Kolahoi Glacier Trek
Trek from the Aru valley up the Lidder to the Kolahoi Glacier - the source of the river and the foot of Kashmir's "Goddess of Light" peak. A classic guided glacier trek through pine and meadow.
Starting From
₹10,000/person
The Kolahoi Glacier trek follows the Lidder river from the Aru valley up through Lidderwat and Satlanjan to the snout of the Kolahoi Glacier, which feeds the river and sits beneath the 5,425-metre Kolahoi peak, known locally as the Goddess of Light. It is one of Kashmir's classic shorter treks, through some of the finest pine-and-meadow scenery in the valley, and a rewarding objective for reasonably fit trekkers.
Via Kashmir arranges the guided Kolahoi Glacier trek with a certified leader, camps, meals and porters or ponies. This page covers the itinerary, difficulty, season, and cost.
At a glance
Trek to the Kolahoi Glacier, source of the Lidder • Starts from Aru valley (Pahalgam) via Lidderwat • 4 to 6 days, moderate difficulty • Beneath the 5,425 m Kolahoi peak • Best June to September • Fully guided with camps, meals and porters • From about ₹10,000 per person.
Kolahoi Glacier trek itinerary (typical)
- <strong>Day 1:</strong> Srinagar to Aru (drive) and short acclimatisation walk.
- <strong>Day 2:</strong> Aru to Lidderwat along the Lidder river.
- <strong>Day 3:</strong> Lidderwat to Satlanjan, high meadows.
- <strong>Day 4:</strong> Satlanjan to the Kolahoi Glacier snout and back to camp.
- <strong>Day 5:</strong> Trek down to Aru and drive back to Srinagar.
Flexible length
The trek can be done in 4 to 6 days depending on pace and how many acclimatisation and rest days you want. We tailor it to your group.
Difficulty, season and fitness
Kolahoi is a moderate trek with steady climbs and a rocky, moraine approach to the glacier snout; there is no technical mountaineering to reach the viewpoint. The glacier itself should only be approached with a guide, as it has crevasses. The season is June to September. Reasonable fitness and some prior walking preparation are recommended.
What is included and how to book
- A certified trek leader and support crew
- Tents and camping equipment
- All meals on the trek
- Porters or ponies for the main load
- Permits and entry fees
- Transport between Srinagar and Aru
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is the Kolahoi Glacier trek?
It is a moderate trek with steady climbs and a rocky moraine approach to the glacier snout, but no technical mountaineering to reach the viewpoint. The glacier itself has crevasses and should only be approached with a guide. Reasonable fitness is recommended.
How many days is the Kolahoi Glacier trek?
Typically 4 to 6 days from Aru via Lidderwat, including the drives from Srinagar, depending on pace and rest days.
When is the best time for the Kolahoi trek?
June to September, when the trail is clear of snow and the meadows are green. This is the main Kashmir trekking season.
What does the Kolahoi Glacier trek cost?
A fully guided trek starts from around ₹10,000 per person, including guide, camps, meals, porters/ponies, permits and trailhead transport. The exact price depends on group size and dates.
Book the Kolahoi Glacier trek
Tell us your dates and group and we'll arrange the full guided trek with camps and crew.