Sonamarg
Information About Sonamarg :
Sonamarg is a picturesque hill station in Jammu and Kashmir, located 80km north-east of Srinagar. At an elevation of around 2800 km from sea level, Sonamarg is known for its snow-laden fields, surrounded by majestic glaciers and serene lakes which cast subtle spells on the travelers.
Sonamarg remains inaccessible during winters as the NH1D connecting it to the nearby places closed down due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.
Best Time To Visit Sonamarg :
How To Reach Sonamarg :
1 . How To Reach Sonamarg By Flight :
Several international airports of India are connected to Srinagar International airport. The airport is 70 Km away from Sonamarg. Cab service is available from the airport to reach the hill station of Sonamarg.
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR) - 59 km from Sonamarg.
Places To Visit In Sonamarg :
1. Thajiwas Glacier :
Thajiwas Glacier which lies at a distance of 3 km from Sonamarg in Kashmir is an exquisite beauty situated 3000 m above sea level covered in snow all through the year. The glacier is one of the most significant assets of Jammu and Kashmir and a must-visit for all nature and trekking lovers. One gets to experience the beauty of the glacier by trekking all the way there from Sonamarg. There is also the option of hiring a pony to get to the glacier. On the way to the glacier, the tourists get to witness the beauty of the silver shining frozen lake along with all the greenery around. The contrast of both of them is what makes it enchanting to the eyes. On the way, the tourists also come across Gujjar tribes who have their camps set up and earn their livelihood here.
In addition to all this, alpine meadows are scattered all over in the Thajiwas Glacier along with numerous waterfalls which make the region appear like heaven on earth. This makes the glacier one of the most famous and most visited tourist attractions of Sonamarg. The tourists get to ride the sled during the summer season too. The glacier is a perfect spot for trekking as well as camping.
2 . Zoji La Pass :
Zoji La is a high mountain pass located in the Dras, near Ladakh, at an altitude of 3528 m above the sea level. Connecting Kashmir to Dras and Suru Valley, Zoji La is known as one of the world's most dangerous mountain roads. Translating to "mountain pass of blizzards", it remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.
Given the altitude and the places it travels to, Zoji La pass is known for its extraordinarily beautiful views and landscapes. Certain parts of the pass, especially, can be a bit of a dangerous ride, hence one must travel down this one, only with a seasoned driver, used to such steep and playful turns and roads.
3 . Vishansar Lake :
A little outside Sonamarg, Vishansar Lake is an alpine high altitude oligotrophic lake. At an altitude of 3710 m, it is a sparkling blue lake surrounded by lush green meadow, alpine flowers, and white and silver mountains at a tantalizing distance. Popular as the Lake of Vishnu, the Vishansar Lake is known for the many species of fish it houses, especially the brown tout.
The Vishansar Lake completely freezes during the winter while during the summer it is enveloped by lush green meadows. The scenic lake is a major attraction amongst trekkers in the Kashmir Valley.
4 . White River Rafting :
White water rafting is one of the popular things to do in Sonamarg. One can go for a long rafting expedition starting from Baltal and ending at Shutkari Bridge at Sonamarg.
With a variety of stretches available, one is sure to have a pleasure rafting trip, whether it be a novice, adventure seeker, or experienced rafter.
5. Nilagrad River :
6 . Kashmir Great Lakes Trek :
Described as heaven on Earth, Kashmir offers some of the most exciting treks in India. This Great Lakes Trek is definitely one of them, though lesser-known. Surrounded by the sheer beauty, the trek begins at Sonamarg.
The entire trail is a huge experience to witness the varied ecological zones of the Himalayas. Starting with temperate forests of pine and spruces, firs, and deodars to vast lush green meadows and grasslands, the entire trek is accompanied by snow-clad peaks and pristine blue lakes. The gushing streams, rocky terrains, and rustic villages will make this trip all the more unique and memorable. The trek is for those, who want to explore the hidden valleys and nature's raw beauty of Kashmir, which are not accessible via motorable roads.
