Marchoi Trek

A Winter Summit Trek In Kashmir

Jammu & Kashmir
3N/4D

Trek Grade

Easy To Moderate

Highest Altitude

10,500 ft

Base Camp

Naranag

Best Time

Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, March

Marchoi Trek

Marchoi Trek is located in the Jammu & Kashmir region of India. Kashmir needs no description. When you hear the name Jammu & Kashmir, wide lush green valleys, dense forests, and gushing rivers automatically come to your mind, and when you close your eyes, you can see them. It is a gradual to moderate-level trek, and you will reach the highest altitude of 10,500 ft. You will be walking through Wangath Forest Conservation Zone. On the trail, you will witness the partially frozen river and forest of pine all around, adding to the vistas. When you begin your journey from Dumali campsite, you will see wild walnut trees along the trek. Then finally, you will be mesmerized by the beautiful view of the Marchoi meadow. On the way, you will also find mud houses, horse grazing, coniferous forests, and beautiful wooden bridges over streams. This trek features huge maple trees and silver birch trees, which are the cherry on top.

Marchoi Trek Videos

Videos by experts watch these videos to prepare well for a Successful Tre

why trekup india
Play Video about why trekup india

Want To Trek Like Pro?

Check out the following videos if you want to trek like a pro trekker and improve your skills. These videos contain helpful tips, tricks, and techniques to help you trek like a pro. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, these videos can provide valuable insights to enhance your trekking experience. So, watch the videos below by Trekup India experts to take your trekking skills to the next level.

Previous
Next

Know Everything About Acute Mountain Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness is a medical condition that can occur when individuals travel to high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet. It is caused by the decrease in air pressure and oxygen levels in the air as altitude increases. Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness, it is important to gradually adjust to high altitudes and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. To learn more about this condition, check out the videos by Trekup India.

Previous
Next

Day Wise Detailed Itinerary of Marchoi Trek

Day 1: Srinagar to Naranag by Road

  • Stay – overnight stay at the homestay.
  • Meal – Dinner
  • Distance – 50 km
  • Time taken – approx. 2 hrs
  • Altitude – Srinagar (5200 ft / 1585 meter), Naranag (6982 ft / 2128 meters)
  • Altitude difference – 1782 ft / 543 meter

We will be arriving at Srinagar from our respective places to Srinagar, and there we will be meeting Trekup India Driver. Then our road journey will begin from Srinagar to Naranag, a short drive with a beautiful view. We will be driving by the scenic beauty of the gushing Sindh River, and soon after, we will reach Naranag, which is the stop point for today. We will use this day to get our bodies acclimatized for the journey ahead; Naranag is the village in the Ganderbal district. You can Explore Naranag Village or the nearby area by visiting the famous ancient Naranag Temple.

Day 2: Naranag to Dumail by Trek

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Distance – 3 km
  • Time taken – approx. 2 hrs
  • Altitude – Naranag (6982 ft / 2128 mtr), Dumail (7638 ft / 2328 mtr)
  • Altitude difference – 656 ft / 200 meter
  • Trek grade – Gradual

After delicious breakfast, we willstart preparing for the trek today. Once we start from Naranag, we will walk through the Wangath Forest Conservation Zone. The trail will pass through the pine forest with the river flowing in the opposite direction. We will soon reach the confluence where one river comes from the famous Gangbal Lake and another from the Marchoi Top. Along with walnut trees, we would also catch sight of some Gujjar settlements, and then we would spend the night at Dumail campsite.

Day 3: Dumail to Marchoi via Sangri by Trek

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Distance – 8 km
  • Time taken – approx. 5 hrs
  • Altitude – Dumail (7638 ft / 2328 meters), Sangri (8220 ft / 2500 meters), Marchoi (10,500 ft / 3200 meters)
  • Altitude difference – Dumail to Sangri (582 ft / 172 meters), Sangri to Marchoi (2280 ft / 700 meters)
  • Trek grade – Gradual to Moderate

Wake up in the morning with sun rays passing through the mountains and glowing at the camping site; today, we will cross the stream via a wooden bridge. On this trail, we will see the majestic Harmukh Mountain and Kotwal Peak as we start climbing uphill. As you come close to the mountain’s top, you will start seeing lakes with trout. After walking for a few hours, we will soon reach the Sangri campsite, where we will be resting for a while before continuing on to the Marchoi top. You will be walking on the trail with Walnut, Cedar, and Pine trees on the side, and then we will come to an area with burned forest trees and snow-covered areas, which means you are close to Marchoi top. When we reach the top, we will be spelled bounded by the sight of a snow blanket and snow-clad peaks around, which is a beautiful sight. Once we have rested and taken in the beauty from the top, we will come down to the Sangri campsite, where we will sleep for the night.

Day 4: Sangri to Naranag by Trek and Naranag to Srinagar by Road

  • Meal – Breakfast
  • Distance – Sangri to Naranag by Trek (5 km), Naranag to Srinagar by Road (50 km)
  • Time taken – Sangri to Naranag by Trek (approx. 4 hrs), Naranag to Srinagar by Road (approx. 2 hrs)
  • Altitude – Sangri (8220 ft / 2500 meter), Naranag (6982 ft / 2128 meter), Srinagar (5200 ft / 1585 meter),
  • Altitude difference – Sangri to Naranag (1238 ft / 372 meters), Naranag to Srinagar (1782 ft / 543 meters)
  • Trek grade – Gradual

This is the last day of trekking; you will be walking through the forest for a short while, followed by a road journey ahead. As we went downhill, we would see snow-covered mountains behind us and a dense green forest in front of us. Once you have completed the trek and come to the last camping site Naranag there Trekup India driver, will receive you, and we will go by road to Srinagar. At Srinagar, the Trekup India team will bid farewell, and we will begin our return journey home.

Marchoi Trek Route Map

We’ve prepared a comprehensive Trek Route Map for your upcoming adventure to Marchoi Trek, which outlines the entire journey including all stops and trails. This map provides detailed information on the terrain, distance between points of interest, and estimated travel time to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. We’ve carefully curated the map to ensure that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Please take a moment to review it thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Marchoi Trek Altitude Chart

The Trek Altitude Chart is a useful tool for Trekkers to monitor their altitude changes during their rides, allowing them to plan their routes more efficiently and track their progress over time. This Marchoi Trek chart is beneficial for both casual and experienced Trekkers, helping them make the most out of their Trek experience.

Trek Cost Inclusions

  1. Stay: 3 Nights of tented accommodation at individual campsites of Trekup India on twin sharing.
  2. Meals: Trekup India will provide freshly cooked meals during the trek starting with Dinner on Day 1 to  tea, coffee on day 4 (Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian) 
  3. Transport : Srinagar to Naranag and return.
  4. Trek Insurance (Optional): Trekup India recommends that all trekkers consider getting trek insurance. This is optional, but highly recommended. Trek insurance covers unexpected events that may occur during your trek. The cost of the insurance starts from INR 210. Please read more about what is included in the coverage and why it is mandatory on treks.
  5. Trek Equipment:  Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
  6. Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black foam mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.    
  7. Health & Safety:  First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
  8. Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee 
  9. Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.
  10. Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules are to carry all trekking equipment, ration, and vegetables.

Trek Cost Exclusions

  1. GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
  2. Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
  3. Any Bus / Airfare to/from trek start/end point 
  4. Personal Medical expenses do carry your medication. 
  5. Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.
  6. Any still / video camera fee 
  7. Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot. 
  8. Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage (Offload Charges for bag 365 per day, per bag if paid online (at base camp 2,550). Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
  9. Any emergency evacuation charges
  10. Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.

What should you pack for the Marchoi Trek

Marchoi Trek is a high-altitude trek. The trekking gear you have to have for this particular trek differs from normal treks. Thus, read this whole segment. There is an important question that the trekker who is doing trek asks, like what all things to carry while trekking. Below, we have provided the details on everything you should take; an easy way to remember is by Head to foot or foot to head. We have prepared from Head to foot.

Things to Carry, pack for trek
Play Video about Things to Carry, pack for trek

Head Gears

When trekking it's important to carry headgear to protect your head and face.

Heading out for a trek? Don’t forget to carry headgear to protect your beautiful face and head from the sun, wind, and dust! It’s an essential accessory that keeps you safe and comfortable throughout your adventurous journey. So, make sure you pack it before you step out into nature!

  1. Head Lamps – When trekking at night, headlamps are essential to illuminate your path while keeping your hands free. Headlamps come in different sizes and lumens, so it is essential to choose one that suits your needs.
  2. Hats or Cap – Caps or hats are also necessary when trekking in different weather conditions. Caps protect your head from the wind and freezing temperatures at night, while hats provide shade and protection from the sun during the day. It’s essential to ensure that your hat has a strap to prevent it from being blown away by the wind.
  3. Sunglasses – Sunglasses are also essential for trekking. Your sunglasses should protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and fit your face perfectly to avoid falling off while climbing, jumping, or crossing obstacles. The glass of your sunglasses should also be designed for different weather conditions to provide optimal visibility.
  4. Buff / Balaclava – Lastly, a buff or balaclava is a must-have to protect your mouth or neck from extreme temperatures and keep them warm. Buffs and balaclavas come in different materials, thicknesses, and designs, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs and preferences. Depending on the weather conditions and your activities, you can wear them as neck warmers, face masks, or headbands.
With these essential items, you can enjoy trekking safely and comfortably, no matter the weather or time of day.

Clothes

When trekking in high altitudes, prepare for cold weather by wearing layers. Layering traps heat, keeps you warm, and allows you to easily adjust your clothing as temperatures fluctuate.

Layering is important for different seasons when trekking. When planning a high-altitude trek, it is important to prepare for the cold weather. Wearing layers is the best approach as it provides both protection and flexibility when the weather changes frequently in the mountains. Layering helps to trap heat and keep your body warm, while at the same time allowing you to easily adjust your clothing as the temperature fluctuates. By wearing layers, you can enjoy your trek comfortably and stay safe in the unpredictable mountain weather

  1. For spring, summer, and monsoon treks, consider wearing three layers: a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket.
  2. For autumn treks, add one more fleece layer to make it four layers.
  3. For winter treks, you may need five layers with thermals, a woollen sweater, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
  4. T-shirt/sleeve shirt– Bring three T-shirts and two quick-dry trek pants, wearing one and carrying the others. Long sleeve shirts help to protect from sun UV rays. We recommend synthetic T-shirts as they get dry quickly when they get wet.
  5. Hiking / Trekking Jacket– down jackets (-5 to-10 C) or two-three-layer jackets.
  6. Thermals– at least two pairs of thermals help keep the body warm during cold weather.
  7. Undergarments– you can carry them according to your habitual and hygiene requirements.
  8. Gloves– 1 pair of gloves will keep your hand warm and nice.
  9. Trek Pants– Bring 2 to 3 comfortable trekking pants. Trekking pants play a significant role, as they are designed for comfort and mobility, making trekking easier. It should be Synthetic so that it gets dry quickly when wet.
  10. Rain Wear– you can carry a raincoat or Poncho. During long rains and snowfalls, the waterproof jackets start leaking. Still, the Poncho and raincoats keep you dry, so choose accordingly.

Tip: If you choose a raincoat on your trek, carry a small waterproof cover so things inside your backpack can’t get wet. If you carry a Poncho, you don’t need to worry. It protects both you and your backpack.

Foot Gears

When it comes to planning a trek, one of the most important aspects is to ensure that you have the right kind of foot gear.

  1. Trekking shoes which are waterproof and have ankle support. Walking / Hiking sandals which can be used off the trek, i.e., in the morning and evening hours when you reach the campsite, basically to get your feet rest from heavy boots, sometimes used for crossing streams and rivers, it’s more comfortable and safer than crossing barefoot or wetting your shoes. Sneakers (Optional) can be worn for normal driving days or used around the camp.
  2. Socks– you should at least carry 3 to 4 pairs.
  3. Microspikes & Gaitorswill be provided by Trekup India when required. You don’t have to carry them.

Personal First Aid Kit

Don't forget to pack your personal first aid kit! It's always better to be safe. So, make sure you're prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.

Below are some common medicines generally required/used during your adventure trip; however, please consult your doctors prior.

  1. Antiseptic towel or water syringe (to clean the wound)
  2. Butterfly bandage for a small cut
  3. Cotton and elastic bandages and sterile gauze pad for larger wounds
  4. Latex gloves are used when the wound bleeds.
  5. Medicine for Diarrhea (Upset stomach)
  6. Medicine for cold, flue/fever, headache
  7. Some pain killers
  8. ORS pouches
  9. Quick pain relief spray (External use)
  10. Any personal medicine prescribed by your doctor
  11. Dimox / Similar for high altitude sickness
  12. Bug Repellent
  13. Carry some nutria/energy bars and drinks (non-alcoholic)
  14. Note: Kindly consult your doctor before purchasing or taking any medicine.

Gadgets and Other Items

You might also consider bringing a camera, binoculars, portable charger, and snacks. Be well-prepared and tackle any trail with confidence.

  1. Trekking Poles
  2. Mobile phone
  3. Camera
  4. Spare batteries for phone and camera, power bank
  5. Lightweight flashlight or headlight
  6. A waterproof bag made of plastic is used for the camera.
  7. Plug/converter for electrical items
  8. 1-litre water bottle
  9. A journal with a pen would be a good idea to keep your notes.
  10. Some book of your interest for the ideal time
  11. Get into the habit of maintaining a Map and guidebook of the region.

Hygiene & Personal toiletry

Remember to pack hygiene and personal toiletry items such as soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and toilet paper.

  1. Sunscreen with UV protection to shield your skin from harmful rays
  2. 1 or 2 small quick-drying towels to help you dry off quickly in case of rain or sweat
  3. Toilet paper, tissues or wet wipes for maintaining hygiene while on the trek
  4. Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouth freshener to keep your mouth clean and fresh throughout the journey
  5. Deodorant or talcum powder to help you stay fresh and odor-free, especially during hot and humid climates
  6. Shampoo to keep your hair clean and healthy
  7. Sanitary pads or tampons (for female trekkers) to manage menstrual cycles
  8. Lip-gloss or salve to protect your lips from dryness and chapping
  9. Bio-degradable soap to keep yourself clean and hygienic while on the trek
  10. Nail clipper and other personal items that you use daily
 
By packing these items, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.