Trek difficulty
Easy - Moderate
Trek duration
7 Day Days
Trek altitude
13,700 Ft.
Group size
6-12
Trek distance
68 Km
Basecamp
Yusmarg
Best Time
July to October
Pickup Point
Srinagar
Kashmir is already known for its picture-perfect landscapes, but, the Silent Meadows trek from Yusmarg takes you into the corners that are less frequented. This Kashmir trek follows a track that leads you to picturesque alpine lakes, sprawling green grasslands dotted with wildflowers, and shimmering streams meandering the valley floor. And do you know the picture-perfect views that you see on postcards? Well, these are even better when you are surrounded by them.
But the Silent Meadows Trek isn’t just about beauty rather it also tests your spirit. With rocky stretches, steep climbs, and a high pass reaching nearly 13,700 ft near Noonwan, it demands both physical fitness and mental grit. For those who crave adventure in the raw Himalayan wilderness, this trek is as rewarding as it is challenging.
But the beauty of the Silent Meadows Trek is not just what it shows you; it's about the journey, and how it challenges your body and your mind. There are sections of rocky trails, steep ascents, and a high pass that climbs almost 13,700 ft near Noonwan. So, you should be fit - physically and mentally. So, this season, go and make memories of landscapes that are rarely seen in printed pictures.
Hidden Alpine Lakes and Meadows: The best part of the trek, on the other hand, is discovering untouched alpine lakes and sweeping meadows. The high alpine landscapes are almost unreal - lakes morphing colours according to the clouds above; meadows that swim with wildflowers. Because these landscapes are hardly visited by tourists, it provides a sense of isolation and exclusiveness - as if nature only allows you and your partner to see it.
Teaser of Kashmiri Culture: Before you know it, the trail has distracted you away from the beauty of nature, to the beings who share it with you, the Gujjars of the nomadic Kashmiri lifestyle. You will undoubtedly see the Gujjars, moving their goats and sheep to these wonderful meadows to graze, and their shacks which you had earlier admired from a distance. If you choose to stop and engage in conversation with them, you are likely to learn a tale, and a thing or two about how these small moments happen in these endless and remote valleys. Trekking is not all just about making a difficult trek, but remembering, whose mountains these are.
Adventure & Challenge: This trek is all about beauty but its also about testing yourself. In between rocky trails, river crossings and a high pass at 13,700 ft near Noonwan, there was lots of effort made in getting to the campsites. This is the beauty of feeling like you accomplished something upon getting to each campsite or viewpoint; the harder the climb, the better the view!
Amazing Mountain Scenery: Each day, you will feel like an all new experience. One moment, you could be standing in glorious meadows full of flowers of every color imaginable, the next you could be standing, looking up at towering, snowplated mountain peaks, or sitting next to crystal-clear lakes full of trout. The scenery is really always changing, always diverse, always fun and exciting. And this will surely, helps to keep the adventure and the cardio working to pump your blood.
A True Retreat from City Life: Out here, there was so much space, and so far away from city noise, that this hike was able to provide the kind of peace you only seldom get to enjoy. The only sounds you will hear are the trickling of streams and the songs of birds; occasionally, you could even hear the noise of man from shepherds - where they were seemingly at peace with their animals, feeling joy and not anxiety. This was the perfect get-away from normal life and serve to reconnect your mind and body with nature.
Day 1- Srinagar to Yusmarg
Day 2: Yusmarg to Barga Valley
Day 3: Barga Valley to Astar Camp
Day 4: Astar Camp to Hafas Camp
Day 5: Hafas Camp to Noonwan Base
Day 6: Noonwan Base to Tosa Maidan Lakes & back
Day 7: Noonwan Base to Doodhpatri – Drive to Srinagar
Basically, the perfect season to trek Silent Meadows is from July to October, when the meadows are green, the wildflowers are blooming, and the lakes are sparkling with different hues. July is the start of the flowering season, and there will be an explosion of vegetation and color, and the trail will feel like a paradise. August is peak season for tourism in the general area, and these are the warmest and sunniest conditions. The skies will literally be bright blue and the snow capped mountains will be in their finest display. By September and October, there will be cooler temperatures and fewer people on the trek. And while the valleys will still be green, the wildflowers will have gone. It is still an adventure in September and October. This four month window is ideally timed to fully appreciate the wonderful scenery and high-season trekking conditions in the Kashmir Himalayas.
Note: Please avoid trekking during the monsoon season as the heavy showers will make the trail slippery and it will be difficult for the trekkers to walk.
After reading about all the details of this best trek in Kashmir, you might need some expert advice to plan your itinerary. Isn’t it? So, stop searching numerous webpages. Just check out the contact information below and get in touch with the team of Thin Air Expedition, discuss your schedules, and let them handle the planning part for you!
Clothing: Woollen cap or beanie, Thermal innerwear, Full-sleeve t-shirts, Trekking pants, Waterproof windcheater or rain jacket, Fleece or down jacket, Woollen gloves, Lightweight towel, Woollen socks, Trekking socks, Buff or neck gaiter, Jacket, Sun cap or hat, Waterproof gloves
Trekking Gear: Daypack, Sleeping bag, Rain cover for bags, Water bottles, Headlamp with extra batteries, Dry bags or zip-locks, Backpack, Energy bars or trail snacks, Power bank, Trekking poles
Documents :Passport-size photos, Medical certificate, Government ID
Day 1: Srinagar to Yusmarg
Altitude: 5,200 ft too 8,389 ft | Distance: 43 km | Duration: 13 km in 6-7 hrs
Scenic 4-hour drive through meadows and pine forests, Relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings, Overnight stay in tents
Day 2: Yusmarg to Barga Valley
Trek: 12 km in 5-6 hrs |Altitude: 8,389 ft to 11,500 ft
Trek through maple and pine tree routes, Pass Dragtol – the beautiful Shepherd’s Valley, Camp in Barga Valley meadows
Day 3: Barga Valley to Astar Camp
Trek: 15 km in 7-8 hrs | Altitude: 11,500 ft to 13,000 ft via 13,500 ft
Gradual climb via Liddermad huts and Dandair meadows,Stunning ridge views of Doodhpatri,Spend night at Astar campsite
Day 4: Astar Camp to Hafas Camp
Trek: 10 km in 4-5 hrs|Altitude: 13,000 ft to 12,500 ft
Climb up to Astar Pass (a bit tiring but rewarding), Descend into a colourful valley of wildflowers, Camp at Hafas surrounded by scenic views
Day 5: Hafas Camp to Noonwan Base
Trek: 9 km in 4-5 hrs | Altitude: 12,500 ft to 10,500 ft
Steep morning climb into Noonwan,Cross a stream on the way,Camp with views of Tosa Maidan meadows
Day 6: Noonwan Base to Tosa Maidan Lakes & back
Rocky climb,Visit alpine lakes with crystal-clear waters,Return to Noonwan by evening
Day 7: Noonwan Base to Doodhpatri – Drive to Srinagar
Descend through forests and grassy lands, Walk into the vast Doodhpatri meadows, Drive back to Srinagar for hotel stay (optional)
Inclusion
During The Trek
Exclusion
The trek has spectacular, pristine meadows, sun kissed alpine lakes and peaceful nature trails - far away from the regular tourist activities. You will get a spectacular view of the Himalayas, as well as the cultural experience of meeting durable Kashmiri shepherds.
The trek takes you up to about 13,700 ft near Noonwan Pass, with campsites at lower elevations around 9,000–12,000 ft. The mix of altitudes keeps the journey both exciting and challenging.
Along with trekking, there is also camping and star gazing, photography, excursions to alpine lakes, conversing with shepherds, and just taking in the majesty and serenity of nature. Others would argue that just being disconnected from reality for a few days is reward enough
The best months are June to September. This is when the meadows are at their greenest, wildflowers bloom, and the weather is pleasant for trekking.
It's a easy-moderate trek. The trek consists of long hikes, rocky patches and a high-altitude pass - so you do need to be fit! Beginners may want to try it, if they adequately prepare.
The trek will be an average of 6-7 days, including meadows, lakes and passes. This duration includes both trekking (actual walking) time and camping time.
Yes, it is safe if you go as part of a guided group. But as per our recommendations, going fully solo would not be wise because the terrain is remote, there is no mobile network and the trails are tricky.
Testimonials
Radandi Shashank
“You are not just a mountain trek guides, but a true guardian of the journey. Your unwavering loyalty to our team, the mountains, and safety itself is extraordinary. Every step felt secure because of your dedication, integrity. And stayed committed to every trekker, through every challenge, with patience, care, and honesty. Huge respect to Subodh Jii n Aditi Mam!! Thank youu @thinairexpedition It was wonderful experience!!❤️❤️
67D3_KALYAN
Completing the Kedarkantha trek at an altitude of around 12,500 feet was not just a trek for us, it was a life-long memory, and a major reason for this unforgettable experience is our guide Shubhod Sir. From the very first day till the summit, Shubhod Sir guided us with immense patience, discipline, and genuine care. At every difficult patch, when our legs were tired and breathing became hard, his calm words, constant motivation, and confident leadership gave us the strength to keep moving forward. He never rushed anyone and always made sure that every member of the group was safe, comfortable, and mentally strong. Shubhod Sir’s knowledge of the mountains, weather, and high-altitude conditions was truly impressive. More than a guide, he felt like a protector and mentor who treated everyone like family. His positive attitude and humble nature created a sense of trust and confidence among all of us. We are also thankful to Atidhi Madam for her support and cooperation during the trek, which added to the smooth experience. Because of Shubhod Sir’s guidance and dedication, we successfully reached the summit with confidence and joy. We will always remember this trek with gratitude and respect. Truly blessed to have a guide like him. 🙏⛰️
Arvind Sahu
Wonderful experience totally worth it. At those price they provided services that no one could provides really enjoyed ❤️🎉
Kolanu Anirudh
This is my first trek in Uttarakhand(Kedharkanta) and Thin Air Expedition made it a memorable one Thanks for everything subodh bro you made it so special.
kanica kandpal
Completed the Gaumukh–Tapovan trek with Thin Air Expedition, and it was an exceptional experience from beginning to end. Instead of opting for a fixed-departure model, we chose a personally curated itinerary, as this was our first trek—and it turned out to be the perfect decision. The team was extremely thoughtful in planning each day’s distance, ensuring we were comfortably challenged without ever feeling overtired or exhausted upon reaching the campsites. Every campsite was carefully selected, offering not just safety and comfort but also breathtaking views that made each halt truly memorable. What stood out most was the level of personalization. The itinerary was clearly tailored to our pace and comfort, and the trek leader constantly shared insightful facts about the region, its geography, and cultural significance, adding depth and meaning to the journey. Overall, Thin Air Expedition delivers a highly personalized, well-paced, and enriching trekking experience. I would highly recommend them, especially for first-time trekkers looking for a safe, informative, and thoughtfully curated adventure.Sen
Raj Bahadur
I booked my trek with Thin Air Expedition on a friend’s recommendation, and it turned out to be a great decision. They managed travel and accommodation very smoothly, and everything was well organized throughout the journey. The team stayed in regular coordination, ensuring that stays and drivers were properly arranged each day. The entire trip was timely, hassle-free, and also pocket-friendly. I would definitely recommend Thin Air Expedition—you can trust them completely with your travel and trekking plans.
sachin aulakh
I recently completed the Kedarkantha Trek with ThinAirExpedition, and the entire experience was outstanding. The coordination, communication, and arrangements were excellent. The trek leaders were experienced and friendly, the support staff was humble, the stay was comfortable, and the food quality in such high altitude conditions was truly impressive. Their focus on safety and responsible trekking made the journey even better. I would definitely choose them again for my next Himalayan adventure! 🏔️✨
Aman rai
I recently completed a trek with the help of ThinAirExpedition, and the entire experience was very comfortable. From stay arrangements to travel from Rishikesh to Rishikesh, everything was well managed. The driver was extremely polite, supportive, and made the journey smooth and stress-free. Overall, a great experience and I would definitely recommend them.
Nitya Jaiswal
Kedarkantha was not just a trek, it was an experience that helped me reconnect with myself. Thanks to Thin air expeditions , I felt safe, cared for and encouraged at every step. The sunrise at the summit, the laughter around the campfire and the kindness of the guides will stay with me forever. If you're looking for a company that treats you like family on the mountains, this is the one.
Biswajit Sahoo
Subodh Sir making the trek so much of fun and intresting .. Awesome Experience with Subodh Sir
Anmol Verma
Overall trekking and accommodation was a very smooth experience. Our trek leader Mr. Ramesh was amazing and very helpful. He managed to make the trek look easy. Overall experience was 10/10. Would highly recommend.
Rishabh Singh Rana
Trek Guide Mr. Ramesh Ji is a very cool & good person. Trek journey became beautiful with the group and overall it became my one of the best experience.
aditi vaidya
I recently went on a trek with Thin Air Expeditions, and I can't get over the experience I had! I did the Phulara Ridge trek with Subodh sir, and it was an incredible experience. What made it even more special was that Subodh sir made sure I could bring my dog, Flake, a toy pom. His team and him took such great care of us, and it was clear that they truly care about their guests, human or canine! The group was amazing too. I met some wonderful people along the way, and we formed lifelong bonds. The whole experience was beautiful – from the breathtaking views to the friendly, supportive environment. I’ll cherish these memories forever! If you're looking for a SAFE, well-organized, fun, and caring trekking company, Thin Air Expeditions and Subodh sir are the ones to go with!
Anuja Vaidya
It was a wonderful experience with TAE on Phulara ridge trek, everything was on point the gears, food, trek guides and Subodh sir himself was an amazing leader who is the founder of TAE, he made sure the experience was amazing even for the first timers keeping safety the first priority. Also I took my Dog, Flake along with me for the trek and it was a great experience for her as well and her food and safety was well taken care of . 🐾 Would love to go back again with Thin air expedition. Thank you so much 🤗
Simran Samal
Phulara Ridge Trek – A Memorable Experience for me !!! Someone once told me, “Trips aren’t just about travel — they become a part of you.” I never really believed it, but this time, Phulara Ridge became exactly that for me. Our first campsite — the forest trail, the tents, the whole setting — gave me the first taste of what was to come. Everything was so thoughtfully arranged, it felt like nature itself had prepared that space for us. All thanks to our trek leader, Subodh bhai 🙌🏻. The next stop was magical in its own way. The campsite was picture-perfect, and we even ended up learning a bit of the local Uttarakhandi dance from Dev bhaiya (well… I tried to! 😄). In the evenings, we played games and spent such a good time that we forgot the weight of city life for a while. And finally, the Ridge: Honestly, we thought the weather would block the views, but Subodh bhai timed it so perfectly that the skies cleared for us. Walking on the ridge — one valley on the right, another on the left, clouds passing beneath us — felt surreal. We sat there for hours, just soaking it all in. It was pure peace. And yes, we even made tea there!!! 🫶🏻 (Of course, we made no mess, cleaned it all up, and left the space exactly the way it should be 😌). For me personally, trekking has always been like meditation — a way to quiet the noise and reconnect with myself. This trek with Subodh bhai and the team gave me exactly that: peace, perspective, memories for a lifetime, and inspiration. #SoGrateful 🙏🏻 Thank you, Subodh bhai and team, for making this such a soulful and unforgettable journey! Lastly Just one note for all: “In the end, we don’t conquer mountains; they help us discover who we truly are.” To anyone even considering it: please go with #ThinAir Expeditions to experience the rawness of trekking, the beauty of nature, and the joy of escaping city life for a while. You’ll come back not just with pictures, but with stories, stillness, and a piece of the mountains in your heart. All the best !!! ✌🏻
Netra Sharma
It was a wonderful experience with ThinAir Expedition. I went on my first trek to Phulara Ridge, and it was truly amazing. Our guide, Subodh ji, managed everything so well and remained patient throughout the trek. I enjoyed every moment and every spot. The place, the cook, and the helpers were all wonderful. The food and camps were awesome. I highly recommend joining ThinAir Expedition to experience the best of “pahadi” life!
Vaibhav Srivastava
Thin Air Expedition gave us the best experience while trekking. Everything was finely arranged and properly taken care of whether it was travel, food. Staff availablity. But the best part was free hand while trekking. Subodh led us beautifully taking in note that everyone reaches the base camp and everyone is doing well. Consulting our next phase keeping in mind the safety and gears. It was collectively very amazing. He gave us full free hand additionally it is our responsibility as well to take care of each other. We did so many activities had games and fun and he even taught us how to camp. How to set up it was fun. If it would've given me option I'll rate it 10. Thanks subodh and team and thin air expedition for such a memorable trip.
Somya Chaturvedi
I recently did the Phulara Ridge Trek with Thin Air Expedition, and it was my first trek ever truly an unforgettable experience! Everything was so well managed from safety arrangements and equipment to food and stay, I never had to worry about a thing. Our trek leader, Subodh, was extremely supportive, patient, and motivating, which made a huge difference for a first-timer like me. The food was simple, homely, and very satisfying after long trekking hours. Most importantly, safety was always the top priority. For anyone planning their first or next trek, I’d highly recommend Thin Air Expedition. Professional, caring, and passionate about making the experience memorable!
We're always ready for adventure
Trekking comes with uncertainty. Weather, terrain, and setbacks are part of the journey. We embrace them with resilience and openness—each challenge makes us stronger and more appreciative of nature's beauty.
We embrace low-noise trekking
We blend into nature, not the other way around. We avoid shouting, loud music, and noisy games. In silence, we hear birdsong, streams, and the wind—inviting peace, reflection, and a deeper connection with nature.
We protect the environment
We protect the environment by minimising waste, reusing resources, and picking up litter. We carry eco-bags, segregate waste, and inspire others to preserve trails. Sustainable trekking ensures these mountains remain beautiful for future generations.
We are self-sufficient
We carry our load as much as possible, manage our gear, and stay prepared for all situations. Self-sufficiency builds confidence, independence, and respect for fellow trekkers, support staff, and the trail itself.
We support each other
Trekking is not a solo act. We wait for each other, share burdens, and uplift teammates. By putting the group first, we build strong bonds and help everyone complete the trek joyfully.
We are fit and prepared
We train well before our treks. This helps us walk longer, handle emergencies, and contribute to the team. Fitness ensures we are never a burden and always ready to help when needed.
