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.
