Image Source: Umar Farooq
About Kolhoi Range
The Kolhoi Range is an awe-inspiring mountain sub-range that is dominated by the towering Kolhoi Peak and massive Kolhoi Glacier. The range lies in the southwestern part of the Kashmir Valley near Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. With its rugged beauty, glacial majesty, and alpine lakes, the Kolhoi range is a dream for trekkers, nature lovers, and geography enthusiasts seeking the raw pulse of the Himalayas. The range is also dotted with high-altitude meadows, lakes, and seasonal snowfields, offering a breathtaking contrast to the deep pine forests at its base.
Geographical Overview
Sitting between the valley of Lidder (to the east) and Sindh (to the west), the range forms a part of the northwestern Himalayas. In the range, the highest peak is Kolhoi Peak, which rises to an elevation of approximately 5,425 meters (17,799 feet). The Kolhoi Range is primarily composed of granite and metamorphic rock formations that have been shaped over millennia by glacial and tectonic activity.
Kolhoi glacier
It’s one of the largest glaciers in the Kashmir region, which flows from the flanks of Kolhoi Peak. The glacier is an important source for the Liddar River, which is a major tributary of the Jhelum.
The Kolhoi Glacier, which flows from the flanks of Kolhoi Peak, is one of the largest glaciers in the Kashmir region and is a critical water source for the Lidder River, a major tributary of the Jhelum.
Climate and Seasonal Access
Alpine and sub-alpine climatic conditions with long winters and short, cool summers are found in the Kolhoi Range. Heavy snowfall begins in November and can continue till late April. As a result, the range becomes inaccessible during the winter months due to deep snow and avalanche risk. The best time to visit is between June and early October, when the trails are open, the meadows are green, and the glaciers glisten under clear skies. Summer temperatures vary from 5°C to 20°C during the day but drop significantly at night, especially above 3,000 meters.
How to Reach the Kolhoi Range
Located 90 km from Srinagar, the Kolhoi range begins from the picturesque town of Pahalgam.
From Pahalgam, the most popular route to the Kolhoi Glacier base is through Aru Valley, a quaint hamlet known for its scenic meadows and as the base camp for multiple treks. The trail from Aru to Lidderwat and then to Satlanjan leads further to the Kolhoi Glacier viewpoint. This trek, which typically takes 2–3 days, is considered moderate in difficulty and is suited for those with basic trekking experience.
What to See and Do
Kolhoi Glacier
The main attraction of the range is the Kolhoi Glacier, a hanging glacier with a dramatic snout that is retreating rapidly due to climate change. Standing at the edge of the glacier offers a thrilling view of deep ice crevasses and cascading meltwater streams.
Alpine Meadows and Flora
Along the trail to Kolhoi, one passes through lush meadows like Lidderwat and Satlanjan, dotted with wildflowers and fed by icy streams. These areas serve as summer grazing grounds for the Gujjar and Bakarwal shepherds, adding cultural richness to the scenery.
Lakes and Waterfalls
Although the Kolhoi Range is not known for massive lakes like some Ladakh ranges, there are small glacial ponds and hidden waterfalls near the base of the glacier. Nearby attractions also include Tarsar and Marsar Lakes, located southeast of the Kolhoi Glacier.
Mountaineering and Trekking
Kolhoi Peak is technically challenging and remains mostly unclimbed due to its treacherous ice ridges and crevasses. However, the range is excellent for trekking, glacier exploration, and high-altitude photography.