17th August 2012
Previous posts:
Today would be an eventful day for us as we would be seeing
the last but the most picturesque lakes of Gangabal and Nundkol.
The days trek started with ascend to Zach pass. The initial
path was strewn with bounders. It was basically jumping from one boulder to
another.
While we were crossing boulders, the peak opposite to us was
covered by pine trees. Amazing to see such a contrast.
The top of Zach pass was at the height of 13,500 feet. It
took me little more than 90 minutes to climb up the pass.
![](http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kykeyQr-MFU/UDZYKkHKD9I/AAAAAAAAaPQ/auh_RBliRf4/s640/DSC_8444.JPG) |
Top of Zach pass |
The view seen from the top of the pass was unforgettable.
What a magnificent sight!! It was mighty Harmukh parvat with two lakes of
Ganagabal and Nundkol at its base. A welcome respite from the tiredness of
climbing the pass!!
![](http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QDVvsYYvq8A/UDZYMoSbDDI/AAAAAAAAaPk/RdCM2yvyZl8/s640/DSC_8447.JPG) |
Nundkol (at the left) and Gangabal lake |
We sat there enjoying the scenery for more than an hour
while people at the back took time to climb the pass. Here I must mention about
“Uncle” of the trek. A retired person, he was doing the trek solo with couple
of helpers to carry tents and luggage. He was limping but that did not stop his
energy. He always started before us and walked at a steady pace and showed no
signs of tiredness. Just before this trek, he had trekked to Amarnath cave (He
was the only person in Amarnath when he visited!! But that is another adventure
he narrated!!!!) . And he had planned one more trek in Kashmir after this.
Amazing person!!
![](http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n57cUFNbpk4/UDZYUfm-IdI/AAAAAAAAaQc/TnH7VedPxCI/s640/DSC_8456.JPG) |
Harmukh parvat |
If watched closely, two more lakes could be seen in the
area. The lake on the right was a very high altitude.
Another lake was above Nundkol.
Climbing down was more difficult than I thought. It was a
long walk which took us to the campsite next to Lake Nundkol. We were now in the area frequented by
trekkers. Couple of foreigners were basking next to their tents.
Since it was the last night of the trek, cooks were given
rest and girls in our group took charge of cooking. An exciting evening, I must
say!!
Labels: Himalayas, Kashmir, lake, trek