The mere fact that there is utter contrast between the lush green meadows and the snow-capped peaks of Kashmir depicts the diverse experiences one can get here. The co-existence of apple orchards, flower gardens, ski resorts and golf courses amid hillsides and craggy mountains is simply astounding! This is the reason there is so much to Kashmir and the many facets of this place rightly touted as ‘Paradise on Earth’!
Icy mountain peaks in Kashmir
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For many people, the mountain peaks of Kashmir hold holy and religious significance. But for adventure lovers, they are challenging and thrilling inviting them to trek or climb. The beauty of the Himalayan mountains in Kashmir is that they are adorned with raging glacial rivers, gorgeous lakes, frosty trees and enchanting meadows. This is the reason trekkers and hikers love to come to Kashmir for their dose of adventure and adrenaline rush.
The trek routes in the Kashmir mountains lend spectacular views of nature while also giving a peek into the local culture. Another distinct experience is the view of pristine alpine lakes located in the hills of North India.
Snowy hills in Kashmir in winter
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The Kashmir valley stands at an elevation of about 6,000 ft asl and the Pir Panjal range encloses the valley at an average elevation of 10,000 ft asl. The mountains of Kashmir are mystical and grant unprecedented surreal views which are yet to be fully explored. Let’s talk about the mountain peaks of Kashmir for a better idea of all of them.
Nun Peak
Nun Kun peaks
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The most prominent out of all the peaks in Kashmir and also the highest is Nun, perched at a staggering altitude of 23,400 ft asl! On the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC), it is considered one of the highest peaks in the Himalayan mountain range, along with its neighbour Kun peak. They are both joined by the same mountain massif.
Kolahoi Peak
Mt Kolahoi and the Kolahoi glacier in Kashmir
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Situated in the Anantnag district of Kashmir, the Kolahoi Mountain stands tall at a whopping 17,800 ft asl. The locals call this place the ‘Goddess of Light’. The Lidder river is fed by the Kolahoi glacier that rests at the peak of the mountain and it is the only source of water for the river. Kolahoi mountains form a part of the Himalayan ranges that are located 15 km south of Sonmarg and 21 km north of Pahalgam.
Harmukh Peak
The sacred Harmukh peak in Kashmir
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A highly sacred place for the Hindus, the Harmukh Peak lies in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. Atop 16,800 ft asl, the peaks of this mountain are said to be Lord Shiva’s abode. Trekkers are in for a treat to explore the beauty of this sacred mountain. Harmukh peak is situated between the Nallah Sindh and Kishanganga Neelum rivers that rise above the Gangabal Lake in the Kashmir valley.
Amarnath Peak
The Amarnath peak is another place that has religious importance for the Hindu faith. Standing at 17,000 ft asl, it lies in the Gangabal district of Kashmir. It lies south of Zojila and west of the Machoi glacier. Also known as Lord Shiva’s cave, the Amarnath cave rests at the south of the Amarnath mountain at 12,470 asl and sees significant pilgrim footfall year after year during the summer season.
Sunset Peak
Sunset peak in Kashmir
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Romesh Thong is the other name for Sunset Peak and has an elevation of 15,570 ft asl. It is situated at the border of the Shopian and Poonch districts of Jammu and Kashmir. It is one of the highest peaks, the other being Tatakooti at 15,000 ft asl. Sunset Peak lies to the west of the valley, hence the name.
Sirbal Peak
Sirbal Peak standing tall in Kashmir’s Sonmarg area
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Resting at an elevation of 17,175 ft asl, the Sirbal peak lies in the Ganderbal district close to Sonmarg. It actually is situated between Sonmarg and Baltal. The glacier melt from atop the mountain feeds the Nallah Sindh river.
The Himalayas of Kashmir lend a plethora of reasons for trekkers to experience the fascinating paths and journeys amidst enchanting woods and sprawling alpine meadows. Needless to say, Kashmir has the most scenic and picturesque routes in the country. There are all kinds of treks for trekkers, from short ones to the highest peaks of the North Indian mountains. Kashmir is sure to quench the thirst of trekkers and adventure seekers alike. For the solo as well as the experienced trekkers, this place is sheer paradise.
Therefore, if you are the kind who wishes to soothe their soul with greenery, serenity and local musings, then this place is calling you for an adventure and exploration like none you’ve had before. Kashmir Peaks are waiting for you, see you there!
