Sonamarg
Best time: May to September
Altitude: 2,800 m
Sonamarg — "meadow of gold" — is the last major stop before the road climbs toward Zoji La and on to Ladakh. It's a quieter, more rugged landscape than Gulmarg or Pahalgam, with the Thajiwas Glacier an easy pony or walking trip from the main road, and the Sindh River running alongside the highway for most of the drive up from Srinagar.
For travellers continuing to Ladakh by road, Sonamarg is also a natural overnight stop before the Zoji La crossing, which is best driven in daylight.
Travel tips
- The road beyond Sonamarg toward Zoji La is weather-dependent and can close with little notice — always check current status before planning a same-day crossing.
- Ponies to Thajiwas Glacier are available at the base; agree on the price for the full return trip before setting off.
- This is a higher, more exposed stretch than Srinagar or Pahalgam — sunscreen and sunglasses help even on overcast days.