SATSAR LAKE

About Satsar Lake

Admire the charming beauty of one of Kashmir’s famous Great Lakes as you visit Satsar Lake with Kashmir budget tour packages. Situated in the lap of snow-covered Himalayas, the alpine lake is accessible by an easy-to-moderate trek through dense forests and steep trails. The lake is located at an altitude of over 3,000 metres and is surrounded all around by the mighty Himalayas.

What makes Satsar Lake special is its pristine charm that lets you escape from daily life into a calming paradise. The crystal-clear waters showcase the reflection of the mountains around, creating a picture-perfect view like no other. While the lake has its charm, the trekking route is lined with adventures that make it incredibly popular among thrill-seekers. The forests around the lake are full of unique flora and fauna, which makes it perfect for a day of exploration. Go fishing in the alpine lake and camp along its banks at night for an unparalleled Kashmir-special experience.

1. Opening Hours – Open 24 hours from June to October

2. Prime Day and Hours – Weekdays; afternoons

3. Suggested Duration – 1 day

4. Tickets – Free entry

5. Nearest Railway Station – Jammu Tawi, 355 kilometres away

6. Nearest Airport – Srinagar International Airport, 122 kilometres away

7. Nearest Bus Stop – Sonamarg Bus Stop, 30 kilometres away

Why Visit?

• The name ‘Satsar’ literally means ‘seven lakes’ as the massive lake is surrounded by seven small yet interconnected lakes.
• The Satsar Valley lies surrounded by the Himalayas on two sides, offering a uniquely stunning view.
• During the summer months, the lake is surrounded by vibrant wildflowers like geum, potentilla, blue poppy, and gentian.
• Apart from trekking, adventurers can go on forest hikes, try catching trout in the lake, and camp on its banks.
• Shepherds grazing sheep in the lush green meadows surrounded by mountains make for the perfect filmi Kashmir experience at Satsar Lake.

Must-Try Experiences

1. Trek to the Lake – The trek to Satsar Lake from Sonamarg is among the most thrilling experiences of trekking in Kashmir. The trail crosses dense forests and steep inclines to take you to a high altitude of over 3,600 metres. Once at the lake, you can go on fun short treks to the surrounding forests to admire the flora and fauna.

2. Camp under the stars – Camp beneath the stars surrounded by snow-capped mountains on the banks of Satsar Lake. After a long drive and a few hours of trekking to reach the lake, camping is among the most rewarding experiences here.

3. Try hands-on Fishing– As an alpine lake, Satsar offers incredible opportunities for fishing even for amateurs. The lake is full of trout, which you can catch with poles and then enjoy at a bonfire in the perfect camping adventure.

Satsar Lake Highlights

• Trek through dense forests to one of Kashmir’s iconic Great Lakes as you visit the Satsar Lake from Sonamarg.
• Admire the stunning reflection of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys in the crystal-clear waters of the Satsar Lake.
• Brush up your fishing skills as you catch different varieties of fishes from the cool waters of the lake.
• Camp under the stars in the calming surroundings of the Satsar Lake with your friends and family for an unforgettable experience.
• Explore a diverse range of flora and fauna in the nearby forests after spending a few hours by the lake.

How To Reach Satsar Lake

By Taxi: Satsar Lake is around 30 kilometres away from the centre of Sonamarg. It takes around six to seven hours to reach the trek base camp, depending on road conditions. Once at the base camp, a trek across forests takes you across the final few kilometres. You can cover this distance on foot or on horseback.

Best Time To Visit Satsar Lake

1. Peak Season (July and September)

• Weather insights: Pleasant weather, sunny days, blooming flowers, lush greenery
• Things to do: Trekking, fishing, camping, forest hikes

2. Shoulder Season (August)

• Weather insights: Pleasant weather, random heavy rainfall, lush greenery
• Things to do: Trekking

3. Waning Season (June and October)

• Weather insights: Pleasant weather, melting snow cover, sunny days
• Things to do: Trekking, camping, fishing

Satsar Lake Other Essential Information

Know Before You Go

1.  The Satsar Lake is open to visitors only in the summer months of June to October, so plan your trek accordingly.

2.  Wear sturdy and waterproof walking shoes that can withstand a trek across dense forests and random rainfall.

3.  Wear multiple layers of clothing to protect yourself from the cold weather and carry rain protection in case of unexpected rainfall.

4.  If you wish to camp at Satsar, carry your camping equipment and food along as there are no accommodations nearby.

5.  The surrounding forests are home to several animals, including leopards and bears, so avoid exploring alone, especially after dark.