Thajiwas Glacier — Attraction in Jammu and Kashmir

Sonmarg, translating to "Meadow of Gold," is a picturesque destination nestled in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Situated at an altitude of around 2800 meters above sea level, Sonmarg is renowned for its stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and pristine glaciers. Here's a detailed review of what makes Sonmarg a must-visit destination:

Natural Beauty: Sonmarg is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and dense forests, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The Thajiwas Glacier, located just a few kilometers from the main town, offers breathtaking views of snow-clad mountains and is accessible via a short trek or a pony ride. During summer, the meadows are carpeted with vibrant wildflowers, adding to the charm of this natural wonderland.

Adventure Activities: For adventure enthusiasts, Sonmarg offers a range of activities such as trekking, camping, and trout fishing in the Sind River. The trek to nearby attractions like Vishansar Lake, Krishnasar Lake, and Gangabal Lake is popular among trekkers, providing opportunities to witness the region's untouched beauty and serene surroundings.

Cultural Insights: Sonmarg is not only a natural marvel but also holds cultural significance. The local Gujjar and Bakarwal communities add to the region's cultural diversity. Visitors can interact with locals, learn about their traditions, and even experience their hospitality by staying in traditional wooden huts or guesthouses.

Accessibility and Infrastructure: While Sonmarg remains accessible only during the summer months due to heavy snowfall in winter, the journey to Sonmarg itself is an experience to cherish. The road from Srinagar to Sonmarg offers mesmerizing views of the Sindh Valley, with the Sind River meandering alongside.

Weather and Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Sonmarg is from April to October when the weather is pleasant and the meadows are in full bloom. Summer temperatures range from a comfortable 15°C to 30°C, ideal for exploring the outdoors. Winter months, from November to March, see heavy snowfall, transforming Sonmarg into a winter wonderland albeit with restricted accessibility.

Accommodation and Dining: Sonmarg offers a range of accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses, and campsites catering to various budgets. Dining options primarily feature local Kashmiri cuisine, including specialties like Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, and traditional Kashmiri breads.

Conservation and Sustainability: Preserving Sonmarg's natural beauty and fragile ecosystem is crucial. Responsible tourism practices, such as avoiding littering and respecting local customs, help in maintaining the region's pristine environment for future generations to enjoy.

In conclusion, Sonmarg is more than just a destination; it's an experience that captivates with its natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventurous spirit. Whether you're seeking tranquility amidst nature, thrilling adventures, or cultural insights, Sonmarg promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Kashmir's...

Our driver had informed us that Sonmarg has quite a few lakes, but much like most tourists unaware of the beauty of Jammuand Kashmir, we passed the idea. But reaching here caused us to think. My friends were mostly quiet, clicking pictures for a keepsake, and the driver couldn’t care less, so he sat in the car waiting. Then I spoke, I said, let’s go to a lake, and somehow everyone agreed. The driver gave us a sheepish smile, and we started to move towards the first, Gangabal Lake. For a moment, it felt like we have entered a movie sequence, the vast lake laid open in front of us, sitting right on the foothills of a gigantic mountain. Later we came to know that it was Mount Harmukh. Our driver told us that it was also a suitable place for trekking, but that is for some other time we thought.

Next in line was Gadsar Lake, also known as the Lake of Flowers. It usually gets frozen during the winters, but we were lucky to see the colour of the water. We walked around quite a bit in that area, stumbling upon wild flowerswildflowers that sat there, someone in our group said that it felt like we were the first humans on earth. I second that.

Later, when we began wondering where we should go next, the driver said that we ought to see one more lake. So, we didn’t argue. The enchanting Nilagrad River was something else, surrounded by greenery all around it; it gave way to rolling hills that stood against its background. We sat by the flowing water, and dipped our feet. It felt like a nice place to sit quietly, so we just remained quiet, and watched the birds fly by. I thought this was a good chance to smoke a cigarette, and wondered if I would ever get a view such as this while smoking in New Delhi. It was definitely a pleasant change of “scene.”

After spending what felt like an eternity, we decided to leave.

Beyond Sonmarg

Our driver asked my friend if we had ever seen a Pass. My friend was from Sikkimso he said yes; he had in fact gone to Nathu La Pass on numerous occasions. So, he said that they have their own passes here, and we are in fact close to one. Hence began the second part of the journey, the journey to Zoji La Pass.

The one-hour drive does not bore you, we were of course, of course, being adventurous, but even otherwise it is a great drive full of spectacular views. We were driving towards Leh, as the pass is located between Srinagar and Leh, and all around us, the vegetation started to go scarce. Reaching the pass we realised that the journey was the best part. It is so full of life and beauty, the rivers, and mountains, the endless clouds floating by; Zoji La Pass got our adrenaline rushing, while also soothing our eyes. The road can get a lot bumpy from time to time.

By evening we returned to Srinagar, and sat down at a bar to spend the evening. The driver charged us extra for the trip to Zoji La Pass, but then again, it was fine. So now, when someone seeks my advice on the next holiday, I simply direct them...

For this trek the starting point is Sonmarg  ,which means 'meadow of gold'); located in the Ganderbal District of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is located 80 kilometres from Srinagar. Sonmarg is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, stunning natural beauty and

picturesque meadows. Moreover, the place also serves as the gateway to several hiking trails such as the Amarnath Cave and Thajiwas Glacier.

The glacier offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and is a popular attraction for tourists .

The whole trek takes about three hours total.

Fortunately our hotel was nearby and the road was just behind it.Its a easy trek but you have to walk about 3 kms one side.

If you want to continue beyond that, you will trek for another 7-8 kilometers and exit at Sarbal village, on the other side of Sonamarg.

the Sindh River

After a trek of around 2 km, you will reach the beautiful Thajiwas Glacier. The glacier is located at an altitude of 3,500 meters and is surrounded by snow-covered peaks. The glacier is one of the main sources of water for the Sindh River, which flows through the Sonamarg Valley.

Trekking was a trekker's dream destination. The glacier offers a short trek which starts at Sonamarg and ends at the glacier. this trek will take you to the frozen lake of Thajiwas through green pastures and pine and fir trees along the way.

How old is Thajiwas Glacier?

The 'thousand-year-old ice', as the Kashmiris refer to the Thajiwas glacier, and its surrounding area is usually under 12 feet of snow jn winter.

But you have to be very careful in walking on this glacier,as deaths have occured ,due to collapse of the glacier.

There are two view points ,first one is nearby where there is a village,few temporary tents and we get to eat maggi,tea etc .

Second view point is near glacier.

There are people who make beautiful reels at the cost of 200 per 30 seconds.

Ponies are available and during September ( off season ) they were offering 500 to 700 rupees both sides.

Also buggies are available from tourist point to first view point,300 per person.

(There is a cement road for this)

After first point there is stone paved road.

So its an easy trek at 8000 to 9200 feet approximately.

A must do for all,if you can't walk that much take a baggi or pony.

A memorable, picturesque...