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Kisar Sar
Kisar Sar, a stunning alpine lake perched high above the serene village of Khandyal in the heart of Gurez Valley. Untouched by mainstream tourism and hidden deep in the mountains, this trek is a complete sensory journey through meadows, forests, streams, and rocky slopes – culminating at a pristine lake cradled in the lap of snowy peaks.
Where is Kisar Sar?
Kisar Sar Lake is located at an altitude of 3,949 meters above sea level, sitting on top of the mountain adjacent to Khandyal Village in Gurez Valley. The trek starts from the Dawar Viewpoint, situated at 2,571 meters, and covers a distance of 11 km one way, with a total elevation gain of 1,378 meters.
The Journey to Kisar Sar
The trek to Kisar Sar is not just a hike, it’s an experience that builds up in beauty as you ascend. The terrain is diverse and challenging, moving through:
Rocky forest trails
Open meadows
Rolling grasslands
Giant boulders and steep ascents
The trail takes you through Daniril and Shiril, which are beautiful shepherd camps and camping grounds, popular with local graziers. These elevated grasslands provide perfect spots for rest and offer incredible views of the Gurez Valley.
Halfway through the trek, you reach a key junction known as the midpoint, situated at 3,216 meters. This spot is a great place to pause, hydrate, and soak in the panoramic views of the valley below before pushing ahead to the final stretch.
Kisar Naala
All along the trail, you are accompanied by Kisar Naala, a gushing stream that originates from the Kisar Sar Lake itself. The soothing sound of flowing water, the aroma of pine trees, and the bright splash of wildflowers create a surreal environment. It’s as if nature is guiding you every step of the way.
Reaching Kisar Sar Lake
As you reach the lake, you are rewarded with a breathtaking sight: a vast, crystal-clear lake surrounded by snowy ridges, sparse alpine vegetation, giant rocks, and chilling winds. The tranquility and raw beauty of this place are unmatched.
Due to its high altitude and extreme cold, camping at the lake is not advisable. Most trekkers camp at the lower reaches such as Daniril or Shiril, where the temperatures are more forgiving.
Trek Difficulty & Tips
The terrain of the Kisar Sar trek is moderate for those with prior trekking experience, involving a mix of forest trails, meadows, rocky slopes, and steep ascents. However, it can be challenging for beginners or those not accustomed to high-altitude treks.
To make the journey easier and more enjoyable, it’s advisable to camp overnight at the base camp near Daniril or Shiril, the mid-elevation grasslands, and start the final ascent to the lake early the next morning. This not only helps with acclimatization but also allows you to experience the trek without rushing, with more time to enjoy the landscape at every step.
Medicinal Herbs & Wild Vegetables
The Kisar Sar region is also known for its rich flora, especially medicinal herbs and wild vegetables that grow naturally in these highlands. Some of the well-known herbs include:
Gow Zaban
Koh-Momia
Doopa
Bankakri
Patris
Jogi Badshah
In spring and early summer, wild vegetables like Gurhan and Sheeluh are harvested, while in August, the much-loved Gucchi (wild mushroom) makes its appearance. These are usually sautéed in ghee or oil and served with traditional flatbreads.
Accessibility & Road Connectivity
Currently, road connectivity towards Kisar Sar is limited, with only 3 km of the road project completed so far. The remaining journey must be done on foot.
However, once the project is finished, it is expected to open up this hidden gem to a larger audience, and Gurez might become a household name for trekkers and nature lovers alike.
Looking to explore the soul of Kashmir beyond the usual tourist spots? Join Wildfloc’s offbeat treks across alpine meadows, hidden lakes, and remote mountain villages. Our curated trekking experiences take you deep into the untouched beauty of Kashmir, where every trail tells a story.