Kolahoi Glacier, one of the most iconic and majestic features of the northwestern Himalayan Range, is located approximately 26 kilometers north of Pahalgam and 16 kilometers south of Sonamarg, within the picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir. This awe-inspiring valley glacier, situated at an impressive altitude of around 4,700 meters (15,400 feet), is not only a natural wonder but also holds profound cultural and spiritual significance for the local communities. Revered by locals as the “Goddess of Light,” Kolahoi Glacier is considered the eternal source of water for some of the most important rivers in the region, namely the Jhelum and Lidder rivers. The glacier’s pristine waters nourish the land and sustain life, flowing down to the Anantnag district, where they provide essential resources for both drinking and agricultural purposes.
The Kolahoi Glacier takes its name from Kolahoi Peak, the highest peak in the Kashmir Valley, which stands proudly at 5,425 meters (17,798 feet). The glacier originates beneath the cirques on the northern face of this towering peak, an area where snow and ice accumulate, feeding the glacier’s continuous flow. As the glacier melts, it forms the headwaters of the Lidder River, whose waters eventually join the Jhelum River, which plays a crucial role in the hydrology of the Kashmir Valley. The waters of Kolahoi Glacier ultimately discharge into the Jhelum River near Khanabal in Anantnag, completing a cycle that sustains both the environment and the people living in this vibrant region.
The Kolahoi Glacier trek, an adventure through the heart of Kashmir’s natural splendor, offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the stunning beauty of the Kashmir Valley. As the highest glacier in Kashmir, Kolahoi Glacier captivates trekkers with its breathtaking landscapes, including rugged mountain terrain, lush meadows, and dense forests of towering coniferous trees. The trek provides awe-inspiring views of the valley below, while also offering a chance to witness the glacier’s immense ice formations up close.
Embarking on the Kolahoi Pass Trek, in particular, is not just a physical journey but a deeply introspective experience. The winding path through the Himalayan landscape takes travelers on a soul-stirring adventure, providing moments of serenity and peace that allow for self-reflection and spiritual rejuvenation. The trek weaves through an ever-changing tapestry of nature, inviting one to embrace the serenity and timeless beauty of the environment. The Kolahoi Glacier, with its awe-inspiring majesty, serves as both a destination for adventure seekers and a sanctuary for those in search of a deeper connection to the natural world. This remarkable journey combines the grandeur of the Himalayas with a tranquil and reflective experience, making it an unforgettable exploration of both outer landscapes and inner peace.
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TREK FACTS CHART
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| Trek Name | Kolohoi Glacier Trek |
| Trek Id | Ho-Atk-09 |
| Trip Type | Trekking |
| Trek Region | Kashmir Valley |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Trek Start/End | Aru Pahalgam |
| Trek Duration | 6 Nights 7 Days |
| Total Trek Distance | 55 Km |
| Highest Altitude | 4000 M Asl |
| Best Time | Mid June To Mid October |
| Accommodation Type | Tents |
Pickup Point |
Trc, Srinagar, J&K |
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QUICK ITINERARY
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| DAY | PLAN |
| Day 1 | Pick Up From Srinagar , Transfer To Aru Pahalgam |
| Day 2 | Aru To Lidderwath |
| Day 3 | Lidderwath To Satlanjan |
| Day 4 | Satlanjan to Kolohoi Glacier and back to Dodsar |
| Day 5 | Dodsar to Lidderwath |
| Day 6 | Buffer Day / Rest Day |
| Day 7 | Lidderwath to Aru, Transfer To Srinagar |
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THINGS TO PACK
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Pack:
–Backpack 40–50 Lt with rain cover – Goes on the horse/porter
– Day Pack 15–20 lt with rain cover- to carry your camera, water bottle, trail layers, trail food etc.
Footwear:
-Trekking Shoes: Please do not wear sports shoes as on most treks, as we go higher it gets harder to use sports shoes.
Socks:
– 2 -3 pairs of trekking socks.
– 2 pairs of woolen socks – ideal to sleep in and best to use when in camp. We do not recommend them while trekking
Clothing:
– Pants: 3 pairs (including the ones you wear) – Ideal are the quick dry trekking pants. Alternatively, track pants are also comfortable to trek in.
– T-shirts 3 pairs (including the ones you are wearing) – Preferably quick dry, full sleeve t-shirts You can also choose to get T-shirts with collars, they offer extra protection for the neck from sunburns.
– Fleece Jacket
– Rain & Wind Protection
– Down filled / Hollow fiber fill insulated Jacket
– Thermal liners – 1 pair upper and lower (optional).
Accessories:
– Warm Cap
– Gloves
– Sun Cap
– Sunglasses with UV protection.
Other recommended necessities:
– Toiletries – sunscreen SPF 40+, moisturiser, lip balm, soap, toilet paper.
– Repair Kit (needle and thread).
– Headlamp/ Torch.
– Camera.
– Water Bottle- Ideally keep two bottles 1 liter each.
– Trekking Pole – Optional.
– Plastic Packing covers.(Please pack all your gear in waterproof plastic bags so that your clothes etc do not get wet while on horses or porters. Also, carry extra plastic bags in case you need to pack wet clothes.)
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WHY CHOOSE US FOR TREKKING IN KAHSMIR!
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EXPERIENCED TREK LEADERS: We provide highly skilled and experienced trek guides to ensure your safety throughout the journey. Their expertise will enhance your trekking adventure, ensuring both enjoyment and security at every step. All of our trek leaders are certified Medical First Responders.
SAFETY: Highland Odysseys is renowned for its strong focus on safety. We uphold the highest safety standards by providing essential equipment, medical support, and well-trained personnel to manage any emergencies that may arise during the trek.
WELL-ORGANIZED ITINERARY: Our trek itineraries are meticulously planned, factoring in difficulty levels, acclimatization, trekking routes, and the stunning natural beauty of the region. We ensure that each participant enjoys a well-rounded and memorable experience.
QUALITY HIKING EQUIPMENT: We supply top-quality hiking gear, including waterproof tents, -15°C sleeping bags, and other essential trekking equipment. This ensures trekkers enjoy a comfortable and pleasant journey throughout their adventure.
VALUE FOR MONEY: At Highland Odysseys, we are committed to offering exceptional value for your investment. We provide a comprehensive trekking experience that includes expert leadership, high-quality equipment, and personalized itineraries—all at competitive prices. Our goal is to deliver an experience that exceeds your expectations, ensuring you get the most out of your journey without compromising on quality or safety.
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE: With many years of experience in the trekking industry, Highland Odysseys has built a reputation for delivering unforgettable adventures. Our seasoned guides and support team possess extensive knowledge of the terrain, culture, and safety protocols, ensuring that every trek is not only exciting but also safe and well-managed.
PROFESSIONAL MANAGEMENT: Our operations are overseen by a team of professionals who are dedicated to ensuring smooth and efficient experiences for all trekkers. From initial planning to on-the-ground execution, our team handles every detail with precision and care, guaranteeing a hassle-free trekking experience for our participants.
5
We always stay at here when in town. The location is great, staff is wonderful and we love the overall feel. Beautiful view from the here.
4.6
This is the best tour on the east coast! It was amazing how many places we visited and what great memories we made!
4.4
It is a great place to shop not too far from New York. We took the bus from Port Authority and traveled through the countryside to get there.