Sonmarg, Kashmir

Information about Sonamarg

Sonamarg is situated at a height of 2740 m in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Sonamarg is a small and beautiful hill resort. Sonamarg literally means the 'Meadow of Gold' and is known so due to the flowers that wrap the meadow in the spring. In the earlier days, Sonamarg lies on the main trading route into central Asia. It is the last major point in the Kashmir valley before the Zoji La pass into Ladakh. At the pass, the green and lush Kashmiri landscape changes to the barren and dry landscape of Ladakh.

The drive to Sonamarg is through the Sindh Valley, which presents another face of the countryside in Kashmir and has snowy mountains in its backdrop. Sonamarg is the main base for the treks that pass along several mountain lakes like Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangabal. Sonamarg is also the major point for the drive to Ladakh across the Zoji La pass, and a base for the holy Amarnath cave pilgrimage. The Sindh River meandering through the valley abounds with trout and mahseer. Ponies can be hired for a trip to Thajiwas glacier, a major local attraction during the summer months. The best time to visit Sonamarg is from April to June.

Adventure Activities in Sonamarg

The Sindh River flowing through Sonamarg is bountiful with trout and mahseer, making it a perfect destination for fishing enthusiasts. Trekking and hiking are also popular activities, with trails leading to the stunning lakes of Vishansar, Krishansar, and Gangabal.

Tourist Attractions in Sonamarg

• Nilagrad

  Nilagrad is a Baltic colony about 6 km away from Sonamarg, where a mountain river meets the Indus. The river's water is reddish in color and is believed to have curative powers. Many visitors come here on Sundays to bathe in the river.

• Nichnai Pass

  Nichnai Pass is a vantage point from which one can view the breathtakingly beautiful lakes of Vishansar, Krishansar, and Gangabal.

• Thajiwas Glacier

  Thajiwas Glacier is located after a short and scenic walk from Sonamarg. It is known for its glaciers, miniature plateaus, snowfields, pines, and islets that add to its charm.

• Bisansar Lake & Krishnasar Lake

  Bisansar and Krishnasar are two stunning lakes that add to Sonamarg's allure. Situated at an altitude of 4084 m, Bisansar Lake is surrounded by natural beauty, while Krishnasar Lake, at an altitude of 3801 m, is renowned for trout fishing.

How to Reach Sonamarg

Sonamarg is situated on the Srinagar-Leh Highway, about 84 km from Srinagar. The National Highway NH1A connects Srinagar and Anantnag with Sonamarg, making it easily accessible.