Overview
The Tosamaidan Trek is an offbeat Himalayan adventure that takes you through lush meadows, serene lakes, and dense pine forests in the lesser-explored Tosamaidan Valley. Once a historic Mughal route and later a firing range, this trek now offers trekkers solitude, untouched landscapes, and encounters with nomadic Gujjar communities. Perfect for those seeking tranquility away from crowded trails, Tosamaidan blends natural beauty with a slice of Kashmir’s pastoral life.
Detailed Day-Wise Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar → Transfer to Tosamaidan Base Camp (2,800m) :
- Arrive in Srinagar; drive to Tosamaidan (4 hours) through Budgam District.
- Check into a campsite near the meadow; evening acclimatization walk.
- Briefing by the trek leader; overnight stay in tents.
Day 2: Tosamaidan to Zabrayn Pass (3,400m) → Rakheal Sar Lake (3,200m) | 5-6 hours trek :
- Trek through pine forests and open meadows to Zabrayn Pass.
- Descend to Rakheal Sar Lake, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by peaks.
- Camp by the lake; enjoy bonfire and stargazing.
Day 3: Rakheal Sar to Tosamaidan Meadows Exploration | 4-5 hours trek :
- Explore the vast Tosamaidan Meadows, dotted with wildflowers and shepherd huts.
- Visit Chimbal Lake or interact with Gujjar nomads tending their livestock.
- Return to the campsite; relax with Kashmiri Kahwa.
Day 4: Tosamaidan to Nilnag Lake (2,700m) | 5-6 hours trek :
- Descend through dense forests to Nilnag Lake, known for its emerald-green waters.
- Camp near the lake; optional short hike to nearby viewpoints.
Day 5: Nilnag Lake to Srinagar | Departure from Tosamaidan :
- Trek downhill to the roadhead (2–3 hours); drive back to Srinagar.
- Farewell dinner in Srinagar; overnight stay in a guesthouse/hotel.
Day 6: Departure from Srinagar :
- Transfer to Srinagar Airport; depart with memories of Tosamaidan’s untouched beauty.
Inclusions
- Accommodation: 3 nights in alpine camps (tents, sleeping bags, mats) + 2 nights in guesthouses (Srinagar/base camp).
- Meals: All meals during the trek (vegetarian) + packed lunches.
- Permits: Forest and camping fees.
- Support Team: Certified trek leader, guides, cooks, and porters.
- Equipment: Tents, kitchen gear, first-aid kit.
- Transfers: Srinagar to Tosamaidan and return by private vehicle.
Exclusions
- Flights/train tickets to Srinagar.
- Meals in Srinagar (Day 1 & 5 dinner excluded).
- Personal expenses (tips, snacks, beverages).
- Travel insurance (mandatory).
- Personal gear: trekking poles, jackets, shoes (available for rent).
Trek Essentials
- Difficulty: Moderate (suitable for beginners with basic fitness).
- Best Time: June to September (meadows bloom in July-August).
- Altitude: 2,800m (base camp) to 3,400m (Zabrayn Pass).
Pro Tips 🌿
- Safety: Stick to marked trails; remnants of old firing ranges may exist (follow guide instructions).
- Packing: Waterproof trekking shoes, raincoat, and warm layers (nights can be chilly).
- Eco-Care: Carry reusable bottles; avoid littering in the fragile ecosystem.