By activity
| Activity | Where | Best months |
|---|---|---|
| Skiing and snowboarding | Gulmarg | January to March |
| Kashmir Great Lakes trek | Sonmarg to Naranag | July to September |
| Tarsar Marsar trek | Aru, Pahalgam | July to September |
| River rafting | Lidder (Pahalgam), Sindh (Sonmarg) | May to August |
| Pony treks | Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg | April to October |
| Trout fishing | Kokernag, Pahalgam streams | Spring to autumn, with licence |
Safety
- Use registered operators and certified guides
- Acclimatise before high altitude treks
- Carry layers, weather changes quickly in the mountains
Pick the right operator, not just the activity
For rafting, ask about river level, age or swimming requirements, helmets, life jackets and who decides whether conditions are safe. For skiing, check whether instruction and equipment are included or priced separately. For multi-day trekking, ask for the guide's route experience, current trail clearance and emergency plan. If any provider cannot answer these questions, choose another.
Activity time versus travel time
| Activity | Plan for |
|---|---|
| Gulmarg ski lesson | A dedicated day with equipment fitting and weather flexibility |
| Sonamarg rafting or Thajiwas walk | A full day once the road transfer is included |
| Aru walk | At least half a day beyond the Pahalgam drive |
| Great Lakes or Tarsar Marsar | A separate trekking holiday with travel and buffer days |
Continue with a route-specific hiking guide
Our hiking guide compares Thajiwas, Aru, Lidderwat and the multi-day lake treks by time and fitness. The Great Lakes and Tarsar Marsar guides break down their typical stages and what to ask before paying for a trek.
Common questions
Is the Great Lakes trek suitable for beginners?
It is moderate. Fit beginners manage it with preparation and a good guide.