Sonamarg

Sonamarg an alpine valley is situated at the bank of Nallah Sindh, 87 km north-east from Srinagar, it is a popular tourist destination, nestled within the imposing Himalayan peaks. It lies at an altitude of 2800 meters above sea level. The drive to Sonamarg is through yet another spectacular facet of country side in Kashmir, this time its the Nallah Sindh, the largest tributary of the Jhelum River in the valley of Kashmir. It is upwards of sixty miles long valley and deep rock-girt gorge to open grassy meadow land and village-dotted slopes.
Sonamarg has no permanent settlement and is inaccessible during winter due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.

Sonamarg had historical significance and was a gateway on ancient Silk Road along with Gilgit connecting Kashmir with China and other Gulf countries. The Zojila pass lies 15 kilometers east and is one of the highest passes for road transport. It still is a base camp for Ladakh on NH 1D, and is strategically important for Indian army who holds control over this part of Kashmir

Sonamarg, which means ‘meadow of gold’, has, as its backdrop, snowy mountains against a cerulean sky. the Sindh meanders along here and abounds with trout and mahseer, snow trout can be caught in the main river. In late April when Sonamarg is open for road transport, the visitors can have access to snow which is furnished all over like a white carpet. Ponies can be hired for the trip up to Thajiwas glacier a major attraction during the summer months. However, there is need for some stricter regulation to save the environment of the area from over tourism. Litters such as plastic bottles, etc., are strewn all over along the track.[5]
The climate of Sonamarg is very bracing; but the rainfall is frequent though not heavy, except for two or three days at a time in July and August with fine spell in between.

When you drive from Srinagar to Leh, Sonmarg is the last stop of Kashmir District.Situated at an altitude of 2743 m above sea level, Sonmarg is absolutely true to its name, which means 'Meadow of Gold'. The moment you enter Sonmarg, the first thing that you will notice will be the snow-covered mountain that forms the backdrop of the town. Covered with alpine trees from all sides, Sonmarg has few of the most loveliest flower collection in J & K. In winters though, the town is covered with snow giving it an altogether different charm of white. The town has become famous for the many excursion option that it offers, mainly short walks and trek routes to nearby stunning areas. The most famous trek is definitely the one that takes you to Amarnath caves. In fact Baltal which is just besides Sonmarg, is used as a base camp for starting the holy Amarnath yatra.
Sonmarg in itself is a beautiful place full of natural grace and gifts. This charming little town of Sonmarg has some stunning blue water lakes and rich in color grasslands. From Sonmarg, you can also look at the towering snow clad mountains of the Ladakh region that are a real treat to eyes.

Places To See

Nilagrad,

Nilagrad is the place where confluence of a mountain river and Indus river takes place. The amazing thing about this place is that the water here in the river is of pure red color, which makes for a colorful sight. The locales here believe that the water has curative powers and can cure any skin ailments. In this belief, they take a bath in the river once every week. The largest crowd turns up on Sundays, as it is an off day.

Krishnasar Lake

Situated at a height of 3801 m above sea level, Krishnasar Lake is one of the most mesmerizing lakes in the chain of many Himalayan lakes. You will see travelers from all over the state coming here and enjoying themselves. Most of them will be engaged in Trout fishing which has made this lake a famous excursion spot.

Baltal

Baltal is extremely stunning grassland which is situated right at the foot of Zoji la pass, adjacent to Ladakh territory. Baltal is more famous for its closeness to Amarnath cave. You can just walk to the cave which is approximately 5 km away from here. During the Amarnath yatra, many pilgrims set up camps here to rest.

Thajwas Glacier

Only 4 Km on from Sonamarg,this is a small valley at the food of the Sonamarg glacier.Here there are alpine huts and a forest rest house. You can either walk or can take a pony ride, It is advixed to fix a prce with pony wall before you take a ride.