Sonamarg – The Meadow of Gold

Season: Both SUMMER & WINTER

Overview

At 2,730 meters (8,960 ft) in the Sindh Valley of the Himalayas, Sonamarg is a stunning alpine destination, often called the “Meadow of Gold.” Just 80 km (2–2.5 hours) from Srinagar International Airport, Sonamarg is known for its snow-capped peaks, gushing rivers, and pristine meadows. It is the gateway to Leh and also a base for the Amarnath Yatra and the Great Lakes Trek.

How to Reach

• By Air: Srinagar International Airport (80 km / 2–2.5 hrs).

• By Road: Accessible via the Srinagar–Leh Highway (NH1).

• By Rail: Jammu Tawi (330 km) is the nearest major railhead.

Things to Do in Sonamarg:

Adventure Activities:

• White Water Rafting (Summer Only) – Thrilling rafting in the Sindh River.

• Trekking (Summer Only) – Base for treks to Vishansar Lake, Krishansar Lake, Gangbal Lake, and the Great Lakes Trail.

• Sledging (Winter Only) – Fun rides on snowy slopes.

• Snow Biking (Winter Only) – An exciting way to explore snow trails.

• Fishing (Summer Only, with permit) – Trout fishing in the Sindh River.

• Horse Riding (All Seasons) – Popular for reaching nearby valleys and glaciers.

Sightseeing (By Car / Horses in Summer, Sledges in Winter):

• Thajiwas Glacier – A breathtaking glacier accessible by ponies or trekking.

• Baltal Valley – Base camp for the Amarnath Yatra, just 15 km from Sonamarg.

• Nilagrad River – A reddish river believed to have healing powers.

• Zoji La Pass (3,528 m) – A high-altitude pass connecting Kashmir to Ladakh.

Sightseeing (Accessible by Horses or Walk Only):

• Vishansar Lake – A stunning alpine lake, part of the Great Lakes Trek.

• Krishansar Lake – A twin lake to Vishansar, set amidst high meadows.

• Gangbal & Nundkol Lakes – Sacred lakes at the foothills of Mount Harmukh.

• Thajiwas Meadows – Alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers.

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Gagangir Village – A picturesque hamlet with a glacier-fed river.

• Zoji La War Memorial – A tribute to the Indian Army’s bravery in the 1947–48 war.

• Kargil (Approx. 120 km) – Historic town en route to Leh.

• Manasbal Lake (En route) – Known as the "Birdwatcher’s Paradise."