Kashmir Kolahoi Glacier Trekking
Overview
Pahalgam Kolahoi Glacier Trek: Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir with the Kolahoi Glacier Trek. Nestled in the heart of the North Indian Himalayas, this trek offers stunning views, serene alpine lakes, and the majestic Mount Kolahoi, which towers at an elevation of 5,425 meters. Experience the diverse terrain, rich flora, and captivating beauty of the Kolahoi massif as you trek through pristine valleys and vibrant meadows. Tarsar Marsar lake trek in the Upper Dachigam area can also be made from here read more for trekking in Kashmir.
Kolahoi Glacier Trekking Height – Region & Geography
- Location: Pahalgam Anantnag District, Jammu and Kashmir
- Mount Kolahoi Elevation: 5,425 meters
- Surrounding Ranges: Sind Range, Lidder Range, Amirnath Range
- Key Waterways: The Kolahoi Glacier feeds into the Lidder River, which bifurcates into west and east branches at Pahalgam.
History of Kolahoi ranges
Kolahoi Peak, or Local name ‘Gashe-braed’ (Illuminated Cat), rises to 5,425 meters in the Lidder Valley of Jammu and Kashmir. As the highest peak in the region, it offers stunning views and is easily reached from Aru Pahalgam, making it a crown jewel of the Great Himalayan range.Kolahoi Peak was first ascended in 1912 by Dr. Ernest Neve’s British medical team. The easiest ascent is via the southern face from Aru village, involving a 21 km alpine trek. Tragically, in 2018, a rockfall claimed two lives during a descent. In a notable achievement, the first Kolahoi Greater traverse was completed in September 2023, covering 6.21 miles from the southern to northern glacier.
Kolahoi Glacier Trekking Distance & Routes
Starting Point: Aru Valley or Pahalgam
The trek begins in the picturesque Aru Valley , which is well-connected by motorable roads from Pahalgam. From here, two primary routes lead to the Kolahoi Glacier:
- Natural Route: Via Lidderwat Valley and Satlangen (recommended for most trekkers)
- Difficult Route: Via Gasran Katernag Lake (shorter but challenging)
- Distances for total kolahoi glacier trek 60 km
Kolahoi Glacier Trek Itinerary
Aru Kotpatri Valley
Day 1: Srinagar To Aru and Kotpari valley
- Distance: 115 km drive
- Highlights: After breakfast, drive from Srinagar to Aru. Enjoy a short hike to Kotpatri Valley and overnight camping.
Lidderwat Valley
Day 2: Kotpatri to Lidderwat Valley
- Distance: 5 hours trek
- Highlights: Trek through dense pine forests to Lidderwat Valley. Enjoy evening bonfire and stunning views.
Satlangen Kolahoi Base Camp
Day 3: Lidderwat to Satlangen
- Distance: 3 hours trek
- Highlights: Follow the Lidder River, exploring nomadic houses upon reaching Satlangen.
Kolahoi Glacier
Day 4: Satlangen to Kolahoi Glacier
- Distance: 8 hours trek
- Highlights: Ascend to Kolahoi Glacier, crossing the Lidder stream and enjoying breathtaking views. Camp overnight at Satlangen.
Day 5: Satlangen to Aru Valley
- Distance: 9 hours trek
- Highlights: Conclude your trek with a scenic walk back to Aru Valley. Drive back to Srinagar for an overnight stay in a houseboat or hotel.
Basmai Pass Trek
Duration: 7 Days (+1 Buffer Day)
Best Season: Late June to Early October
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Highlights: Kolhoi Glacier, Basmi Pass, Alpine Lakes, Gagangir Village
Day-by-Day Itinerary for Kolahoi-Basmi Pass Trek
Day 1: Srinagar to Aru Basecamp
- Distance: ~112 km | Travel Time: 3-4 hours by road
- Activities:
- Drive through scenic Kashmiri landscapes, with stops at saffron fields and apple orchards.
- Acclimatize at Aru (2,400 m), a picturesque village near Pahalgam.
Pro Tip: Explore Aru’s meadows for golden hour photography.
Day 2: Aru to Lidderwat
- Distance: ~10 km | Trek Time: 5-6 hours
- Highlights:
- A gradual ascent through coniferous forests and lush meadows.
- Follow the Lidder River’s emerald streams.
Overnight Stay: Campsite at Lidderwat (2,800 m) with stunning mountain views.
Day 3: Lidderwat to Satlanjan
- Distance: ~8-10 km | Trek Time: 5-6 hours
- Trail Details:
- Trek through vast meadows and cross mountain streams.
- Reach Satlanjan (3,400 m), a basecamp with stunning views of Kolhoi Glacier.
Overnight Stay: Campsite under starry skies.
Day 4: Satlanjan – Kolhoi Glacier – Dudsar Lake – Return to Satlanjan
- Distance: ~10-12 km (Round Trip) | Trek Time: 7-8 hours
- Highlights:
- Visit Kolhoi Glacier (3,800 m), also called the “Crown of Kashmir.”
- Explore Dudsar Lake with pristine glacial waters.
Overnight Stay: Return to Satlanjan for the night.
Day 5: Satlanjan to Ruyal (Three Lakes)
- Distance: ~10 km | Trek Time: 5-6 hours
- Highlights:
- Discover the Three Lakes (Ruyal), serene alpine water bodies surrounded by lush meadows.
- Enjoy a tranquil campsite near these hidden gems.
Day 6: Ruyal to Basmi Lake & Pass – Cross to Gagangir Top
- Distance: ~12-14 km | Trek Time: 7-8 hours
- Trail Details:
- Trek to Basmi Lake, an untouched paradise at ~4,200 m.
- Cross Basmi Pass, with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayas.
- Descend to Gagangir Top for your campsite.
Pro Tip: Prepare for steep ascents and ensure hydration.
Day 7: Basmi Valley to Gagangir Village – Drive to Srinagar
- Distance: ~10 km trek + 3-hour drive
- Highlights:
- Descend through Basmi Valley to Gagangir Village.
- Drive back to Srinagar, marking the end of your trek.
Optional Add-On: Visit Sonmarg for sightseeing if time permits.
Day 8: Buffer Day for Weather or Contingencies
- Use this day if bad weather delays progress during the trek.
Kolhoi-Basmi Pass Trek Highlights
- Kolhoi Glacier: The largest glacier in Kashmir, offering awe-inspiring views.
- Basmi Pass: A high-altitude pass with panoramic vistas of the Kashmir Valley.
- Alpine Lakes: Hidden gems like Ruyal and Basmi Lakes provide surreal landscapes.
- Meadows and Valleys: Aru, Lidderwat, and Basmi Valley feature postcard-perfect scenery.
Kolahoi Glacier Trekking Package and Price
Inclusions
- Accommodation: Camping during the trek with necessary equipment provided.
- Meals: All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Transport: Private vehicle for the transfer from Srinagar to Aru Valley and back.
- Guided Trek: Experienced local guides and porters for support.
- Permits: Necessary trekking permits and fees.
- Price: The cost depends upon the group size
Exclusions
- Travel Insurance: We recommend purchasing travel insurance for unforeseen circumstances.
- Personal Expenses: Snacks, beverages, or souvenirs.
- Additional Accommodation: Stay in Srinagar before or after the trek (unless arranged).
- Medical Expenses: Any medical treatments or medications needed during the trek.
Key Attractions
- Kolahoi Glacier: The largest glacier in the Kashmir Valley, offering stunning views and a chance to explore glacial landscapes.
- Basmai Lake: A beautiful glacier-fed lake surrounded by picturesque mountains, known for its tranquility and natural beauty.
Best Time to Trek
- Ideal Months: June to October
- During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and accessible trails.
Kolahoi Glacier Trek Information – Difficulty Level -Cost
- Total Trek Duration: 4 nights, 5 days
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, suitable for trekkers with some experience.
- Accommodation: Camping during the trek; guesthouses and huts are available in Aru Valley.
Preparation Tips
- Fitness: Ensure you are physically fit and accustomed to hiking.
- Gear: Bring proper trekking gear, including sturdy shoes, warm clothing, and a good backpack.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated; carry a water bottle and purification tablets.
- Permits: Check for any necessary permits or regulations through the tourism office in Pahalgam.
Local Amenities
- Aru Valley Facilities: Guesthouses, huts, and restaurants are available for accommodation and meals.
- Tourism Office: Located in Pahalgam for additional information and support.
Conclusion
The Kolahoi Glacier Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that showcases the untouched beauty of the Kashmir Valley. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, this trek promises unforgettable memories and stunning vistas. Join us for an adventure that will leave you awestruck!