KGL(Day 3) - By Payal Sharma

Day 3

The rains last afternoon had proved to be a deterrent for many trekkers to carry their

Journey forward. Many of them chose to go back from Nichnai base camp itself. But I was determined not to quit.

We started early lest we should face the rains again.It was supposed to be long day,

the next goal was to climb Nichnai pass situated at an altitude of 12011 Ft.

Shaken by yesterday’s rains I decided to concentrate more on my pace today.

And it has been rightly said that if you want to go fast, go alone ! So be it.

Soon I gathered strength and the anticipation of reaching the first Alpine lake of the

‘Kashmir Great Lakes’ trek , The Vishnusar lake got the better of me.

Though the climb became a little tricky, but it was a perfect sunny day to be enjoyed thoroughly.

Even though the trail went on to become rocky, what caught my attention more was the

Postcard perfect view of the peaks dotted with little snow here and there, the bubbly stream that continued to flow throughout the track and the small glacial ponds that looked pristine.

Moving further, I felt my heart beating faster . Just when I started feeling weary I saw something that was an absolute pleasure. It was a hut covered with a yellow canvas.

Yes! It was a cafe. But where was it located? Right at the highest point of the day’s trek.

Gradually, as I approached the Nichnai Pass, the pleasant breeze started turning into strong winds. My hands started to freeze. But the prospect of having a hot bowl of Maggie kept me going.

Eventually , I could reach the Nichnai pass and the strong urge of having Maggie was satiated.The most challenging task of the day was done.

The next part of the day’s trek looked rosy. It was all descent. As we advanced towards the Vishnusar lake the vistas were very similar to what every child would imagine while drawing a landscape in the art class — A vast expanse of green meadow adjoining the rugged mountains, a stream flowing by, small flowers in yellow and purple. How I wished I could just lie there for eternity.

But then , there was more in store . After a an effort of around 7 hours we reached Vishnusar base camp.

The first alpine lake of the trek was in front of our eyes.We could not hold ourselves back. Everyone rushed towards the lake . Exhilarated, we jumped and broke into a jig. We unleashed the child inside us.