Local Expertise — Not Agency Staff
Every guide is from Kashmir, Ladakh or the Khumbu. Born in these mountains. Not sourced through an agency for the season.
For 15 years we ran Kashmir Treks. Summit Routes is that same operation, extended — because our clients kept asking us to take them further. Every guide grew up in these mountains. Not sourced through an agency. Not hired for a season. Born here.
We now cover the full sweep of the Himalaya — from Kashmir and Ladakh to Nepal and Bhutan — with no middlemen, no outsourced logistics, and a maximum of 10 trekkers per group.
Treks from $495 · Expeditions from $1,250 · Cultural Tours from $465
Every guide is from Kashmir, Ladakh or the Khumbu. Born in these mountains. Not sourced through an agency for the season.
Pulse oximeters, satellite phones and acclimatisation rest days are built into every route above 4,000 m — not optional add-ons.
Every expedition supports local communities. We follow strict leave-no-trace principles across all three regions.
Choose Your Region
From Kashmir’s alpine meadows to Bhutan’s sacred highlands — guided by people who live here.
Most Requested Treks & Expeditions
Handpicked routes across all three regions. Each one personally guided, fully permitted, and limited to 10 per group.
Seven alpine lakes above the treeline. The single most iconic Kashmir trail.
The world's most storied trek. Guided by a team who knows every teahouse.
Nepal's most dramatic restricted-area circuit. Raw, remote, unforgettable.
Twin glacial lakes beneath Harmukh peak. An ideal first Himalayan trek.
Ladakh's most accessible 6000 m peak. Crampons, ropes, summit views forever.
Tiger's Nest, Punakha Dzong and a culture that has protected itself for centuries.
Register a free account before you book and your first trip is automatically discounted 10%. Returning trekkers get 15% off every subsequent booking — no code required, applied at checkout.
No credit card. No commitment. Just better pricing on every route.
Why Summit Routes
Kashmir Treks operated in the valley for over a decade before Summit Routes made its first booking. We did not expand by hiring new staff. We expanded because we already knew the right people in every range — from Srinagar to Kathmandu to Paro.
The guides who led treks in 2011 are still leading treks today. That continuity is the product. When you book with Summit Routes you are booking direct with the people who will walk the trail beside you.
Previously operating as Kashmir Treks (est. 2011) — same founders, same guides, same standards. Summit Routes is the natural expansion of a 15-year legacy.
Explore by Category
Multi-day guided treks — from gentle Kashmir valley walks to remote high-altitude crossings.
Not sure which trek to choose? Answer four quick questions and we'll recommend the best journey from our curated Himalayan routes.
📅 Kashmir: Jun–Sep · Nepal: Year-round · Bhutan: Sep–Nov
15 years of operations.
Verify on TripAdvisorWe did Ladakh with SR. Mir was super responsive and replied with reasonable advice and adjustments to our original plan. Shakil was one of the most professional and knowledgeable guides — over 10 years of experience driving through the highlands of Ladakh. Highly recommend Summit Routes.
Verify on TripAdvisorWe loved the 8-night Harki Dun — great hikes, guides, sights, and wonderful food. Our driver-guide Sabat and Sajid were both charming and fantastic. Every aspect of the tour went like clockwork. A month later and we're still sharing stories and pics in our WhatsApp group!
Verify on TripAdvisorFabulous trip — I couldn't fault it! Kashmir is stunning and it was wonderful to find a company that combines all the highlights with hikes led by experienced guides, plus activities like rafting and mountain biking. Guides Shah and Gani were brilliant — knowledgeable, flexible and thoughtful. I travelled solo as a female and felt entirely comfortable.
Verify on TripAdvisorThis exceptional company offers a top-tier experience with courteous service and deep expertise. The knowledgeable tour guide brings Kashmir's rich history to life, making it the best way to explore the local culture and hidden gems. Highly recommended for anyone seeking to truly appreciate Kashmir's beauty and history.
Verify on TripAdvisorWe had an amazing day hike to Marchoi Trail with an experienced and knowledgeable guide. Our guide Rahil was sensitive to each hiker's individual needs and helped me through a few slippery spots at the top. When one of our group decided not to continue, arrangements were made on the spot — handled very professionally. A great experience.
Verify on TripAdvisorI visited Kashmir on a 5-day trip over New Year and went straight to Gulmarg. The organisation was great and the New Year's Eve atmosphere was amazing. The powder snow was fantastic — that's what Gulmarg is all about. I will visit again next year. Highly recommend Summit Routes for their reliable service.
Verify on TripAdvisorSummit Routes delivered an exceptional local experience. The team's knowledge of the region, the thoughtfully designed itinerary, and the warmth of the guides made every moment special. A truly authentic Himalayan journey.
Verify on TripAdvisorAbsolutely stunning experience through Kashmir Valley. The planning was meticulous — every hotel, transfer and activity was perfectly timed. Our guide explained the cultural context of every site we visited, which made it so much richer than a standard tour. Summit Routes clearly knows this region inside out.
Verify on TripAdvisorThe Great Lakes Trek was beyond anything I expected. Seven high-altitude lakes in seven days — breathtaking at every turn. The camping arrangements were excellent, the cook prepared surprisingly good meals at altitude, and our guide Adil kept the group safe and motivated throughout. I've trekked in many countries, and this team stands out.
Verify on TripAdvisorMy wife and I had always dreamed of seeing Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. Summit Routes made it absolutely seamless. The permits, the timing through the mountain passes, the accommodation choices — everything was handled with care. Our driver-guide was patient, funny, and genuinely passionate about Ladakh. Worth every penny.
Verify on TripAdvisorKashmir in spring is magical — the almond blossoms and tulip gardens were in full bloom. Summit Routes designed a beautiful 6-day itinerary that included a houseboat stay on Dal Lake, day trips to Gulmarg and Pahalgam, and two gentle hikes. Everything flowed naturally. Mir was responsive from day one and the local team on the ground was warm and welcoming.
Verify on TripAdvisorThe Gangbal Twin Lakes trek was an unforgettable Himalayan adventure. The route through alpine meadows and glacial passes was challenging but incredibly rewarding. Our guide Adil was superb — calm under pressure, knowledgeable about the terrain, and genuinely caring about each team member's wellbeing. Logistics were perfectly coordinated. I will be recommending Summit Routes to all my trekking friends in Japan.
From the Himalayan Field Notes
Season guides, gear lists, route comparisons and destination deep-dives written by the guides who actually run these routes.
The three most iconic Himalayan destinations — but which one is right for your first (or next) trip?
Everything a first-time visitor to Ladakh needs — from acclimatisation to permits to packing.
12 guides covering Kashmir, Nepal, Bhutan and Ladakh — written by people who run these routes every season.
FAQ
Do I need prior trekking experience to join a Kashmir Great Lakes trek?
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is rated moderate. You do not need technical climbing experience, but a base level of fitness is important — 5 to 6 hours of daily walking on uneven terrain over 7 days. We recommend 4 to 6 weeks of cardio preparation beforehand. Our guides adjust pace for the group and no trekker is left behind. If you are unsure, contact us and we will honestly assess your readiness.
What is the best time of year to trek in Kashmir and Ladakh?
The primary trekking window in Kashmir is mid-June to mid-September. Ladakh has a longer season — June through October — due to its rain-shadow position. Winter expeditions in Ladakh during January and February are possible but technical. Our Ladakh Travel Guide covers seasons in full detail, and our trip planning tool helps you match a route to your travel dates.
How do I choose between India, Nepal and Bhutan?
In short: Kashmir and Ladakh for a Himalayan experience very few outsiders have; Nepal for the world’s most iconic high-altitude trails; Bhutan for deep cultural immersion alongside trekking. Our article India vs Nepal vs Bhutan gives a full honest breakdown. If you are still unsure, our trip planner asks the right questions and recommends the best route for you.
What is included in the trek price?
All Summit Routes prices include: a licensed local guide, all permits and restricted-area fees, camping and accommodation along the route, all meals during the trek, safety equipment including pulse oximeters and first aid kit, and transport on the route. International flights, travel insurance and personal gear are not included. Full inclusions are listed on each individual route page.
How small are your groups, and can I book a private trek?
Our maximum group size is 10 trekkers — a deliberate policy, not a capacity constraint. Private treks for individuals, couples or custom groups are available on any route, on any date within the season. Contact us to discuss dates and pricing for a private departure.
How does the first-timer discount work?
Create a free account on summitroutes.com before you book. Your first booking will automatically receive a 10% discount applied at checkout — no code required. Clients who have completed at least one route with us receive a 15% returning-client discount on all subsequent bookings, also applied automatically. Register here →
Create a free Summit Routes account. Your first booking is automatically discounted 10%. No code. No minimum spend. Just the best price on the best routes in the Himalaya — before you’ve even packed.
Already have an account? Returning clients receive 15% off automatically. Log in →