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Sonamarg
Sonamarg means a meadow of gold. A tranquil valley set amongst glaciers and placid
lakes, it has flower-laden meadows, panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayan
peaks and a number of trekking and hiking trails. Situated in the western part
of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, it is set an altitude of 2740 m above sea level
and is surrounded by the Himalayas. 80 km Srinagar, Sonamarg has alpine weather
conditions with mild and pleasant summers from April to June and chilly winters
from November to February accompanied by heavy snowfall. Surrounded by some of
the highest mountain ranges of the world, the sparkling snowcapped mountains reflect
the golden rays of the sun to give Sonamarg its name. One can see magnificent
views of snow-clad ranges and attractive meadows enroute while going to Sonamarg
from Srinagar. Wonders of the nature abound in Sonamarg in its quiet meadows and
flower-carpeted fields.
Hiking and trekking Sonamarg and the areas attract the adventure-seeking tourists.
A spur of the Thajiwas Range covered with pine, fir, and birch trees divides the
Sonamarg valley and has a number of camping sites nearby. On the other side of
the spur, are a number of waterfalls and the captivating Thajiwas glacier. There
are trekking routes from Sonamarg to the Himalayan lakes of Vishansar at an altitude
of 4080 m above sea level, Krishansar at an altitude of 3810 m above sea level
and Gangabal at an altitude of 3658 m above sea level. The trek to Gadsar Lake
with its abundant snow trout and the frozen Satsar Lakesurrounded by alpine flowers
and trees, trekking to Baltal, which 15 km from Sonamarg is a delight. Situated
at the foot of the Zojila pss, it the gateway to the land of Ladakh.
HOW TO GET THERE
Sonamarg is situated at a distance of 84 kms from Srinagar, on the Srinagar-Ladakh
Road. J&K SRTC operates regular buses as well as sightseeing buses during
the season. The route passes through the picturesque town of Ganderbal (21 kms),
Kangan (40 kms) and Gund of the Sindh Valley, before reaching the resort. Spectacular
views of the Harmukh range dominate the horizon all along the route.
TOURIST INFORMATION & ASSISTANCE
The Tourist Office at Sonamarg is within the premises of the Tourist Complex,
behind the cafeteria. Tourists are advised to visit the office for information
and assistance. In particular, trekking trips into the mountains should be undertaken
only after consulting the Tourist Office at Srinagar or Sonamarg for safety and
feasibility.
