“The Golden Meadow”

Sonamarg

Jammu & KashmirBest: May–October-8°C to 20°C8,957 ft

About Sonamarg

Sonamarg, meaning 'Golden Meadow', is the last major destination in the Kashmir Valley before the Zoji La pass, which leads to Ladakh. Situated at 8,957 ft, Sonamarg is the gateway to some of Kashmir's most spectacular glaciers, high-altitude lakes, and alpine meadows. The Thajiwas Glacier, visible even in summer, makes Sonamarg unique — it's one of the few places in India where you can touch a glacier without serious mountaineering.

Top Highlights

Thajiwas Glacier

Vishansar Lake

Krishansar Lake

Gadsar Lake Trek

Baltal Valley

Zoji La Pass

Sindh River

Amarnath Yatra (Baltal Route)

Things To Do

Thajiwas Glacier Visit

Take a pony or walk to the base of Thajiwas Glacier — a massive river of ice visible right from the town.

Vishansar Lake Trek

3-day moderate trek to the stunning high-altitude Vishansar and Krishansar lakes above 12,000 ft.

Sindh River Fishing

The Sindh River near Sonamarg is excellent for brown trout fishing — ideal for anglers.

Zoji La Drive

Drive over the dramatic Zoji La pass (11,575 ft) — the gateway between Kashmir Valley and Ladakh.

Meadow Photography

Sonamarg's golden meadows, glacier backdrop, and river make it one of Kashmir's most photogenic spots.

How to Reach

From Srinagar

87 km from Srinagar on the Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH-1). Drive takes approximately 3 hours by taxi.

By Air

Fly to Srinagar International Airport, then road transfer to Sonamarg.

From Leh

Sonamarg is on the Srinagar-Leh Highway — accessible from Leh side after crossing Zoji La (open June–October).

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Sonamarg is typically accessible from May to October. The road closes in winter due to heavy snowfall. The Zoji La tunnel (under construction) will eventually provide year-round access.