Sonamarg
is the located at a hefty altitude of 2,740 m above sea level,
literally means 'Meadow of Gold'. The picturesque natural beauty
of the region brought this name to Sonamarg. Sonamarg, a town
surrounded by breathtaking glaciers and serene lakes, is a snow
covered beautiful flower-laden meadow in the majestic Himalayan
mountain region. Sonamarg in the Kashmir valley is the gateway
to Ladakh and situated just before the Zojii La pass.
Located at 87 km from Srinagar, the place is renowned for
trekking and hiking trails. The snow clad peaks in the Himalaya
and the undulated hilly mountainous regions are perfectly
suitable for all types of trekking expeditions. Sonamarg is the
base camp for many trekking expeditions. The major treks passing
through various mountain lakes such as Gangabal, Vishansar,
Gadsar, Satsar and Kishansar has its base at Sonamarg. The
trekking routes offer all types of challenges, from mild to most
hard. The pleasant climate with mild summer and cold winter make
this place an ideal location for trekkers to explore the natural
beauty and challenging treks.
Attraction
Trekking
The Sonamarg region is renowned for trekking and hiking trails.
The snow clad peaks in the Himalaya and the undulated hilly
mountainous regions are perfectly suitable for all types of
trekking expeditions. Sonamarg is the base camp for many
trekking expeditions.
The major treks passing through various mountain lakes such as
Gangabal, Vishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Kishansar has its base
at Sonamarg. The trekking routes offer all types of challenges,
from mild to most hard. The pleasant climate with mild summer
and cold winter make this place an ideal location for trekkers
to explore the natural beauty and challenging treks.
Gangabal Trek
Gangabal lake, also known as Harmuk Ganga at a height of 3570 m
above sea level is a popular attraction in Sonamarg. It is
considered sacred place by Hindus. Also a popular spot for
rainbow trout fishing, the lake can be reached from Sonamarg via
Krishnasar and Vishansar, after an enjoyable trek through
enchanting scenery.
The trekking season is from July to October while the fishing
season extending from March to October.
Thajiwas Glacier
Sonamarg offer many adventurous routes with amazing green water
& frozen lakes around and Thajiwas glacier is a one such major
tourist attraction in the region. Located 7 km from Sonamarg, it
is an ideal spot for enjoying a sledge ride on the snow even in
mid-summer. The nearby area is perfect camping site too.
Vishansar Lake
Perched at a height of 3710 m above sea level, Vishansar Lake
lies around 35 km from Shitkadi, Sonmarg. With a length of a
kilometre and a width of 0.6 km, this charming lake is among the
visitor’s delight in Sonmarg. The spectacular surrounding with
snow covered mountains and meadows around with alpine flowers
make it a haven for trekkers and adventure lovers. Besides, the
lake is home to different species of fishes.
Fed by Krishansar Lake and glaciers, the lake is the main source
of Neelum River. During winter, the lake freezes while in
summer, the lush green meadow surrounding the lake gives truly
an amazing sight.
How to Reach
By Train
The nearest major railhead is at Udhampur and Jammu, which is
246 km and 301 kms away from Sonamarg. One can reach Sonamarg
from railway station by taking taxis or buses.
Sonamarg By Air
The nearest airport to Sonamarg is located at Srinagar, at a
distance of 70 kms away. Srinagar is air connected to Delhi with
regular flights.
Sonamarg by Bus
Sonamarg is connected by Jammu and Kashmir state owned road
transport corporation buses. Sonamarg is well connected to Jammu
(60 km, ) and Srinagar (70 km, ) by buses. Special luxurious
buses will also be available from Jammu and Srinagar to
Sonamarg. |