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Marchoi Trek

A Picturesque Winter Trek in Kashmir ( Marchoi Trek ):

Grade: Easy-Moderate     

Distance: 18km        

Temperature: below zero Celcius

Base: Naranag 

Season Dec: Feb  

Altitude: 2200m to 3200m

The Marchoi Trek is a chilly hiking experience near Kangan, Jammu and, Kashmir. This trek follows a pathway that rambles alongside the Wangath River, traverses an iced ravine that is translucent and filled with icicles, and provides a breathtaking view of appealing Himalayan mountains from Marchoi Top, such as Mt Harmukh, Kotwal Peak, Salnai Valley, and more. The trail also passes through a section of forest before opening up onto a huge field and climbing to Marchoi Top, also known as Shadimarg Top. The walk is well-known for its biodiversity and bird observation. It is an excellent trek in Kashmir.

What is the Marchoi trek like?

Trekking in Kashmir has never been more picturesque. On the route, stop for a cup of hot Kehwa/tea and explore the woods and mud dwellings. Leave your footprints in freshly drizzled snow and enjoy a bonfire at night. Kashmiri food would be served to you along with lovely company. The valley gets blanketed in a rainbow of seasonal flowers stretching into a spectrum of colors. The best part about this trek is that it’s situated in an untouched part of Kashmir where beauty shines through. This is one of the best Kashmir trekking packages.

What is the difficulty level of the Marchoi Trek?

The trip to Macholi isn’t too difficult. One of the first places you will see on this trek is Naranag. Marchoi Meadow is a two to three hours journey from Naranag, a climbing base camp, and therefore is accessible to Srinagar by road, which takes around an hour to complete. The hike to Domail isn’t particularly strenuous, but it’s noticeable due to the high elevation. Following an arriving rivulet, one can hike for hours to Marchoi field and others to fully appreciate the character. In the spring, the combination of pine trees, various plants, and thus the ice creates a unique scene. Naranag is a tourist destination with ancient temple ruins. Come along on this Winter trek in Kashmir.

What is the best season to do the Marchoi trek?

Usually, people like to go on this trek from November to February since the snow falls all over the trek, making it extremely scenic. 

Itinerary

Day 1 – Drive from Srinagar to Naranag

Altitude: 6,981ft

Drive: 2 hours

Stay: Homestay

Meals: Evening Snacks, Dinner

  • Meet at TRC Srinagar, a bus stop 20-minute drive from the airport, from where a cab will ferry you to the base camp at Naranag.
  • Enjoy the beautiful drive to Naranag basecamp. The abundance of mountains along with the music of the Sindh river makes the drive worth it.
  • The first day of the trek is an acclimatization day.
  • We welcome you to the Naranag homestay where you will meet your trek leader.
  • Try some traditional Kashmiri tea (Kehwa) followed by some evening snacks.
  • After a hearty dinner, hit the bed and relax for the night.

Day 2 – Naranag to Sangri, Marchoi Valley  

Altitude: 8,202 ft

Drive: 5 km, 4 hrs

Stay: Tents

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, evening snacks and, dinner

  • Post breakfast, let’s begin our journey towards the Sangri camp through Dhumail.
  • Let’s explore the Naranag ancient temple ruins since this is the starting point of the trek. A gushing water stream runs along as you begin.
  • Stop for a tasty lunch as you’re surrounded by a sea of trees.
  • The trail experiences meadows and forests with a striking view of icy mountaintops. Admire the review flowing by you and cross a few bridges.
  • You will be resting in tents after the long day of trekking.
  • After an evening snack and dinner,  we will proceed to our comfortable tent for a good night’s sleep.

Day 3 – Summit day. Summit to Marchoi Top (distance: 8km to and fro,  7 hrs)

Altitude: 10,498 ft

Distance: 8km to and fro, 7 hrs

Stay: Sangri campsite

Meals:  Breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner

  • It’s an important day today since we will be reaching the summit. We will be waking up early to start towards Marchoi top.
  • Once on the summit, you will see the fascinating views of many Himalayan peaks like Harmukh, Kotwal, and many more. Spend some time here and revel in the beauty of the summit.
  • We will be stopping at one point to feed upon some delicious lunch as you enjoy the views around you.
  • Once you reach back to the Sangri campsite, it’s time to relax in your tents after a delicious dinner.

Day 4 – Trek from Sangri to Naranag and then Drive to Srinagar

Altitude: 6,981ft

Distance: 2 hours

  • The last day of your trip has come. We will be heading back to Naranag and then drive down to Srinagar. 

Things To Carry

1. Shirts/T-shirts –2/3, Jeans/Trekking Pants -2

2. Windproof jacket of decent quality

3. Warm and thick Fleece/Full-sleeve Woollen sweater

4.  Thermal inner wear, Scarf/muffler

5. Woollen cap, Woollen gloves, Woollen socks & regular socks (3-4 pairs)

6. Comfortable Trekking/Hiking shoes (Waterproof shoes with a thick sole are recommended)

7.  Lightweight floaters/sandals/slippers

8.  Raincoat/Poncho, Small quick-dry towel

9.  Water bottle

10. Cap/Hat to keep the strong sun away from your face

11. Sunglasses (polarized/UV Protected), Walking stick/Trekking pole

12. Sunscreen Lotion, Lip Balm, Torch/Flashlight (with extra batteries)

13. Medicines, if requiring any specific medication

14. Personal toiletries

15. Day pack/small bag in case if you are planning to offload your regular backpack

16. Hand Sanitizer

17. Extra face masks

18. Camera if you like (with fully charged batteries) 

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