VISHANSAR LAKE

About Vishansar Lake

Suggested Duration: 6-8 hours

Tickets: Free entry

Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi, 360 kilometres away

Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport, 80 kilometres away

Nearest Bus Stop: Sonamarg, 13 kilometres away

Also known as the “Lake of Lord Vishnu,” Vishansar Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake in Kashmir, located 20 kilometres from Sonamarg at an elevation of 3,710 metres. The lake is famous for its stunning natural beauty and attracts trekkers, photographers, and nature lovers from around the world.

During winter in Kashmir, the lake completely freezes to create a breathtaking icy landscape. In summer, it transforms into a paradise with greenish-blue waters, lush meadows, and tall mountains touching the clouds. The lake is also home to various fish species, especially the brown trout.

The best way to reach Vishansar Lake is through a challenging yet rewarding trek with Kashmir tour packages from Sonamarg, which takes about 13 hours. Along the way, you can enjoy camping, birdwatching, and spotting shepherds with their grazing sheep.

Must-Try Experiences

• Trek through the breathtaking landscape: Trekking to Vishansar Lake is a thrilling experience in winter in December. The journey starts from Sonamarg and passes through lush meadows, rocky paths, and snow-capped peaks. This 50-kilometre trek (round trip) offers stunning views of the Himalayas and diverse wildlife. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner, the scenic beauty makes every step worth it.

• Enjoy fishing in the crystal-clear waters: Vishansar Lake is home to various fish species, including the famous brown trout. Fishing in the clear blue waters is among the relaxing and rewarding things to do in Kashmir. However, it is advisable to check for local fishing regulations before casting your line.

• Camp under the starry sky: Camping near Vishansar Lake is an experience like no other. The fresh mountain air, breathtaking views, and peaceful environment make it the perfect spot for an overnight stay. At night, the sky is filled with countless stars that offer a magical sight. 

• Explore nature with leisure walks and birdwatching: You can take a slow walk around the lake and soak in the beauty of the alpine landscape. The area is also home to a variety of birds, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir for birdwatching. You may spot rare species flying over the lake or resting in the nearby meadows.

Vishansar Lake Highlights

• Witness the frozen wonderland in winter as Vishansar Lake completely freezes and creates a mesmerising sight for visitors and photographers.
• Enjoy fishing in the pristine waters of Vishansar Lake, which is home to several fish species, including the famous brown trout.
• Marvel at the stunning scenery of one of the most breathtaking lakes in Jammu and Kashmir, surrounded by lush meadows, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear waters.
• Trek through breathtaking landscapes on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, which offers scenic trails and memorable mountain views to adventure seekers.

How To Reach Vishansar Lake

By Road: The Vishansar Lake is located about 13 kilometres from Sonamarg city centre. It will take you around 2 to 3 hours via the Shitkadi Village.

Other Modes:

• By Foot: You can trek to Vishansar Lake from Sonamarg for a distance of 50 kilometres round-trip. It will take you around 4 to 6 hours to reach the top.
• By Ponies: If you do not wish to trek the entire distance, you can take a pony ride from Shitkadi Base Camp to reach Vishansar Lake in 6 to 7 hours, covering a distance of about 28 kilometres.

Best Time To Visit Vishansar Lake

Peak Season (June to September)

• Weather Insights: Dry and clear weather, melted snow on the trekking path, and fully blooming meadows
• Things to do: Trekking, fishing, camping, nature walks, birdwatching, photography

Moderate Season (April, May, October)

• Weather Insights: Pleasant weather conditions with slight snow on the vast green meadows.
• Things to do: Trekking and enjoying beautiful views of the surroundings

Low Season (November to March)

• Weather Insights: Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.
• Things to do: Snowshoeing and winter photography

Vishansar Lake Other Essential Information

Why Visit?

• Vishansar Lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and crystal-clear waters, which makes it a perfect escape into nature.
• It offers an exciting trekking adventure through stunning landscapes, alpine meadows, and high-altitude passes as it is part of the famous Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.
• The name "Vishansar" means "Lake of Vishnu" in Kashmiri. It holds spiritual and religious importance, especially for Kashmiri Pandits.
• Vishansar Lake is home to several fish species, including the famous brown trout. Anglers can enjoy the thrill of catching fish in the pristine waters of the lake.
• You can camp near the lake under a starry sky and enjoy the fresh air, beautiful surroundings, and quiet atmosphere.

Know Before You Go

• Be prepared for this moderate to challenging 50-kilometre trek from Sonamarg to Vishansar Lake.
• Spend time adjusting to the altitude to avoid sickness and watch for signs like headache or dizziness.
• Carry sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothes, rain gear, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottles, and snacks.
• Hiring a local guide and porter for safety and navigation to the Vishansar Lake. 
• Camp near the area to enjoy the serene beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
• Dispose of waste responsibly without disturbing the natural ecosystem.
• Capture the breathtaking views of mountains, meadows, and the lake on your mobile phones and cameras.