Sonmarg In December
Explore The Magic Of Sonmarg
Sonmarg in December is a dream destination for adventure buffs. Winter has set in completely and entire town including the meadows, valleys, mountains are covered in white snow. The pristine lakes are frozen to their core and offers a scenic sight.
The best time to visit Sonmarg in winter can be a baffling case given the heavy snowfall. If you would have asked about planning to visit here about ten years ago, it was nearly an impossible scenario. However, in recent years, Sonmarg remains accessible in December as well January and February.
You surely can add Sonmarg in your Kashmir trip of December but the planning has to be meticulously done. From transport to accomodatation, you should have research about everything thoroughly prior to the trip. Plan your trip to Sonmarg during the month of December with travel agents in Srinagar, they will assist you for the customization of your tour.
In this page, we have summarised every essential information regarding the same.
Weather and Temperature in December
With extremely cold weather, temperature in Sonmarg in December ranges between -5°C to -10°C during daytime. At nights, a significant drop is seen with mercury level setting around -15°C. Irrespective of the time, you will always be freezing as cold breeze hits you.
Needless to say, heavy snowfall is experienced in Sonmarg during this time of the year. Though it starts snowing on high-altitude regions from November onwards, the town starts receiving the snow in December too.
There are high chances that you may catch a live snowfall in December. Make sure you have done your packing vis-a-vis the current weather to be comfortable.
Popular Kashmir Tours
7D/ 6N
6D/ 5N
5D/ 4N
7D/ 6N
Best Places To Visit In December
Sonamarg Valley
Sonmarg valley or Sonmarg has something to offer throughout the year. In December, you will witness the snowy landscape of the valley grabbing your attention.
It seems like you are in the middle of a winter wonderland. Some of the best activities to do in Sonmarg include skiing, sledging, snowmobiling, camping etc.
Don’t forget to bring your cameras to get stunning shots. The valley has been a favourite destination among nature-lovers and adventure-seekers alike.
The meadow of Gold is a must to add to your Kashmir itinerary.T
Thajiwas Glacier
Situated at an altitude of about 9200 ft, Thajiwas Glacier is one of the best places to visit in Sonmarg in December. In winters, it receives massive snowfall, turning it into a frosty paradise.
The glacier has been a favourite place among tourists to enjoy activities like sledging, photography etc. You can also build snowcastles here.
The view of the overlooking Sonmarg valley with lakes and meadows from the top is mesmerizing.
It is found at a short distance of only 3 kilometres from the main Sonmarg centre. You can either hike there or book a pony ride.
Baltal Valley
With temperature drop in winter, Baltal valley sees a magical transformation into a snowy spectacle. It serves as a famous basecamp for the Amarnath caves’ pilgrims.
The main highlight of the valley is the gushing Sindh river flowing nearby. The river with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains creates a perfect ambience to spend some time in the company of nature.
Some other benefits of visiting Baltal valley is the sight of Zoji La Pass that you get to witness. The distance between Sonmarg and Baltal valley is about 15 kilometres. Book a private vehicle through Kashmir taxi service or drive yourself to reach there.
Fish Point Sonamarg
Fish Point is a top attraction for various recreational activities in Sonmarg. Located at a walking distance of just 1 kilometres from the main town, you can come here for trout fishing and angling.
The sindh river flows in close proximity, for fishing here, get all the essential gears like rod, reels, hooks, baits etc.
The fishing permit from Jammu And Kashmir Fisheries Department is mandatory. Live baiting and flying fishing is prohibited here.
Practise environmental conservation when you are around nature, keeping it clean and green.
Table Top
Table top gets its name from the flat terrain that it is shaped in. The place is known to present a 360 degree view of Sonmarg city.
Locals as well as tourists come here for various activities like picnics, bird-watching, strolls, nature walks, star-gazing, photography etc.
The golden hours of early morning and late afternoon is the ideal time to come here for relaxation and rejuvenation.
There are small trekking trails here that you can undertake for some thrill. Carry a basket, snacks, water bottles, cotton carpet for the picnic. You can come here via a short trek from the Sonmarg town.
Top Things To Do In December
Snow Trekking
December is an ideal time to enjoy snow adventures in Sonmarg. After Gulmarg, it is a prominent skiing destination in Kashmir.
Some of the places that offer you skiing are Thajiwas Glacier, Zero point which are completely covered in white snow from December to March.
The slopes formed here during this time of the year are just perfect for non-stop fun.
Different skiing courses are offered for beginners. You can rent the equipment and gears for rental shops located nearby. Listen to your instructor to have a safe experience.
Sledging
Sledging is an activity to do in the month of December suitable for everyone irrespective of their age. From children to Senior citizens with little caution, it is accessible for the entire family.
You can enjoy the thrilling sport with a breathtaking surrounding. You glide down the frosty slopes of Sonmarg on a sledge as the adrenaline runs through your veins.
Other than December, you can come here in January and February as well for such mind-boggling activities.
Wear safety gears like woollen jackets, snow boots, helmet, gloves etc. Various rental shops offer gears for the sport at a low cost.
Photography
Sonmarg is the ideal location for you if you love taking pictures. There are a tonne of beautiful locations to take pictures of when you are here in December.
Some of the places that are picturesque include Thajiwas Glacier, Baltal Valley and Sonmarg valley itself. Wildlife photography is another intriguing thing to do here.
Faunas like snow leopards, Himalayan brown bears and different species of migratory birds are found here. Some places have a minimal fee to click pictures.
When you are taking portraits of locals there, take their permission beforehand.
Carry important gears like a camera, lens and tripod.
ATV Riding
ATV riding is one of the things to do in Sonmarg in December to have a memorable experience. The terrains here range from gentle to challenging and you can pick according to your skill and experience.
ATV or All-terrain vehicle offers you the ride for a minimum of half an hour or an excursion for the entire day. The total cost per head depends on the duration of the ride.
It can cost you around INR 5000- 20000. When you ride the vehicle in December, you see snow flowing around creating a thrilling view.
You will be in the company of a skilled instructor the whole time.
Snowmobile
Snowmobiling is one of the best things to do in Sonmarg in December as it is an alpine activity. In December, the snow is so thick that it sticks to the ground.
It doesn’t melt off easily. When you ride through the frosty landscape with snowy mountains in the backdrop, you explore places like Baltal Valley, Gagangir Valley, Sonmarg valley, Thajiwas Glacier etc.
December to February is the best time to visit Sonmarg for snowmobiling.
The ride is a bit costly but you can choose an under-budget one for a short duration to cut some cost.
Pony Riding
Sonmarg is one of those places where you can experience pony riding even in December. Places that are closely located to Sonmarg town are often visited by such rides.
It is one of the thrilling yet serene experiences as you wander around in the landscape covered with frost with Sindh rivers meandering.
You can book the ride from the nearest taxi stand or advance booking is done via online websites.
The charges range from INR 500-1500 depending on the distance travelled and duration of the ferry. Ponies are very friendly and you can even feed them bread and pet them.
Conclusion
The fact that December is among the coldest months in Sonmarg is hardly surprising. You need to be layering on enough warm clothing, such as coats and thermals. Make all of your reservations in advance, including lodging, transportation, and tickets for flights or trains.
Routes are often filled with snow causing temporary closure. You should be aware of the current weather forecast to avoid traffic and unnecessary delays. Lastly, When you are there, enjoy to the fullest and bring back tons of memories. Happy Journey!
Essential Information
How to Reach
By Air: If you wish to travel via flights, Srinagar Airport is the only airport in Kashmir that connects different cities of India to the valley. Srinagar Airport or Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport has various Indian airlines offering scheduled flights.
After landing at the airport, book Kashmir taxi service to reach Sonamarg. The total distance between Srinagar and Sonmarg is 80 kilometres taking a ride of about 2 hours to reach.
By Train: Jammu Tawi is the nearest railhead and only one in Jammu And Kashmir. You can book your train tickets here. Srinagar is somewhere 300 kilometres from the station.
Buses operate regularly between Jammu and Srinagar taking approximately 8-9 hours. Once you are in Srinagar, book or share a cab to reach Sonmarg.
By Road: The main route to Sonmarg is the Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH1D). A long road trip of 80 kilometres on this route leads you to Kangan and then another 20 kilometres drive on the Sonmarg road takes you to the main town.
You can either book a private cab or use your own car for the scenic drive.
Essential tips for traveller
- Carry enough woollen clothes like thermals, windproof jackets as the weather is extreme and makes you shiver. Don’t forget warm accessories like a beanie, scarf, socks, boots, gloves etc.
- Other essentials include moisturizer, sunscreen, lip balm, water bottle, snacks, cash, ID proofs, permits etc.
- Public mode of transport doesn’t operate in winters. The only way to explore in pr around Sonmarg is via a car or by booking a private taxi.
- Snow covers the routes leading to Sonmarg as well as the internal roads. Check the current weather forecast before setting out.
- Make sure you have booked your accommodation and transportation in advance as they are quite scarce in winters. When you are booking in any hotel or guesthouses, don’t forget to inquire about the heating arrangement to be comfortable at mights.
FAQ's
When should I go to Sonamarg?
Is Sonamarg worth visiting in December?
Is Sonamarg better than Gulmarg?
Comparing Sonmarg and Gulmarg is a humongous task in itself. Both are top destinations, visited by travellers from all over the world. While Sonmarg is a trekking paradise, Skiing in Gulmarg is a world renowned destination for snow skiing.
Why is Sonamarg famous?
Sonmarg is famous for being a stunning tourist town of Jammu And Kashmir. It contains some temples and shrines that go way back to the 20th century. Kashmir Great Lakes trek starts from here and is one of the prime reasons for its popularity.
Is there always snow in Sonamarg?
Call Now
