Thirteen Omani youth decided to hike and they chose Kashmir. They chose the toughest route to explore, which is called the Great Lakes.
They coordinated with Oman Hikes Travel Company and once in Kashmir, an Indian company coordinated the rest of the journey.
Almost 10 days of the trip saw seven days of hiking took the youngsters through some of the most beautiful spots on earth, according to Nasser al Harrassi, one of the 13 hikers.
One has to go through a medical fitness test to take this journey.
“We went up to 4,200 meters. So an individual has to be prepared because, by the time you reach 3000 meters, you can feel the difference in the oxygen level that is why it is important to be physically fit,” Nasser said.
They landed in Srinagar and experienced the city before they started the unique experience of the grandeur of the Himalayas.
“We reached places that are accessed by hiking. The area is only open for three months as the rest of the year it is too snowy. What I liked the most of course was the different views. The lakes were amazing. Hiking every day with an average that was between 10 to 15 km and living in tents was an experience on its own. We had Kashmiri guides and their mules carried everything we needed,” he pointed out.
This is how he would like to describe the journey, “An enchanting journey through the lakes of Kashmir, the captivating trail of beauty. Vivid colours blend with breathtaking landscapes as crystal-clear waters meet the glimmering sunlight.
You wander amidst misty mountains and savour the serenity of the lakes.
Unforgettable moments in a mesmerizing world where you discover the depth of your soul and draw inspiration for new ideas.”
He was impressed with the determination and dedication of trekkers from across the globe, “We saw other trekkers too and we came across a group from Korea and their youngest team member was 50 years old. It just showed how fit they were. On the other hand, some groups could not complete the journey.”
They had to hike 80 km to reach their destination, which was at a height of 4,200 meters.
According to Trekkup India, “You must take care of your body, be healthy, and look good. You can train yourself as a trekker by exercising regularly at the gym, running on an incline, biking, cross-training, and stretching every day. Mental fitness is equally important. The trek starts approximately three km from Sonamarg on Srinagar Road. There are very few Shabbas along the way. Trekkers should eat at the Naranag stop, as the last trace of a dwelling spot will be at Naranag.”
Day 1:- Arrive in Sonamarg
Day 02: Sonamarg (7.800ft) to Nichnai (11.1500ft), via Shekdur
Day 03: Nichnai (1,500ft) to Vishansar Lake (12,000.ft).
Day 4: Day of Acclimatization and Rest/Buffer Day at Vishansar
Day 05: Vishansar (12000ft) to Gadsar (12000ft), via Kishansar lake & Gadsar Pass (13,750ft).
Day 06: Gadsar (12000ft) to Satsar (12000ft).
Day 07: Satsar (12,500ft) to Gangabal Twin Lakes (11,500ft).
Day 08: Gangabal (11,500ft) to Naranag (7.450ft). Drive to Srinagar
During this trekking route, one can enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the four lakes. The months to visit are June, July and August; although it is monsoon time in India and the mountains do get their share of rains it is also the time for some of the valleys to burst into flowers. Regular trekkers also point out that flowers change according to seasons.
“From Oman, we took our hiking equipment. I go running every day so it was fine for me. Some of our team members got tired when there was a lack of oxygen.”
What was the learning experience?
It was a reset of the mind - away from technology, having natural food, drinking water from the lakes. Sometimes we missed the sun as the clouds were heavy and it was cold.”
Seeing the elderly people in the mountains being healthy and fit, made me realise that healthy life is the way to live, said Nasser, adding it is better than city life. Everyone can achieve this.
If we cannot do this route we must reconsider our daily routine.
There the lifestyle makes you fit. We could see the Kashmiris swimming in the lakes.
The journey also gave the youngsters to enjoy traditional Kashmiri cuisine and ingredients as the food was prepared fresh at each campsite.
The beauty is that because of the altitude, there are no mosquitoes or snakes.
Just fresh air, water and peace of mind.
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