Image Source: Malik Masoom
About Vishansar Lake
Vishansar Lake is an alpine lake that lies in the Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir. At an altitude of 3,710 meters (12,172 feet) above sea level, the lake epitomises the serene beauty and spiritual depth of the region. Revered by locals and visited by trekkers from across the world, Vishansar is a hidden gem.
Geography of Vishansar Lake
Location: Near Sonamarg, Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir
Altitude: ~3,710 meters (12,172 ft)
Type: Glacial alpine lake
Length: Approximately 1 kilometer
Coordinates: On the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek trail, just before Kishansar Lake
Vishansar Lake is a glacial-fed alpine lake, primarily receiving its water from melting snow and glacial runoff from the surrounding mountains. During the peak summer season, its surface glows in shades of sapphire and turquoise, depending on the angle of sunlight and time of day. It freezes during winter and remains inaccessible for a large part of the year.
The lake flows downstream to form small streams, eventually feeding into Kishansar Lake, which lies just ~1 km uphill. Together, the two lakes form a spectacular twin system amidst the Baltal Valley. Beyond its natural beauty, the meadows around Vishansar are carpeted with alpine flowers, and Bakarwal shepherds often graze their flocks in the area during summer.
Mythology and Cultural Significance
The name “Vishansar” is believed to originate from “Vishnu Sar,” which translates to “Lake of Vishnu” in Sanskrit. Lord Vishnu is considered the symbol of the preserver in Hinduism. Although the lake doesn’t have the same religious sanctity as Gangbal, it is still locally respected as sacred water.
Some legends also link the twin lakes—Vishansar and Kishansar—to Vishnu and Krishna, explaining the divine serenity and harmonious landscape they share.
How to Reach Vishansar Lake
Reaching Vishansar Lake is an adventure that combines road travel with a high-altitude trek. It forms a crucial stop on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, one of India’s most iconic and beautiful trekking routes.
➤ By Road: Srinagar to Sonamarg (Shitkadi Village)
Distance: ~80 km from Srinagar
Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
Route: Srinagar → Ganderbal → Kangan → Sonamarg (Shitkadi)
Shitkadi village serves as the starting point for the trek to Vishansar Lake.
➤ By Trek: Shitkadi to Vishansar Lake (2–3 Days)
Total Distance: ~22 km
Elevation Gain: From ~2,700 m (Sonamarg) to ~3,710 m (Vishansar)
Trekking Route:
Day 1: Shitkadi to Nichnai (via Tabletop Meadow), camp in a high valley.
Day 2: Cross Nichnai Pass (~4,100 m) and descend into a wide alpine valley where Vishansar Lake awaits.
Day 3: Optional rest or exploration of Kishansar Lake, just a short uphill trek.
The trek includes enchanting pine forests, glacier crossings, alpine meadows, and rocky ridges, making the journey to Vishansar as rewarding as the destination itself.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Season: Late June to early September
During this period, the lake is ice-free, the meadows are in bloom, and the trek is accessible.
In early June, snow may still cover the higher passes.
In September, fall colors start appearing, adding golden hues to the landscape.