8 Stunning Alpine Lakes In Kashmir That Will Take Your Breath Away

In the breathtaking Himalayas of Kashmir lie some of the most enchanting alpine lakes you can ever imagine. Surrounded by wildflower meadows, towering peaks, and whispering forests, each lake tells its own unique story, inviting travellers to explore, dream, and find peace away from the noise of everyday life. Whether you’re an adventurous trekker, a nature lover, or simply someone seeking a moment of wonder, Kashmir’s alpine lakes promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of paradise.

Alpine Lakes In Kashmir

1. Gadsar Lake

Gadsar Lake, also known as the Lake of Fishes, is one of the most stunning alpine lakes in Kashmir. Located at a height of around 11,800 feet in the Bandipore district, it is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows filled with colourful wildflowers in the summer. This is why it’s often lovingly called the Valley of Flowers. But Gadsar is not just beautiful; it’s also mysterious. Locals call it Yemsar, or Lake of Yama, the god of death. According to a local legend, there’s a mysterious creature in the lake, like a freshwater octopus, that drags animals into the water. 

2. Gangabal

This high-altitude lake is also known as Haramukh Ganga, and for centuries, it has been a holy place for Kashmiri Hindus. According to legends and ancient Hindu texts like the Mahabharata and Vishnu Smriti, this lake is believed to be the northern version of the River Ganga. Every year, a special pilgrimage called the Harmukh-Gangabal Yatra takes place, where people walk up to the lake to perform religious rites, including the immersion of ashes. You can reach Gangabal by trekking from Naranag, a route that takes you through green meadows, wildflowers, and peaceful mountain scenery.

3. Tarsar Lake

Imagine a lake so still and clear that it reflects the sky like a mirror. Now imagine it changing colour as the sun moves across the sky. That’s Tarsar Lake, an alpine lake in the Anantnag district of Kashmir. Sitting at a high altitude and surrounded by meadows, pine trees, and snow-covered peaks, Tarsar is one of the most beautiful lakes you’ll ever see. What makes this almond-shaped lake special is that it has a twin sister, the Marsar Lake, which lies just across a mountain ridge. In the summer, the entire area transforms into a peaceful paradise, coming alive with vibrant wildflowers and rare birds. 

4. Vishansar Lake

Vishansar Lake, also known as the Lake of Vishnu, is one of the first big lakes you come across on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. Sitting at about 12,170 feet, it’s surrounded by snowy mountain peaks on one side and rolling green meadows on the other. The lake is fed by glaciers and by Krishansar Lake, which lies just a short distance away. In the summer, the lake turns into a peaceful, picture-perfect spot. The grass around it becomes green and full of flowers. During the winter months, the lake completely freezes over, and the entire area is buried in snow.

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5. Krishansar Lake

Krishansar Lake, also called the Lake of Krishna, is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes you will ever come across in Kashmir. Sitting quietly at 3,801 metres, this lake is surrounded by vast green meadows, snow-covered mountains, and fresh mountain air that feels like a dream. What makes Krishansar so special is its ever-changing colours. The lake is home to brown trout, making it a great spot for those who love fishing. In summer, from June to September, Krishansar becomes a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. But come winter, the lake freezes completely, turning into a sheet of ice that looks magical under fresh snowfall.

6. Sheshnag

Sitting at 3,590 metres above sea level, this breathtaking greenish-blue lake is on the famous Amarnath Yatra route. According to mythology, the lake belongs to Sheshnag, the king of snakes in Hindu belief. Surrounded by high mountains and wild meadows, this lake feels like stepping into another world. To reach Sheshnag, you drive up to Chandanwari from Pahalgam and then trek for about 7 km. When you finally see the lake, the view will take your breath away. For many, Sheshnag is not just a scenic spot but a spiritual experience. If you love trekking and discovering places full of stories, this alpine lake in Kashmir is perfect for you.

7. Kounsarnag Lake

Kounsarnag Lake, also known as Kausar Nag, is a hidden gem in the Pir Panjal range of Kashmir. It lies at an altitude of about 3,500 meters and stretches nearly 3 km long. Its deep blue waters are so clear that they look like a piece of the sky has fallen to earth. But this lake is not just about beauty; it is full of legends. According to ancient texts, this is the place where Manu’s boat rested after the great flood. Another belief says the lake was created by Lord Vishnu himself, which is why many people call it Vishnu Pad (the footprint of Vishnu). For Kashmiri Pandits, Kounsarnag has always been a sacred spot. What makes Kounsarnag unique is its wild and untouched beauty. Even in summer, you’ll find patches of snow around its banks. 

8. Nundkol Lake

Nundkol Lake, also called Nandi Kund, lies at the base of Mount Haramukh, which stands tall at over 5,000 meters. This lake is not just a scenic wonder; it is also considered holy by Hindus. According to legends, this is where Nandi, the sacred bull and Lord Shiva’s companion, was born. People believe that Lord Shiva still resides near this lake, making it a place of deep spiritual value. The lake is surrounded by green meadows filled with colourful flowers in summer. The water of Nundkol has two shades: deep blue in the centre and light green on the edges, which locals believe symbolise Lord Shiva and Nandi.

Each of these alpine lakes in Kashmir is a piece of paradise waiting to be explored.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva/Raouf Dar and Canva/TISHA85