Naranag is the village north of Srinagar where several of Kashmir's best-loved trails begin, and where the stone temple ruins of Wangath stand beside a clear stream. This five-day private trek starts there and heads for the high ground around Marchoi and Dumail, a quieter corner of the mountains than the famous Great Lakes circuit. Trekking privately means the group is just your party and the guide, so the daily distance, the rest stops and the camp rhythm can be adjusted to how everyone feels, which matters on a route that gains real altitude. The landscape is classic Kashmir: forest at the start, then open meadows, grazing huts, cold streams and wide views of ridgelines that turn pink at dawn. Shepherd families bring their flocks up in summer, and meeting them is part of the experience. Because the route is less crowded than the headline lake treks, you are more likely to have a camp or a viewpoint to yourself. It is a good choice for walkers who have done a few multi-day treks and want something quieter, and for small groups who value having a guide to themselves.
How it works
The trek is private and guided, with transport from Srinagar to Naranag, camping equipment, meals and support staff typically arranged by the operator. The price is for the group and sits above the shared trek departures in this guide, so compare it with joining a scheduled group if you are travelling alone. Confirm the full itinerary, the camp locations, the porters or ponies, the permits and what is included before you book.
What to expect
The season is summer, roughly July to September, when snow has left the upper trail. Days are a mix of steady climbs and gentler meadow walking, with altitude that can pass 3,000 metres, so fitness and acclimatisation matter. Weather changes quickly, with cold nights and sudden rain, so pack a warm sleeping bag, waterproofs, gloves and a hat. Mobile coverage is minimal on the trail, so share your plan with the operator and carry a basic first-aid kit and a headlamp. Stream crossings and wet slopes need care.
Making the most of it
Arrive in Srinagar a day early to rest and buy last items, and spend a morning at the Naranag temple ruins before the trek begins. Hire local guides and porters through the operator, because mountain communities depend on summer trekking income, and keep camps clean by carrying out your rubbish.
Insurance should cover trekking at altitude and evacuation. A night on a Dal Lake houseboat afterwards is a comfortable reward. Pack light but carefully: broken-in boots with good grip matter more than any other item, and trekking poles take pressure off the knees on long descents.
Ask the guide how the days are paced, where water is collected and how camp meals are prepared, so that dietary needs are known before you leave Srinagar. Build one spare day into your schedule in case rain or snow delays a stage, because mountain weather does not follow a timetable. As with all travel in the region, check your government's current travel advice and follow your guide's instructions on routes and timings.
What to expect
The experience
A private five-day guided camping trek from Naranag toward Marchoi and Dumail, with meals and equipment arranged by the operator.
Best time
July to September, when the upper trail is clear of snow.
How long
Five days on the trail plus travel from Srinagar.
Tips
Acclimatise, bring a warm sleeping bag and waterproofs and confirm permits and inclusions.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Experienced walkers who want a quieter high-meadow route with a private guide.
- Families
- Not suited to young children because of altitude and camping.
- Couples
- A shared adventure with a guide to yourselves.
- Pair with
- The Naranag temple ruins and a Dal Lake houseboat night.
- Time needed
- About seven days with travel.
Good questions
Where does the trek start?+
At Naranag, a village north of Srinagar known for its ancient temple ruins.
Is it a private trek?+
Yes, the group is your party and the guide, with support staff arranged by the operator.
When can I go?+
Mainly July to September.
How hard is it?+
Moderate to hard, with steady climbs and altitude that can pass 3,000 metres.
What should I confirm when booking?+
The itinerary, camp locations, permits, porters and what the price includes.
