My first Kashmir Trek for five days was in the Tosa Maidan and the Greater Lakes in the Bugdam District. We started in the village of Khag Shanglipora where we met the porters and the horses who were tasked with carrying the tents, big backpacks and the food including live chickens!
Off we went into the dense forest which turned into a steep rocky path and after 3 hours we found the first level to rest in the clouds, it was wonderful. We proceeded down the stream and across the meadows to reach our camping spot based at 3180m altitude. The rain greeted us but the sunshine soon came out for us to lie in the sun on the green carpet of the meadows and take in what lucky people we were. We could see the stunning views of Haramukh Mountain, Kolahoi Peak and the Nun Kun Peaks into the distance.
Our guides told us we were the third group of international tourists on this trail as the land was leased by the military until 2014 and J&K Tourism (Jammu & Kashmir) was set up. It was evident we were a rare sight in these parts as the locals were very intrigued by us, the girls going to chop wood wanted to carry our small backpacks and the shepherds looked at us in disbelief.
The handy wake-up call by the horses and bright daylight got us moving to our next basecamp at 3920m. The 6 hours trek to basecamp wasn’t difficult, we were ascending higher which slowed down our pace. Endless beautiful views and the snow we had seen from lower down became a reality.
A local couple helped us find a perfect place to cross the stream, they were off to find medicinal herbs, the meadow is so rich in flora and fauna. At one point, sheep from all around the hills came rushing towards us nearly knocking us off our feet, I don’t think they see many other people to say hi to! Just as friendly were the two ladies who sat on a rock and sang us a Welcome song.
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