“They say the mountains are made up of rock and ice, but they actually are built upon dreams and hope. The force that drags us to the summit cannot be explained until we reach the peril of each mountain”
Trail Location: Pahalgam.
Lakes to be explored: Tarsar, Sundersar, Marsar.
The Tarsar is an almond shaped alpine lake in Aru in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district, shadowed by the peaks of the Kolahoi mountain. Tarsar is separated by 850ft. ridge from another lake of the same nature Marsar Lake, which is located near the Dachigam National Park. The two lakes are together referred to as the twin sisters. Kashmir’s last independent ruler Yusuf Shah Chak mentioned these in his poetry, writing to his beloved: “When I remember the two tresses of the comely beloved, Tears begin to flow from my eyes like streams from Tarsar and Marsar”. Tarsar is drained by a stream into the Lidder River at Lidderwa , which is located 10km from Aru. Marsar drains out and flows in the opposite direction. The basin of Tarsar and the adjoining Dachigam Park constitute one of the most important habitats of Hangul or the Kashmiri Stag, Ibex, Musk deer, Snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear and the golden marmot. In the summer, the lake hosts breeding colonies of migratory birds, including- bar headed geese, lammergeiers, high-flying choughs, Himalayan golden eagles, cinnamon sparrow and black bulbuls. The trek Provides a breathtaking vistas of scenic meadows, small pristine lakes and beautiful valleys.
DIFFICULT LEVEL: MODERATE TREK (GOOD FOR BEGINNERS)
Tarsar Marsar trek level is easy to moderate. Some portions of the trail have rough patches, steep ascent or descent, and boulder-filled zones that make this trek a li le tricky for beginners.
The difficult descent through the pass that comes after Sundersar lake, towards Marsar lake may be the biggest hurdle for any first-timer. Still, a well-prepared individual with good quality trekking shoes can easily overcome it.
For avid trekkers, this trek is a big YES to go for.
Lastly, the Tarsar Marsar lake trek has a lot to offer. There are very few lake treks in the Himalayas which are as magnificent, as bold, and beautiful as this is in terms of scenery, and the mild challenges the trail throws to trekkers.
So, whatever your experience level is, this trek technically is for all except small children, family, and aged people.
