About Naranag
Most people have never heard of Naranag. That is precisely why we take guests there. Tucked into a pine forest in the Wangath Valley, Naranag is home to a cluster of ancient temples built by the Karkota dynasty in the 8th century. The carved stonework — geometric patterns on basalt blocks — is over 1,200 years old and still largely intact. The site sits at roughly 2,100 metres and is surrounded by meadows that lead upward toward the Great Lakes of Kashmir. This is where the Great Lakes Trek ends (or begins, depending on which direction you walk). It is also where most trekkers have their first emotional moment after seven days in the mountains — stepping off the trail into a patch of ancient civilisation. Our guide Bilal knows the history of each temple cluster and the archaeological significance of the site. He takes guests on a slow walk through the ruins and explains what the Karkota dynasty built here and why. The Nundkol and Gangabal lakes are accessible as a two-day hike from Naranag — one of the finest short treks in Kashmir.
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Snow melts to reveal the meadow. Wildflowers appear around the ruins. Cool and clear — excellent photography conditions.
Peak trekking season. The Great Lakes Trek is fully accessible. Naranag meadow is green and the trek to Gangabal is at its best.
Golden light, fewer trekkers, and the chinar trees in the lower valley turning colour. A very special time to visit.
🚗 How to Reach Naranag
Drive from Srinagar to Kangan (40 km on the Srinagar-Sonamarg highway), then turn into the Wangath Valley. Naranag is 15 km further on a paved road that becomes a rough track near the site. Our driver Jamsheed knows this road well. A 4WD is recommended for the final section.
Plan Your Naranag Trip
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