s almost half a km away on your left. From the high point, look back and you’ll also see your Duriem campsite. Also, watch out for Tratsar Lake aka Lokutsar lake.
After the viewpoint, return to the bag drop point. Pick your bags and start ascending in the opposite direction. This is a bouldery patch. Soon you come to a steep ascend. This continues for around 1 km until you reach the flat portion of the ridge. You can see the lakes from here. After spending a few picturesque moments at this vantage point. Start descending from the ridge. After descending for about a kilometre, you start ascending.
The trail gradually ascends to Damamsar Lake. Note that you are walking on a ridge. From the highest point of the ridge, you can see Damsar, Navkansar I and II lakes. It’s a sight that will remain with you for long. These lakes are formed by snow melting from the surrounding mountains.
From here the trail consistently descends to the Gadtar campsite.
Day 7: Gadtar to Tosamaidan. Drive to Srinagar
Trek Distance: 9.5 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Drive Distance: 80 km | Drive Duration: 3 hours
Altitude loss: 12,545 ft to 10,080 ft
Moderate. Gentle descents all the way along with river crossing on rocks.
Water Sources: Carry 2 litres of water from Gadtar. You can refill your water bottles from streams on the way.
It’s the last day of the trek today. But it’s a long day and you’ll end the trek on a high :)
The day begins with an exciting river crossing after which you start ascending to a grassy ledge. As it usually happens with treks in Kashmir, you alternate between ascends and descends, usually hanging around the same altitude for a long time.
You reach the top of the ridge and then descend to your second river crossing. Descend continues after the river crossing and soon you come across a mud trail. Till now, there have not been many trails on this trek. But you’ll see a trail here as trekkers access this part from the Tosamaidan side.
Continue walking on the mud trail to come across a water source. Soon after, there’s the third stream crossing. Rest a bit after you cross the stream. Now you are towards the end of your trek. Savour the last moments.
Tosa Maidan starts at the end of the descent. It’s a beautiful landscape that reminds you of European vistas.
To your surprise, in this last leg, you’ll ascend. It’s a short ascend of merely 200 meters. But it reminds you of the nature of the trail till now. Consistently undulating.
Right after the ascend you take a U-turn and continue descending towards the diversion. This takes you to the road head. You’ll get a vehicle from the dhaba. You also get a network at the endpoint.
It’s the last day of the trek today. But it’s a long day and you’ll end the trek on a high :)
The day begins with an exciting river crossing after which you start ascending to a grassy ledge. As it usually happens with treks in Kashmir, you alternate between ascends and descends, usually hanging around the same altitude for a long time.
You reach the top of the ridge and then descend to your second river crossing. Descend continues after the river crossing and soon you come across a mud trail. Till now, there have not been many trails on this trek. But you’ll see a trail here as trekkers access this part from the Tosamaidan side.
Continue walking on the mud trail to come across a water source. Soon after, there’s the third stream crossing. Rest a bit after you cross the stream. Now you are towards the end of your trek. Savour the last moments.
Tosa Maidan starts at the end of the descent. It’s a beautiful landscape that reminds you of European vistas.
To your surprise, in this last leg, you’ll ascend. It’s a short ascend of merely 200 meters. But it reminds you of the nature of the trail till now. Consistently undulating.
Right after the ascend you take a U-turn and continue descending towards the diversion. This takes you to the road head. You’ll get a vehicle from the dhaba. You also get a network at the endpoint.
Moderate-Difficult
Suitable for Experienced Trekkers
At Indiahikes, while rating a trek difficulty we consider a number of factors. These include, altitude gained every day, length of trek everyday, highest altitude, nature of the terrain, weather etc. Base on this we rate a trek as easy or difficult or somewhere in between.
Bodpathri Trek, which climbs to 13,060 ft, is not difficult. It is rated as 'Moderate-difficult'. The trek of Bodpathri Trek is slightly easier compared to Kashmir Great Lakes. However, the trek is more challenging compared to Tarsar Marsar.
A moderate-difficult rating refers to marginally longer trekking days hovering at altitudes of around 12,000 feet on most of the days. You will be trekking for 7-8 km on average every day.
But the trek has easy exits and there are fewer technical sections.
The second factor in rating this trek under Moderate-difficult, would be the boulder sections on the trek. You come across boulder sections on almost all days of the trek. You need to have good legs and a sense of control when navigating these sections. Trekkers who are not confident in placing their footing will find it challenging to navigate swiftly through these boulder patches.
The last point would be the long descent on the last day of the trek. There are a few patches of the descent where you need to be careful. Having a trekking pole and knee cap (for those with knee niggles) helps.
Safety on the Bodpathri Trek
Is the Bodpathri Trek Safe? The answer would be - Yes. Trekking to Bodpathri is safe even though it lies in the remote trails of the Budgam district of Jammu & Kashmir, away from civilization. Most of the time it's just your group trekking on your own. If there are any emergencies, it is easy to reach down which is just about a day’s trek with the descent.
Coming back to the trail, being mentally prepared for the trek is as important as being physically prepared to stay safe. For this, it is crucial to have a clear mental picture of the trek. Quickly, here it is:
| Trek in a nutshell: On the Bodpathri Trek you go up to an altitude of 13,060 ft. The days are divided so that the altitude gain is not too much. However, you could be hit by AMS on any of these days. At Indiahikes, we believe that as long as you are well-informed and well-prepared, you can easily survive at high altitudes.
To do this effectively, let’s break down and examine various aspects of the Bodpathri Trek from the perspective of safety:
What you must know about AMS
Safety while trekking in Jammu & Kashmir
Exit points on the Bodpathri Trek
The closest hospital to the Bodpathri Trek
The mountains are well shielded from even the worst of the unrest. While the trekking trail is safe during times of unrest, getting to the base camp or onto the trail might get difficult.
So, here are certain pointers to keep in mind when you are travelling in Kashmir:
- If you’re staying overnight at Srinagar, stay in touristy areas like Dal Lake or Lal Chowk.
- Blend in with the crowd in terms of dressing and behaviour.
- Avoid going to downtown areas. Stick to tourist spaces as they tend to be safer and well-protected during times of unrest
- Don’t panic if there is a curfew. Keep indoors and wait for it to pass.
- If you need to move to the basecamp on days of unrest, our Indiahikes pickups happen in the early hours before dawn.
When you are exposed to trekking at high altitudes, your body might not be well-rested or acclimated to the altitude. There are always risks of AMS even for the fittest and the most experienced trekkers. You must pay close attention to your body and the symptoms on a high-altitude trek. Stay alert for any signs of altitude sickness.
Attend to your uneasiness and take curative measures. Check your vitals before you start the trek - Your BP reading, and oxygen saturation levels at every campsite at least twice. If you are feeling uneasy, you can even go on a curative course of Diamox. Hydration and rest are very important as well. If you do not feel normal after a few hours or overnight, do not proceed further on the trek.
To help you understand AMS better, we've put together a complete guide about it. This is a series of videos you must watch before you get onto any high-altitude trek:
- What Is Altitude sickness? A Quick Look At AMS, HAPE And HACE
- How To Treat Altitude Sickness – AMS, HAPE, & HACE
- How To Prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), HAPE and HACE
- 3 Life Saving Drugs You MUST Have To Tackle Altitude Sickness – AMS, HAPE and HACE
If you experience any symptoms of AMS, even in the slightest, start taking steps to treat the sickness.
At Indiahikes, our Trek Leaders are trained and equipped to take care of any emergencies related to AMS.
Medical Emergencies can strike on any trek. The key to dealing with them lies in knowing your exit points. Know how to get out and reach the nearest hospital quickly.
On Bodpathri Meadows Trek, until Day 3 and until the campsite of Gurwanser, the exit point will be Doodhpathri. You have good network points in case of an emergency until this campsite. Airtel and Jio work at certain sections of the trail.
If you have crossed this campsite and are close to the delta region of Duriem or crossed Duriem, then the most feasible exit point will be towards Tosa Maidan which is not close by.
Closest Hospital To Bodpathri Meadows Trek
In case of a medical emergency, the closest hospital from Tosa Maidan is at Khag. You have a medical facility to handle emergencies.
If you are getting down from Doodhpathri, then X is the location where you will find medical help.
For any major emergencies, Srinagar is the best place for getting any treatment.
In case of a medical emergency, the closest hospital from Tosa Maidan is at Khag. You have a medical facility to handle emergencies.
If you are getting down from Doodhpathri, then X is the location where you will find medical help.
For any major emergencies, Srinagar is the best place for getting any treatment.
The best time to be on this trek is from the beginning of July to the middle of September. That’s the only time you can trek here. In all the other seasons, Jammu & Kashmir trails are buried under snow.
This season brings up many questions in the mind of a trekker. Primarily because it is monsoon in the rest of the country. Will it rain heavily on the trek? Well, most trails in Uttarakhand are shut during this time. But things are different in Jammu & Kashmir.
If you observe the map, you see the Pir Panjal range separating Jammu & Kashmir from the rest of the Indian subcontinent. This range is 288 km long and 40-50 km wide. It blocks most rain clouds from crossing over into the Kashmir Valley.
This divide determines the nature of precipitation and the vegetation in this rainshadow area. All of which stand very different from the rest of the country.
July to September happens to be peak summer transitioning to Autumn and the best time to trek in Jammu & Kashmir. The landscape comes alive during this window. And even though the window is tight, you notice the landscape changing colour and texture as the months proceed.
Bodpathri in early July
Day time temperature: Between 15 °C and 20 °C | Night time temperature : Between 2 °C and 7 °C
Presence of snow: Snow remains at higher altitudes. But the trek is more or less accessible. As the snow melts, colourful flowers start appearing on the meadows. You see flowers throughout the Jammu & Kashmir trekking season. But the colours of these flowers vary based on the month. The landscape has lush green meadows punctuated with alpine lakes that are still frozen in parts.
No. of warm layers required: 3-4 warm layers
This is peak summer in Jammu & Kashmir. The upper reaches of the trek start crawling out of the snow blanket in July. It’s warm and you experience light evening showers during this month.
As the snow melts, colourful flowers start appearing on the meadows. You see flowers throughout the Jammu & Kashmir trekking season. But the colours of these flowers vary based on the month.
The landscape has lush green meadows punctuated with alpine lakes that are still frozen in parts.
Bodpathri from mid-July to third week of August
Day time temperature: Between 15 °C and 20 °C | Night time temperature : Between 4 °C and 8 °C
Presence of snow: Most snow has melted by now. Frozen chunks of ice in most lakes on the trail would have melted.
No. of warm layers required: 3-4 warm layers
After mid-July, a robust trekking season begins on the Bodpathri trek. Expect bright sunny mornings with some evening showers. Rains are still mild compared to rains in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
The trail is carpeted with green meadows everywhere. The best part is, that these meadows are densely dotted with wildflowers!
Protip: You might experience evening showers on certain days during this time of the year. This is why it is a good practice to cross the pass early in the day and reach the next campsite by 4 PM.
Bodpathri from Aug-end to second week of September
Day time temperature: Between 14 °C and 18 °C | Night time temperature : Between 0 °C and 5 °C
Presence of snow: You can expect snowfall during the second week of September
No. of warm layers required: 4 warm layers
After the end of August, cold sets in. Rains reduce giving way to one of the best times to do the trek. The clouds part during this time of the year and you witness brilliant blue skies. Their reflection deepens the blue of the alpine lakes.
Another stark change that happens in early September is the change in the colour of the meadows. The grass no longer retains the soft, fresh green tinge. The flowers change. And yet, there’s a beauty to this change of tone.
We usually stop our trek after the second week of September. It turns colder and chances of snowfall increase. That raises the difficulty of the trek and it's no longer possible to cross the pass. The trail on the other side becomes inaccessible.
It is great to see you going on the Bodpathri Trek. While it is a great trek to do, you need to get your travel plan worked out perfectly.
The trek of Bodpathri starts from Doodhpathri, a touristy destination and one of the lesser-known hill stations of Kashmir. To reach Doodhpathri, the best way to reach will be to use a private vehicle.
If you are taking the pickup through Indiahikes, then your Experience Coordinator will share the details a week before your trek date. The cost from Srinagar to Doodhpathri comes to Rs. 500 per person
If you are trekking on your own, then you can either arrange for this vehicle prior from Srinagar or have your vehicle reach Doodhpathri.
Unfortunately, you do not have enough public transport to reach Doodhpathri on your own. The hill town is slightly isolated and the connecting transport is not reliable.
The journey to Doodhpathri can be divided into two parts. The first part is reaching Budgam and the second leg of your trip will be from Budgam and reaching the base town.
The first section of the drive takes you through Srinagar city and the city outskirts. The drive is about an hour away. Later once you cross the city, you have the Kashmir valley opening up. Along with the cultivations, the sight of the meadows sprawling in a few sections is a visual treat.
Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do next. Use this guide and nothing else to plan your travel.
1. Here’s a quick view of how to plan your travel
Day 0: Book your air ticket to Srinagar. If you reach in the morning, you can think about travelling to Naranag on the same day instead of staying at Srinagar. Click here for more explanation.
Note: Some stay options if you have an extra day at Srinagar: Hotel Chinar Inn , Royal Athena Houseboats and Alhamra Retreats.
Day 8: Book a return flight ticket from Srinagar. Do not book plane tickets to your hometown from Srinagar on Day 7.
Note:
- While getting to Srinagar, we recommend you arrive a day earlier and stay at Srinagar. Staying at Srinagar gives you a well-deserved rest for the night. Plus some bonus sightseeing.
- On your return, your trek ends at Tosa Maidan. We again arrange for transport for trekkers to reach Srinagar. You reach Srinagar between 5 and 6 pm.
2. Planning your onward flight/train booking
If you are travelling from Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Mumbai or any other city, book your air tickets for Day Zero, which is the day before Day 1 on the itinerary. If your trek start day is 24 July, book your air tickets for 23 July to either Srinagar.
There are two options.
Option 1: Fly directly to Srinagar
We recommend this. It gives you an added rest day at Srinagar
Option 2: Taking a train/bus to Jammu and reach Srinagar
(This option is not recommended during the pandemic. There are many roadblocks en route from Jammu to Srinagar that take as long as 24 hours to open. If you opt to travel via Jammu, keep at least 2 days in buffer)
If you are taking a bus to Jammu, then you have multiple options to take. There are two gates outside Jammu ISBT. You will get shared cabs from both these gates.
If you are reaching the Railway Station, the share cabs to Srinagar will cost between Rs 700 to Rs 1000.
Tip: Shared cabs are more from the Jammu ISBT compared to the Railway Station. You can travel from the Railway station to the bus stand. They call it “Bus Adda”. The cost of the bus will be Rs 10. The auto will charge around Rs 80 to 120.
Pro Tip: Go to Banihal and catch a train to Srinagar (Naogaon) (Reaching Banihal will be again via shared cabs, which cost Rs 500 to Rs 700)
Auto from Srinagar Railway station to Dal Gate, around Rs 150 to Rs 200
This is faster than coming by cabs directly to Srinagar.
3. Planning your return flight/train booking
Booking your return tickets requires some thought. First, always book your return ticket keeping in mind the buffer day.
The drive to Srinagar from Tosa Maidan is about 3.5 hours. You will reach Srinagar by 6.00 pm. There are no flights from Srinagar late in the evening. So you need to stay in Srinagar. Take the flight the next day. You can book your flight tickets at any time on Day 8. The buffer day must be included in your itinerary. Day 7 is your buffer day. So plan your return journey for Day 8.
Note: The security check at the Srinagar airport is quite stringent. You will have 3 rounds of security checks. Reach the airport at least a couple of hours before your departure time.
Option 1: Flying out from Srinagar
Book your flight out from Srinagar.
Option 2: Taking a train/bus from Jammu
If you are taking the option of moving from Jammu, you will find shared cabs from Srinagar TRC to Jammu. The share cabs to Jammu will cost between Rs 700 to Rs 1000
| Pro Tip: Go to Srinagar (Naogaon) and catch a train to Banihal
From Banihal, you can take a shared cab to the Jammu bus stand or Railway station. The cost will be around Rs 500 to Rs 700
4. Planning your hotel/stay
Hotel options at Srinagar
Hotel Chinar Inn is close to the pickup location. It has clean rooms with good amenities.
If you are trekking with Indiahikes, the cost will be Rs 1,500 per person for a stay and meals (dinner and breakfast). This is for a twin sharing room.
For a single person per room, it costs Rs 2,300 per person for a stay and meals (dinner and breakfast)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/5V3CgXgAyD2biGcK6
Contact Number: 7006608852 (Firoz)
Royal Athena Houseboats is another option. In addition to good amenities, it gives you the experience of staying in a boathouse.
If you are trekking with Indiahikes, the cost will be Rs 1,750 per person including dinner and breakfast.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Zq4BCzTGuBGzawP18
Contact Number: 7006608852 (Firoz)
Alhamra Retreats is a guest house with good facilities available.
If you are trekking with Indiahikes, the cost of a twin-sharing room is Rs 2,100. For an extra bed in the same room, it costs Rs 700 extra. Triple sharing is Rs 2,800 and four sharing is Rs 3,500.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6DCEkw7k7gDGwM449
Contact Number: +91 95965 56700 (Rehan Bakshi)
Given below is a list of all the gear you need for the Bodpathri trek:
If you don’t have certain items, you can rent high-quality gear like trekking shoes, backpacks, and jackets from the Crosstrek Rental Store by Indiahikes. It costs less than Rs 2000 for the entire trek. We highly recommend renting gear since it is both more affordable and environmentally friendly.
Additionally, you’ll notice a small medical kit in the list. While our trek leaders carry medical kits with 17 medicines including life-saving drugs, you must bring your personal medical kit as well. We are already equipped with BP machines, oximeters and canned oxygen, but your medical kit is for quick access to you, especially while travelling.
Most importantly, you must digitally upload and carry mandatory documents to get government permits for the trek - your ID card, medical certificate, and disclaimer certificate. Keep them in a plastic bag to keep them safe in your backpack. There are no printing or photocopy facilities at the basecamp.
1. Trekking Shoes:
Bodpathri Trek requires sturdy trekking shoes, has good grip, has ankle support and can handle snow. Here is a quick video on how to choose your trekking shoes.
| Buying Tip: The Trek series and MH series are good options by Decathlon. They are tried and tested. There isn’t any necessity to buy the higher-priced models. Here is a list of other budget shoes that trekkers are using.
| Rental: We have the Trek series and the MH series are available for rent from the Crosstrek Rental store. They are already broken into and in good condition. Rental shoes are not dirty or unhygienic. This is how they are kept clean. Rent here - MH 100 and Trek 100.
2. Backpack:
For a trek like Bodpathri, you need a 50-60 litre backpack. Make sure your backpack has good hip support, shoulder support and quick access pockets. Here is a guide on how to choose a backpack.
| Buying Tip: Wildcraft, Decathlon and Adventure Worx usually make good backpacks. While Wildcraft has more expensive ones, the other two brands have budget-friendly backpacks to choose from.
| Rental: The 55-litre backpack is available for rent from the Indiahikes store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Rent them if you don’t have a backpack. Rent here.
3. Clothes:
Wearing layers is the mantra in the mountains. Layers give you maximum protection from all elements. And when the weather changes in the mountains (as it happens every few hours), you take off or put on layers as required.
Base Layer:
3 T-Shirts:
Wear one T-shirt and carry two. Carry full-sleeve dry-fit T-shirts (preferably collared). These prevent your arms and neck from getting sunburnt. In the rarified air on the trek, especially at high altitudes, UV rays can burn you in no time.
Dry-fit T-shirts quickly dry your sweat, they are easy to wash and in case of a rainy day, they dry quicker. Round neck T-shirts are ok, but collared ones are better.
| Cotton or Synthetic? As Indians, we love cotton. Down in the plains when the heat is blistering 40°C it makes sense to wear cotton. But it takes a long time to dry when it gets wet. In the mountains, where it is cooler, synthetic is what you wear. They wick sweat rapidly and keep you dry. (But they do tend to smell quickly, so carry a roll-on deodorant with you.)
| Pro Tip: If you are extra susceptible to cold, you could get a set of thermal inners. In our experience, wearing two T-shirts over another works as a better thermal. And they save you weight and space since you’re already carrying them.
3 Insulation Layers:
The highest altitude you reach on this trek is 13,850 ft. At these altitudes, it can get cold even in the middle of summer. You will need at least 3 insulation layers for this trek.
You will need 2 light fleece layers and 1 full-sleeve light sweater. Do not get your grandma-stitched sweaters, which can be very heavy. You need sweaters and fleece jackets that can fold into compact rolls.
1 Outer Layer:
A padded jacket serves the purpose here. You don’t need a water-resistant material. But you need an outer padded jacket that keeps the wind and cold out. Ensure your padded jacket has a hood as well.
| Do you need a down/feather jacket? Not really. A regular padded/shell jacket will do. This video here will help you to learn more about the difference.
Note: Down/feather jackets are not available these days. Many jackets masquerade as down/feather jackets. They are essentially fine polyester-filled jackets. They mimic the function of a down jacket but are usually expensive.
| Rental: Padded jackets are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. They are custom-made for Indiahikes and trekkers find them terrific, even in winter. Rent here.
Two Trek Pants:
Two pairs of trek pants should suffice for this trek. Wear one pair and carry two just in case it rains. Trek pants with zippered cut-offs at the thighs are very suitable for treks. Also, choose quick-dry pants over cotton. They dry up soon in case of small stream crossings/rain.
| Buying Tip: Go for pants with zippered pockets. They come in handy to keep your phone, handkerchief, or pocket snacks.
| Track Pants or Trek Pants? Stretchable track pants make a good backup and can double up as your thermal bottoms. But track pants are not trekking pants -- so don’t use them as your main outerwear. Keep them only as a backup.
Mandatory Accessories, without these too you won’t be able to do the trek.
These accessories are mandatory. Don’t go to Bodpathri Trek without them. Trekkers generally put off purchasing / borrowing the accessories for the last minute. We suggest the opposite. Start gathering these accessories first.
1. Sunglasses:
Sunglasses are to prevent snow blindness. On a trek like Bodpathri Trek, Expect to walk on stretches of snow, especially during July. A small overexposure to direct sunlight on snow can lead to snow blindness (about a half hour’s exposure). That’s because fallen snow is like thousands of mirrors that reflect direct UV rays. So you need sunglasses with UV protection.
| Tip: Try getting sunglasses that wrap around instead of those that have openings on the side. Even peripheral UV ray exposure is not a good idea.
Wear sunglasses if the trekking day is bright and sunny (on open sections, meadows). On a snowy section, you must never take off your sunglasses until the section has been fully crossed.
| Rental: The polarised hiking sunglasses are available for rent from the Indiahikes store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Rent them if you don’t have a pair of sunglasses.Rent here.
| If you wear spectacles: If you wear spectacles, you can get oversized sunglasses that you wear over your regular glasses (available at Decathlon). If that is cumbersome, photochromic lenses work equally well. Here’s a quick guide on managing sunglasses with spectacles.
| Contact lens users: If you use contact lenses, you can use them on the trek too. The lens solution will not freeze. You will also not face any problems in changing your lens in your tent. Just carry enough cleaning solution with you to clean your fingers well. Wear your sunglasses over your contact lens.
2. Suncap:
A sun cap is mandatory. Trekking without a sun cap can lead to headaches, sunstrokes, quick dehydration and a sharp drop in trekking performance.
| Tip: In the mountains, the general rule is to keep your head covered at all times. During the day a sun cap protects you from the harsh rays of the sun (it is doubly stronger with naked UV rays). A sun cap keeps your body temperature in balance. In the evening/early morning, the reverse is true. Your head loses your body heat quickly. A woollen cap prevents heat from dissipating from your head.
| Buying Tip:The Crosstrek suncap is available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. It is custom-made for our Himalayan treks with UV Protection and an adjustable strap.Buy here.
| Pro Tip: Sun caps with flaps are a blessing for trekkers. They cut out almost all UV leaks. They prevent sunburns in every possible way. They are a lot more effective than sunscreen lotion. A wide-brimmed sports hat also helps to prevent sunburn in a big way.
3. Synthetic Hand Gloves:
On a trek like Bodpathri Trek, you are going to be handling snow quite a bit during July. You’ll need gloves to grip something or to steady yourself in snow. More than snow, the evening cold winds through the wide valley will give you the chill. You also want the gloves to keep you warm. Get synthetic hand gloves that have waterproofing on the outside and a padded lining on the inside. If you find the combination difficult to get (not likely), wear a tight-fitting fleece hand glove inside a synthetic hand glove. Hand gloves are mandatory on this trek.
| Buying tip:The Crosstrek Waterproof gloves are available at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks.Buy here.
4. Woollen Cap or Balaclava:
Ensure these cover your ears. In the cold mountains, you lose maximum heat from your head, not from your hands, feet, or the rest of your body. This is why you need to keep your head protected, especially when the sun is down. Early mornings, late evenings, and a cold trekking day are when you must use your woollen cap.
Your ears are sensitive too, so a woollen head cap that covers your ears is essential. A balaclava is a modern version of the woollen cap. It covers your ears, neck and parts of your face as well. Do not get a woollen cap that only covers your head.
| Buying Tip:The Crosstrek Fleece cap and the Crosstrek neck warmer are available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. Buy here -Crosstrek Fleece CapandCrosstrek Neck Warmer.
5. Socks (3 pairs):
Apart from two sports socks, take a pair of woollen socks. Sports socks give you cushioning plus warmth. Again the mantra is to wear synthetic socks or at least a synthetic blend. Cotton socks soak in water and sweat. They are very hard to dry. As for woollen socks, they help you to keep warm and snug at the night. If you cannot get woollen socks, wearing two sports socks serves the purpose as well.
| Buying Tip: Waterproof socks are available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks.Buy here.
6. Headlamp:
Trekkers are often confused about whether they need to get a headlamp or a handheld torch. You need to get a headlamp because it leaves your hands free to do other activities. On the Bodpathri Trek, you’ll need your hands free to wash dishes, pitch tents and hold your trek poles.
| Buying Tip: Ensure your headlamp covers a wider area and is not too focused as a single beam. On a trek, your headlamp must help you see around you as much as ahead of you.
| Rental: Headlamps are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
7. Trekking Poles (a pair):
Trekking poles give you stability and balance. They reduce your energy consumption by almost 40%. On the Bodpathri Trek, there are steep ascents and descents. A pair of trekking poles will make the difference between a comfortable and a strenuous trek. In India, we tend to use a single trekking pole. However, two trekking poles give you greater stability and balance. They also increase your walking pace.
| Rental: Imported side-locking trekking poles are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
8. Rainwear:
On a trek, the weather can change quickly. A bright sunny day can turn into a downpour in a matter of minutes. Carry a poncho or a rain jacket to tackle this. A poncho is a big rain cover with openings for your arms and your head. It is extremely effective because it covers both you and your backpack. It is extremely light and weighs next to nothing.
Rain jackets are more streamlined and less cumbersome but weigh more. Rain pants are not required. Dry fit trek pants dry quickly even if soaking wet.
| Rental: High-grade ponchos are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
9. Rain Cover for your Backpack:
Backpacks are your life. You carry all your dry clothes and your warm gear in your backpack. Your backpack must stay dry at all times. Modern backpacks usually come with built-in rain-covers. If your backpack does not have a rain cover, ensure you get a rain cover by either (a) buying a rain cover or (b) or cutting a large plastic sheet to the size of your backpack. You can roll the plastic sheet around your backpack and keep it in place with a string or elastic.
| Rental Tip: Rain covers are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
| Pro Tip: It's good practice to compartmentalise your clothes, accessories and other things in plastic covers inside your backpack. That way, even if it rains and your backpack gets wet, your things are water-proof inside the backpack.
10. Daypack (20-30 litres, optional):
In your daypack, you carry essentials like water bottles, rainwear, emergency medicines, a headlamp, some snacks and a warm layer. Your main backpack that carries most of your equipment is accessible only at the campsites.
A day pack is a smaller backpack that is usually of 20-30 ltr capacity. Laptop bags are not day packs. Do not get them.
Other mandatory requirements
1. A Toilet Kit:
Keep your toilet kit light. Carry just the basics -- toothbrush, toothpaste, small soap, toilet tissue roll, a small moisturiser, lip balm, and a roll-on deodorant. You will not be able to have a bath on the trek, so don’t overload on soaps and shampoos.
| Pro tip: Carry miniature-sized items. You will not need more than that. If you’re travelling in a group, share one toothpaste for all.
Avoid getting large toilet rolls. The smallest size roll is more than enough for a trek like Bodpathri Trek
| For women: If you are likely to have your periods on your trek date, don’t worry about it. You can use your pads, tampons, or menstrual cups on the trek. There will be toilet tents where you can get changed. Make sure you carry ziplock bags to bring back your menstrual waste. Don’t leave behind any waste in the mountains. Watch this video to learn how to dispose of your sanitary waste.
2. Cutlery:
Carry a lunch box, a coffee mug, and a spoon. Your lunch box must be leakproof. You are expected to wash your cutlery. Trekkers often expect Indiahikes to wash their cutlery. When you allow Indiahikes to wash your cutlery, your cutlery becomes part of a mass washing system. You immediately invite germs, and bacteria to settle on your cutlery. The incidence of stomach disorders rises exponentially.
| Rental Tip 1: Tiffin boxes can be rented at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
| Buying Tip: The 'Trekker for Life - All purpose mug' is available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. Buy here.
| Pro tip: Carry stainless steel cutlery. Avoid fancy high-grade plastic cutlery. Stainless steel cutlery is infinitely easier to wash in cold water. Grease is easier to remove and hygiene is at its highest. Watch this video on why steel cutlery is better than plastic.
| Two 1 litre bottles or a 2-litre hydration pack: Bodpathri trek has many hours of trekking every day (approximately 6 hours). You need to carry two one-litre water bottles to keep yourself hydrated over the distance. If you are used to a hydration pack, then that is ok too. If one of the two bottles is a lightweight thermos, then that helps you to store warm water on a really cold day or for late evenings and early mornings.
| Rental Tip 2: You could rent lightweight thermos flasks from the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
| Rental Tip 3: Water bottles can be rented at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
3. Plastic Covers:
Carry 3-4 old plastic covers to keep your used clothes. You could use them even for wet clothes. Re-use old plastic bags for this and do not buy new ones.
PRO TIPS
Keep essential documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet. You need to show your ID card even while trekking at a couple of army check-posts.
These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek. Please keep these documents ready a month prior to your trek.
- Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. Either having an Aadhar card or passport will do. The forest department requires this for your identification.
- Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record. The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate
- Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate
Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.
Consultation fee: Rs 300
Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medication unless you have consulted your trek leader.
- Diamox (1 Strip): Be on a course of a half tablet of Diamox starting from Delhi every 12 hours (125 mg). Being on a preventive course of Diamox dramatically reduces the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness on the Bodpathri Trek.
- Dexamethasone (1 Strip): This is part of the Live Saving Drugs kit. Do not take this on your own. Your trek leader will inform you in case the need arises.
- Nifedipine (5 tablets): Again, part of the Live Saving Drugs kit. Do not take this on your own. Your trek leader will inform you in case the need arises.
- Dolo 650 (5 tablets): This is a paracetamol. It helps to tackle fever and mild pain.
- Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this, especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.
- Combiflam (5 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol.
- Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your trek leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS.
- ORS (6 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually the mid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking. Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.
- Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known knee pain issues.
Our trek leaders carry a high-altitude medical kit with them which also consist of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency, our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines.
Pro Tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek, please donate unused medication to your trek leader. Some medicines get distributed to villages on the trek, and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.
We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness target:
To do this trek comfortably, you must be able to cover 5 km in under 32 minutes. This is the minimum fitness required for this trek.
How to achieve this fitness?
- Start jogging at least 4 days a week
- If you cannot run 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.
- Once you’re able to run 5 km, increase your pace day by day.
- Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 32 mins.
- You must be able to run 5 km in 32 mins consistently for at least 2 weeks before the trek.
This trek requires at least 6-8 weeks of preparation. The longer, the better. So plan your trek soon and start preparing.
Here's a complete guide to get you trek fit.
Strength training tips:
How to get Fitness Approval from the Indiahikes team:
Every trekker needs fitness approval from the Indiahikes team 20 days before the trek date. Without this, you will not be allowed on the trek.
What to upload?
- A minimum of 3 screenshots of your runs/jogs/walks/cycling
- Monthly summary of your routine
Why fitness matters:
Every high-altitude trek comes with a set of challenges. Steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, snow walks, stream crossings, pass crossings, and summit climb. Even the easiest of treks have some of these challenges if not all of them. Without fitness, trekkers struggle, get injured easily, lag behind, or simply fail to complete the trek.
At Indiahikes, we take pride in the fact that our trekkers are among the fittest in the country. Those who do not meet the fitness requirements are often sent back. Our philosophy is that trekking and fitness go hand in hand. Without fitness, there’s no trekking.
On the Bodpathri Trek, you'll come across 6 pristine alpine lakes. They are all turquoise blue. You’ll get to witness all these lakes on Day 4 and Day 5 – All in 2 days!
- Pamsar Lake
- Lokutsar Lake
- Bodsar Lake
- Navkansar I
- Navkansar II
- Damamsar Lake
The Bodpathri Trek, as the name suggests, takes you through 5 valleys of Ashtaar, Guruwansar, Pamsar Valley, Bodsar Valley & Gadtar.
The vast meadows, pine forests, glades, sweeping landscapes and stunning snow-capped peaks are all bundled together into the valleys of this trek! You get to witness this 5 times, all on different days!
Truly an experience for the ages.
On the Bodpathri Trek, you cover around 47 km in 5 days (6 days including the drive to and from the trek). The altitude ranges from 6,175 ft in Srinagar all the way to Pamsar Lake at 13,060 ft. You’ll trek long distances around 8 km on average every day.
The Bodpathri Trek is safe. It is in the remote regions of Kashmir, away from the hotbed of turmoil. It is towards the more touristy Srinagar region. So the trekking trail itself is completely safe.
However, political unrest, curfews and clampdowns have occurred in the past during our trekking season. We have tackled these efficiently, never compromising on the safety of trekkers. We travel during non-curfew hours and take measures to safely pick up or drop trekkers at the airport.
Sometimes, we call off treks if the situation is too serious (for instance when Burhan Wani was shot and the political situation in Kashmir was out of control). Calling off a trek is a worst-case scenario and has not occurred too many times in the past.
Keep in mind that if we are running the Bodpathri Trek, you can assume that it is safe. We would not compromise on anyone’s safety and run it during dangerous times.
Bodpathri Trek is classified as Moderate-Difficult. The main reasons are longer trekking days, boulder sections on the trek and steep descent on the last day.
You trek on an average of 7-8 km everyday. There are boulder sections to navigate on almost all days of the trek. This can be really taxing on your legs. You need to have a good fitness level. Lastly, there is a long and steep descent on the last of the trek. These are what make Bodpathri a Moderate-Difficult level trek.
A Himalayan trek like Bodpathri requires a really good fitness level. The trek has long climbs and steep descents daily. As a measure of your fitness, we need you to:
Run at least 5 km in 32 minutes before your trek. Consistency of your workout also matters, so aim to jog 25 km a week or 100 km in a month. It's a minimum mandatory requirement if you wish to trek with us.
OR
Alternatively, cycle for at least 25 km in 60 minutes. Aim to cycle 125 km a week or 500 km in a month. However, running is better suited for your trek preparation.
After you register, you will be sent a questionnaire about your trekking experience and medical history. Additionally, you must attach a screenshot of a 5 km run under 35 mins only to get approved for the trek.
High-altitude trekking experience of above 14,000 ft or at least moderate-difficult trek experience is a preferred requirement.
Once you get confirmed for your trek, we will diligently follow up on your fitness routine. Our team will also assist in putting you through a fitness plan. It will ultimately help you have a safe trek experience.
Yes, you can!
If you are above the age of 58 years, you’ll need to submit a Treadmill Test (not older than 12 months) within a week of completing your trek registration. Apart from this, you should also be able to jog 5 km in 45 minutes.
You will get good Airtel & Jio connectivity all the way to Gurwansar Valley on Day 4. After that, the network is sketchy and almost non-existent. Connectivity will come back at Tosamaidan.
Note: Prepaid SIM cards do not work in Kashmir.
As for electricity, Srinagar is the last place for electricity. You won’t have access to electricity or charging points anywhere during the trek.
Since the trek ends at Tosa maidan, you cannot leave anything at the base of Doodhpathri. Also, Doodhpatri doesn’t have a fixed basecamp. So, you’ll be camping at the base camp.
However, you can leave behind your extra luggage at Srinagar. It costs Rs 200 per luggage. You can keep up to 10 kg.
(The luggage could be a backpack/suitcase/duffel bag or anything similar.).
Ensure you do not keep any valuables. Laptops, mobile phones, cash or any important items shouldn’t be kept here.
Having more footprint through porters, mules or horses on any trail isn’t good for the ecosystem. This is why, at Indiahikes, we do not encourage offloading. A trekker carries his/her backpack in the true spirit of trekking.
But if — due to a medical condition — you are unable to carry your backpack, you may offload your backpack.
The cost of offloading for the entire trek on the Bodpathri Trek is Rs 3,780.
Bodpathri Trek Videos
Photo Gallery
Trekkers Stories And Experiences With Indiahikes
Arun Narayanaswamy
August 2022
Harshal Jain
July 2023
Saurabh Samant
August 2023
Anup Hegde
July 2023
Arun Chinnachamy
July 2023
Krishna Khajanchi
July 2022
Bhawna Jain
July 2022
Ashna D
July 2022
Nigesh Baladhandapani
July 2022
Vijay Sharma
July 2022
K N Usha Pai
July 2022
Satyam Goel
July 2022
Daniel Lim
July 2022, National University of Singapore
Zhiming Lim
July 2022, National University of Singapore
Dr Shristi Navlani
July 2022
Arun Narayanaswamy
August 2022
Harshal Jain
July 2023
Saurabh Samant
August 2023
Anup Hegde
July 2023
Expert Speak
Nitesh Kumar, Senior Trek Leader
Nitesh Kumar, Senior Trek Leader
Nitesh is one of the Senior-most Trek Leaders at Indiahikes. He has done over 27 treks in the Himalayas, and over 70 treks all over India. He is the mastermind behind the design of the Bodpathri Trek itinerary. He explored this trek all in 3 days! Read what he has to say about the Bodpathri Trek here.
What I Like About the Bodpathri Trek
What I Like About the Bodpathri Trek
Nitesh Kumar, Senior Trek Leader
Nitesh is one of the Senior-most Trek Leaders at Indiahikes. He has done over 27 treks in the Himalayas, and over 70 treks all over India. He is the mastermind behind the design of the Bodpathri Trek itinerary. He explored this trek all in 3 days! Read what he has to say about the Bodpathri Trek here.
1. Stunning Meadows of Doodhpathri and Tosamaidan
The untouched meadows on the Bodpathri trek will leave you speechless. Meadow and trekking in Kashmir go usually hand in hand. However, on the Bodpathri Trek, the meadows are endless.
You will see herds of sheep and horses grazing in these meadows with tranquillity. Do not be surprised to see a few shepherd huts spread across this vast landscape.
During the months of the monsoon, these meadows will be draped with flowers of many colours.
Right from Day 1 to the end of the trek, different aspects of the meadows are a constant company. Meadows are your ally throughout the entire journey from Doodhpathi to Tosa Maidan.
The untouched meadows on the Bodpathri trek. Picture by Trek leader Nitesh Kumar
2. The Lakes of Pir Panjal Valley
When we talk about trekking, the lakes of Kashmir are always something to look out for. The alpine lakes in the Pir Panjal valley are another treat for trekkers.
On this trek, you don’t have just one or two. The trek has 6 alpine lakes which trekkers can trek to, camp nearby and have an experience that anybody dreams about.
The colours on the lakes of the Bodpathri Meadows Trek are something to experience and witness. Whatever photos or videos you see online, the real beauty cannot be captured. However, the sight of these lakes is hidden inside the valley until Day 4 of your trek.
Bodsar Lake is the biggest lake on the trek. Picture by Nitesh Kumar.
3. The Grandness and thrill of crossing three valleys
What makes Bodpathri Meadows a grand trek is a thrill of crossing three different valleys. You trek through undulating meadows and valleys as much as the eyes can see. The kid in you comes out alive when hopping between boulders, crossing streams or walking on long stretches of rolling meadows.
Particularly at the Bodpathri Meadows trek, you have the cold waters to navigate. Trekkers will have a sense of excitement before and after crossing the stream.
When going from one valley to another, you cross many ridges, undulating meadows, river crossings, and boulders and even observe the spectacular delta formation.
It's a vast expanse of undulating meadows and valleys to trek through. Picture by Nitesh Kumar.
4. Campsites and the experience of camping on the Green Carpets
On the trek of Bodpathri Meadows, you will be camping on different terrains. You get an opportunity to camp in the meadows, next to a river, a delta, and a lake.
Getting to experience camping in these such varieties of the landscape is very unique and something you don’t get to experience on other treks. This experience itself is something worth going on the trek.
Camping on the lush meadows of Kashmir is an exquisite experience. Picture by Nitesh Kumar.
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