Kashmir, as you know, has attracted tourists from across India in large numbers recently. Sonmarg is a destination in Kashmir that you should not miss out on visiting when touring around Kashmir. It is standing in the enchanting Ganderbal District of Jammy & Kashmir. The very name of this hill station is translated as Meadow of Gold. It is popular for its serene meadows, snow-capped peaks and breathtaking landscapes. This blog post aims to let you know everything about this hill station before you plan your trip:
Sonmarg – An Introduction
Sonmarg is located around 2730 metres above sea level in Jammu & Kashmir. It will not be an overstatement to say that this hill station serves as the gateway to the majestic wonders of the Himalayas. It offers visitors an attractive combination of adventure and natural beauty. Apart from scenic beauty, this hill station is popular for its adventure activities as well.
How to Reach Sonmarg?
You can choose one of the following modes of transportation to reach Sonmarg.
By Bus
If you want to travel by bus to Sonmarg, you can board a bus from Srinagar. The Jammu & Kasmir Road Transport Corporation operates straight buses from Srinagar to Sonmarg. You can choose one of the different types of buses to travel from Srinagar to reach the hill station. The options include semi-deluxe, A-Class Deluxe, Hi-Tech and MCV. If you are travelling from other cities, you can reach Srinagar by any mode and thereafter take a bus to Sonmarg from Srinagar. You can also book bus tickets online through bus booking services.
By Air
If you are travelling from other cities and prefer travelling by air to Sonmarg, the nearest airport to the hill station is Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar? From this airport, the hill station is located around 80 km. So, you can hire a cab to reach the hill station from the airport. Regular flights connect Srinagar with major cities in India.
By Train
How about travelling by train? In this case, the nearest railway junction to Sonmarg is Jammu Tawi Railway Station. Even though from this railway station, Sonmarg is located at around 352 km, you can reach Srinagar from this railway station. From Jammu Tawi Railway Station, Srinagar is located around 246 km. From Srinagar, you can travel by a JKSRTC bus to reach the hill station. In this case, the distance is around 80 km.
By Car
If you would like to drive to Sonmarg, you can first reach Srinagar. From Srinagar, you will have to take the NH1 route to reach Sonmarg. The road to Sonmarg from Srinagar is maintained well. So, you can expect a comfortable drive to reach Sonmarg from Srinagar. On this drive, you will get a lot of opportunities to stop and admire the surrounding beauty.
So, now, you know how to reach Sonmarg. You should be equally aware of the things to do and key attractions in this hill station. Here are some details you should be aware of in this regard:
Key Attractions & Things to Do in Sonmarg
Visiting the following places is the best thing to do in Sonmarg. These are key attractions in the hill station that you should not miss out on visiting:
Zoji La Pass
Zoji La Pass is a high mountain pass standing on the National Highway that connects Srinagar with Leh. It is standing at an altitude of 3528 metres. The good thing about this place is that you can get breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains from this key attraction in Sonmarg.
Nilagrad River
Nilagrad River is a small stream that starts from the Zoji-Las Pass. It flows through the attractive valleys of Kashmir. This river is popular for its red colour water. The locals believe that this river has healing properties.
Vishansar Lake
If you are looking for trekking destinations in Sonmarg, you should not miss out on a visit to Vishansar Lake. This lake is popular for its surround stunning views and pristine beauty. It is standing at an altitude of 3710 metres. The lush green meadows and towering mountains that surround this lake make it even more attractive.
Gangabal Lake Trek
Again, if you are looking for a wonderful trekking spot in Sonmarg, you can choose this place. The trek begins from the attractive meadows of Narang. It will take you through mesmerizing waterfalls, gushing streams and lush green forests. The lake is considered sacred by the Hindus and it is a pilgrim spot as well.
Krishnasar Lake
This is yet another attraction in Sonmarg. This stunning high-altitude lake is surrounded by lush green meadows. Of course, you will be attracted by the snow-capped mountain ranges that surround this lake. If you are a nature lover, you will love this spot for sure.
Satsaran Pass
This is again a high-altitude mountain pass. You can access it by trekking through lush green surfaces. This pass is known for its stunning views of the Himalayan Peak that surround it.
Thajiwas Glacier
This is a mesmerizing glacier located in the Sonmarg region of Kashmir. It offers the most attractive views of the surrounding Himalayan Peaks and it is a popular attraction for tourists visiting Sonmarg. You can access the glacier by a short trek from the hill station.
Baltal Valley
When you visit Zojila Pass, you can cover Baltal Valley as well. The reason is that this valley is located at the base of the Zojila Pass. You can get breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges from this place. It is a favourite spot for those looking to camp in Sonmarg.
Nichinai Pass
If you are a thrill seeker looking for hiking opportunities, the best thing you can do is to visit this high-altitude mountain pass. You can get excellent panoramic views of the Himalayan Peaks.
The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Sonmarg
This is a popular trekking route in Sonmarg. You will be taken through the attractive Kashmiri countryside when you visit this spot. You will pass through stunning mountain ranges and high-altitude lakes when you choose this place for a visit.
Best Time & Season To Visit
The peak season to choose to plan your visit to Sonmarg is between April and June. During this season, you can expect cool winds, clear skies and delightful weather conditions.
The moderate season is between October and March. During this season, you can expect moderate to heavy snowfall. This season is ideal for cosy restaurants, winter sports and snow-to-clad routes.
The off-season is between July and September. Between these months, there will be moderate to heavy rainfall with chilly winds. When you choose this season, you can expect clean roads and lush green surroundings. Also, this season is ideal for visiting religious shrines.
Duration to See
You can consider staying for two to three days in this hill station to completely immerse yourself in its attractiveness. With these many days, you can explore the key attractions of the hill station. Also, you can engage in adventure activities. Further, these many days will let you savour the attractive ambience of the hill station.
Best Restaurants & Cafes in Sonmarg
- Tourist Cafeteria
- Glacier Heights Restaurant
- Hotel Tranquil Retreat
- Hotel Akbar Sonmarg
- Thajwas Glacier Hotel & Restaurant
- The Mountain Lounge Restaurant
Where to Stay in Sonmarg? The Best Resorts
- Arco Hotel
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
- Hotel Glacier Heights
- Mount View Sonmarg
- Hotel Snowland
- Hotel Village Walk
- Four Points By Sheraton Resort
Entry Fee & Ticket Prices
You need not have to pay any entry fee to access Sonmarg. However, some attractions might charge you a meagre entry fee. Also, some adventure activities in the hill station should be paid for.
FAQ
Can I Get a Mobile Network in Sonmarg?
Yes, you can find a mobile network in the hill station. Some major networks like Jio, BSNL and Airtel offer coverage in this popular hill station. Nevertheless, the signal strength may vary based on your location within the hill station.
What is Sonmarg Known For?
The hill station is popular for its stunning natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. Further, this hill station is popular as a gateway to hiking trails like Thajiwas Glacier and Amarnath Cave. Also, the hill station is popular for its picturesque meadows.
Which is the Cheapest Season to Visit Sonmarg?
You can plan your trip to the hill station during the off-season between July and September. On the other hand, when you choose peak season, you will have to spend more on accommodation and eatables.
What Type of Activities Can I Do in Sonmarg?
Some of the activities you can do in this hill station include Alpine skiing, fishing, camping and trekking. The hill station also offers opportunities for photography, horse riding, sledging and white-water rafting.
Is Sonmarg Accessible All Through the Year?
No, Sonmarg is not accessible all through the year. The reason is during the winter season, the roads are blocked by snowfall. Particularly, the important Srinagar-Leh Highway is blocked during this season.
Check out my other posts on Jammu and Jammu & Kashmir
A Complete Guide to Dal Lake
Is Tso Moriri Lake in Leh better than Pangong Lake?
Tso Moriri lake, Leh – Spending time with pristine nature
How Are Houseboats of Kerala and Kashmir Different?
Kashmir Itinerary – Trip to heaven in 7 Days