Alpine Adventurers

Kicking Off the Season: A Challenging Day Hike to Krepin Gali
There’s no better way to welcome the hiking season than with a trail that tests your strength and rewards you with nature’s untouched beauty. Our first adventure of the season took us to Krepin Gali, a demanding yet breathtaking day hike that begins from the quiet village of Gogaldar in Anantnag district.
We set off early in the morning, taking the route via Seer Hamdan to reach Gogaldar. As soon as we stepped out onto the trail, it was clear, this wasn’t going to be a stroll. The hike kicks off with a steady and challenging inclination right from the start. Over a distance of 6.5 km, we gained nearly 1700 meters of elevation, making it a solid climb for anyone looking to push their limits.
The initial trail runs along the side of the scenic Panjori Nallah, with tree cover almost throughout, offering much-needed shade and comfort. The weather was in our favor, very pleasant, making the steep sections a little easier to manage.
As we crossed the 3200-meter mark, the terrain shifted dramatically. What was once a shaded forest path turned into a steep, rocky climb, demanding both physical effort and careful footing. The final 300 meters threw in a whole new twist — a stretch of snow-covered trail, transforming our hike into an unexpected snow hike.
At the top, Krepin Gali stood majestic, with the frozen Laginai Nallah laid out in front like a postcard from winter. The effort, the burn, and every single step felt worth it as we stood there, surrounded by silence, snow, and the sense of accomplishment only the mountains can give.
Around 2:30 PM, we began our descent back to Gogaldar, tired but fulfilled. It was a hike that challenged our legs and lifted our spirits a perfect way to kickstart the hiking season.

THE OTHER SIDE OF KASHMIR⛰️

Sunday Trek Series
Trek Details
Arshan Valley Lakes
Distance covered: 13 kms(approx)
Max Altitude: 4250 mtrs ASL (approx)

On Sunday, 30-06-2024, Alpine Adventurers embarked on an exhilarating trek to the renowned Arshan Valley lakes. Our team of 32 participants set off early from Srinagar, aiming to visit four high-altitude lakes in the Sinthan area.

Upon reaching the starting point at 9:30 AM, we conducted a brief session on trekking do's and don'ts before setting off towards our destination. Despite the short distance, the steep gradient and high altitude posed a significant challenge. Thanks to teamwork and the effective leadership of our team leads, we successfully reached ArshanSar Lake by 11:00 AM.

Tired yet excited, participants took a well-deserved rest and captured the stunning scenery through photography. Leaving ArshanSar, we embarked on a steep climb over boulders to reach ZedNag and NehNag lakes by 12:30 PM. Continuing towards Nagpather Lake, we ascended to an elevation of 4250 meters before a steep descent brought us to our final lake by 1:30 PM.

After enjoying lunch and spending a substantial amount of time at the lake, we began our return journey at 3:00 PM, reaching our bus by 6:30 PM.

A heartfelt thank you to our trek leaders and all participants for making this trek a success. We look forward to our next adventure together!

Sunday trek series:
Trek details
Ashtaar Valley
Distance covered: Approx 22kms
Max alt: 3670 mtrs

Last Sunday, Team Alpine Adventurers embarked on an open trek to the stunning Ashtaar Valley, one of the lesser-known treasures of Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled near the Pir Panjal Ranges of the Himalayas, this trail transforms from a lush green paradise in summer to a snowy haven in winter.

Our team of 24 set out from Shaliganga at 8:30 AM under clear skies and crisp, cool weather, perfect for trekking. We reached Ashtaar by 12:45 PM, enjoying the mild temperatures and refreshing mountain breeze. Along the way, we marvelled at the vast meadows of Diskal and the majestic Harmukh and Kolahai peaks. Climbing an altitude of 900 meters and covering a distance of 11kms to Ashtaar, upon arrival we were welcomed by the magnificent Tatakooti Peak, gleaming in the sunlight. The valley, adorned with yellow and pink flowers, provided a serene resting place for the team.

After a brief pause to soak in the beauty and have lunch, we began our descent, reaching Doodhpathri by 6:30 PM. The beauty and serenity of Ashtaar Valley were truly unparalleled, making every step of the climb worthwhile.