In a remarkable achievement that has inspired adventure enthusiasts across Kashmir, Waheed Ahanger, a trekker from Kathpora Baharabad Hajin Bandipora, has reached a milestone few have attempted. He has explored 100 alpine lakes, making him the second person from his district and the fourth from North Kashmir to accomplish this feat. His journey, completed at the serene Arshan Lake in Sintan Top, has been a long, challenging one, marked by resilience, passion, and a deep love for the majestic beauty of Kashmir’s landscapes.
Waheed’s story began in 2019 when he first set out on a trek with friends through the Salnie Valley in Ganderbal, Naranag. Captivated by the untouched beauty of the mountains and the allure of the rugged landscape, he was drawn to the world of trekking. Soon after, he undertook day treks with his friends to nearby mountains such as Mohandmarg, Lal Marg, and Traag Meadow. These early experiences left a lasting impression, and he discovered his passion for exploring Kashmir’s natural wonders.
However, in January 2020, Waheed left for Dubai for a job opportunity, pausing his trekking adventures. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic brought him back to Kashmir in August of the same year, and with the world in turmoil, he found solace in the mountains once again. Later that year, he joined The Khyber Himalayan Resorts & Spa as a team leader in the accounts department. Today, he works as Assistant Manager of Accounts & Finance at Hotel Vintage Gulmarg, balancing his professional life with his passion for trekking.
In 2022, Waheed reignited his trekking journey with a newfound determination. Teaming up with his friend and mentor, Muhammed Omer, he joined the trekking group Nature Trails. Together, they embarked on a circuit trek from Andarwan Ganderbal to Matipora Ajas Bandipora, covering a challenging 33 km stretch and exploring 16 picturesque meadows along the trail. With every trek, Waheed’s passion for the mountains deepened, and he began to focus more on the unique beauty of alpine lakes.
In June 2022, Waheed experienced a defining moment in his journey. He reached Tulain Lake near Pahalgam, an alpine lake with pristine, icy waters. Overwhelmed by its beauty, he took a dip in the freezing lake, and that exhilarating experience solidified his commitment to exploring alpine lakes. From that point on, he aimed to discover as many of these lakes as possible, each more breathtaking than the last.
Following Tulain Lake, he joined Crampon Adventurers and continued his explorations, visiting Margon Top Lakes and the famous Gangbal and Nundkol lakes near the Harmukh mountain. These were challenging treks, pushing Waheed to new limits and instilling a sense of accomplishment that fueled his journey.
In 2023, Waheed set his sights on even more challenging feats. He summited Mahadev Peak, the tallest peak in Srinagar, and undertook winter treks to places like Marchio Dumail and Safapora Mountain Top. Trekking in winter conditions required an additional level of resilience and preparation, but Waheed was committed to testing his limits.
Alongside his friend Fayaz Ahmad Bhat, who suggested he pursue alpine lakes as a goal, Waheed’s passion evolved into a mission. The encouragement and camaraderie from fellow trekkers kept him motivated. With each journey, Waheed learned valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the strength it takes to pursue one’s passions.
In August 2023, Waheed embarked on the challenging Greater Lakes Tosamaidan expedition. The vast open meadows and pristine lakes of Tosamaidan offered Waheed a unique and rewarding experience. Following this, he explored the Lashan Pinjan Bandipora Lakes and the Lower Hirpora Lakes in September and October. These treks brought him face to face with some of the most untouched lakes in Kashmir, where nature seemed frozen in time.
In June 2024, Waheed joined another adventurous expedition to Sarbal and Seera Sar Bandipora, continuing his journey to explore Kashmir’s uncharted waters and hidden landscapes. His journey continued into July with the Kashmir Great Lakes expedition, one of the biggest milestones in his trekking journey. Undertaken with his mentor, Muhammed Omer, and friend Fayaz Bhat, the expedition tested their endurance and determination, covering multiple alpine lakes that offered awe-inspiring views.
Similarly, In September 2024, Waheed achieved his goal of exploring 100 lakes with a trek to the Barafsar Lakes, covering all three lakes in a single day. Finally, he reached his 100th lake, Arshan Lake, a serene destination where he celebrated the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
Waheed expressed heartfelt gratitude to his family, who supported him unconditionally, and his mentor, Muhammed Omer, who introduced him to the world of trekking and encouraged him to pursue his passion. Reflecting on his journey, Waheed shared that trekking taught him invaluable lessons about life, resilience, and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams.
“I hope to inspire others to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the alpine lakes and our breathtaking Kashmir,” Waheed said. “With this achievement, my plans are already underway for the next adventure. I’m eager to continue exploring Kashmir’s hidden destinations, pushing my limits, and sharing my experiences with others.”
Waheed’s journey from a curious adventurer in 2019 to a seasoned trekker with 100 alpine lakes under his belt is a testament to his passion, perseverance, and commitment. His story is an inspiration to aspiring trekkers and outdoor enthusiasts in Kashmir and beyond, reminding them of the vast, unexplored beauty of the region and the rewards of venturing into the unknown.
