ABSTRACT
This paper presents new findings regarding the present and past glaciation of Kashmir, in the northwest Himalaya. Equilibrium-line altitudes (ELAs) of modern glaciers in Kashmir basin rise 3900-4400 m in roughly a southwest-northeast direction. The glaciation threshold shows a similar trend, but lies 200-300 m above the ELA. Maximum depressions of equilibrium lines in Kashmir during the late Quaternary were 700-800 m. Reconstructed ELAs for former glaciers and cirque altitudes show an apparent reversal in trends of glacierization. Two possible explanations for this are discussed: a reversal of climatic gradients and differential tectonic uplift within the basin.
