Mount Kolahoi — Local services in Jammu and Kashmir

The Kolhai Glacier is one of the largest and most prominent glaciers in the Kashmir Himalayas, located in the northwestern part of Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled beneath the towering Mount Kolahoi at an altitude of about 5,000 meters, it is often referred to as the “lifeline of Kashmir” due to its vital role in feeding the rivers and streams of the region. The glacier acts as the primary source of the Lidder River, which eventually joins the mighty Jhelum, sustaining agriculture and livelihoods across the valley.

Stretching over several kilometers, the Kolhai Glacier is a perennial mass of ice and snow, although in recent decades it has been retreating rapidly due to the impacts of climate change and rising temperatures. Scientists and environmentalists express concern over its shrinkage, as its melting directly affects water availability for thousands of people downstream.

The glacier is not only significant environmentally but also holds immense geographical and trekking importance. Adventure enthusiasts often trek through Aru Valley and Lidderwat meadows to reach close to its snout, though the journey is challenging and requires skill. The rugged terrain, alpine forests, and breathtaking landscapes en route make it one of the most fascinating trekking experiences in Kashmir.

Kolhai Glacier thus represents both natural beauty and ecological importance. Its preservation is crucial, as the glacier continues to be a lifeline for Kashmir’s rivers, agriculture, and communities that depend on its waters. It remains a symbol of the fragile yet majestic...

Kolahoi Peak (locally named the 'Gashe-braer' meaning the goddess of light) is the highest mountain with a peak elevation of 17,799 ft (5,425 metres), in Jammu and Kashmir, in the vicinity of Sonamarg in ganderbal district. Kolahoi Peak is part of the Himalaya Range, and is located between 15 km south of Sonamarg and 21 km north from Aru, Pahalgam. To its north flows the Sind River and the glacier of its name Kolahoi Glacier is the source of Lidder River.in the vicinity of Kashmir valley.... Kolahoi Peak was first climbed by a British medical team headed by Dr Ernest Neve in 1912.

The easiest route to climb Kolahoi Peak is south face via Aru Pahalgam from which a 21 kilometers high altitude alpine trek leads to the glacier of the peak. From the rear side of Sonamarg leads a 15 kilometer trek via Sarbal Nallah to the summit, but one have to encounter the difficulties of ice falls from the glacier.

On 7 September 2018, a team of Mountaineers consisting of Abdul Majeed Rather, Nisar Ahmad Ahangar, Adil Shah, Naveed Jelaani, etc were descending from this mountain after making a successful summit on September 6 2018 were hit by Rockfall Debris, killing Naveed Jelaani and Adil Shah.Adil Shah headed the "Alpine...

If you like to trek to amazing and breathtaking places then Kolahoi Glacier should be on your bucket list. It is a medium-level trek and requires calmness of mind with good trekking skills. The place is isolated and the trek becomes more difficult during winters. The best time to visit the place will be anywhere between June to September. The place is rich and the scenic views are something that will become your memory forever. Tourists keep visiting the place and you may be able to find some villagers on your way but taking a guide with you will always be a suggestion. I request everybody reading this post and visiting the place to carry an extra plastic bag with them to bring back the plastic waste that we take with us. Please let's not at least pollute and what is somehow saved till...