Sonamarg

Sonamarg (literally, the meadow of gold) is a tranquil place set in a valley amongst glaciers and placid lakes. The flower-laden meadows, panoramic view of the lofty snow-covered Himalayan peaks and a number of trekking and hiking trails have made Sonamarg a popular tourist destination.

Sonamarg is the base of a major trek that passes along several mountain lakes –Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangabal. Sonamarg is also the take off station for the drive to Ladakh across the Zojila, a major pass in the Great Himalayan Range, through which the Srinagar-Leh Road passes.

Sonamarg is also a base for undertaking the yatra to the holy Amarnath cave, during Sawan Purnima. For details about the yatra, refer to the Amaranathji Yatra Link.

¤ Location
Sonamarg is located in the western part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, in the northern region of India. It is located at an altitude of 2740 m above sea level amidst the Himalayan range. Sonamarg is 80 km northeast of Srinagar.

¤ Major Attractions of Sonamarg
.. Thajiwas
The whole mountain range here is covered by glaciers. Water falls from these in silver sheets. A forest rest house and a tourist hut between Sonamarg and Thajiwas have excellent views.

.. Gangabal
Also called Harmukh Ganga, it is sacred to Hindus. It can be reached from Sonamarg via Krishnasar and Vishansar - a trek through enchanting scenery.

.. The Lakes
The loveliest of the high altitude Himalayan lakes are Vishansar and Krishnasar. The translucent waters of these lakes are speckled with ice flakes, and the occasional trout that pops up now and then.

.. Zoji - La - Pass
20 kms east of Sonamarg lies the gateway to the Ladakh plateau, the Zoji-La Pass at 3,540 m.

¤ Places to Stay in Sonamarg
Sonamarg has a number of Hotels and lodges of various types which are open only during summer months. JKTDC has a Dak Banglow and number of Huts which are available on hire.

¤ Climate in Sonmarg
The weather in Sonamarg is alpine. Summers (April-June) are mild and winters are cold (November-February). It experiences heavy snowfall in December-February. The best time to visit Sonamarg is during the summers.

¤ How to Get there
.. By Air
Sonamarg does not have an airport or railway station. The nearest airport is at Srinagar, which is 80 km from Sonamarg.

.. By Road
It is well connected by road with Srinagar. The travel time between the two towns is 2 hours. Travelers can either use bus or taxi from Sonamarg to reach Srinagar and vice versa.