About Trusarr Lakes
The Trusarr Lakes, sometimes referred to as Tar Sar (Trusar) Lakes, are a collection of high-altitude alpine lakes nestled deep within the Pir Panjal Range of Jammu and Kashmir. Located not far from the historic Mughal Road and the pristine Dubjan Meadows , these lakes remain largely unknown to mainstream tourism but are revered by trekkers, shepherds, and locals who regard them as sacred and magical. Their name “Trusarr” literally translates to “Three Lakes” in the local dialect, referring to the three interconnected glacial lakes shimmering in the alpine wilderness.
Geographical Setting
Perched at an elevation of roughly 12,000 feet (3,650 meters), the Trusarr Lakes lie in a remote bowl-shaped valley in the Shopian District, close to the Aliabad Sarai and Pir Ki Gali regions along the Mughal Road. The approach to the lakes involves a trek through thick pine forests, boulder-strewn paths, and highland pastures grazed by Gujjars and Bakarwals.
Sitting at an elevation of 12,000 feet (3,650 meters), the Trusarr Lakes lie in a remote bowl-shaped valley in the Shopian District. Lakes lie close to the Aliabad Sarai and Pir Ki Gali regions along the Mughal Road.
Trekking to the Lake
The approach to the lakes involves a trek through thick pine forests, boulder-strewn paths, and highland pastures grazed by Gujjars and Bakarwals. The trek is considered moderate to challenging, depending on the snow and weather conditions. It takes around 10–12 km one-way from the base meadow to the final lake
Currently, no formal permits are required, but it’s best to check with locals or forest officials at Dubjan.
The trek is ideal for seasoned trekkers , nature lovers, and those seeking untouched beauty beyond the well-trodden routes like Tarsar-Marsar or the Great Lakes trek.
Surrounded by snow-draped peaks and emerald meadows, the lakes remain frozen in winter and begin to thaw by late May or early June, revealing striking blue waters that mirror the surrounding ridges.
Structure and Beauty of the Lakes
The Trusarr system comprises three pristine glacial lakes, each fed by snowmelt and small mountain rivulets:
1. First Lake: The lowest of the three, relatively larger, and accessible after a steep trek from the meadows below. It is bordered by boulders and wildflowers in summer.
2. Second Lake: Located a short hike above the first, it appears like a sapphire basin set against steep rock faces and is usually colder and partially frozen longer into the summer.
3. Third Lake: The highest and most secluded, rarely visited even by seasoned trekkers. It offers a true wilderness experience and panoramic views of the Pir Panjal ridgelines.
These lakes are aligned like a staircase, each one higher than the last, connected through meltwater streams and narrow alpine passes.
Cultural and Local Significance
While not part of any widely known religious pilgrimage, the Trusarr Lakes are regarded as sacred spaces by local shepherds and villagers. Bakarwals often tell tales of spirits that guard the lakes and warn against polluting their waters. There’s a prevailing belief that the lakes are connected spiritually to other water bodies in the valley and that their tranquillity must be respected.
The lakes are also important stopovers for nomadic tribes during their seasonal migrations, and you may often spot temporary makeshift Bakarwal camps around the lower meadows in summer.
Flora and Fauna
Due to its altitude and remote location, the Trusarr Lakes area supports a range of alpine biodiversity. In summer, the valleys are carpeted with blue poppies , edelweiss , wild theme , and buttercups .
Fauna includes:
* Himalayan marmots and pikas
* Occasional sightings of snow leopards or brown bears in the far upper ridges
* Birds such as the Himalayan monal , golden eagle, and snow partridge