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.
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.
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.
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.
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 nowhere 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 km 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 acclimatization process starts today. Overnight in Aru. Camp
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.
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 the water lifeline and origin of the 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. Afterward, drive towards Srinagar by evening you will reach Srinagar. And check-in to the Houseboat.
After breakfast at houseboat. Our representative will drop you off at Srinagar Airport.
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: