Sights

Explore Sonmarg

Sonmarg, meaning “Meadow of Gold,” is a breathtaking valley located in the Ganderbal district of Jammu & Kashmir, India. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows, and glistening rivers, Sonmarg is known for its picturesque landscapes and serene environment. The region is a popular base for trekkers heading to the Amarnath Cave and other high-altitude destinations. Visitors can enjoy activities like trekking, fishing, and camping while soaking in the beauty of the Thajiwas Glacier. Sonmarg is an idyllic retreat, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility amidst the Himalayas.

Places You'll See

Tour Highlights

Tour Itinerary

Sonmarg

5 Days 6 Nights
Sonmarg: Srinagar, Sonmarg, Thajiwas Glacier, Vishansar Lake,Yusmarg

Days Plan

  • Morning: Arrive at Srinagar Airport and take a scenic drive to Sonmarg (approx. 80 km, 2-3 hours). Enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way, with views of rivers, forests, and mountains.
  • Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel or guesthouse in Sonmarg and relax after the journey.
  • Evening: Stroll around Sonmarg to explore its natural beauty. You can walk along the Sindh River or enjoy the mesmerizing views of the snow-capped peaks and lush meadows.
  • Overnight: Stay in Sonmarg.
  • Morning: After breakfast, embark on a trek or pony ride to Thajiwas Glacier (around 3-4 km from Sonmarg). The glacier is surrounded by magnificent snow-capped mountains and offers breathtaking views.
  • Afternoon: Explore the glacier and its surroundings. You can enjoy activities like snowball fights (if visiting in winter), photography, and picnics.
  • Evening: Return to Sonmarg and relax. Enjoy a local Kashmiri meal at one of the eateries in the town.
  • Overnight: Stay in Sonmarg.
  • Morning: Begin early and take a day trip to Vishansar Lake, located around 12 km from Sonmarg. It’s a popular trekking destination, famous for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of surrounding snow-clad peaks.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy the serene environment of the lake and the surrounding meadows. You can also try a short trek around the lake for better views and enjoy the tranquility of this hidden gem.
  • Evening: Return to Sonmarg by evening and unwind in the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Overnight: Stay in Sonmarg.
  • Morning: After breakfast, take a short trek or nature walk to explore nearby meadows like Meadow of Gold and Kundsar Lake. These areas offer panoramic views of Sonmarg's mountains and are perfect for photography and relaxation.
  • Afternoon: Engage in adventure activities like fishing in the Sindh River, or enjoy a short rafting trip along the river if available.
  • Evening: Return to the town and enjoy a quiet evening amidst the Himalayan landscapes. You can also visit the local markets for souvenirs.
  • Overnight: Stay in Sonmarg.
  • Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Yusmarg, located about 50 km from Sonmarg. This is a lesser-known gem of Kashmir, offering lush green meadows and vast views of the Himalayas.
  • Afternoon: Explore the meadows of Yusmarg, which are perfect for nature walks, picnics, and photography. You can also visit Doodhganga River, which is known for its cool, crystal-clear waters.
  • Evening: Return to Sonmarg and relax for the night.
  • Overnight: Stay in Sonmarg.
Notes:

    • 2 passport size photos
    • Adult – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / Driving Licence /  Voters       ID / Passport
    • Child – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / School ID / Passport
    • Infant – Aadhar Card / Birth certificate
    • NRI / Foreign nationals – Mandatory Passport + Valid Indian visa / OCI card / PIO card
    • Above mentioned ID proof is mandatory at the time of booking and carry the same ID proof on         tour as well

Sonmarg

Tour Details


Hear from Our
Happy Travelers

"Sonmarg is truly a paradise on Earth! The drive from Srinagar to Sonmarg was incredibly scenic, with the lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains in the distance. We went trekking to Thajiwas Glacier, and the views were absolutely mesmerizing. The tranquility of the place makes it perfect for nature lovers and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Highly recommend visiting Sonmarg for its untouched beauty and peaceful ambiance!"

— Ravi

"Our family vacation to Sonmarg was unforgettable! We visited during the summer, and the weather was perfect for exploring. The Sindh River flowing through the valley, the alpine meadows, and the towering mountains made it feel like we were in a dream. The pony ride to Thajiwas Glacier was a highlight of the trip. I would definitely return to experience the serenity of Sonmarg again!"

— Priya

"Sonmarg was the highlight of my Kashmir trip. The beauty of the place is beyond words, and it's the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The Thajiwas Glacier trek was challenging but rewarding with spectacular views of the valley. The town is quiet and peaceful, perfect for relaxing and reconnecting with nature. If you want to experience Kashmir's true essence, Sonmarg is a must-visit!"

— Deepak

The best time to visit Sonmarg largely depends on the kind of experience you’re seeking:

1. Summer (April to June):

  • Best for: Pleasant weather, trekking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.
  • Weather: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C, and the nights are cool, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
  • Activities: This is the peak season for trekking to Thajiwas Glacier, exploring nearby meadows, and enjoying the lush greenery. The roads are clear, and the landscape is vibrant and beautiful.
  • Why visit: The weather is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities like fishing, nature walks, and horse riding.

2. Autumn (September to November):

  • Best for: Fewer crowds, stunning fall foliage, and crisp weather.
  • Weather: Temperatures range from 7°C to 15°C, with cool evenings.
  • Activities: The fall season offers incredible views of golden and red foliage against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. It’s a perfect time for photography and peaceful nature walks.
  • Why visit: If you prefer mild weather and fewer tourists, autumn is a great choice. You can enjoy the tranquil beauty of Sonmarg and avoid the summer crowds.

3. Winter (December to February):

  • Best for: Snow activities and a winter wonderland experience.
  • Weather: Temperatures can dip to -5°C to 5°C, with snowfall expected, creating a snow-covered landscape.
  • Activities: This season is perfect for snow sports and activities like snow trekking, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
  • Why visit: If you’re a fan of snow and winter sports, this is the best time to experience Sonmarg’s frozen landscapes and enjoy winter activities. Thajiwas Glacier is covered in snow, and the region takes on a magical, peaceful atmosphere.

4. Spring (March to Early April):

  • Best for: The onset of blooming flowers and mild weather.
  • Weather: Temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C, with the early signs of spring starting to emerge.
  • Activities: Spring is a beautiful time to witness the flower blooms, fresh greenery, and clear skies. It is also the beginning of the trekking season, making it ideal for nature lovers.
  • Why visit: If you prefer fewer tourists and want to experience the transition from winter to spring, this is a good time to visit. You’ll enjoy peaceful surroundings and moderate weather.

To reach Sonmarg, a picturesque destination in Jammu & Kashmir, you can travel by air, train, or road. Here’s a breakdown of how to reach Sonmarg:

1. By Air:

  • Nearest Airport: The nearest airport to Sonmarg is Srinagar International Airport (SXR), located around 80 km from Sonmarg (approximately 2-3 hours by road).
  • From Srinagar to Sonmarg:
    • You can hire a taxi or book a private car to travel from Srinagar Airport to Sonmarg.
    • Shared taxis are also available from Srinagar to Sonmarg.
    • Some hotels in Sonmarg may offer airport transfer services.

Airlines: Srinagar is well-connected by air to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai.


2. By Train:

  • Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station to Sonmarg is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, about 270 km from Sonmarg.
  • From Jammu to Sonmarg:
    • Once you reach Jammu Tawi, you can hire a taxi or book a private car to reach Sonmarg. The journey takes around 7-8 hours by road.
    • There is no direct train to Sonmarg, so you will need to travel to Srinagar and then continue to Sonmarg by road.

3. By Road:

  • From Srinagar to Sonmarg:
    • Sonmarg is around 80 km (2-3 hours) from Srinagar via the Srinagar-Leh Highway. You can travel by taxi, private car, or shared cab.
    • The road journey is scenic, passing through lush green meadows, rivers, and mountainous terrain.
  • From Jammu to Sonmarg:
    • If you’re traveling from Jammu, take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Sonmarg. The road distance is approximately 270 km, and the journey will take around 7-8 hours.
  • Road Conditions:
    • The road to Sonmarg is well-maintained but can be challenging in winter due to snow and heavy rainfall. Check the weather conditions before traveling, especially in winter months.

4. By Bus:

  • From Srinagar: Local buses are available from Srinagar to Sonmarg. The journey by bus takes about 3-4 hours.
  • Private buses are also available from Srinagar to Sonmarg, especially during the tourist season.

5. Shared Taxis/Private Car:

  • Shared taxis are an affordable way to travel from Srinagar to Sonmarg. These taxis operate on a fixed schedule and take you directly to Sonmarg.
  • For a more comfortable and private experience, consider hiring a private car or taxi.

Travel Tips:

  • Weather Considerations: During winter (December to February), roads may be blocked due to heavy snow. Always check road conditions before planning your trip.
  • Pre-book Transport: It’s advisable to pre-book your taxi or private car during the peak tourist season to avoid last-minute hassles.
  • Local Transport: Once in Sonmarg, you can use pony rides for exploring nearby spots like Thajiwas Glacier, or enjoy treks to nearby meadows.