Tarsar Marsar – Diganta Travel

Overview:-

Why Tarsar Marsar is a bucket list trek?

When place all of treks along, there are a unit have got need to put aside as a lot of special than others. Tarsar Marsar is one among them.

The lakes of Tarsar, Marsar and Sundarsar:-

The Tarsar Marsar trek is in Kashmir. Trekking in Kashmir is extremely completely different from trekking anyplace else in country. Obscurity else does one get to trek next to such spectacular alpine lakes. On this trek, get to camp beside 2 such stunning lakes – Tarsar and Sundarsar.

Also get to trek to Marsar, which is one among the foremost elusive lakes in Kashmir.

Take a glance at the image on top of. That’s Tarsar. Camp simply beside the flat, grass-covered grounds close to the outlet on the left. An expertise to camp in such settings is what makes trekking in Kashmir special. Such settings don’t exist anyplace else in Bharat.

The spectacular meadows of Kashmir:

The beauty of the Tarsar Marsar trek doesn’t finish with the lakes. The meadows of Kashmir area are one thing to seem out for too. On this trek, discover these exquisite meadows on each day of the trek. The forests, clearings and woods encompassing these grasslands create them turn even a lot of. Sometimes, as trekkers progress from one grassland to a different separated by simply a patch of forest.

Different kinds of grasslands

At times these grasslands area unit at different levels. Therefore as climb higher to Tarsar, get to see completely different grasslands of kashmir— one thing tourists to Kashmir ne’er see. These grasslands is immense and wide usurping a whole depression or a slim clearing like however may see at Lidderwat. Camp at Shekawas and Lidderwat area unit on these meadows.

It is not a surprise to seek out trekkers adding Tarsar to their bucket list of treks. If there are a unit decisions of treks to try and do, place Tarsar previous others.

Itinary:-

The Trek

Day 1: Getting to the base camp – Aru

Pahalgam s regarding one hundred click from Srinagar and Aru is twelve step faraway from Pahalgam. Pahalgam may be a lot of acquainted place around Srinagar therefore if reaching own, take a shared vehicle from Srinagar to Pahalgam. It takes regarding three hours to urge there.

There are a unit 2 pretty routes to Pahalgam; one through Anantnag and also the alternative through Bijbehra. The Bijbehra route may be a traveler path wherever may drive through glorious rural Kashmir scenery. What tiptop it’s the abundance of apple orchards, walnut and apricot trees on the means.

From Pahalgam, Aru is correct across the Lidder watercourse. It takes another half an hour to hide this distance. Today, after a 3.5 hour drive from Srinagar reach Aru by 6.30 pm. There are a unit many places to remain at Aru, although they’re a shade pricy. Diganta trekkers can keep in an exceedingly homestay at the encampment.

Altitude: 7,958 ft (2,426 m)
Time taken: 3.5 hours’ drive. Pick up from Srinagar at 2.30 pm.

Day 2: Aru to Lidderwat

Altitude: 7,958 ft (2,426 m) to 9,131 ft (2,783 m)
Time taken: 6 hours, 10 km
Trek gradient: Easy – moderate. Initial gradual ascent for 30 minutes followed by a gentle undulating walk.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water. You can refill your water bottles from streams, a few hours into the trek.

It is a delicate however long climb from Aru to Lidderwat, covering a distance of ten step in 6 hours. The path to Lidderwat starts to climb straight out of the village, following the course of the Lidder River. Follow the wide path past the agricultural department’s fence. Relive to require a commanding read of the whole region of Aru. The path gets into a cluster of fir trees and continues to climb. Half an hour later, the path pops out at a clearing referred to as Dalla, close to Gujjar huts.

At Dalla, the path isn’t any longer a climb, however a delicate undulating practice thick pines. Twenty minutes later, a large fork within the path beneath an enormous fir signals the diversion to Nandkei. Nandkei may be a cluster of Gujjar settlements across the Lidder. Continue on the path with the forest reducing more and more. Half an hour later, the path leaves the cluster of trees fully and threads through open grasslands. Spot Gujjars and their families crisscrossing the meadows on horse backs. The path climbs over therefore gently that it’s hardly noticeable.

Another half hour later, the path crosses 2 clear streams – the second over a picket bridge. The streams area unit clear and also the water is safe to drink. It’s another hour’s journey to Lidderwat from the bridge. Shortly once the bridge, the path climbs into another little cluster of pine trees. Sometimes, throughout high season, there’s a tea stall on the proper – it is an honest place catching breath over a cup of tea.

Out of the pine trees, the path gently climbs a mound, from the highest of that is one among the foremost fascinating sceneries of the day. The Lidder River meets with the path at the depression bottom, spreading come in springs. Next to the river area unit grass-covered glades wherever the path runs. Beyond, the Lidder rushes out of a curve around a lot of beautiful fir forests. It takes regarding half hour to cross this pretty section of the path and enter the cluster of firs another time. Across the forest and 10 minutes later, area unit the excellent meadows of Lidderwat. There are a unit a couple of Gujjar huts that signal Lidderwat.

A sensible choice is to drop to the picket bridge, climb out of the meadows on the opposite facet and camp anyplace. On the opposite facet area unit pretty clear streams running across the meadows – this is often vital if inhabitancy for the night. There are a unit electronic device (Pahalgam District Authority) huts for accommodation. There are many places to pitch camp.

Day 3: Lidderwat to Shekwas

Altitude: 9,131 ft (2,783 m) to 11,039 ft (3,365 m)
Time taken: 5 hours, 5.6 km
Trek gradient: Continuously ascending trail for the first 2 hours with a few short level walks. River crossing just before Home followed by gradual ascent.
Water sources: You can refill your water bottles at any of the several streams that you cross.

The path to Tarsar starts to climb right behind the electronic device huts – following the course of the watercourse flowing aboard. It leaves the watercourse below and climbs terribly quickly into the pine forest on top. The path is simple and doesn’t create any challenge. Continue to climb past clusters of pines and clearings for an hour and a half, till a shocking read parades before. The slim depression of Lidderwat parades to tracks of wide sweeping grasslands. The grasslands merge with the eminent mountains, with snow patches in their folds. It’s not one depression however several valleys that converge along. The path ahead converges upwards and to the left past the Bhakarwal shelters, sticking out to the proper of the watercourse.

Clear streams run down and cut across the path over and over. There are a unit sensible spots to fill water. Avoid taking the upward path. Drop to the watercourse and cross it, initial hopping over a couple of boulders then crossing a make-shift long bridge. Follow the watercourse and still climb the path. Half an hour later, the path around a bend parades to a large clearing of Homwas.

There are a unit a couple of friendly Gujjar huts wherever stop for tea. It’s a delight treading on the path once Homwas. It totally on grass and feels pretty beneath your feet. The trail, currently in an exceedingly south westerly direction, enters a slim depression with blue waters of the watercourse as constant company. The climb continues to achieve altitude. An hour later, may pass a really previous cluster of common birch trees, and also the read parades to a different beautiful scenery.

This time, a presumably wider parcel of land results in 2 wide inexperienced valleys. It stretches out immensely ahead of. Undulating meadows on left reach out for the sky. On the far side the meadows, tall, dark, snow-patched cliffs shadow the landscape. The path climbs fleetly past a couple of Gujjar huts to the inhabitancy grounds of Shekwas. For those on the Tarsar path, Shekwas may be a logical and intensely pretty campground. It’s an honest break once the arduous climb.

Day 4: Shekwas to Tarsar

Altitude: 11,039 ft (3,365 m) to 12,449 ft (3,794 m)
Time taken: 3-4 hours, 5 km
Trek gradient: Continuous ascent, mostly on gradual inclines.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water. Can refill water bottles at a couple of streams.

Past Shekwas, the path once more snakes its means through grass for an extended whereas. The path to Tarsar, meanwhile, climbs into a ridge that overhangs the stream. In an exceedingly general westerly direction, the path climbs quickly towards a round shape hill ahead. The path tiptop a couple of false ridges, every gap up to completely different wondrous sceneries. Two hours later, the path finally offers a slim glimpse of Tarsar. Even the slight glimpse may be a delight and it’s a rush to achieve the shores of the lake. Cross the stream over boulders and set foot on the grass-covered glades of Tarsar. There are a unit many flat inhabitancy spots on the lake and pitching tents isn’t a problem.

The lake may be a beautiful show of nature’s capabilities. The waters area unit turquoise blue and in an exceedingly caldron enclosed by snow patches feeding the waters of the lake. If ever there was an area that would identical to paradise, then the inhabitancy shores of Tarsar area unit it!

Day 5: Tarsar to Sundersar

Altitude: 12,449 ft (3,794 m) to 12,946 ft (3,946 m)
Time taken: 5 hours, 5 km
Trek gradient: Steep ascent in the beginning to the pass, followed by a descent and then a gentle ascent to Sundarsar.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water. You can refill your water bottles from a couple of streams dispersed along the trail.

The view from the opposite facet of the Tarsar pass is another terrific attraction. The grass-covered depression stretches out from left to right in an exceedingly ne’er ending stretch of beauty that boggles the imagination. Even the anticipation of walk on the valley floor is enough to line the guts sport. On a facet note, this is often constant depression that results in the Shekwas meadows. Most trekkers descend down from Tarsar, till Shekwas, flip left and find into the Sundarsar valley. By ascent to the pass saved 3-4 hours of the trek. Descend from the die the shepherds’ path that results in very cheap of the valley. Catch up with the path that runs on the stream on the grass-covered bed of the depression. Move up the depression, to left and continue on the path. Spot a couple of Bakkarval shelters on left. Behind the shelter, the path climbs over a brief stretch of boulders to faucet a hummock.

What lies behind the hummock are a few things that poets reserve their best for. In an exceedingly immense expanse of meadows, with a widening depression on left, area unit the foremost lush grasslands ever see. Sheep graze gently on the meadows. Horses munch on constant grass in gay abandonment. Within the middle of the meadows, the stream turns into an oversized pool, fed by brooks from snow-melt of the encircling mountains. Snow patches on the mountains offset the leaf of the meadows.

Walk down the paths that result in the top of the grassland. Towards the top, beautifully arranged boulders cowl the stream. They’re arranged out therefore well that it seems as if they were made there. Another grassland larger than the one left behind sprawls come in front. That is a lot of stunning, it’s arduous to mention. The settings area unit similar, virtually identical. The depression floor may be an immense bed of flowers. So much on the far side is another ridge prime – the exit route of the Tarsar trek. From the ridge prime, look to left and spot a grazing path that leads into the folds of the mountains on left. The folds result in engaging snow-laden flanks of mountain sides.

Follow the path that climbs past the stream running down the slope. Briefly, the path hangs over similar well-laid boulders over the stream. 10 minutes later, the path as if by magic hops over improved grass-covered mounds to land on the stunning shores of the lake of Sundarsar. To right and behind, area unit massive flat stretches for inhabitancy. Sundarsar is that the excellent inhabitancy spot once the stunning trek from Tarsar.

Day 6: Visit Marsar and go to Homwas

Altitude: 12,946 ft (3,946 m) to 13,201 ft / 4,024 m (Marsar Ridge) to 11,500 ft (3,505 m)
Time taken: 7 hours, 9 km
Trail gradient: 40 minute ascent to Marsar. Gradual descent all the way to Homwas.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water. You can refill your water bottles from a couple of streams dispersed along the trail.

From Sundarsar, skirt round the shores of the lake from the proper to urge to the so much facet of the lake. There are a unit 2 logical passes that one will climb. Each result in Marsar. The faster one is over the boulder-laden path on the left. Climb over the boulders and trace a path towards the pass. Snow over the boulders will create the approach difficult. An ice ax or a trekking pole helps heaps to achieve firm footing. It’s a half hour climb to the pass.

Five minutes later, climb over to the highest of the ridge for an incredible read of Marsar virtually 600-700 feet below. Marsar may be a hidden beauty, nearly always engulfed beneath dollops of clouds and mist. Virtually as massive as Tarsar, Marsar is analogous trying. Tall, snow-lined cliffs rise off the lake. On the left, the overrun waters of the lake run down a beautiful inexperienced depression towards Traal. On the proper, outer edges of the Decigram reserve forest virtually climb up to the shores of the lake.

Head back the means came up to Marsar and find back to Sundarsar in regarding forty minutes of descent.

At Sundarsar encampment, have got breakfast and begin from Homwas. Retrace steps to Jagmargi depression. Trekkers area unit extraordinarily lucky to look at these grasslands doubly and from completely different directions. Rather than crossing the Tarsar pass, taking a distinct route to Shekwas. Roughly associate hour of walking from Shekwas to Homwas. Expected to achieve Homwas simply in time for lunch. Camp at Homwas for the night.

Day 7: Homwas to Aru. Drive to Srinagar

Altitude: 11,500 ft (3,505 m) to 7,958 ft (2,426 m)
Time taken: 6 hours, 13 km
Trek gradient: Easy. Gradually descending trail all the way.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water. You can refill your water bottles from a streams on the trail.

The path goes downhill and it’s a fast descent. It’ll take two hours from Homwas to Lidderwat. The sweetness of this a part of trek is that just can get to examine all of these views that just had at first lost. The shrinking Kola hoi ice mass is one among these sights. May see the pine forests of Lidderwat that just had seen on day amongst one in every of trek in a whole new light-weight. Once obtaining some rest at Lidderwat, head for Aru.

It may be a ten click walk from Lidderwat to Aru. This takes around four hours to hide. Stop for lunch en-route, expected to achieve Aru by four within the evening. Vehicles are organized from Aru to Srinagar. May reach Srinagar between 7-8 pm.

Mobile connectivity and ATM point

Please note that prepaid SIM cards do not work in Kashmir.

Pahalgam is that the last purpose wherever may receive mobile network. Therefore make sure end vital phone calls here. Inform anxious members of the family regarding poor property throughout the trek.

Pahalgam is additionally wherever may realize the last ATM just in case would like to withdraw cash before beginning the trek.

Sort_itinary:-

Day 1: Reach Aru; 3-4 hours’ drive from Srinagar. The develop is at two.30 pm from ruler Feroze Tours & Travels, Sathu Barbara sovereign Chowk, Srinagar. Price are Rs.2,700 per cab (5-6 seater).

Day 2: Trek from Aru (7,958 ft) to Lidderwat (9,131 ft); half dozen hours, 10 km

Day 3: Lidderwat (9,131 ft) to Shekwas (11,039 ft); five hours, 5.6 km

Day 4: Shekwas (11,039 ft) to Tarsar (12,449 ft); four hours, 5 km

Day 5: Tarsar (12,449 ft) to Sundersar (12,946 ft); five hours, 5 km

Day 6: Visit Marsar (13,201 ft), head to Homwas (11,500 ft); seven hours, 9 km

Day 7: Homwas (11,500 ft) to Aru (7,958 ft); half dozen hours, 13 km. Drive to Srinagar. Price are Rs.2,700 per cab (5-6 seater).

Get yourself fit/Fitness Parameter:-

How to get fit for the Tarsar Marsar trek?

Cardiovascular endurance

This trek requires a good amount of cardiovascular endurance. You can begin by jogging everyday. Start jogging at a slow pace and then keep increasing your pace day by day. In order to be prepared for high altitude trek, you should have a combination of distance and speed targets.

Here’s a fitness routine that works:

–>Target completing 5 km in 45 minutes when you begin.

–>Gradually increase your pace by running 4 times a week and bring it down to 5 km in less than 35 mins.

–>If you are 45 years old and above and are comfortable with long distance walking than jogging, then before you go on the trek, you should be able to walk at least 10 km at a stretch. Target completing this in 90 minutes.

If jogging is fine for you, your target should be completing 5 km in 40 minutes initially, and 5 km in less than 40 minutes before you go on the trek.

–>If you are somebody who prefers cycling over running, your target must be to cover 22 km in 60 minutes.

Working out indoors

If you can’t go out and jog because of time and space constraints, here’s a video you can use to work out indoors.

Things to take/Essential things to take:-

What you need to carry on the Tarsar Marsar trek

Once you’ve decided to go on any trek, the first two things you need to purchase are trekking shoes and a backpack.

Trekking shoes: Not sports shoes. The shoes need to have soles with good grip and ankle support. Wear the shoes for a week prior to the trek to avoid shoe bites/blisters on slope. You can watch this video to learn to choose the right trekking shoes.
Backpack (40-60 litres): Backpack with sturdy straps and a supporting frame. Rain cover for backpack is essential.

The Tarsar Marsar trek is organized in the months of July, August and September. Expect light showers during these months. So carrying a poncho is absolutely essential.

Clothes

On a trek, carry fewer clothes than you would normally need. Do not pack for ‘what if situations’. That will only add to the weight of your backpack and not be used on the trek. Once your clothes get warmed up on a trek, you will not feel like changing. Just maintain personal hygiene.

Full sleeve woolens (2 pairs including the one you are wearing):We endorse fleece over wool as it is light weight, compact and warm. It is better to layer your clothing with multiple light sweaters than to carry one thick heavy jacket.
Thick jacket: Carry 1 full sleeve windproof jacket/down jacket.
Trek pants (3 pairs including the one you are wearing): We highly endorse synthetic quick-dry pants as they are light. Plus, when it’s cold you can wear one over the other. While trekking, a pair is what you would carry apart from the worn. You could keep the third pair for your return journey. Alternative would be cotton pants with many pockets or track pants. Jeans, shorts and 3/4 pants are not suitable for trekking. A common mistake that trekkers make is not changing their tshirts often enough. Regardless of how cold it is, the body tends to sweat a lot. Trekkers who don’t change to fresh clothes fall ill due to wet clothes and are often unable to complete their trek.
Collared t-shirts (3 pairs including the one you are wearing):Preferably light, full sleeve t-shirts that prevent sun burns on the neck and arms. Avoid loud colors that would distract birds and animals. Let one of these be a dri-fit t-shirt. It will dry quickly in case you are trekking on a rainy day. A common mistake that trekkers make is not changing their tshirts often enough. Regardless of how cold it is, the body tends to sweat a lot. Trekkers who don’t change to fresh clothes after reaching the campsite fall ill due to wet clothes and are often unable to complete their trek.
Thermal inners: 1 pair of lightweight, upper and lower. Thermal inners are optional for those who are more sensitive to the cold.

Accessories

Sunglasses: Curved ones will cover eyes well. No blue colored sunglass — they don’t block UV. Blacks, greens, browns are fine. Avoid multi tone sunglasses. Sunglasses are to prevent snow blindness. People who wear spectacles, choose either contact lenses or photo chromatic glasses. If both are not possible, wear spectacles and carry big sunglass that can be worn over spectacles.
Sun cap: To protect head from the direct heat of the sun, protect face and neck from sunburns. The cap must cover ears and neck.
Synthetic hand gloves: One pair of fleece or woolen hand gloves. One pair of water proof/resistant, wind proof gloves.
Balaclava: May use scarves as an alternative to balaclavas.
Poncho: A lightweight poncho is preferred because unlike raincoats, it covers rucksack as well. A poncho is indispensable for the Great Lake trek as light showers are expected.
Socks (3 pairs): 2 cotton pairs, 2 woolen pairs (mostly to be used on campsites and while sleeping. Keep them dry.)
Headlamp/LED torch: Mandatory
Trekking pole: Trekking pole is mandatory.

Others

Daypack (20 litres): It is mandatory to carry a daypack if you choose to offload your backpack. If you decide to carry your backpack, day pack is not required.
Toiletries: Sunscreen – SPF 40+, moisturiser, light towel, lip balm/chap stick, small soap, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitiser. Do not carry wet wipes since these are not biodegradable. If you do happen to use wet wipes to clean up after a trek, make sure you bring them back with you. The same holds for used sanitary napkins. Carry a zip lock bag to put used wet tissues and napkins. Bring this ziplock bag back with you to the city and do not dispose wet tissues and sanitary napkins in the mountains.
Repair kit (needle & thread)
Camera: Carry all accessories – spare batteries, charger, etc.
Cutlery: Carry a spoon, coffee mug and a lunch box. We insist on trekkers getting their own cutlery for hygiene reasons. To save weight, you may use your lunch box instead of carrying a plate separately.
Water bottles: 2 bottles, 1 Litre each. Packaged drinking water bottles like Aquafina, Bisleri and others are not allowed.
Headlamp/LED torch: Mandatory
Plastic covers: While packing, use plastic bags to compartmentalize things and carry few extra plastic bags for wet clothes. While packing, use plastic bags to compartmentalize things and carry few extra plastic bags for wet clothes.

If you are going shopping, download this list so you don’t miss out on anything! Download PDF

Mandatory Personal Medical Kit

Diamox – 10 tablets (to prevent AMS)
Dexamethasone – one strip
Nifedipine – 5 tablets
Crocin – 6 tablets (fever)
Avomine – 4 tablets (motion sickness)
Avil 25mg – 4 tablets (allergies)
Combiflam – 4 tablets (Pain killer)
Norflox TZ & Lomofen– 6 tablets each (diarrhea)
Digene – 10 tablets (acidity)
Omez/ Rantadine – 10 tablets (antacids)
Crepe bandage – 3 to 5 meters
Gauze – 1 small roll
Band aid – 10 strips
Cotton – 1 small roll
ORS – 10 packets
Betadine or any antiseptic cream
Moov spray (aches, & sprains)
Knee cap, if you are prone to knee injury
Anti fungal powder

Mandatory Documents

Please carry the below documents. Document two and three need to be downloaded (PDF), filled in, signed and handed over to the trek leader at the base camp.
Without these documents you will not be allowed on the trek.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (driving license, voters ID, etc.)
Medical Certificate –
Disclaimer-

Map & gettings there/Map:-

How to get to the basecamp – Aru

Delhi → Srinagar → Aru

We organise pick-up vehicles from Sheikh Feroze Tours & Travels, Sathu, Barbara Shah chowk (near flour mill), Srinagar at 2.30 pm. The cost of transit from Srinagar to Aru will have to be borne by the trekkers. The pickup is arranged in a Tata Sumo or similar vehicle. The cost of transportation one way is Rs. 2,700 which is shared by trekkers. We are expected to reach Aru by 6.00 pm.

Alternatively, there are airport buses around 50 metres outside the airport. They charge Rs 80 per ticket to Srinagar TRC – Tourist Reception Centre bus stop. Get down at Srinagar TRC bus stop and take an auto to Sathu Barbara Shah (Sheikh Feroze tours & travels) which is 2 km away.

Getting back

Aru → Srinagar → Delhi

The trek ends at Aru. We arrange transport from Aru to Srinagar. The total cost of transportation one way is Rs. 2,700 which is shared by the people in the vehicle. You are expected to reach Srinagar by 8 pm.

Safty:-

How safe is the Tarsar Marsar trek?

The Tarsar Marsar trek by itself does not involve any risks. Trekkers often worry about the safety of trekking in Kashmir. This article will help throw some light on that aspect.

On the Tarsar Marsar trek you go up to an altitude of 13,201 ft. You will be trekking and camping at altitudes above 10,000 ft on 4 days. It is possible that you could be hit by AMS on any of these days. If you have registered for this trek, then here is some information that you must know in order to have a safe trek. At Indiahikes, we believe that as long as you are well-informed and well-prepared, you can survive easily at high altitudes.

What Indiahikes does to ensure your safety

Our philosophy is simple. We ingrain safety aspects in the people we work with, in the processes that we follow, and in the equipment we carry. All our trek leaders are trained repeatedly on safety issues and protocols. Most issues are resolved with their intervention.

Right from the time you decide to register for the trek till the last day of the trek, these safety procedures will be running in the background. We have listed a few of them below:

1. Fitness criteria before registration

Over years of organising high altitude treks, we have found that safety issues thrive amongst those who are unfit and unprepared for the trek. So we have introduced an eligibility criteria for the Tarsar Marsar trek. Anyone who wants to register for the Tarsar Marsar trek has to meet the fitness requirements, with the ideal BMI. The BMI and fitness regime will require proof. A high altitude trek is not to be taken casually.

2. Monitoring health on a trek

Any abnormal reading will be paid special attention to and action will be taken immediately.

On the Tarsar Marsar trek, your Trek Leader will be monitoring

two aspects thrice a day.

Oxygen Level
Pulse Rate

Your Blood Pressure levels will be checked once a day.

Every trekker will be given a Health Card at the beginning of the trek. The Health Card is issued to monitor the trekker’s daily health, wherein they will be entering details about their health everyday. It also contains details of what symptoms one should look out for and what action should be taken during emergencies. These Health Cards will be collected back at the end of the trek.

3. High Altitude Medical Kit

Your trek leader will be carrying a full-fledged high altitude medical kit. This will include basic medicines and specific medicines catering to altitude sickness – Diamox, Dexamethasone (tablets and injections) and Nifedipine. Your Trek Leader will also be carrying a portable oxygen cylinder throughout the trek. In addition to that, there are oxygen cylinders installed at all high altitude campsites for any emergency situations.

4. High Altitude Trek Equipment

To ensure safe trekking on snowy terrain, Indiahikes will provide you with micro-spikes to attach to your shoes. This will give you good traction on hard snow. To avoid snow from entering your shoes, Indiahikes will provide you with gaiters that you can put on over your shoes. You will have qualified technical guides with you, who will lead the way on difficult terrain.

All our sleeping bags and tents are custom-made for high altitude. If it is cold outside, it will be around 10 degrees warmer inside the tent. The sleeping bags can withstand temperatures up to -10 degree Celsius.

5. Being hydrated and well nourished on the trek

You need to drink a minimum of 4 litres of water every day during the trek to ensure that you’re well hydrated. De-hydration on a trek can make you lose energy very quickly and intensify the effects of AMS. Your trek leader will brief you about the amount of water that you need to carry with you at the start of each day as well as water sources on the trail.

We provide trekkers with nutritious meals to ensure that they are energized to complete the trail each day. Apart from this, snacks or packed lunch is provided wherever the trail before a meal break is likely to be long. Make sure that you do not skip any meal as this can lead to serious health emergencies on high altitudes.

With all these processes and equipment in place, you can be rest assured that you will have a safe trek with Indiahikes.

Nevertheless, you will need to be cautious and report the slightest of symptoms to your trek leader as soon as you feel them.

What you compulsorily need to know if you’re going on the Tarsar Marsar trek

Acute Mountain Sickness:

At altitudes above 10,000 ft, the chances of being hit by Acute Mountain Sickness cannot be ruled out.

All the campsites from Lidderwat are at considerable high altitudes. However, we have noticed that trekkers are particularly prone to AMS at Sundersar (Day 5). This is something that you should be mindful of.

At any campsite, inform your trek leader about your condition immediately if you identify any symptom of AMS. If the symptoms don’t alleviate it is best to head down to a lower campsite.

This risk can be avoided by going on a course of Diamox. Even while on Diamox, the risk of AMS still prevails. While AMS can be treated with rest and medicines for the most part, the symptoms must be recognised before it can go to advanced stages – High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

HAPE and HACE are critical conditions that can be fatal within hours.And they can occur without AMS preceding them. So it’s doubly important to recognise any symptoms and nip them in the bud.

Take this specific precaution – Go on a preventive course of Diamox

We strongly advise you to go on a preventive course of Diamox. Diamox is a blood thinner and helps you acclimatise much faster and reduces the chance of AMS by around 80%. Take half a tablet twice a day from one day before your trek.

What to do if you have symptoms of AMS?

If you feel any symptoms of AMS on the trek, you must report to the Trek Leader immediately. Do not wait till the end of the day’s trek. Do not try to handle it yourself either. Our Trek Leaders are well-trained and experienced to handle any cases and they will be the decision makers in any such cases.

Watch the below video to understand the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness. In this video, Arjun Majumdar, the founder of Indiahikes will also tell you the protocol to follow when you see someone showing symptoms of AMS.

points on the Tarsar Marsar trek

There are no exit points on this trek. If there is a medical emergency and you need to be evacuated, descending to Aru or Homwas, depending on where you are on the trek, are the only options. This could take up to a day or more.

Closest hospital

In case of a medical emergency, the closest hospital will be found at Pahalgam, which is around half an hour’s drive from Aru.

Why you should personally know about the risks and precautions of high altitude treks?

If ever you find yourself alone at high altitude, either while trekking independently or with another organisation, there are some life -saving steps you can take. Firstly, you should be able to recognise symptoms of altitude sickness. So acquaint yourself with the symptoms.

Secondly, there might be instances when you have to administer medicines to yourself or to a fellow trekker. There are three life-saving medicines that we suggest you always carry on you – Diamox, Dexamethasone and Nifedipine.

If you are trekking with Indiahikes, do not administer these to anyone without consulting your Trek Leader. If you are trekking independently then you need to know when exactly to administer these medicines and in what dosage.

Also ensure that you are well hydrated throughout the trek and do not skip any meal.

You can watch the video below to learn about HAPE and HACE and how to tackle them. In the video, Sandhya UC, partner at Indiahikes, explains in detail about High Altitude Pulmonary and Cerebral Edema, what the symptoms are and how to tackle them.

We cannot stress enough on how important it is for you to communicate any symptom to your Trek Leader. Only then your trek leader will be able to take steps at the right time.

Acute Mountain Sickness

If you’re of the opinion that fit people don’t get AMS, please get rid of that notion right away. AMS can affect anyone without paying heed to their fitness and prior experience at high altitude! Altitude sickness does not distinguish between a first timer and an experienced trekker.
For more detailed information about Acute Mountain Sickness, you can download and study the manual below.

Cancelation policy/Terms & Cancelation Policy:-

What you need to know about the trek fee?

The trek fee of Rs. 10,950 + 5% GST covers all costs of the trek from Aru to Aru.

Here is what the trek fee includes:

Accommodation – Stay is included from Day 1 to Day 6 (Aru to Homwas). You will be camping on all days of the trek (3 per tent).
Meals – All meals from dinner at Aru on Day 1 to lunch at Aru on Day 7 are included. We provide simple, nutritious vegetarian food on all days of the trek.
Camping charges – All trekking permits and forest camping charges are included.
Trekking equipment – You will stay in high quality tents and sleeping bags in all the camps. Our high altitude sleeping bags can withstand temperatures as low as -10 ºC. We provide ice axes, roped, micro spikes, gaiters etc. as required.
Safety equipment – First aid, medical kit, oxygen cylinders, stretchers etc. will be available at all campsites to deal with emergencies.
Services of an expert Trek Leader – All our trek leaders are qualified in basic / advanced mountaineering courses.
Services of an expert Trek Team – The mountain staff on this trek consists of well trained guides, cooks, helpers and porters.

Here is what the trek fee excludes:

Transport to and from the base camp – We will arrange shared taxis for trekkers to pick you up from Srinagar and drop you back from Aru. This will cost approx. Rs. 2,700 per 5-6 seater vehicle one way. You will have to share this cost with the other trekkers
Food during transit to and from the base camp – The trek fee does not include meals purchased during the journey to and from Aru.
Backpack offloading charges – If you wish to offload your backpack, there will be an additional charge of Rs. 1,500 + 5% GST. The backpack cannot weigh more than 9 kg. Suitcases/strolleys/duffel bags will not be allowed. Please note that charges will vary for last minute offloading in case you decide to offload your bag after reaching Srinagar (Rs.335 per day +5% GST). Online offloading in advance is possible up to two days prior to the trek start date.
Stay at Srinagar on the last day
Personal expenses of any kind
Anything apart from inclusions

Terms & Conditions

1. Cancellation: If a trek is called off at the last moment due to a natural calamity/unforseen circumstances (like rains, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh etc), Indiahikes will issue a trek voucher for the full amount. The voucher can be redeemed for the same trek or another trek in the next one year.

In case, you wish to cancel your trek, please login to your account and cancel. Cancellation requests will not be taken over phone or email.

The cancellation charges are as under:

Cancellations prior to 30 days from the start of the trek — full refund.
Cancellation between 30 days and 20 days to the start of the trek — 50% refund.
Cancellation less than 20 days to the start of the trek — no refund.

Please note: In case of refund, there will be a deduction of 4% (Cancellation charges) from the total fee you have paid. Also, if you have opted for a trek insurance, the amount will not be refunded.

2. The trek fee: includes all costs of the trek from the start at Aru to the end of the trek at Aru.

3. Pick up: Trekkers are picked up from Srinagar TRC (Tourist Reception Centre) at 2:00pm. Usually, trekkers are clubbed together with other participants to make a group. The group travels together to Aru in shared cabs.

4. Transport: Transport from Srinagar to Aru and return from Aru to Srinagar can be arranged by us at an extra cost. A vehicle cost approximately Rs. 2,700, one way. Participants are expected to share the cost of the cab. The amount is to be paid directly to our transporter. No GST is applicable on transport cost. Indiahikes only arranges the vehicle pick up and is not responsible for any issues during transport.

5. Backpack offloading: Indiahikes expects all trekkers to carry their own backpacks. All common gear will be carried by the support team. If for some reason a trekker is unable to carry his or her backpack, he/she can offload the same by paying an additional charge.

Backpack offloading charge for the entire trek duration is Rs.1,500 + 5% GST. Partial offloading is not allowed. Charges will vary for last minute on slope offloading – Rs.335 per day +5% GST. The backpack cannot weigh more than 9 kg. No suitcases/strolleys/duffel bags will be allowed.

Online offloading in advance is possible up to two days prior to the trek start date.

6.Emergency during trek: In a trek a medical emergency or any other emergency may arise. If for any reason you are sent down from the trek then Indiahikes will make arrangements for your return to the base camp or nearest road head. A staff will accompany you. He may not be a trained personnel.

Evacuation or dealing with emergencies is extremely difficult in the mountains. It is time consuming as well. A normal trek of 2 hours may take 6 hours in an emergency (a sick person is not easy to evacuate). Doctors do not go along with a team. Doctors are not available at the base camp or nearest road head either. Indiahikes trek leaders are trained to administer first aid and know how to deal with issues related to the mountains. However, they are not doctors.

Registering for this trek is an understanding that you have read up on the difficulties of high altitude trekking and understand the risks. You have also understood what AMS, HAPE and HACE are. You have taken efforts to educate yourself and you are in a position to manage your own altitude related emergency.

7. Fitness: A high altitude trek in the Himalayas requires considerable fitness. Your body needs to train itself to process more work with lower levels of oxygen. Cardiovascular training before a trek is critically important. Training must include strength and flexibility workout. We have laid out the eligibility criteria here. Registering for the trek is an understanding that you will undertake the mandated fitness training. Indiahikes has the right to reject candidates who do not meet our eligibility requirement at the base camp.

8. Non-liability: Indiahikes is not responsible for any loss/damage of your gears/equipment or other belongings on the trek.

9. Payment: Payment for the trek can be done online through credit/debit card or net banking. Cheque/draft or cash is not accepted.

10. Drinking and smoking: During the trek is strictly prohibited. If found flouting the rules, your participation on the trek will be cancelled with immediate effect.

11. Safety Protocol:

a. While our itineraries are designed to allow for adequate acclimatisation, most treks in Indian Himalayas climb quickly, which is called forced accents. Unavailability of camp sites and the Indian Himalayan terrain are the reason for this. There are chances that you will feel the effects of altitude sickness and oxygen deprivation while on this trek. Please be aware that your trek leader may deem it unsafe for you to continue trekking at any time, and arrange for you to descend to a lower attitude.

b. Our trek leaders will conduct routine health checks at all camps to measure oxygen saturation, pulse and blood pressure. Indiahikes reserves the right to exclude any trekker from climbing higher on the trek without refund if the trekker’s vital readings are below accepted norms for that altitude. These norms are available with Indiahikes trek leaders.

c. This is a high altitude trek with rough, rocky and snowy terrain. It is important that you are a fit and confident walker in mountain terrain, able to manage ascents and descents by yourself within a reasonable time. Indiahikes reserves the right to turn around a trekker if in the opinion of our trek leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without requiring exclusive assistance. Please realistically self-assess your fitness and suitability for this trek before registering.