Kishansar Lake

Kishansar Lake lies at an elevation of 3,710 meters (12,172 feet) in the high alpine mountains overlooking Sonamarg in Ganderbal district. Revered as one of Kashmir's most pristine high altitude oligotrophic tarns, its name translates historically to the Lake of Lord Krishna. The lake spans roughly one kilometer in length and is fed directly by glacial snowmelt running off the surrounding peaks of the northern Himalayan range, creating emerald waters that shift in shade throughout the day.

The emerald green waters and dramatic mountain cirque enclosing Kishansar Lake along the Great Lakes trek.

Kishansar forms a legendary twin lake system with neighboring Vishansar Lake, separated only by a half kilometer stretch of lush alpine meadow. A crystal clear meltwater stream drains Kishansar into Vishansar, which subsequently feeds into the Kishanganga (Neelum) River basin. During midsummer, the shoreline meadows turn into vibrant carpets of purple irises, alpine gentians, and golden buttercups, providing grazing pastures for migratory Bakarwal shepherd communities and their flocks.

The lake works as a prime wilderness campsite on Day 2 of the world renowned Kashmir Great Lakes trekking circuit originating from Sonamarg. Hikers setting up tents beside the lake enjoy panoramic views of jagged mountain ridges reflected on the glassy water. As you ascend toward the 4,200 meter Gadsar Pass the following morning, looking back provides an astonishing aerial twin view of both Kishansar and Vishansar sitting side by side in the valley bowl.

Trout Angling & High Altitude Alpine Ecology

Kishansar Lake is celebrated among sport anglers for its thriving populations of wild brown trout. Fly fishing is permitted during summer with authorized day permits issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Fisheries Department in Srinagar. The crystal clear water supports an undisturbed alpine ecosystem where mountain birds like the Himalayan snowcock and alpine chough nest along nearby rocky crags and soar over icy cliffs.

Trekking Route, Permits & Wilderness Camping Guidelines

Reaching Kishansar requires trekking from Shitkadi base camp near Sonamarg via the steep Nichnai Pass. The multi day trek demands good physical stamina, waterproof mountain boots, layered thermal clothing, and four season alpine sleeping bags. Trekkers should carry valid government photo ID cards for registration at army security checkpoints along the route and ensure all plastic waste is carried back down to base camp.