The trek begins with a mild yet long climb from the village of Aru to Lidderwat, which is about 10 km away. The trail snakes along the cool Ladder river. A few minutes into the trek, and you can see the beautiful area of Aru behind you. Soon the trail enters beautiful forests of fir, and opens out to the Dalla clearing. Now the trek becomes gentler and evener. About 2 – 3 hours later, the trail curves into dense fir forests, and to the stunning meadows of Lidderwat. Camp overnight at the dreamy campsite of Lidderwat.

An easy to moderate day. Continue the trail alongside the Lidder river, and dips down into the fantastic forests of pine. Move past the cluster of trees and watch incredible views unfold before you. The expansive grasslands of Lidderwat blend in with the snowy mountains, along with misty valleys. The trail enters a tapering valley graced by a snaking blue river and soon leads to the lovely campsite of Shekwas.

Once you leave Shekwas, the trail along the path leading up to Tarsar, via a ridge overlooking a stream. The narrow ridges pop up to stunning views of the valley. About two hours later, the trail offers a slight sneak peek into the wonderful Tarsar lake. Crossing a stream through rocky terrains and boulders land you at the grasslands of Tarsar. Camp here or the night.

The Tarsar Pass commands numerous beautiful views, and the valley spans out beautifully. Trekking through the pass saves you a few hours, which is saying something. The trail that descends from the pass to the bottom of the valley opens up to a verdant valley. Another stretch of meadows, grasslands, streams, and boulders brings you to the magical campsite of Sundarsar Lake, where you camp overnight.

The trail from Sundarsar stretched far across the lake, and towards Marsar. The one that goes over boulders is a quicker trail, although a bit tricky. This is where you’ll thank yourself for carrying a trekking pole or ice axe. Soon the path opens up to grassy patches, and past a few beautiful brooks. Soon, the climb leads to stunning vistas of Marsar, enveloped in cloudy haloes. The lake, looking quite similar to Tarsar lake, is lined by beautiful mountains on the side. From Marsar, you descend back to Sundesar Campsite. After that stick to the trail heading towards Zachmargi valley, this will land us at the homwas campsite.

Post a hearty breakfast, we take the same route which we took at the beginning of the trek via Liddervat. It is a full descent, and our path unfolds along several gurgling streams, along with a handful of shepherd huts and settlements. It will take around 2 hours from Homwas to Liddervat, it is a 10km walk from Liddervat to Aru. From here, you depart for Srinagar, which is an hour's drive away.