Sonamarg Valley

When Sonamarg, the meadow of gold, is witnessed at the time of sunset or sunrise, the peerless golden view of the Himalayas lends it such a breathtaking beauty that the viewer is left speechless. It is gaining continuous prestige and popularity due to its lush meadows in the summer and its snowy fields in the winter. 

The area offers so much in every season that it appears to be a complete vacation package, sometimes gaining tourists’ preference over even Gulmarg and Pahalgam.

Things to do in Sonamarg 

1. Sledging

Sonamarg is ideal if you prefer sledge workers following you around a tourist destination to take you for a ride on their sledge. The steep yet suitable grounds offer a perfect place for sledging in winter. 

2. Snow biking

Snowmobile or snow biking is a very popular activity. In winter, the treks of Sonmarg are completely snow-covered. This makes it impossible for the area to be traversed on foot. Those areas can only be accessed on a snowmobile. Also, it will spare you a long walk. 

3. Sliding

Tourists can also enjoy sliding on the snowy grounds. It is a very convenient activity that does not even require any professional equipment. One can bring their equipment and slide the path away. 

4. Skiing

This valley has steep sides and abundant snow. The area is a perfect destination for skiing. The Thajiwas Glacier area is a popular skiing spot and is accessed by tourists for skiing in winter. Even in summer, the area is completely covered in snow. 

5. Trekking 

Trekking here is a very popular activity in summer. Treks are already built providing a convenient pathway. The journey to the Thajiwas Glacier and Zero point can be accessed by trekking for around 1.5 hours. 

6. Pony Riding

Many tourists prefer pony riding to access the main points, not only for the thrill of pony riding but also to save themselves the effort of a long trek.Ponies are widely available in the area. 

7. Camping 

The banks of the Sind River are their own bibles of beauty and aestheticism. If you just sit for a few minutes by a full-flowing Sind, you will feel your energy return and your mind calm.If you want to feel the vibe all day and all night long, you can also set up camp on the banks, which is a popular activity.  

8. Fishing

From Krishnasar Lake to Vishansar and Gadsar lakes, the area is rich in the fishery. Trout fishing is a popular activity in the region. However, the activity is unavailable in winter due to the freezing of the water bodies. 

Places to visit in Sonamarg

1. Thajiwas Glacier

The glacier has been there for over 100 years and does not melt all year round. The glacier is a popular spot for snow activities. It is a beautiful spot from which the whole valley in its full glory can be witnessed. The spot is accessible only in summer, from April to October. 

2. Zero point 

Zero point is the highest point in the area which straddles Pakistan, Ladakh and Kashmir. It is the source of the Sind River and lies at a height of 12000 ft. The point gives a breathtaking view of the area. Also, it is a stopping spot for refreshment and dining. 

The perfect time to visit is in March and April. 

3. Drass Valley (Kargil war memorial)

The valley showcases a heartwarming spectacle of Indian valour and bravery. The memories of the Kargil war are refreshed in the memorial. It is a popular site for passionate people and environmental lovers. Drass Valley is a natural marvel with colourful flowers decorating it from all sides.

4. Sarbal Village

The village is a witness to local life, presenting tourists with picturesque views and camping spots. The trek to and through the village is much loved by tourists. The hospitality of the natives is heartwarming and is bound to make you stop and consider the silent beauty of Sarbal. 

5. Krishansar Lake

The lake is nature’s marvel with its water changing colour according to the time of the day. It is famous among fishing and photography enthusiasts. Tourists also set up camp in the area. The lake is inaccessible in winter due to heavy snow. The best time to visit the area is from June to September.  

6. Baltal valley

With waterfalls, glaciers, mighty peaks and lush meadows, Baltal valley is a place that imprints itself on tourists’ minds. If you see people stretched under the star-studded sky with Sind flowing musically nearby, you have reached the Baltal Valley.   

7. Zoji La Pass

If you love adventure and can’t resist that occasional death-brushing experience, Zoji La Pass, with its hairpin-width roads and steep rocky bends, is bound to fill you with exhilaration and thrill. 

Sonamarg’s Best Hotels

1. JKTDC hotels

2. Hotel Village Walk

3.Sonamarg Arco Hotels and Resorts

4. Pine Spring Sonamarg Hotel

5. Hotel Thajwass Glacier

6. Hotel Sonamarg Glacier

7. Hotel Sonamarg Resort

• Read the complete blog on Kashmir sightseeing

Sonmarg Kashmir Temperature

The temperature ranges in Sonamarg Kashmir can be summed up into winter, spring and summer

● Winter ( November to February ) – -10°C to 5°C

● Spring ( March to April ) – -5°C to 8°C

● Summer ( May to October ) – 2°C to 18°C

The most suitable time for you to visit here depends on what you are expecting from your visit. You can witness rain every month, but June, July, and August are especially rainy months. If your idea of a trip is to see snow, you will find it in abundance in the winter.

The summer will bring to you lush meadows and the full-flowing river Sind. Spring will bring to you the fragrances of the Thajwas Wildlife Sanctuary. Decide the purpose of your visit and plan your visit accordingly. 

• Read here best places to visit in Kashmir

Is it worth visiting Sonamarg Valley?

Sonamarg Valley is worth a visit. It has a unique landscape that is different from Gulmarg and Pahalgam. Where Gulmarg and Pahalgam have slanted sides of the valley giving it a bowl-shaped look, Sonamarg Valley is steep at the sides, giving it a look of the Himalayas that is unlikely to be witnessed anywhere else. 

The meadow of gold has its own unique beauty with a golden look. The deep snow that falls here is unlikely to be found in any other place. Also, there is rarely any other place that gives off such a look in winter. It is a year-round visiting destination with everything to offer. 

Sonamarg in winter

This valley is decorated completely with snow in winter. The temperature is normally below the freezing point. There is snowfall almost every other day. The snow is thick which makes trekking on the pathway almost impossible. Most of the pathways of Sonamarg are completely blocked due to snow. 

People have to hire special-tired cars to get across in winter snow. It is advised for every tourist to carry the following items with them to avoid any inconvenience –

● Raincoat

● Gumboots

● Insulated water bottles

● Woolen clothing

• Read the complete blog on Best time to visit Kashmir

Srinagar to Sonamarg distance

Sonamarg is approximately 70 kilometers from Srinagar’s Sheikh-ul-Alam international airport. It takes around 1.5-2 hours for a taxi to drive from Srinagar to Sonamarg Valley. Taxis and buses are readily available in Srinagar. 

State-run buses are a common sight. Train services are not available from Srinagar. You can also take private cab services like Ola and Uber, which are widely available. 

Thajwas Glacier Sonamarg

Thajwas Glacier, located in the vicinity of Sonamarg Valley, is one of the most stunning natural wonders of the Kashmir Valley in India. Nestled in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, this glacier is an enchanting sight that is sure to leave visitors in awe. With its glistening white snow and crystal-clear ice, Thajwas Glacier is a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a little bit of peace and serenity.

The Thajwas Glacier is a winter retreat for many tourists. Visitors can witness the beauty of this magnificent glacier and take part in various winter sports activities like skiing and snowboarding. The Thajwas Glacier offers a stunning view of the surrounding peaks and provides a great opportunity for trekking and climbing. The place is ideal for nature walks, picnics, and camping, with a panoramic view of the valley from the top of the glacier.

Apart from its natural beauty, the Thajwas Glacier is also known for its historical significance. This glacier is believed to have been formed during the Pleistocene epoch, making it one of the oldest glaciers in the world. The glacier has been a source of inspiration for many poets, writers, and artists, and has been depicted in various forms of art, including paintings and photographs.

To reach the Thajwas Glacier, visitors can take a taxi or a private vehicle from Sonamarg, which is approximately 30 kilometers away. The road to the glacier is scenic, and the journey is a treat in itself. The best time to visit Thajwas Glacier is from June to September when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear, providing an unobstructed view of the glacier.

Visitors can also opt for a guided tour, where they can learn about the history and geography of the glacier. The tour includes a visit to the glacier, as well as other nearby attractions like the Nilagrad River and the Baltal Valley.

Thajwas Glacier is not just a beautiful tourist destination, it is also a symbol of environmental conservation. The glacier is melting at an alarming rate due to global warming, and visitors need to be mindful of their actions and minimize their carbon footprint. Visitors can help protect the glacier by not littering and by avoiding activities that could harm the delicate ecosystem.

In conclusion, Thajwas Glacier Sonamarg is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and peace. The glacier provides an unforgettable experience and is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit it. With its breathtaking beauty, rich history, and environmental significance, the Thajwas Glacier is truly a wonder of the world. Book you Kashmir tour packages with Cliffhangers India for the best experience.