Tulian Lake Trek
The Tulian Lake Trek is one of Kashmir’s most remarkable short trekking experiences — a 5-day, 26 km journey from the iconic resort town of Pahalgam to Tulian Lake, one of the highest and most stunning alpine lakes in Jammu & Kashmir at 12,087 ft. Renowned for its floating ice blocks even in peak summer, Tulian Lake is a natural wonder that leaves every Kashmir trekking visitor in stunned silence.
Tulian Lake trek
- Jammu & Kashmir, India
₹12,150
Trek Difficulty
Moderate
Trek Duration
5 Days
Height
12,087 ft
Total Trek Distance
26 kms
Base Camp
Langalbal
ACCOMMODATION TYPE
Houses or Homestays
PICKUP POINT
12,087 ft
PICKUP TIME
07:00 Am
DROP OFF TIME
07:00 PM
About the Tulian Lake Trek — Pahalgam's Iceberg Alpine Lake
The Tulian Lake Trek offers the ideal combination of accessibility and authentic Himalayan adventure for trekkers of all experience levels. The trail begins in the lush, pine-forested environs of Pahalgam and ascends steadily through Baisaran meadows, dense forest, high-altitude grasslands, and glacial terrain to the lake’s edge — where a wall of snow and ice creates one of the most dramatic high-altitude landscapes in the region.
At 12,087 ft, Tulian Lake is famous across the Kashmir trekking world for its floating ice blocks, which persist on the lake surface well into summer due to the natural topography that channels winter snowfall into the bowl. The brilliant blue-green colour of the lake water, the dramatic snow-streaked mountain backdrop, and the 360-degree Himalayan panorama at the summit make reaching Tulian Lake a deeply rewarding achievement.
Trek in Kashmir’s Tulian Lake Trek package from ₹12,150 per person provides the complete guided experience: certified local guides, full camping support, all meals, and the safety infrastructure to make this high-altitude trek Kashmir fully accessible to motivated trekkers from varying backgrounds and experience levels.
Day Wise Itinerary of Tulian Lake trek
- Drive Distance: 85 Km
- Drive Duration: 2-3 hrs
- Altitude Gain: 5200 ft to 6975 ft
- Trek Distance: 4.3 Km
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
- Altitude Gain: 6975 ft to 8,254 ft
First we will drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam, a drive of 90 Km . After reaching to Pahalgam, our next destination will be Ganesh Bal am small which is only 2 Kms from the Main Town of Pahalgam. The Trek will be starting a descent trek to the Deno Valley which will be 4.3 Km away. The Trek will be through a forest trial, along the way we will see various local restaurants as well as water filteration plant. After the Deno Valley, we will camp their for that night under the sky full of stars.
- Trek Distance: 6.5 Km
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- Altitude Gain: 8254 ft to 9504 ft
On this Day, we will be starting our trek towards Chutiyaal, where we will take a small break. After that , we will have go through the forest areas, but this is much denser than the previous ones. After trekking the forest trial for 1km , then we will reach Switzerland "Kidding", we will then reach to Baisaran "Mini Switzerland of India". We will spend some time their appreciating the symmetry and beauty of nature. Then we will start our trek to Kanimool, along the way we will go through the heart of the forest filled with spurce and fir. This place is called Breadayanghan. Then we will our destination for that day that is Kanimool. We will camp their for that night.
- Trek Distance: 4 Km
- Trek Duration: 5 hours
- Altitude Gain: 9504 ft ft to 10,568 ft
Now our next destination will Tulian Marg, the trial for this day is going to be challenging as we will have to trek for about 4 Km on a ascending steep. Trekking gears are must for this day. After trekking for around 3.5 hours, we will arrive at Tulian Valley, after some rest we will then move to the center of the valley where will camp for that night , luckily there will be water stream flowing right next to the camp side.
- Trek Distance: 4 Km
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Altitude Gain: 10,568 ft to 12,087 ft
Day 4 is going the main course of this trek as we will trekking to the Tulian Lake. First the trek will be just walking on the meadows up untill we will reach a small boulder section for half a Km . Just after the boulder section things will get challenging as their is going to steep ascend along with loose scree. Use both trek poles with firm feet to cross this section. After reaching the top you will then witness the gorgeous alpine surrounded by the Mountains of the pir pnjal and Zanskar range . Just like ascend , the descent part is going to be challenging as well. Take the steps properly untill you will reach a place to take rest and enjoy the serene beauties of The Tulian lake. After spending the day their , we will then retreat for Tulian valley.
- Trek Distance: 4 Km
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Altitude Gain: 10,568 ft to 12,087 ft
The Last day of the Tulian Valley Trek. On this Day, the trial is just going to be descending . While retracing back to Ganesh bal, you will get to refresh memories of the last 4 days. After reaching back to Ganesh bal, we will then drive back to Srinagar where we will reach by evening and bid farewell untill our next trek Journey together.
Frequently Asked Questions — Tulian Lake Trek Kashmir
The Tulian Lake Trek is best done between June and September. The trail becomes accessible after winter snowmelt, typically by early to mid-June, and remains open through September before autumn snows close the upper section. July and August are most popular — the Baisaran meadows are lush green, wildflowers bloom en route, and the floating ice blocks on Tulian Lake are still visible. September offers a quieter trek with excellent mountain visibility and fewer crowds. Trek in Kashmir's local team confirms current trail conditions before every departure to ensure a safe experience.
The Tulian Lake Trek is graded Easy to Moderate — one of Trek in Kashmir's most accessible high-altitude options. At 26 km over 5 days with a maximum altitude of 12,087 ft, the trek involves manageable daily distances of 5–7 km, allowing time for acclimatisation and scenery appreciation. The altitude gain from Pahalgam (~7,200 ft) to Tulian Lake (12,087 ft) requires gradual ascent, good hydration, and attention to guide advice. Prior trekking experience is helpful but not required. The trail is well-marked and Trek in Kashmir's guides ensure a safe, paced ascent for all fitness levels.
Tulian Lake sits at 12,087 ft in a high-altitude bowl surrounded by rocky ridgelines and permanent snowfields. The natural topography channels winter snowfall into the lake, causing ice blocks to persist on the lake surface well into summer — often through July and sometimes into early August. These floating ice formations, combined with the brilliant blue-green colour of the lake water and the dramatic snow-streaked mountain backdrop, create a scene of extraordinary beauty that is unlike anything else on Kashmir's trekking circuit. This natural phenomenon is the defining visual highlight of the Tulian Lake Trek.
The Tulian Lake Trek begins from Pahalgam, one of Kashmir's most celebrated hill stations, located approximately 96 km from Srinagar in the Anantnag district. Pahalgam is well-connected to Srinagar by road (roughly 2.5–3 hours by taxi or shared cab). The trek typically starts from the Baisaran meadow area above Pahalgam town. Trek in Kashmir advises trekkers on the best route from Srinagar to Pahalgam and can assist with transport coordination as part of the overall package arrangement.
The Trek in Kashmir Tulian Lake Trek package starts from ₹12,150 per person. The fully inclusive package covers: camping accommodation with all equipment (tents, sleeping bags, mattresses), all meals on trail (breakfast, packed lunch, dinner), a certified trek leader and experienced local guide, camp support crew, first-aid support and emergency equipment, and applicable forest or national park entry fees. Travel to/from Pahalgam, personal trekking gear, personal insurance, and personal expenses are not included. Contact Trek in Kashmir to check availability and secure your booking for this hidden Kashmir gem.
Trek Location
- Jammu & Kashmir, India
Have Any Question?
Whether you’re wondering about the best season to visit, the difficulty level, permits required, or what essentials to carry, we’ve got you covered. The Tulian Lake Trek, located near Pahalgam in Kashmir, takes you through lush meadows, pine forests, and offers breathtaking views of a high-altitude glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Reach out to us for guidance — we’ll help you prepare for an unforgettable adventure to one of Kashmir’s most scenic hidden gems.
- (+91)9796 466052
- infotravelmykashmir@gmail.com
tulian lake best time to visit
The best time to visit Tulian Lake is from June to September, when the weather is clear, the trails are accessible, and the lake is at its most scenic—either partially frozen or surrounded by lush alpine meadows. These months offer ideal trekking conditions and panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks
tulian lake difficulty level
The Tulian Lake Trek is of moderate difficulty, suitable for trekkers with basic fitness and prior trekking experience. The trail involves steep ascents, rocky terrain, and high-altitude conditions, making it physically challenging but manageable for those in good shape
tulian lake distance from srinagar
Tulian Lake is approximately 85–90 km from Srinagar. The journey typically involves: 2–3.5‑hour scenic drive from Srinagar to the trek’s base point at Pahalgam or Sonamarg From Pahalgam, trekkers start the hike (at Ganesh Bal or Nichnai), adding another 10–16 km of trekking to reach Tulian Lake
Tulian lake trek height
Tulian Lake is located at an altitude of approximately 3,684 meters (12,087 feet) above sea level. The high elevation means thinner air and cooler temperatures, so proper acclimatization and physical fitness are important for a safe and enjoyable trek.
tulian lake trek route
The Tulian Lake Trek typically starts from Pahalgam. The route passes through Baisaran Valley, dense pine forests, and lush meadows before reaching the alpine lake. The trail is about 15 km one way, with gradual to steep ascents. Trekkers often camp en route and return the next day
Tulian lake trek starting point
The trek to Tulian Lake begins from the village of Ganesh Bal, located just 2 km from Pahalgam on the banks of the Lidder River. Most itineraries start here—reachable by a short drive or hike from Pahalgam—before heading into pine forests and alpine meadows en route to the lake
