Kashmir, with its stunning natural landscapes and picture-postcard views that may be found anywhere in Europe, really needs no introduction. The Marchoi Valley Trip is the best trek in the Himalayas if you want to see lush green meadows bursting with wildflowers, clear water that changes colour as it flows through meandering streams, and breathtaking vistas of the mountains from high vantage points. The trail begins in Naranag, a well-known hill station, and travels along paths used by the Gujjars, the nomadic shepherds of Kashmir, for centuries. Hikers on this trail are treated to stunning panoramas of pristine snow-capped mountains, vibrant grasslands, and crystal-clear streams every day. In addition, some streams need to be forked. This trek is both physically easy and intellectually hard and its enjoyment depends on the trekkers’ being in good enough shape to walk through snow in December and on their having a taste for the Himalayas’ relative isolation.
About Trekking
Trekking in the Marchoi valley is an unusual option in Kashmir, and it may be done in the wintertime. Kashmir’s broad valleys, green meadows, abundance of wildflowers, and rushing streams in the summer, autumn foliage, and winter snows need no introduction. Each season brings its special beauty to the area.
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The trailhead is located in Naranag, a small village about two hours drive from Srinagar. The valley the trail follows is carved out of a river. The ruins of the Temple complex at Naranag are an important archaeological find and a popular destination for Hindu tourists. These temples were constructed by Lalitaditya Muktapida during the reign of the Karkota dynasty.
Visit Kashmir, the “Paradise on Earth,” when it is covered in snow and surrounded by the towering Himalayas in the winter.
A frozen valley and snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop for breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
• Take a picture of the picturesque views of the enchanted forest that looks like something out of a fairytale.
As the hike continues, you’ll pass through forests filled with tall pine trees and vibrant rhododendrons, and the scenery will quickly transform from green to white.
• Take it easy at the beautiful Dumail campground with its starry skies.
Discover the Marchoi winter trek Top, the highest point of the hike at an elevation of 3200 metres.
Incredibly well preserved after 1200 years, the Naranag temple complex is well worth a visit for its rich history alone.
• Hike the path that Gujjar shepherds have been using to graze their herds in the valleys and on the slopes of the mountains for thousands of years.
Visit the quaint villages of Naranag and meet the kind Gujjar people that live there.
Transport
Srinagar, with its breathtaking beauty and picturesque grandeur, is one of the primary hubs for tourism destinations located throughout Jammu & Kashmir. Srinagar’s Sheikh ul Alam International Airport is near the city, at a distance of only 15 kilometres from Humhama. It has excellent highway access and will… get more info
Accommodation
Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is a beautiful city that acts as a gateway to many other attractions in the region. So, there is a plethora of lodging choices, each with its own set of price points, perks, and extras. There are a wide variety of places to stay, ranging from guesthouses to inexpensive hotels (with nightly rates between USD 5 and $10, or 375 and 750 Indian Rupees), to more expensive luxury and deluxe hotels (with nightly rates between USD 20 and $100, or 1500 to 7500 Indian Rupees), and even to Airbnb rentals. Search for homestays with hospitable environments and a flurry of facilities, typically costing between USD 20 and $40 (INR 1500 and 3000) per night, rather than the luxury hotels’ $600+. Since tourism is the main draw of Srinagar, visitors should book their lodgings in advance to secure a better rate and beat the crowds.
The Marchoi Winter Trek is the crown jewel of Kashmir’s winter hiking opportunities. Located close to the well-known and ancient Naranag Temple ruins, this hike features a path that winds alongside the wangath river, crosses a frozen gully that is glassy and full of icicles, and culminates in a breathtaking panorama of the Himalayas from Marchoi Top, which takes in sights like Mt. Harmukh, Kotwal Peak, Salinas Valley, Gangabal Valley, Wangath Valley, and Marchoi Valley. After passing through some bush, the path emerges into a huge meadow before ascending to Marchoi top, also known as Shadimarg Top. The trail has gained notoriety as a prime spot to see birds and other wildlife.
Conclusion
This is a fairly easy hike. Our knowledgeable and enthusiastic trip leaders and guides will show you the sights as safely and joyfully as possible, no matter the season. Anyone is capable of making this journey. Our guides and leaders are seasoned adventurers who know their way around winter treks, and they will show you the sights while keeping you safe and having a great time.
