Tosamaidan Trek (Doodhpathiri)

7 Days

Overview

Tosa Maidan and Greater Lakes Trek: Embracing Kashmir's Hidden Gems Nestled in the Beerwah region of Budgam district, the Tosa Maidan and Greater Lakes trek unveils Kashmir's lesser-explored wonders. Unlike the popular Sonmarg and Pahalgam treks, this route offers a serene escape into wilderness and nature. Spanning seven enriching days, the trek unfolds amidst flamboyant green meadows and under endless blue skies. It's a canvas where desktop wallpapers come to life with every step. As one trekker aptly described, seven days seem too short to soak in the grandeur and soul-satisfying beauty of this trail. From lush coniferous forests to expansive meadows, challenging boulder crossings to serene glacial lakes, the trek ascends to a maximum altitude of 3,786 meters. Ideal for beginners seeking an authentic trekking experience, it blends moderate-level challenges with rewarding meadow walks, amidst some of Kashmir's largest meadows and vast flower beds. The best time to embark on this journey is between July and September, when nature unfolds its vibrant hues. Stay tuned for more insights and details on the Tosa Maidan and Greater Lakes trek.

Day 1 :

Arrival at Drung (2,270M)

Distance: 42 km drive

Duration: 3-4 hours

Today marks the beginning of our journey into the heart of Kashmir as we travel from Srinagar to Drung. Refer to our guide for directions.

The drive commences from Dal Lake, winding through Srinagar's streets before transitioning onto the highway to Gulmarg. Despite its brevity, this drive offers glimpses of Kashmiri culture amidst local markets and verdant fields. As we leave the city's hustle behind, mountains and cool breezes herald the landscapes ahead.

A lunch stop along the highway treats us to local cuisine, energizing us for the remainder of the journey. Continuing upwards, the temperature cools, and alpine trees line our path. A short drive from Tangmarg leads us to the trek's starting point above the renowned Drung Waterfall.

Upon arrival at the campsite, we unwind with tea and snacks. After gathering, our trek leaders brief us on the upcoming adventure, outlining the itinerary and preparing us for what lies ahead. A hearty dinner awaits before we retire for the night, anticipating the days ahead.

Day 2 :

Drung (2270 M) to Dhanwas (2886 M)

Distance: 10 km

Duration: 6 hours

Today, after learning to pack our tents for self-sufficiency, we embark on our trek at 9:00 AM. The trail leads us through coniferous forests with gentle inclines, alternating with meadows. Our guides enrich the journey with insights into local flora, enhancing our experience.

Ascending into denser forest after two hours, the trail steepens. Despite the climb, the lush surroundings captivate us. Emerging from the forest, expansive valleys and meadows greet us, a shepherd's house marking a refreshing stop for water.

Lunch break offers panoramic views before we traverse easy terrain across vast meadows to Dhanwas. Local children greet us as we descend to the campsite, surrounded by meadows and coniferous forests.

Evening brings hot snacks and tea, the sunset casting a serene ambiance. Dinner concludes the day as we prepare for tomorrow's adventure.

Day 3 :

Dhanwas (2886 M) to Pehjan (3283 M)

Distance: 7 km

Duration: 4-5 hours

After morning preparations, we begin trekking at 9:00 AM. The trail leads through coniferous forests before opening into meadows with snow-capped mountains in clear weather. Two hours of meadow walking gradually gives way to a flat trail alongside a local water canal.

Lunch by the canal precedes a pleasant walk encountering local shepherds and their herds. Arriving at Pehjan, beyond the tree line, we settle into a greyer terrain. Leisure time leads to an evening bonfire, stories shared amid camaraderie.

Dinner follows, preparing us for the challenges of tomorrow.

Day 4 :

Pehjhan (3283 M) to Tosa Maidan (3117 M)

Distance: 10 km

Duration: 5 hours

Today's trek ascends for three hours through meadows and pink flower beds, punctuated by a brief steep climb. Lunch atop rewards us with panoramic views before an easy descent to Tosa Maidan, Kashmir's expansive meadow.

The trail features boulder crossings and encounters with pashmina goats, offering ample time to savor the scenery. Tosa Maidan's campsite, beside a clear stream amidst meadows, provides a picturesque setting.

Dinner concludes the day, reflections shared under the stars.

Day 5 :

Tosa Maidan (3,117M) to Noonwan (3,528M)

Distance: 10 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

With a hearty breakfast, we embark on a gradual uphill climb to Noonwan. The trail ascends before descending to Noonwan, with boulder crossings along the way.

Noonwan's campsite, by a lake, offers stunning sunsets and relaxation before tomorrow's challenges.

Day 6 :

Noonwan (3528 M) to Godsar (3,786M) & Return

Distance: 10-12 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

Today, we trek to the Greater Lakes, beginning early to explore Neelsar, Dhamamsar, Bhansar, and Godsar. Each lake, a gem amidst mountains, demands our attention. Challenging boulder crossings lead to rewarding views.

Returning by lunch, we savor our final evening in the mountains.

Day 7 :

Noonwan (3528 M) to Tosa Maidan (3150 M) and Return to Srinagar

Distance: 10 km (trek) + 45 km (drive)

Duration: 5 hours (trek) + 3 hours (drive)

Our final trek descends to Tosa Maidan, retracing our steps amid Kashmir's meadows. A steep ascent concludes our trek, where we bid farewell before the drive to Srinagar.

Reflecting on endless meadows and glacial lakes, we depart with cherished memories of Kashmir's beauty and warmth.

IN MANDATORY ITEMS –

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. ID cards of either Aadhar card or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.

Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek.

IN THE ESSENTIALS

Trekking Shoes
Backpack
Clothes

Base layer:

3 T-shirts: wear one T-shirt and carry two. Carry full-sleeved dry-fit T-shirts (preferably collared). These prevent your arms and neck from getting sunburnt. In the rarefied air on the trek, especially at high altitudes.

3 insulation layers:The highest altitude you reach on this trek is 13,200 ft. At these altitudes, it can get cold even in the middle of summer. You will need at least 3 insulation layERs for this trek. Two trek pants

Mandatory Accessories, without these too you won’t be able to do the trek

Suncap
Synthetic hand gloves
Sunglasses
Woollen cap
Socks (3 pairs)
Headlamp
Trekking pole
Rainwear
Rain cover for your backpack
A toilet kit
Cutlery
Two 1 litre bottles or a 2-litre hydration pack
Plastic covers

GET FIT FOR THE TULIAN LAKE TREK

Jogging is indeed a fantastic routine to prepare for a trek. It targets the muscles you’ll use during trekking—your calves, glutes, and hamstrings—while also boosting your stamina gradually. Plus, it’s convenient since you don’t need any equipment or tools.

To achieve fitness for the trek using jogging, follow these steps:

Start Jogging:
- Begin jogging at least 4 days a week.
- If you can’t run 5 km right away, start with 2 km and gradually increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.
Increase Pace:
- Once you can comfortably run 5 km, focus on increasing your pace gradually.
- Aim to bring your time down to 5 km in less than 35 minutes.
Consistency:
- Maintain a consistent routine and ensure you can run 5 km in 35 minutes consistently for at least 2 weeks before the trek.
Preparation Time:
- This trek requires at least 6-8 weeks of preparation, but longer preparation is even better.
- Plan your trek early and start preparing as soon as POSSIBLE