Alpather Lakegulmarg
Photographic Water Body
Overview
The picturesque water body is 13 kms from Gulmarg, on the foothills of the Apharwat Peaks. It is embraced by rocky mountains and endless meadows.
What To Expect?
Witness a breathtaking high-altitude lake that remains frozen until mid-June. You can expect to see floating ice chunks even in summer, set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and wildflowers. The journey involves a moderate 3 km trek from the Gondola Phase 2 station, offering unparalleled views of the Pir Panjal range.
Tips
- Ensure you are fully acclimatized to the altitude before attempting the trek to the lake.
- Wear sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support as the trail is rocky and involves crossing boulders.
- Carry enough water and energy snacks as there are absolutely no shops or facilities at the lake.
- Hire a local guide if you are not an experienced hiker, as the mountain weather can change rapidly and trails can become foggy.
- Apply high-SPF sunscreen; at this altitude, the sun's reflection off the ice or rocks can cause severe sunburn.
- Start your descent latest by 3:00 PM to ensure you catch the last Gondola ride down to Gulmarg.
Exploring Alpather Lake
More About Alpather Lake
The picturesque water body is located 13 kms from Gulmarg, nestled at an altitude of approximately 4,390 metres on the foothills of the Apharwat Peaks. It is embraced by rocky mountains and endless meadows, making it one of the most photographic locations in Kashmir.
The lake is unique because it stays frozen for most part of the year. In early summer, the ice starts to melt, creating a dramatic landscape of deep blue water with large slabs of white ice floating on top. It is a haven for trekkers and landscape photographers who wish to see the raw, untouched beauty of the Himalayas.
Exploring a destination...
The joy of travel comes in exploring new things. Planting your feet somewhere you’ve never been before brings with it the rush of discovery and the joy of pushing back on the boundaries of your world.
Discover a new city through a food tour. Food tour’s are the easiest way to take a tour, learn about the local delicacies, and the best of all, get great tips that aren’t just “local” tips for tourists, but sometimes, lessons for a lifetime too.
Use Public Transportation. When you are in a new city, you can possibly see places and people that you wouldn’t normally see when simply walking to the places that checks your list. Some buses or rails take you to parts of the city you wouldn’t get to see otherwise. Whilst using public transportation, just ensure that you are following the local norms and do remember to watch the locals!
Find a local festival. Go beyond what other tourists might do while visiting a place. Look for the unique things you would want to do. Use social media or the local tourism website to find out what’s going on locally. You may have to move out of the center of the city to do some of the less popular but more unique things, so just keep that in mind!
How to reach Alpather Lake
The most popular way to reach is to take the Gulmarg Gondola to Phase 2 (Apharwat Peak) and then undertake a 3 km (approx. 1.5 hour) trek. Alternatively, you can hire a pony from the Gulmarg town center for a longer, more scenic climb.
Tips for Visiting Alpather Lake, gulmarg
- Ensure you are fully acclimatized to the altitude before attempting the trek to the lake.
- Wear sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support as the trail is rocky and involves crossing boulders.
- Carry enough water and energy snacks as there are absolutely no shops or facilities at the lake.
- Hire a local guide if you are not an experienced hiker, as the mountain weather can change rapidly and trails can become foggy.
- Apply high-SPF sunscreen; at this altitude, the sun's reflection off the ice or rocks can cause severe sunburn.
- Start your descent latest by 3:00 PM to ensure you catch the last Gondola ride down to Gulmarg.
