Kolahoi Glacier Trek

Difficulty:

Moderate

Altitude:

11155 ft

Duration:

5 Nights 6 Days

Distance:

26 Km

Kolahoi Glacier Trek is a classic Kashmir trek that takes us through lush green valleys, and shady forest slopes fed by gushing streams, into an alpine meadow landscape, The Kolahoi Glacier trek is one that should not be missed. Because it is the source of water that powers rivers like Jhelum and Lidder, this valley glacier is regarded by the locals as the “Goddess of Light.” Sadly, the effects of climate change have reduced this five-kilometer-long hanging glacier over time.

Kashmir trekking has always been appealing. The 6-day trek to the Kolahoi Glacier perfectly captures that feeling, it has a different vibe. The phrase “the journey is as important as the destination”. This is evident from the trekking trail that leads to the Kolahoi Glacier. Aru is the starting point of the trail, which leads to more than 20+ stunning alpine lakes and countless high-altitude ponds. The Lidder River’s sprawling banks, the greenest meadows, and wide-open Himalayan valleys are all along the route. Throughout the trek, you’ll be greeted by beautiful conifer forests that stretch to the horizon in all directions. The magnificent Kolahoi Glacier is, of course, the trek’s pinnacle.

The ideal trail for trekking in Kashmir

Do you want to trek through tall trees, flower-filled meadows, and crystal-clear high-altitude lakes with snow-capped peaks as their backdrop? You can do all of this and more when you go on the trek to the Kolahoi Glacier. The ideal trail for trekking in Kashmir.

What kinds of dangers are there?

The Kolahoi Glacier has lost half of its mass in the last three decades. This retreading glacier’s insides have become scalded. It is said that a loud cracking sound could be heard from either side of the glacier, which is a serious warning. Getting a safe distance to view the glacier is highly recommended. It is not recommended to walk atop the valley glacier because it is extremely risky.

The Kolahoi glacier trek is a moderate trek that anyone in good physical condition can complete. You must have a firm grip when walking down the trek from Satlunjan. The trail goes via the boulder section as well about which you have to be careful. The walk towards Satlanjan is rewarding though.

Best time to Visit

June to October is the best time to plan a Kolahoi glacier trek in order to take in the stunning alpine scenery and lush green valleys.

Kolahoi glacier trek distance

The distance of this trek is around 26km. Srinagar to Aru valley 112 km by car, 6 days trek which incorporates the day of acclimatization at Srinagar.

Kolahoi Glacier Trek Itinerary

  • Arrival in Srinagar the Capital City of Kashmir Srinagar city is known as the Venice of the East for its unique aquatic culture. The Numerous Lakes and Rivers are all interconnected through canal ways giving rise to a unique city known for its Lavish Houseboats which are intricately designed of pine wood. You will be hosted in these houseboats which are found no where else, Once you Arrive you will be taken for a ride around the lake Exploring floating vegetable gardens and islands on the Dal Lake. Overnight stay at Houseboat.

  • Today After Breakfast we will Drive towards Pahalgam which is Around 100 kms from Srinagar. On the way to Pahalgam you will Get to see saffron plantation fields and Apple Orchards you will also get to see the countryside of Kashmir. By Lunch time you will arrive in Aru Valley Pahalgam which is our campsite for the night one can walk around the campsite which is a small hamlet surrounded by lofty peaks and small brooks on all sides. The acclimatisation process starts today. Overnight in Aru. Camp

    • Altitude: 7,958 ft (2,426 m) to 9,131 ft (2,783 m)
    • Time took: 5 hours, 10 km
    • Trek gradient: Easy–moderate. Initial gradual ascent for 30 minutes followed by a gently undulating walk.

    It is a gentle but long climb from Aru to Lidderwat, covering a distance of 8 km in 5 hours. The trail to Lidderwat starts to climb straight out of Aru village, along the course of the Lidder River. Follow the trail past the herbal wild plant fields The trail gets into a cluster of fir trees and continues to climb. Half an hour later, the trail pops out at a clearing called Lidder Meadows gradually easing into plains offering views of serene Lidder river grazing through the valleys. Camp.

    • Altitude: 9131 ft (2785 m) to 11,700 ft (3570 m)
    • Time taken: 6 hours return 10 km
    • Trek Gradient: Moderate to Easy Long Walk through the plains along the Lidder river and gradual ascent towards, the Kolhai Glacier. (One can go deeper into the Glacier depending upon the pace of walking or time taken to reach the Glacier).

    Start Early after Breakfast and walk along the Lidder plains few hours into the walk will give you the views of mighty mount Kolhai known as the Matterhorn of Kashmir for its imposing stature. Upon reaching Kolhai go deeper into the Glacial valleys and explore the vast and biggest Glacier of Kashmir known as water lifeline and origin of Lidder river.In the Afternoon return to Lidderwat base camp.

  • Today After Breakfast it will be the return walk to Aru valley, walk at your own pace and by Afternoon or Late Afternoon you will Arrive at Aru Valley. Afterwards drive towards Srinagar by evening you will reach Srinagar. And check-in to Houseboat.

  • After breakfast at houseboat. Our representative will drop you at Srinagar Airport.

Your trek includes

Inclusions
  • Pick Up and drop off from Srinagar Airport.
  • 2 Nights stay in Houseboat with Breakfast and dinner.
  • Transfers from Srinagar to Trekking Start Point and return.
  • Qualified Guide, and Support staff.
  • Meals while on trek (Veg & Egg).
  • Trekking Permits.
  • First-aid medical kits.
Exclusions
  • Flight tickets.
  • Insurance.
  • Mules or porters to carry personal extra luggage. Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
  • Something not specifically mentioned under the pinnacle.
  • Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.

Things to Carry

  • Trekking Shoes (Do not carry sneakers/ sports shoes. Carry shoes that has good grip and ankle support)
  • Backpack (40 -60 litres): A backpack with sturdy straps and a supporting frame. Rain cover for a backpack is essential.
  • Daypack 20 litres: On the day of the summit, you’ll need a smaller backpack to carry water, snacks and your medical kit. Bring a foldable backpack.
  • Layers/Warm Clothes/Thermals
  • Trek Pants/T-shirts/Undergarments as per your convenience. Carry the actual number required and stay light Sunglasses, Suncap, sunscreen.
  • Hand gloves, socks 2 pairs and woollen socks
  • Headlamp/LED Torch is mandatory
  • Trekking Pole
  • Poncho/Raincoat
  • Cutlery: Carry a spoon, coffee mug and a lunch box. (Mandatory)
  • Personal Medikit
  • Toiletries: moisturiser, light towel, lip balm, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitiser. Do not carry wet wipes. One 1 litre water bottle.
  • Plastic covers: carry a few extra plastic bags for wet clothes. Make sure you take them back and not litter the mountains.

Health & Safety

  • Before starting the trek, calculate your BMI (Ideal BMI should be between 18.5 and 24.9)
  • Health and Safety checks mentioned below should be made before getting prepared for the trek
  • A balanced mind and body is the first thing that should be given importance before taking off, because this is what will bring out the best of you in every condition.
  • Your body should be fit enough to cover the entire trek with the backpacks on your back along with your body weight. That is why proper stamina and strength is needed. Also because trekking is done in uneven multi terrains and not on smooth paths. So in order to gain leg strength, perform simple squats.
  • Flexibility is very important when it comes to trekking. A good flexibility will be an advantage while walking on trails, climbing and river crossing etc. Attain flexibility by simple stretching or yoga.
  • As the Himalayan treks are basically ascending and descending the slopes, you will need a proper transmission of Oxygen from the lungs and heart to the body muscles. For this, trekkers should have a good cardiovascular endurance that can be gained by doing cardio exercises like running, swimming, cycling etc.

Cancellation Policy

It is good to make your booking two months prior in advance. In the event of cancellation of any trek/adventure activity due to any reasons, it is compulsory to notify us in writing. Cancellation charges will only be effective from the date we receive your request in writing.

If the trek is cancelled by us due to any reason (heavy snowfall, rainfall, natural disaster etc.) then the refund would not be initiated but you can go on the same trek another year. Kashmir Mountain Adventures Family is always with you, Thanks The cancellation charges are as follows:

  • (No bank charges deducted will be Refundable)
  • Up to 30 Days – 90% cost is Refundable
  • Between 21 to 30 Days – 50% cost is Refundable
  • Less than 20 Days – No Refund
  • (Refunds are initiated in 7-8 business days)