Sonamarg

Located on the Srinagar Ladakh Highway, around two and a half hours drive northeast of Srinagar, scenic Sonamarg (Meadow of Gold) is famous for its Thajiwas Glacier. What is remarkable about this glacier is how accessible it is. From the highway, you can hike up to the glacier and back in around five hours. If you do not have so much time to spare, it is possible to ride a pony instead, or take a taxi part of the way there and walk. It is costly though. Pony owners will charge at least 600 rupees per person for a return trip. Do bargain hard. Scenes of many Bollywood movies have been filmed in the area, and you wo not have to try very hard to feel like youare in one! There are a number of options for eating and staying at Sonamarg. Ahsan Mount Resort has fabulous Swiss tents for glamping. Hotel Snowland is conveniently located but could be managed better.