Trek Grade
Moderate to Difficult
Highest Altitude
11,270 ft
Base Camp
Aru
Best Time
July & August
Nafran Valley Trek
Nafran Valley Trek is different yet similar to other scenic treks of Kashmir. The altitude at which it is located is 11,270 ft. This trek will be tricky; it will start from Aru village, and then you will reach Nafran Valley. It would help if you were done with the hike before going on this trek. On this trek, you will be experiencing the natural vistas that Kashmir offers, from dense forests and wildflower meadows to alpine lakes. The trees you will find here are Bhoj, Deodar, Walnut, Apricot, and Apple orchids. You will also see many Shepherds Huts (Gujjar Huts) while going through the meadow-lying trail.
The Nafran Valley Trek, a journey not for the faint-hearted, is a testament to your strength and endurance. It’s considered moderately challenging to complex, demanding a high level of physical fitness and, ideally, prior experience with Himalayan treks. The trail features a mix of uphill and downhill climbs, with some sections being quite steep. The trek reaches an elevation of 14,127 feet, with steep ascents along the way, which can increase the overall difficulty. But with each step, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to the majestic Himalayas.
The Nafran Valley Trek stands out not only for its diverse range of breathtaking landscapes but also for the unique cultural experience it offers. Between June and October, you’ll witness the Nafran meadows bustling with shepherd communities, who later descend to lower elevations as the weather cools. This trek offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of shepherds living in the Nafran Valley, tending to their livestock and earning a living. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in their traditions, learn about their way of life, and perhaps even share a meal or two.
The ideal time to visit Nafran Valley is from July to September when the valley is teeming with wildflowers and lush greenery. As the snow melts in July, the valley transforms into a vibrant green carpet, receiving the highest rainfall. August is the peak blooming season, with the valley bursting with greenery and cattle grazing freely. While the flowers dwindle in September, with clear skies and pleasant weather, the valley remains picturesque. Daytime temperatures during these months range from 12°C to 18°C, while night-time temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C.
Trek Cost
- Stay will be on a twin-sharing basis in tents
- + 280 Trek Insurance (Mandatory)
- Discount Policy
- Transport Optional ( INR - 1,600 extra )
Pickup time 12 P.M from TRC Taxi Stand, Srinagar, in front of Tourism Office Building
Fix Diparture Dates
Nafran Valley Trek Videos
Videos by experts watch these videos to prepare well for a Successful Tre
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.
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.
Day Wise Detailed Itinerary of Nafran Valley Trek
Day 1: Srinagar to Aru by road
- Stay: overnight stay at the homestay; meal: Lunch and Dinner
- Trek Distance: 103 km, Time Taken: approx. 3 hrs
- Altitude: Srinagar (5200 ft / 1585 meter.), Aru (7920 ft / 2414 meters.)
- Altitude gain: 2720 ft / 829 meters.
- Trek grade: By road
You will begin the journey by road from Srinagar to Ari, the campsite, which is also a common campsite for Tarsar Marsar Trek. You will enjoy the forest, local traditional houses, and the river flowing through the mountains. With the Linder River flowing beside it, Aru Village offers the perfect scenic backdrop of Jammu and Kashmir.
Day 2: Aru to Gagad Pathri by Trek
- Stay: overnight stay at the campsite; meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Time Taken: approx. 5 hrs.
- Altitude: Aru (7920 ft / 2414 mtr.), Gagad Pathri (9547 ft / 2910 mtr.)
- Altitude gain: 1627 ft / 496 meters.
- Trek grade: Gradual to Moderate
The morning will begin with a delicious breakfast prepared by Trekup India cook. After eating a healthy breakfast, you will prepare for the trek, according to the leader. The trek will begin at Aru Village by climbing uphill till you reach the forest zone. You will climb some more until you reach Geerwad, the shepherd settlement. From here on, you will walk through grassland and forest; the camping site is beside a small river, Gagad Pathri.
Day 3: Gagad Pathri to Nafran Valley by Trek
- Stay: overnight stay at the campsite; meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Time Taken: approx. 9 hrs.
- Altitude: Gagad Pathri (9547 ft / 2910 mtr.), Nafran Valley (11,270 ft / 3435 mtr.)
- Altitude gain: 1723 ft / 525 meters.
- Trek grade: Moderate to Difficult
Hot tea and a scenic view of the river flowing between the meadows are ideal ways to begin the day. Today, as you start the trek, you will cross two streams through a wooden bridge; after that lies a shepherd settlement called Kansal Pathri. You will be walking uphill toward Aaram Pathri. From Aaram Pathri, you will climb another hill to reach Nafarn Valley, which has breathtaking views of grasslands and boulders through which flows the rippling river.
Day 4: Nafran Valley to Harnag Lake Via Harnag Pass by Trek
- Stay: overnight stay at the campsite; meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Distance: 5 km, Time Taken: approx. 5 hrs.
- Altitude: Nafran Valley (11,270 ft / 3435 mtr.), Harnag Pass (12,270 ft / 3740 mtr.)
- Altitude gain: 1000 ft / 305 meters.
- Trek grade: Gradual to Moderate
The sound of the river flowing is like music playing and a pleasant way to begin the trek. After crossing Nafran Valley, you will come up to the path passing through a loose rock formation. From you must walk carefully, making your way. You will see Harnag Lake, which has several streams flowing through glaciers in the middle of Harnag Valley. Then after you have enjoyed the scenery, you will return the same way you came to Nafran Valley.
Day 5: Nafran Valley to Aaram Pathri by Trek
- Stay: overnight stay at the campsite; meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Distance: 2.5 km, Time Taken: approx. 2 hrs
- Altitude: Nafran Valley (11,270 ft / 3435 mtr.), Aaram Pathri (11,155 ft / 3400 mtr.)
- Altitude difference: 115 ft / 35 meters.
- Trek grade: Gradual to Moderate
The trek from Nafran Valley to Aaram Thathri is an easy downhill trek, and the trail passes through meadows, a beautiful site. During the day, when the sun’s rays pass through Deodar and Bhoj trees, Aaram Pathri campsite creates a picture-perfect scene.
Day 6: Aaram Pathri to Bhaj Margi by Trek
- Stay: overnight stay at the campsite; meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Distance: 11 km Time Taken: approx. 5 hrs.
- Altitude: Aaram Pathri (11,155 ft / 3400 meters.), Bhaj Margi (10,171 ft / 3100 meter.)
- Altitude difference: 984 ft / 300 meter
- Trek grade: Gradual to Moderate
Aaram Pathri’s trail passages through the jungle and is steep, with loose gravel, soil, and rough rocks. You have to walk very carefully; once you reach the top of the hill, you can catch sight of the entire valley. Now the trek continues down the mountain passing through meadows till you reach the Bhaj Margi campsite.
Day 7: Bhaj Margi via Mondlan by trek and Mondlan to Aru by Road
- Stay: No Stay, Meal: Breakfast
- Trek Distance: Bhaj Margi to Mondlan by Trek – 6 km, Mondlan to Aru by Road – 8 km, Aru to Srinagar – 103 km.
- Time Taken: Bhaj Margi to Mondlan by Trek – approx. Six hrs., Mondlan to Aru by Road – approx. 20 min, Aru to Srinagar – approx. 3 hrs
- Altitude: Bhaj Margi (10,171 ft / 3100 meters.), Mondlan (10,374 ft / 3162 meter.), Aru (7920 ft / 2414 meter.), Srinagar (5200 ft / 1585 meters.)
- Altitude difference: Bhaj Margi to Mondlan (203 ft / 62 meters.), Monday to Aru (2454 ft / 748 meters.), Aru to Srinagar (2720 ft / 829 meters.)
- Trek grade: Bhaj Margi to Mondlan by Trek – Gradual, Mondlan to Aru by road, Aru to Srinagar by road
Today is the final day of trekking on the mountain; you will be looking at grassland, waterfalls, water streams, etc., for the last Time. From Bhaj Margi, the trek will lead you to the trail’s end, a large wooden gate. There is forest all through the route till you reach a shepherd settlement called Shul Margi. You will cross two streams, one small and one large, then pass through a forested area until you come to an open area of Pahalgam. From Pahalgam, you will climb downhill till you reach Mondlan village; from Mondlan to Aru is a short drive of twenty minutes. Then Aru to Srinagar by road; Srinagar will be the last stop where our team leaves you. After that, you can plan your route anywhere you want to go.
Nafran Valley Trek Route Map
We’ve prepared a comprehensive Trek Route Map for your upcoming adventure to Nafran Valley 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.
Nafran Valley 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 Nafran Valley Trek chart is beneficial for both casual and experienced Trekkers, helping them make the most out of their Trek experience.
Trek Cost Inclusions
- Stay: 6 Nights of tented accommodation at individual campsites of Trekup India on twin sharing.
- Meals: Trekup India will provide freshly cooked meals during the trek starting with Dinner on Day 1 to tea, coffee on day 7 (Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian)
- Transport (Optional): Srinagar to Sonmarg and return. ( 1600 extra )
- 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.
- Trek Equipment: Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
- Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black foam mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.
- Health & Safety: First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
- Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee
- Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.
- Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules are to carry all trekking equipment, ration, and vegetables.
Trek Cost Exclusions
- GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
- Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
- Any Bus / Airfare to/from trek start/end point
- Personal Medical expenses do carry your medication.
- Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.
- Any still / video camera fee
- Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot.
- 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.
- Any emergency evacuation charges
- Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.
What should you pack for the Nafran Valley Trek
Nafran Valley 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.
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!
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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
- For spring, summer, and monsoon treks, consider wearing three layers: a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket.
- For autumn treks, add one more fleece layer to make it four layers.
- For winter treks, you may need five layers with thermals, a woollen sweater, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
- 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.
- Hiking / Trekking Jacket– down jackets (-5 to-10 C) or two-three-layer jackets.
- Thermals– at least two pairs of thermals help keep the body warm during cold weather.
- Undergarments– you can carry them according to your habitual and hygiene requirements.
- Gloves– 1 pair of gloves will keep your hand warm and nice.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Socks– you should at least carry 3 to 4 pairs.
- 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.
- Antiseptic towel or water syringe (to clean the wound)
- Butterfly bandage for a small cut
- Cotton and elastic bandages and sterile gauze pad for larger wounds
- Latex gloves are used when the wound bleeds.
- Medicine for Diarrhea (Upset stomach)
- Medicine for cold, flue/fever, headache
- Some pain killers
- ORS pouches
- Quick pain relief spray (External use)
- Any personal medicine prescribed by your doctor
- Dimox / Similar for high altitude sickness
- Bug Repellent
- Carry some nutria/energy bars and drinks (non-alcoholic)
- 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.
- Trekking Poles
- Mobile phone
- Camera
- Spare batteries for phone and camera, power bank
- Lightweight flashlight or headlight
- A waterproof bag made of plastic is used for the camera.
- Plug/converter for electrical items
- 1-litre water bottle
- A journal with a pen would be a good idea to keep your notes.
- Some book of your interest for the ideal time
- 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.
- Sunscreen with UV protection to shield your skin from harmful rays
- 1 or 2 small quick-drying towels to help you dry off quickly in case of rain or sweat
- Toilet paper, tissues or wet wipes for maintaining hygiene while on the trek
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouth freshener to keep your mouth clean and fresh throughout the journey
- Deodorant or talcum powder to help you stay fresh and odor-free, especially during hot and humid climates
- Shampoo to keep your hair clean and healthy
- Sanitary pads or tampons (for female trekkers) to manage menstrual cycles
- Lip-gloss or salve to protect your lips from dryness and chapping
- Bio-degradable soap to keep yourself clean and hygienic while on the trek
- Nail clipper and other personal items that you use daily