The best things to do in Sonmarg: Thajiwas Glacier, Sindh River, Zoji La, Naranag, Baltal, and 2 more. Below, each one with how long it takes, the best time of day and a local tip. Ideal stay: Day trip or 1 night.
7 things to do in Sonmarg
Thajiwas Glacier
Thajiwas is Sonmarg's glacier, a few kilometres from the main meadow.
3–4 hours.Local tipAgree pony rates, route and waiting time before mounting.
Sindh River
The Sindh river runs down the valley from near Zoji La past Sonmarg and Kangan to Ganderbal.
Along the drive; rafting 1–2 hours.Local tipStop at viewpoints rather than on bends.
Zoji La
Zoji La (about 3,528 m) is the pass beyond Sonmarg on the Srinagar–Leh highway, the gateway from Kashmir's green valleys to Ladakh's high desert.
Half day (viewpoint) or as part of the Leh drive.Local tipCheck the traffic advisory the evening before.
Naranag
Naranag is a village in the Wangath valley with a group of ancient stone temple ruins, and the base for treks to Gangbal lakes and the end point of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek.
Half day.Local tipCombine with the Sonmarg road on a long day.
Baltal
Baltal is a valley beyond Sonmarg and the base camp for the shorter Amarnath Yatra route: about 14 km to the holy cave, steeper than the Pahalgam route.
Transit.Local tipPilgrims need Shrine Board registration and a health certificate.
Gangbal Lake trek
Gangbal and Nundkol are twin alpine lakes below Mount Harmukh at around 3,500 m, reached on a steep trek from Naranag (about 2,270–2,380 m).
2–3 days.Local tipHire a registered guide.
Kashmir Great Lakes trek
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek runs about 70–75 km over 7–8 days from Sonmarg to Naranag, passing Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and the Gangbal twin lakes.
7–8 days.Local tipGo with an experienced, registered operator.
At a glance
FAQ
Most people spend Day trip or 1 night.
Thajiwas Glacier.
Yes, send your dates on WhatsApp.
