Sonamarg Travel Guide
Sonmarg also known as Sonamarg its situated in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It has an altitude of 2,740 m above the sea level.Sonmarg is also known as ‘ Meadow of Gold ‘which is a very famous hill station and also world renowned.
Sonamarg is the last major town in Kashmir before the Zoji La Pass and Ladhak. Its name may derive from its past importance as a feeder to the Greater Silk Road or, more likely, because of its carpet of spring flowers. The legendary Spring has the power to turn anything into gold. Sonmarg is also the gateway to many trekking points.
The scenic beauty of Sonmarg is breathtaking, the snow covered mountains, pine, alpine forests and mountain lakes all around makes the place mesmerizing. River Sind passes through Sonmarg.The beauty of River Sind makes the place like a young girl with full of excitement, enthusiasm and vigor. The local people here speak Urdu and Hindi.
How to Reach Sonamarg
- By Air – Srinangar airport is 80 kms from Sonamarg. Taxis and jeeps can be availed to reach Sonamarg from Srinagar.
- By Rail – Jammu is the nearest rail head. All Northern Cities of India have direct connectivity to this town by means of trains. Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Trivandrum have regular trains plying to Jammu.
- By Road –There are regular bus connectivity with Srinagar (80 Km). You can also get a tourist cab from Srinagar and reach here in about 2 Hrs.
Distance of Sonamarg from Below Places:
| Place | Distance (KM) |
|---|---|
|
Kargil |
123 |
|
Srinagar |
80 |
|
Pahalgaon |
180 |
|
Gulmarg |
126 |
Weather
Sonamarg Temperature
- Summer (Mar to Jun) – Temperatures are mild and range between (6°C) to (23°C). During this time, the valleys become green after the long winter and different types of flowers are in full blossom.
- Monsoon – (Jul to Aug) – This part of Kashmir receives regular rainfall during monsoon and thus, not a good season for tourists
- Winter – (Oct to Feb) – Temperatures are low and range between (-7°C) to (15°C). During Oct-Nov, the winter starts to set in. The apple orchards are full of fruits. The sky remains crystal clear.
- Best Time to Visit – April to May and Oct to Nov are the best season for tourism
What to See in Sonamarg
Krishnasar lake is one of the beauty of Sonmarg. The lake is situated about 3801 m above the sea level. The lake is famous for fishing. Tourists even enjoy water sports here. The lake is surrounded by alpine forests with snow clad mountains as backdrop.
Gadsar Lake is also a famous lake in Kashmir Valley. This lake is famous for trekkers. Trout fishing is famous amongst the tourists in this place. Gadsar Lake is the highest altitude lake in Jammu and Kashmir state. It has an average altitude of 5,000 m above the sea level. The lake as a amazing scenic beauty all around with alpine forests and milk white snow peaked mountain ranges.
Gangabal Lake is another place of interest in Kashmir valley,this place is considered as a place of pilgrim among the Hindus. Gangabal lake is also known by the name Harmuk Ganga, it is also the source of Jhelum river. The lake is situated on an average altitude of 3570 m above the sea level. An annual fair is held here every year in the month of August. The place also has splendid scenic beauty of alpine forests and snow clad mountains. Fishing and trekking is also an attraction of this lake.
Thajiwas Glacier is situated some 7 kms from Sonmarg. This place is famous for sledge ride and skiing. The natural beauty of this place is amazing. The lakes with frozen green water, snow clad mountain ranges attracts tourists from all over.
Sarbal Lake
Situated midway between Hangipora and Gagan Maidan, the Sarbal Lake is an enchanting spot with its crystal clear waters. It is believed that fairies used to come here for having bath.
Fish Pond
It is a fascinating water reservoir with clear waters reflecting the image of the surrounding mountains covered by green grasslands and forests.
Zo Jila Pass
Zoji La pass is situated some 23 kms from Sonmarg . It has an average altitude of 3,528 m above the sea level . This place marks the boundary between Kashmir and Ladhak entering Zanskar. The place is famous for its breath taking away natural beauty,thick dense alpine forests and snow covered mountain ranges.
Other Details
What to Do
Enjoy the beauty of nature; take a trip round the valley in ponies.
Where to Eat
- Shahjahan Hotel And restaurant
- Island Retreat Restaurant—pretty as placed near a river. On the road heading West from Sonamarg.
What to Buy
Dry fruits, Apples, Saffron and local wooden handicrafts can be bought from here
Get Around
Ponies are available at quite cheap rates for travel up to the glacier.
This is a small place and can be covered by foot. Local taxis are also available.
Top Destinations - Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh
– Gulmarg
– Jammu
– Kargil
– Leh
– Nubra Valley
– Pangong Lake
– Patnitop
– Pahalgam
– Sonamarg
– Srinagar
– Tso Moriri Lake
– Vaishno Devi
Popular Tour Plans - Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh
4-6 Days
1. Srinagar-Pahalgam (5N/6D)
7-10 Days
1. Jammu-Srinagar-Gulmarg-Pahalgam (8N/9D)
2. Jammu-Srinagar-Gulmarg-Sonamarg-Pahalgam (9N/10D)
> 10 Days
1. Jammu-Vaishno Devi-Patnitop-Srinagar-Gulmarg-Sonamarg-Pahalgam (11N/12D)
2. Srinagar-Kargil-Leh-Pangong Lake-Nubra Valley-Tso Moriri Lake-Sarchu-Manali (13N/14D)