Krishansar Lake : A shimmering gem in Kashmir’s high-altitude crown

1. Krishansar Lake Overview

i. Location: Krishansar Lake lies at a height of around 3,710 meters above sea level and falls within the popular trek route under the itinerary of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek. It is situated near twin lake Vishansar Lake and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows.

ii. Geographical Coordinates
Latitude: 34.5205° N
Longitude: 75.4102° E

iii. Type of Lake: Alpine/Glacial Lake

iv. Catchment Area: Krishansar Lake is mainly fed by the melting glaciers that provide crystal clear water, reflecting the peaks surrounding it on the surface of the lake. The lake freezes during winter and is inaccessible for the larger part of the year. Flora and fauna abound in the area, considering its ecological importance.

2. How to Reach Krishansar Lake

Journey to Krishansar Lake is actually a part of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, which starts from the town of Sonamarg. 

2.a. By Air

The nearest airport to Lake Krishansar is Srinagar International Airport at a distance of 100 km from Sonamarg. Moreover, flights to Srinagar are also available from main cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From Srinagar, one can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Sonamarg, the base camp of the trek.

2.b. By Train

The nearest railway station is the Jammu Tawi, which is 350 km from Sonamarg. From here, the visitor can take a bus or a taxi to Srinagar to reach Sonamarg. The distance between Jammu and Sonamarg would take almost 8-10 hours.

2.c. By Road

Sonamarg is well connected by road to Srinagar, which is about 80 km away. Buses and taxis are regularly available from Srinagar to Sonamarg. The journey itself is very picturesque traveling through the valley and alongside rivers.

3. Trekking Route

Krishansar Lake is on an extended multi-day trek route. Generally, the itinerary goes as follows:

Day 1: From Sonamarg to Nichnai via Nichnai Pass
Day 2: Nichnai to Vishansar Lake
Day 3: Vishansar Lake to Krishansar Lake

The walk to Krishansar Lake is a moderate walk that carries either the river crossing or passes crossing through alpine meadows.

4. Trek to Krishansar Lake

4.a. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

The trek of Kashmir Great Lakes offers some of the most scenic walks across India. The total route of the trek is about 72 km in six to eight days, subject to the itinerary.

4.b. Difficulty Level

The trek is graded as moderate to difficult, based on the weather conditions and the physical fitness of the trekker. Steep ascents, tricky descents, and crossing high-altitude passes like the Nichnai Pass at an altitude of 4,100 meters are all included in the route. However, it is all worth the effort as trekkers are gifted with views of the most beautiful lakes and valleys of the region.

4.c. Trekking Distance and Time

Sonamarg to Nichnai: 11 km takes 6-7 hours
Nichnai to Vishansar Lake: 12 km takes 6-7 hours
Vishansar to Krishansar Lake: 5 km takes 2-3 hours

4.d. Accommodations and Facilities

Accommodation is in tents during the trek as there are no guesthouses or lodges on this trek route. Most trekking groups provide accommodation in tents, sleeping bags, food etc. Trekkers carry all essentials including warm clothing, waterproof accessories, a first aid kit and adequate water supply.

5. Best Time to Visit Krishansar Lake

The best time to visit Krishansar Lake is between June to September, as it has all the snow melted and all the trekking routes are accessible. The weather conditions during the daytime are not hot and very pleasant. In nights, temperature falls between 15 to 20°C near freezing.

5.a. Monsoon (July-August): During the monsoon season, although it’s not that rainy, the meadows do look very lush green. On these trails, however, the slippery roads and occasional landslide prove a hurdle to the trekkers.

5.b. Autumn (September): With the setting of autumn, the landscape changes, the trees and meadows turn into hues of gold and brown, attracting photographers and for solitude seekers.

5.c. Winter (October to May): Snow covers Krishansar Lake and its surrounding during winter season, inaccessible to trekkers. It freezes over and becomes a surreal landscape but harsh at the same time.

6. Flora and Fauna Around Krishansar Lake

The region around Krishansar Lake is rich in biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers as well.

6.a. Flora
During summer, daisies, buttercups and other wildflowers occupy the alpine meadows. Pine and deodar trees abound at the low altitudes. Mosses and lichens are lush around the lake.

6.b. Fauna
Several species of wildlife inhabit the lake and its surroundings. One can expect to see Himalayan marmots, ibex, snow leopards, although these rarely occur, and several species of migratory birds. There is also a huge population of brown bears in this region, so trekkers should be extremely careful at least at night.

It is a haven for all the migratory birds like Brahminy ducks, bar-headed geese and the Himalayan monal. It would be a great time for the birdwatcher here as Krishansar Lake is still an unexplored treasure.

7. Photography and Scenic Views

Photographer’s paradise with deep blue water of the lake contrasting well in green meadows surrounding and white snow-clad peaks in the background. The most exciting photographic spots are:

7.a. Reflection of Peaks in the Lake: The perfect calm lake with its tranquil surface gives a perfect reflection of the surrounding peaks thereby providing an effect of a mirror so beautiful and surreal.

7.b. Sunrise and Sunset: Totally magical views of the landscape around the lake are seen when the changing of time, sun rising and sun setting, makes it prime time especially for photographers.

7.c. Starry Nights: Being an extremely isolated location, pollution in Krishansar Lake is minimal, therefore, the night sky is very vivid for astronomical views. Astrophotographers would love to capture the Milky Way and shining of stars in the sky above the lake.

8. Cultural and Religious Significance

Krishansar Lake, along with Vishansar Lake, holds religious significance for Hindus. Both lakes are considered sacred and are believed to be associated with Lord Vishnu (Krishna and Vishnu, respectively, hence their names). Pilgrims often visit these lakes as part of a spiritual journey and some perform rituals on the lake’s banks. 

Apart from its religious importance, it constitutes an essential part of the local folklore and oral traditions. Gujjars, Bakarwals as well as numerous tribes of shepherds have been staying in this region for hundreds of years. Their stories and tales represent a yet another thick layer of cultural thickness.

9. Attractions around

9.a. Vishansar Lake

Vishansar Lake is 1 km from Krishansar Lake. The other alpine lake that should not be forgotten, the two beautiful lakes are often described together as the “twin lakes” because of their closeness to each other, a short trek from Krishansar to Vishansar is best for those who want to visit both.

9.b. Gadsar Lake

Further up lies Gadsar Lake, which some would call the “Flower Lake”. The lake is surrounded by beautifully sown alpine meadows, yet another short highlight of the trek.

9.c. Nichnai Pass

Nichnai Pass is considered one of the high points of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek at 4100 meters. The pass is said to offer unbelievable vistas of many surrounding valleys as well as peaks. So it is one of those locations any trekker going up there is sure to stop by.

9.d. Sonamarg

A day in Sonamarg is highly recommended before embarking on a trek to Krishansar Lake. Sonamarg, which is called the ‘Meadow of Gold,’ is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and is known for horse-riding, river rafting and camping activities.

10. Tips for Trekkers

10.a. Fitness Level: The climb is strenuous due to steep climbs and attaining high altitudes. Participants are, therefore, recommended to participate in some cardio training and strength exercises before the trek.

10.b. Altitude sickness: All participants are advised on the risks involved with altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and nausea. Proper acclimatization and hydration should, therefore, be adopted during the trek.

10.c. Weather Readiness: Weather, in mountains, could be a whim and be unpredictable at times. We have to prepare for rain, snow and extreme cold. Waterproof gear and thermal clothing must be carried.

10.d. Travel Permits: Travel permits may be required in some areas if not all to the Krishansar Lake. This is especially needed for foreign travelers. It is better to inquire through local authorities or the trek organization to confirm their current updates for travel permits.

11. Conclusion

Hugged by the Himalayas, Krishansar Lake is a treasure yet hidden away. Its hints of adventure are combined with a rich cultural heritage. Krishansar Lake is sure to have something in store for you, whether you are an avid trekker, a nature lover or a soul seeking spiritual salvation. The amazing majesty of Kashmir’s alpine lakes surrounds Krishansar Lake while challenges aptly make the Kashmir Great Lakes trek more attractive.