Sonamarg is a hill station in the Ganderbal district. Being a part of the beautiful Jammu and Kashmir region, it also holds exquisite beauty. Being a hill station, it is famous countywide for being a relief in summer.
Sonamarg is a beautiful hill station in Jammu and Kashmir, located at 2800 meters. The nearest airport is approx 70 kilometers away in Srinagar.
Sonamarg, also spelled Sonmarg, means ‘a meadow of gold’, which it gets its name from the fact that, as the sun sets, the peaks surrounding it turn golden.
Here is a list of 12 of the best places to visit in Sonmarg, Kashmir:
1. Vishansar Lake
A bit away from Sonamarg, this lake is at an altitude of 3710 m. With its shining blue water, greenery around, mountain flowers, and silvery-white mountains providing the perfect background, Vishansar Lake will captivate you. It is related to Hindu mythology, too; according to the mythology, it is believed that the lake belongs to Lord Vishnu.
Moreover, it a home to many species of fish. It shows different aspects of its beauty in different seasons. During winter, it freezes, and during summer, it gets surrounded by greenery all around. Read Also: 10 Best Places to Visit in Srinagar
2. Baltal Valley
Baltal Valley attracts a large number of tourists with its beauty. Moreover, it is famous for its scenic views. For reaching the cave, one can either hire a pony or trek the way. Moreover, it is quite affordable too. The tents and other facilities are quite affordable here.
From Batal, you can get a helicopter ride to Panjtarni. It will cost less than ten minutes to reach there by helicopter and view the beautiful place while being in a helicopter will be a lifetime memory. Read Also: Popular Places to Visit Srinagar, Kashmir in May
3. Thajiwas Glacier
Thajiwas Glacier is famous among both adventure and nature lovers. Through trekking, you will have an opportunity to experience the beauty this glacier holds. An alternative to trekking is hiring a pony to experience the beauty of the place is also popular.
The frozen lakes and contrasting that frozen lake, the greenery spread around is a blessing for the eyes. It is the perfect escape from the scorching sun in the summer. Moreover, you have an opportunity to see the lifestyle and culture of the Gujjar Tribes. Read Also: Most Famous Places to Visit around Pahalgam
4. White River Rafting
White water rafting is one of the most popular activities for adventure lovers, and white river rafting in Sonamarg is quite popular among rafting lovers. Long-distance rafting from Baltal to Shutkari is quite popular here.
Moreover, there are different routes and facilities available for different levels of rafters and experienced and beginners. Read Also: 5 Lakes in Jammu and Kashmir
5. Zoji La Pass
Located about 3528 m above sea level, near Ladakh, in Dras, this is a mountain pass. This pass connects Kashmir, Dras, and Suru valley. Calling it dangerous beauty won’t be wrong.
Being in the beautiful region of Jammu and Kashmir gives a mesmerizing view from a great height. And as it is at a great height with many curves and blind turns, it is dangerous.
6. Nilagrad River
6 km away from Sonamarg, the beholder of red-colored water, the Nilagrad River is believed to be a serene and holy river. Moreover, the water of this river is believed to have medicinal properties.
Along with all these, the surrounding of the beautiful river makes it more beautiful.
7. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
Despite being famous for its beauty, Kashmir is also famous for the adventurous activities it offers. There are many adventurous activities, including hiking, mountain climbing, mountain biking, trekking, river rafting, and many others.
But among all, trekking is the most famous in Kashmir. The great lakes trek is less known but quite a unique experience. And this trekking trip starts from Sonamarg. You will experience varied flora and fauna as well as the landscape on your way.
8. Gangabal Trek
This place is considered highly sacred and a significant place by Hindus. It is approximately 3570 m above sea level. It is also famous as Harmuk Ganga. The Gangabal trek is home to many fishes.
And of all those fishes, rainbow trout fish is the most popular. The month of July to October is the trekking season and the month of March to October is perfect for fishing.
Read Also: 100 Most Popular Places to See in India
9. Krishnasar Lake
One of the most beautiful and captivating lakes of Kashmir, Krishnasar Lake, is famous for providing calming and soothing. The dense alpines surrounding the lake seem pleasing.
This is a paradise for nature lovers. Moreover, it is at a height of 3801 m above sea level. Fishing and other water activities are quite famous here.
10. Nichinai Pass
A part of the Great lakes Pass, Nichinai pass makes its distinct place among all. Like all other passes of the Great Lake Pass, it is breathtakingly beautiful but unique at the same time.
11. Narang
There are 50 kilometers between Sriniagar and Narang. Narang is a favorite stop for campers before they begin the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. In addition to all the other historical destinations in Narang, the Narang temple is one you cannot miss.
12. Table Top
From the Table Top, one can enjoy an outstanding view of the entire Sonmarg range and can also be reached by the “Kashmir Great Lake Trek” that begins from Sonmarg. During the night, set up a tent and enjoy some Maggi and Kahwa to warm yourself under the cool breeze of the starry night.
Where to stay in Sonamarg
When you enter Sonamarg, you will see hotels spread out over the entire valley and you can choose the one that suits you best.
There are a lot of deluxe and luxury hotels at the start of town. These hotels can cost anywhere between Rs. 2500 and Rs. 7000. The best views are from the hotels at the start of town.
How to Reach Sonamarg:
By Air: Taxis are available from Sonmarg to Srinagar Airport (70 km away), which is well-connected to all major cities in the country.
By Train: Jammu Tawi Railway Station is the nearest railway station, and it is well connected to all major cities.
By Road : Sonmarg is well connected with Jammu and Srinagar by NH 44. State-run buses run every day between Sonmarg and Jammu and Srinagar.
Conclusion
Most of the places here are beautiful and dangerous simultaneously as it is at a great height, with some the dangerous passes and roads.
Check more details on Kashmir:
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