Sonmarg Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit, Things to Do & Travel Tips

Sonmarg is that part of the Kashmir Valley that remains covered in snow during winter. It’s nearly impossible for someone to visit Kashmir and not go to Sonmarg because it’s just that beautiful! Visitors from all across India and even the world come here in the winter to take in its fantastic beauty.

You probably thought about going to Sonmarg at one time but couldn’t. Now is the perfect time to plan your Sonmarg vacation!

In this Sonmarg Travel Guide, you’ll find all the essential information—how to reach, top attractions, things to do, the best time to visit, and much more. 

So, are you ready to plan your trip to this mesmerizing hill station?

About Sonmarg

The “meadow of gold” is another name for Sonamarg, a hill station in India’s Jammu & Kashmir.

In ancient times, Sonamarg served as a gateway between Kashmir and Tibet. The hill station is now a popular destination for trekkers.

Sonamarg also offers trekking routes to Vishansar, Krishansar, Gangabal, Gadsar, and Satsar Glacier.

Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism department recently organized a river rafting competition in which foreign teams participated.

How to reach Sonmarg?

Whenever we plan a trip, the first thing that comes to mind is how to get there. 

It becomes even more critical when it comes to the Kashmir region. Therefore, I have provided the following details so you can reach Sonmarg hassle-free:

By Flight: It is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Sonmarg. Srinagar is the nearest airport to Sonamarg, around 100km away.  

This airport has good connections to most Indian airports, so you can quickly get a flight. You can take a cab from the taxi stand outside the airport to Sonmarg.

By Train: Currently, there is no direct train to Sonmarg. The closest station is Jammu Tawi, about 324 km away. You may find a direct train headed to Srinagar shortly.

Once you reach Jammu Tawi, you can take a private taxi or cab to Sonmarg. It will take six to seven hours to complete the trip. If you love road trips, you’re in for a treat because the views are unmatched.

However, you should prepare yourself for altitude sickness and motion sickness. As the winding roads can cause headaches and nausea, taking appropriate medication before your trip is recommended.

By Road: To reach Sonmarg, you must first travel to Srinagar if you are coming from Jammu. Another route is available from Ladakh, so you can choose the one that suits you best. If you love biking, this is one of the best ways to reach Sonmarg.

• Jammu  → Srinagar → Ganderbal → Wayil Bridge → Kangan → Gund → Mangan → Sonamarg
• Leh → Lamayuru → Mulbekh → Kargil → Dras → Zoji La Pass → Sonamarg

Places to Visit in Sonamrg

Whenever you are visiting a new destination, you should finalize your itinerary so you know which places you want to see during your trip. Here are some places to visit in Sonmarg:

1. Thajiwas Glacier

As you are in Sonmarg, you cannot miss Thajiwas Glacier. 

The glacier is quite popular with trekkers in Jammu & Kashmir. A trek through this path will provide unforgettable experiences surrounded by snow peaks.

Want to live your childhood again? Don’t look anywhere

Just make a snowman here or go Sledding.

Duration: 5-6 hours round trip

Timing: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (April to October)

Price: Free entry; Pony rides are chargeable

Highlights: Trekking through meadows & Pine Forests, Snow Activities, Pony Rides, Scenic Photography.

2. Zojila Pass

The Zoji La pass in Sonamarg is vital for connecting Ladakh with Kashmir. It promises an unforgettable experience with its surrounding snow-capped peaks.

As you navigate Zoji La, one of the world’s most treacherous roads, you will surely experience an adrenaline rush.

Are you ready to challenge your spirit, where every step is an adventure?

Duration: 3-4 hours (from Sonamarg)

Timing: April to October 

Price: Free entry; Snow activities are chargeable

Highlights: Adventure Sports (Skiing, Snowmobiling)

3. Vishansar Lake

Vishansar Lake is located just outside Sonamarg. It is only possible to reach here by trekking, so imagine how many photography opportunities you will have. 

During the winter, Vishansar Lake is completely frozen.

No matter what time of year you plan your trip here, visit this lake in Sonamarg.

Duration: 2-day trek

Timing: April to November

Price: Entry Free

Highlights: Trekking via Nichnai Pass, Lakeside Camping, Trout Fishing

4. Nichinai Pass

Nichinai Pass is another popular tourist attraction in Sonamarg, situated at 4,139 meters above sea level. 

This place is located about 11 kilometers from Sonamarg and is a popular trekking route. 

While trekking to this pass, you will pass Krishnasar Lake, Gangabal Lake, Gadsar Lake, or Vishansar Lake along the way. 

These are some of the most popular attractions in Sonamarg. If you want to learn more, speak with one of our experts.

Duration: 6-7 hours trek (13 km from Sonamarg)

Timing: June to September (closed in winter)

Price: Entry Free

Highlights: Trekking Through Forests, Panoramic Mountain Views, Serene Camping.

Things to Do in Sonamarg

When you travel, you should know what activities you will enjoy when you arrive. For your convenience, we have listed the following activities in this Sonamarg travel guide that you can enjoy during your trip:

1. Trekking

Experience a fantastic trek to Thajiwas Glacier and Kashmir Great Lakes with day trips or multi-day excursions. The duration of a short trek can vary from 4-6 hours, while long hikes can last up to seven days.

2. Camping

Set up your tent amid panoramic views of mountains and immaculate surroundings. The best time to camp is between April and October; you can enjoy nature under the stars.

3. Fishing

Visit the Sindh River’s banks to go fishing. You can rent equipment on-site between 6 AM and 6 PM. The glistening, clean rivers offer great fishing opportunities to novice and experienced anglers alike.

4. Photography

Capture stunning landscapes, including:

• Snow-capped peaks and glaciers
• Scenic valleys and meadows
• The pristine Vishansar Lake
• The dramatic Zoji La Pass

5. White Water Rafting

Experience White Water Rafting along the Sindh River with professional guidance. The experience usually lasts two to three hours. Since the water levels are at their ideal level in summer, this is the perfect time for the activity.

Places to Stay in Sonmarg

The place you stay in Sonmarg will determine your overall trip experience, so choosing a place that suits your needs is essential. Check out the different hotels and whether your budget will allow you to stay there.

For your convenience, we have compiled a list of hotels you might consider:

1 – Budget Travelers: Hotel Glacier Heights  

Known for its cost-effectiveness, this hotel offers clean rooms, on-site dining, and quick access to nearby attractions like Thajiwas Glacier and Zoji La Pass.

Location: Srinagar – Leh Hwy, Sonamarg, Forest Block

2 – Nature Lovers & Moderate Budget: Hotel Imperial Resorts 

This riverfront hotel is ideal for those who enjoy the natural surroundings and want to stay within a reasonable budget. The resort provides access to trekking routes, wooden cottages, and scenic mountain views.

Location: Gunt Tehsil, Kargil Road, National Highway 1D, Sonamarg

3 – Luxury & Comfort: Lemon Tree Hotel 

This hotel provides modern amenities, central heating, fine dining, valley view rooms, and premium hospitality.

Location: Sonamarg, Forest Block

The hotels listed above are close to Sonmarg, so you can easily explore the area. Please ask our travel consultants whenever you need more information about a hotel.

Places to Eat In Sonamarg

In Sonamarg, you can find everything from budget-friendly to high-end restaurants, but here are some of our favourite places to eat during your trip:

1. Lolabi Kashmiri Wazwan

It is located opposite the Forest Block Main Market. The restaurant is known for serving authentic Kashmiri Wazwan, including the restaurant’s signature Rogan Josh. 

2. Glacier Heights Restaurant

Located near Sonamarg Main Market, this restaurant serves both Indian and Continental cuisine. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys while having a meal. 

3. Hotel Sonamarg Palace

It is the only pure vegetarian hotel on the Srinagar-Leh Highway that offers Gujarati, Jain, Punjabi, Marathi, and Chinese cuisines.

Tips for Visiting Sonamarg

• Before your trip, check the weather forecast.
• Be sure to keep all the necessary documents, such as IDs.
• Don’t forget to bring warm clothes
• For better exploration, think about hiring a local guide.
• Take medication for headaches, nausea, and vomiting.

We hope, Now you can easily plan your trip to Sonamarg by reading this article. 

So, When are you planning your trip? Need help? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

FAQs

Q. How many days are required to visit Sonmarg?

Ans: The Sonmarg area can be explored in a day trip from Srinagar, but two days are best for exploring all the attractions.

Q. Is Sonmarg worth visiting?

Ans: Sonmarg Valley has stunning meadows, snowcapped mountains, and attractions such as Thajiwas Glacier and Zoji La Pass.

Q. Why is it called zero point in Sonmarg?

Ans: Zero Point comes from 11,000 feet, where temperatures remain below zero, marking the endpoint for vehicles.

Q. Which is the best month to visit Sonmarg?

Ans: The best time to visit depends on what you plan to do; if you plan snow activities, go between February and March, and November through mid-December are the best times. If you love nature, visit Sonamarg in the summer when wildflowers fully bloom. The temperature ranges between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius during this time.