Unveiling the Natural Beauty of Kausernag, Mahinag, Chirsar, and Bhramsar Lakes: Kongwattan and Zajimarg Meadows: An Exploratory Trekking Adventure in South Kashmir

One Outdoor Human has been established with the aim of providing participants with a unique experience, whether through treks or tailored tours. To achieve this, it has organized a trek in the Kulgam District of South Kashmir, allowing participants to explore the alpine lakes and meadows above Aharbal Waterfalls. This trek is considered a journey through one of the most scenic locations in the Indian Himalayas. With breathtaking views of high-altitude lakes and the surrounding flora, this area enchants anyone who visits this part of Kashmir. After extensive research and logistical efforts to capture this place's beauty during the optimal golden, blue, and twilight hours, One Outdoor Human has crafted one of its most exclusive plans to make this happen. Join us for a unique opportunity to experience these vistas.

Tour Highlights

Jennifer Lobo will mentor groups of 8 to 10 participants, with spots allocated on a first-come, first-served basis to guarantee personal attention.
An exclusive 9-night, 10-day trek meticulously planned to reach the best vantage points of the trek.
The journey begins in Srinagar, where participants will be transported in a comfortable Tempo Traveler/SUV's to Aharbal, concluding with a drop-off at Srinagar airport. Srinagar boasts excellent flight and road connections, and services for airport pick-up and drop-off are available.
Accommodation in Aharbal and Srinagar will be provided in a guest house and hotel respectively on a twin sharing basis.
Throughout the trek, accommodation will be provided in High Altitude Tents, shared by two people, along with Sleeping Bags and Mattresses.
Provision of a toilet tent.
Provision of Medical Kit.
Stools for Camping, Lighting, Dining Areas, Kitchen Tents.
Service of an experienced professional Local Trek Leader.
Porters/Horses will carry each participant's backpack of clothes, with a maximum weight of 10 kg per participant.
Generator/Solar Charger facility to charge camera batteries.
All required Permits of the Trek.
We guarantee top-tier food facilities. Our participants will dine at the home stay, and during the trek, our kitchen staff, operating a makeshift kitchen, will accompany us. A highly skilled professional chef will prepare breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner, primarily offering vegetarian options.
All Cutlery, Kitchen Tent with Cook and Helpers.
All meals are included, specifically Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, and Dinner, beginning with Dinner on Day 1 and ending with Breakfast on Day 10.
Strict adherence to COVID protocols will be ensured, following the guidelines of the UT of Kashmir at the time of the tour.

Detailed Itinerary Day Wise

26th July - Day - 1 (Saturday) - Upon arrival in Srinagar, participants will be transferred to Aharbal (65 kms) in a Tempo Traveler in two hours . Participants are expected to reach Srinagar by 12 Noon . Evening is spent giving a brief about the trek. Overnight in Guest House.
27th July - Day - 2 (Sunday) - After Breakfast, we start our trek to Kongwattan Meadows(2600M) for 7 kms. Overnight in camps.
28th July - Day - 3 (Monday) - After Breakfast, we start our trek to Mahinag group of Lakes(3200M) for 6 kms. Overnight in camps.
29th July - Day - 4 (Tuesday) - After brekfast trek to Kausernag Lake(3900M) for 5kms. Overnight in Camps.
30th July - Day - 5 (Wednesday) - On this day, we trek down and set up our camps around Kongwattan(2600M) for 10 kms. Overnight in Camps.
31st July - Day -6 (Thursday) - On this day, after breakfast we trek to Meadows of Chiranbal or Zajimarg(2800M) depending on the speed of the group for 10 or 15 kms. Overnight in camps.
1st Aug - Day - 7 (Friday) - After breakfast, we start our trek to Chirsar Lake(3500M) and set up our camps. Overnight in camps.
2nd Aug - Day - 8 (Saturday) - On this day, we trek to Bhramsar(3500M) and set up our camps. Overnight in Camps.
3rd Aug - Day -9 (Sunday) - On this day, after breakfast we trek down to raod(10-12 kms) and take the vehicle for Srinagar. Overnight in Srinagar Hotel.
4th Aug - Day - 10 (Monday) - After breakfast, we drop the participants at Srinagar Airport. Tour Concludes.

Package Cost

Rs. 46,000 per person

(Srinagar to Srinagar Twin sharing in Tents and Hotels)

Prices quoted above are exclusive of GST of 5%.

Single Supplement - On Request

Inclusions

All accommodations at Aharbal and Srinagar on twin sharing basis on Day 1 and Day 9 respectively.
All accommodations during the trek and camping in High Altitude Tents on twin Sharing Basis.
Porters/Horses carrying backpack of participants of not more than 10 kgs for each member.
Transfer from Srinagar to Aharbal and back in a vehicle.
All Permits of Trek
All Breakfast, Lunch Evening Tea and Dinner from Day 1 of Tour to Day 7. (Breakfast and Lunch on Day 1 and Lunch and Dinner on Day 8 is not included)
Packed Lunch during trek.
Facility of Cook with his helper and Make Shift Kitchen with all necessary raw materials.
Dining Tent, Camping Stools.
Kitchen Tent for mess purpose.
Cook, Helper and support staff.
All cutlery
Sleeping Bags, Mattresses.
Facility of Toilet Tent.
Services of an experienced trek leader and a local guide for whole trek.
First Aid kit.
Facility of Charging Camera Batteries through Generator/Solar Charging facility during the trek.

Exclusions

Travel to Srinagar and return travel from Srinagar to your location.
In transit stay and meals during the travel from your location to Srinagar and Srinagar to your location.
Breakfast & Lunch on Day 1 and Lunch and Dinner on Day 10.
Any additional meal expenses incurred during the tour, such as delayed meals due to photography or travel requirements, where participants opt to purchase food from an external source.
Personal expenses like tips, laundry, or similar.
Costs of any food or beverages purchased by participants during travel between locations.
Mineral water bottles. (We recommend participants to avoid plastic bottles and carry their own refillable insulated bottles).
Additional expenses for extra food or beverages, excluding hard drinks at high altitudes, which are not encouraged for participants.
Any medical emergency costs for participants.
Any additional costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances like civil unrest, weather disruptions, or other events beyond our control that result in an increased duration of the tour.

FAQ's

1. What are the terms of Payment and Booking Procedure?

Booking Amount - Rs. 15,000 +5% GST(Rs. 750) = Rs. 15,750 at the Time of Confirmation.

Final Payment - Rs. 31,000 +5% GST(Rs. 1550) = Rs. 32,550 45 days before the Departure Day, i.e. by 11th June, 2025.

The prices mentioned above include a 5% GST and may be adjusted in case of any change in the GST rate due to a government directive. An invoice will be issued for every payment made by the participants.

If you wish to make a booking using the Razorpay Payment Gateway, kindly contact us to receive a payment link. Please note that gateway charges of 2% of the transaction fee plus 18% GST on that 2% amount will apply.

2. What is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

If a cancellation is made 60 days before the Departure date, specifically on or before May 26th, 2025, a 50% refund of the Advance Amount will be provided.
Cancellations made between 60 days before the departure date and 45 days before the Departure date, meaning between May 26th, 2025 and June 11th, 2025, will result in No Refund of the Advance Amount.
If a cancellation is made between 45 days before the departure date and the Departure Date, i.e., between June 11th, 2025 and July 26th, 2025, there will be No Refund of the Full Amount of the Trip (assuming the final payment was made by June 11th, 2025).
Participants who do not make the final payment by June 11th, 2025, and cancel their participation between June 11th, 2025, and July 26th, 2025, will receive No Refund of the Advance Amount.
In the event of a trip cancellation by the organizer due to a surge in Covid cases, a lockdown, or a participant testing positive in RTPCR, a Full Refund of the Advance Amount or Full Payment will be issued. The organizer will not withhold any amount, although participants may choose to keep the amount as a deposit for a future trip with One Outdoor Human.
If there are less than 6 participants enrolled, there will be an Increased cost per participant or a Full Refund of the tour amount if the cancellation is due to insufficient enrolments by the organisers.
In the case of a cancellation by the organizer for ANY reason (including insufficient participants, reasons beyond control, or others), there will be No Refund of the flight charges booked by the participants. Participants are advised to book flights with zero cancellation policies. Those uncertain about the tour status can contact One Outdoor Human up to 30 days before the tour starts.
If a participant fails to deposit the full tour amount by the specified date, their seat will be opened for others to enroll. The deposited advance will be forfeited and not refunded. However, if the participant finds a replacement, the amount will be adjusted accordingly.
The GST component of any payments made will not be refunded in any scenario mentioned above.
Any potential refunds from the organiser will be processed one month after the tour ends, by September 4th, 2025.

3. Tipping

Given the considerable effort the support staff invests in ensuring our comfort and well-being, we encourage each participant to show their appreciation through a tip at the end of the trek or the tour. While it's not mandatory, this gesture greatly acknowledges their hard work and dedication. Thank you for considering it.

4. What are the precautions to be kept in mind as it is an exploratory trek?

Firstly, an Exploratory Trek aimed at exploring some non-seen landscapes is designed for participants who are both mentally and physically resilient. We prefer participants with prior trekking experience, but we are open to beginners since this trek does not require technical skills. However, a strict prerequisite is the participant's physical fitness, given that it is a High Altitude trek. Each participant will have the assistance of porters to carry loads not exceeding 10 kg, allowing trekkers to avoid carrying heavy gear beyond their knapsacks. This enables them to move at a leisurely pace. With the excellent hospitality provided by my travel partners during this trek, I am confident participants will succeed and make this trek memorable. As the saying goes, "If there is a WILL, there is a WAY." Therefore, mental strength combined with physical fitness is essential for this trek. Additionally, weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable, which may necessitate changes to the itinerary or skipping certain locations to ensure participants' well-being. The tour leader's decision will be final, and the team must comply with it. No refunds will be issued in such cases. We will embark on this tour with determination and passion, and I am sure the team will achieve great success on this trek.

5. What to expect in terms of Logistic Support? How difficult it is going to be and is there any itinerary clause?

This tour is a Trek for participants rather than Leisure travel or a vacation. Please review the following points to understand what to expect and the tour's level of difficulty:

Except for factors beyond our control, we aim to maintain sleep and wake times to maintain our trek schedule. Participants should adhere to this.
This is a group tour, and participants will often share rooms and tents with strangers. Respect for this arrangement is expected.
Accommodations during the trek will be in tents, as it is a camping tour. Participants should be prepared for a wilderness experience.
Toilets will be dry (pit on the ground) inside toilet tents.
Food will be basic, especially in remote locations or depending on the season, primarily simple vegetarian dishes. The menu is decided by travel partners who understand the terrain and available materials.
Temperatures may drop to sub-zero or lower during night. Participants should be mentally prepared and bring appropriate clothing for such conditions.
If the itinerary changes due to circumstances beyond our control, such as roadblocks or sea disturbances, participants should understand and accept these changes.

Please note that participants should have appropriate expectations and understand the tour's difficulty level. Anyone not adhering to these guidelines and creating a negative environment for other participants, the group leader, or the local support system will receive a warning and may be expelled from the tour without a fee refund.

6. What are the rules and the protocols to be followed during the course of the tour?

No disputes among participants during the tour. If any issues arise, bring them to us for resolution.
For logistical needs, participants should follow the usual procedure of contacting the hotel help desk or the Travel Partner during the trek. If they are unresponsive or the issue persists, contact us for assistance.
Do not litter plastic bottles, wrappers, or any materials during the tour. Carry them back to hotels or dispose of them properly at designated places.
No alcohol is allowed during the trek.
Remember that the travel and accommodation will be somewhat unconventional and challenging. Meals and other facilities like tent setup might not be on schedule, though the travel partners will strive to be timely. Participants should understand this, as negativity or complaints can disrupt the positive atmosphere and hinder the experience.
Participants wishing to roam around away from the group do so at their own risk, and any incidents will not be the responsibility of One Outdoor Human and its associates.
If any destination in the itinerary is skipped due to uncontrollable factors like roadblocks or weather, we will provide suitable alternatives. Any additional costs will be the responsibility of the participants.

7. What are the minimum and maximum participant requirements, and what is the consequence if the minimum number of participants is not met for the tour?

We require a minimum of 4 participants for the tour. If the minimum number is not met, we will proceed with the tour but there will be an additional cost per participant.

8. What happens if a participant needs to leave the trip due to an emergency? Will the fee be refunded, and arrangements be made for their return to Srinagar and their destination?

If a participant needs to leave the trip unexpectedly, there will be no refund provided. Additionally, the participant will be responsible for covering the cost of arranging transportation back to Srinagar and their original destination.

9. What level of fitness is necessary for this trip? Does it involve Trekking or Long Walks?

Anyone visiting the Himalayas should possess a basic level of fitness to manage daily activities during the tour. Since this is a trekking tour, participants must be physically fit without any conditions that might be triggered by high-altitude walking. The treks last 6-7 hours, and participants should be mentally and physically prepared for this. Besides maintaining a basic fitness level, individuals are expected to manage their own medication during the trip and bring enough to prevent any mishaps. If any issues arise, they should rest and proceed at a pace suitable for their body. Participants should also bring their medical and first aid kits. It is the participant's responsibility to inform the staff of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disabilities that could affect their ability to travel on this trip.

10. What Age Group is Suitable for the Trip and Can Participants Bring Children?

Given that this is a trekking tour, it is recommended to bring children only if they can keep up with the pace of the trip. Children under 16 years old will not be permitted on the tour due to its high altitude.

11. Will the organizers use the photos taken by the participants or of the participants for Promotional Purposes?

Yes, by signing up for the trip, participants also agree to allow One Outdoor Human to use certain images captured of or by them, as well as any artwork, with proper credit given to the artists, on their website and social media platforms.

12. Under what circumstances does the organizer have the right to cancel a member's participation during the trip?

If any participant engages in misbehavior or misconduct during the trip, such as causing distress to fellow travelers, damaging property, sexual harassment, or any form of misconduct, they will be removed from the trip without a refund and will be responsible for their own return costs. The Group Leader's decision is final in these cases to maintain the group's reputation. Participants are expected to be respectful to hotel staff, drivers, and support personnel. Disrespectful behavior towards them will result in a warning from the group leader, with repeated offenses leading to expulsion from the tour. We have a strict policy against misbehavior under the influence of alcohol. Participants should maintain discipline and avoid spreading negativity among fellow travelers. Violations will result in warnings and potential expulsion from the tour without a refund, with the participant covering their return expenses.

13. In the event that odd numbers result from the Male Female Ratio when assigning twin sharing to participants, what should be done?

If this situation arises, the organizer will provide the most suitable solution, ensuring that twin sharing is never allocated to individuals of the opposite sex.

14. Is there any Mobile connectivity in the region?

Mobile connectivity will be only available till Aharbal with only Jio and Airtel workable.

15. What is the total number of individuals accompanying the tour participants?

Jennifer will be the travel partner, in addition to the support staff.

16. Policy on the Use of Psychotropic Substances, Alcohol, and Smoking During the Tour

The use of psychotropic substances (drugs) is strictly prohibited during the tour. Anyone found in possession of or consuming these substances will be immediately dismissed from the tour. Smoking is permitted, but participants are asked to ensure that it does not disturb others. For those who have not opted for a Single Supplement, it is recommended that all participants discuss smoking with their roommates. Alcohol consumption is allowed, and it is advised to drink in moderation that suits one's tolerance levels without causing any issues.

17. Are there any other Terms and Conditions that need to be considered?

It is essential for participants to understand that this is a trek, requiring a degree of flexibility. The daily itinerary serves as a general guide only, and we cannot be held liable for delays due to factors such as international or domestic flight issues, strikes, government regulations, weather conditions, or natural disasters. In such instances, we will offer suitable alternatives through mutual agreement, with any additional costs to be covered by the participants.
If a participant fails to arrive in Srinagar by 1 PM on July 26th, 2025, it will be assumed that they have canceled the tour, resulting in a "No Show" status with no refund provided.
We reserve the right to adjust pricing on our website due to external factors beyond our control. However, we strive to maintain the current rates. Minor increases in hotel prices or related expenses will not affect confirmed bookings made with a deposit.
We strongly advise participants to obtain medical and unforeseen event insurance before embarking on this or any trip.
The tour dates and itinerary are fixed, with no alterations possible to accommodate individual preferences.
Participants must adhere to photography restrictions in certain areas and present government-issued IDs at checkpoints. It is essential to keep documents readily available for inspection by authorities throughout the trip.
Participants are required to comply with document checks by authorities and deposit a signed indemnity bond along with their Aadhar Cards before the trip commences.
Participants acknowledge the potential risks of the journey, including accidents, illnesses in remote areas, political instability, and natural disasters, and agree to assume all associated risks to the fullest extent allowed by Indian law.

If you have any booking inquiries, please email us at oneoutdoorhuman@gmail.com or whatsapp or call on +971 505427157 to speak with Jennifer or +91 9717960028 to speak with Nilakkhya.

For transferring the advance booking amount and final payments, we will provide you with the necessary bank account details, contract, and trip acknowledgment. Alternatively, you can opt for Razorpay Payment Gateway for payment through Debit Cards, Credit Cards, UPI, Wallets, or EMI.

Let's make this trip unforgettable with plenty of memories and artwork. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Disclaimer: The photographs featured here are of Nilakkhya and from Google.

By making a booking payment, you agree to the cancellation policy and the Terms and Conditions stated above.

One Outdoor Human

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