thajiwas glacier sonmarg

Name: Thajiwas glacier Sonmarg Kashmir
Brand: Travel My Kashmir
Price: 1599 INR
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (347 reviews)

About Thajiwas glacier Sonmarg

Thajiwas Glacier in Sonmarg is one of the most picturesque and famous snow glaciers in Kashmir, located in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. Just 3 kilometers from Sonmarg town and sitting at an altitude of around 9,186 feet (2,800–3,000 meters), it is among the most easily accessible glaciers in the Kashmir Valley.

Overlooked by the majestic Thajiwas Mountain and offering partial views of Kolahoi Peak, the glacier is surrounded by lush alpine meadows, dense coniferous forests and breathtaking snow clad peaks. Visitors can reach this natural wonder through a short trek or a pony ride, making it one of the best travel attractions in Sonmarg for both families and adventure seekers. The glacier is popular year round, offering sledding in winter, trekking in summer and pony rides throughout the season, making it a must visit for those seeking natural beauty and adventure in the lap of Kashmir.

Tourists visit Thajiwas Glacier to enjoy the breathtaking views and participate in snow activities such as building snowmen, snowball fights, and sledding rides. There are also several waterfalls near the glacier that you can explore during your visit.

Visiting Thajiwas Glacier

Accessibility: Thajiwas Glacier cannot be reached by car. Visitors can either hire a pony ride from Sonmarg or choose to trek, depending on their fitness level.

Trek: The glacier is accessible via a 1–2 hour easy trek from Sonmarg, passing through lush green meadows, coniferous forests and traditional Gujjar settlements (locally known as Kothas).

Pony Ride: For a more relaxed experience, you can hire a pony from the Sonmarg market. The ride usually takes about 1.5 hours and it is advisable to negotiate the fare with the pony owner in advance. To prebook your pony ride in Kashmir contact Travel My Kashmir.

Best places to visit in Sonmarg read more

Top Things to Do at Thajiwas Glacier Sonmarg

Thajiwas Glacier offers a plethora of activities for every kind of traveler:

Sledding: One of the most popular activities at the glacier is sledding down its gentle slopes. You can rent a wooden sled and experience the thrill of gliding over the snow, an activity enjoyed by both adults and children alike.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the areas around the glacier by taking short hikes. Discover hidden waterfalls, lush meadows, and enjoy the tranquility of the Himalayan wilderness.
Photography: The pristine white landscape of the glacier set against the backdrop of the azure sky and rugged mountains provides endless opportunities for photography. Capture the breathtaking panoramas and create lasting memories of your visit.
Building a Snowman: Let your inner child out and have some fun building a snowman on the snowy expanse of the glacier.

Best Time to Visit Thajiwas Glacier in Sonmarg

The best time to visit Thajiwas Glacier is during the summer months, from late April to September. During this period the weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C and the trek to the glacier is easily accessible. The surrounding alpine meadows burst into full bloom, creating a stunning contrast against the snow clad peaks.

Early morning visits are especially recommended, as the soft sunlight casts magical reflections on the glacier and the crowds are fewer, offering a peaceful experience with nature. Winter months (November to March) are not suitable for visiting, as the area receives heavy snowfall and remains inaccessible.

Also check Thajiwas glacier trek

Summer (May to September)
This is the most popular time to visit, as the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities. The weather is mild with daytime temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, lush green meadows and blooming wildflowers, making it ideal for trekking, pony rides, camping and photography.

Autumn (October to November)
The Autumn season is best choice for those who prefer a quieter experience and unique scenery. The months from October to early November brings crisp air, golden autumn colors and fewer crowds, though the nights get colder and weather can be unpredictable.

Winter (December to April)
During winter, from December to April the glacier transforms into a snow covered wonderland perfect for sledding, skiing and snowshoeing, but access becomes difficult due to heavy snowfall and road closures, making it more suitable for adventure seekers with proper gear.

How to decide
For easy access, comfortable weather and green meadows, Choose the summer months from May to September.
For snow sports and a true winter wonderland then Plan your trip for the winter months, but be prepared for cold weather and potential access difficulties.
For quieter travel and fall colors you should visit in October or early November.

How to Reach Thajiwas Glacier

To reach Thajiwas Glacier, drive from Srinagar to Sonamarg. From Sonamarg, you can either trek the 3-4 km trail, which is a moderately easy or hire a local pony for a convenient ride to the glacier. The best time to visit is during summer and early autumn for clear weather and scenic views.

Location: Thajiwas Glacier is located in Sonamarg, Ganderbal district of Jammu & Kashmir.

Looking for a reliable taxi? Book Srinagar to Sonamarg Taxi

Step-by-Step Guide

Travel to Sonamarg:
Begin your journey from Srinagar (about 80 km / 2.5–3 hours) with a scenic drive along the Srinagar Leh Highway passing through Ganderbal and following the Sindh River.
From Sonamarg to Thajiwas Glacier:
- Walk/Trek: From Sonamarg, follow a 3–4 km moderately easy trail through pine forests and alpine meadows. The trek takes around 1–2 hours, depending on pace and offers stunning views of snow capped peaks.
- Pony Ride: For a relaxed trip, hire a pony from the Sonamarg market or hotel. The ride takes about 1.5 hours and is a popular option for families and those who prefer not to trek.

Things to Know Before You Go

Pony Charges: Negotiate beforehand (₹500–₹1,000 per person)
Carry Warm Clothing: Even in summer, it can get chilly.
Guides Available: Local guides can enrich your experience with history and safe trails.
Respect Nature: Avoid littering and preserve the glacier’s ecosystem.

For the latest details about pony ride pricing and local guides, feel free to contact us at +91-9796466052.

Where to Stay and Entry Fee

You can find hotels and guesthouses in Sonamarg. If you are looking for a more luxurious stay then stay in Srinagar and plan a day trip.

Check out our curated stays in Sonamarg and Srinagar → Browse Stays

There is no entry fee for visiting Thajiwas Glacier. Connect with us for the latest information.

What Makes Thajwas Glacier Sonmarg Special

Thajwas Glacier captivates visitors with its year-round snow coverage and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Compared to other high-altitude glaciers that require challenging treks, Thajiwas Glacier is relatively easy to access, making it ideal for families, elderly visitors, and children.

For those who prefer not to trek, pony rides are available in Sonmarg to reach the glacier comfortably.

Expected Weather at Thajiwas glacier

The expected weather at Thajiwas Glacier is cold year-round, with summer temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. In winter, temperatures often fall below -10°C. Snowfall is frequent from December to March. Clear skies are common in summer, while winter brings heavy snow and reduced visibility.

Check Our web story on Thajiwas glacier

Nearby Attractions

Sonmarg Valley – A meadow of gold with rivers and lush greenery. Get more details about Sonmarg valley
Baltal Valley – Starting point of the Amarnath Yatra. Read more about baltal valley
Zero Point– located near Sonmarg on the way to Zoji La Pass, is another breathtaking snowy attraction that draws tourists throughout the year. Read more about Zero point Sonmarg here

Read more about places to visit in Sonmarg

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Thajiwas Glacier open all year round?

No. It’s accessible primarily from April to October. Heavy snow blocks the route in winter.

Are pony rides safe for children and elders?

Yes, but always choose registered and local pony vendors.

Can I trek to the glacier on foot?

Yes! The trail is short and moderately easy for fit travelers.

How far is Sonmarg from thajiwas?

Thajiwas glacier is just 3 km from Sonmarg. You can reach thajiwas glacier by walk.

where is Thajiwas Glacier located?

Thajiwas Glacier is located about 3 km from Sonamarg town in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, at an altitude of approximately 9,186 feet (about 2,800 meters)

What is the best time to visit Thajiwas Glacier?

The best time to visit is from late March/early April to late October/early November, when the weather is pleasant and the trek is accessible. Winter visits are possible but require extra caution due to heavy snow

What activities can I do at Thajiwas Glacier?

Popular activities include trekking, camping, sledging, skiing (in winter), snowman-building, pony rides, and photography. You can also interact with the local Gujjar communities

Is it safe to visit Thajiwas Glacier?

Yes, it is generally safe if you are well-prepared, follow local guidelines, and take necessary precautions, especially regarding weather and altitude

Do I need a permit to visit Thajiwas Glacier?

No permit is required to visit Thajiwas Glacier. However, always carry a valid ID

Is there an entry fee for Thajiwas Glacier?

There is no entry fee for the glacier itself. You may need to pay for pony rides or guided tours if you opt for them

Is there mobile network coverage at Thajiwas Glacier?

Mobile network coverage is very limited or nonexistent at Thajiwas Glacier due to its high-altitude location

What is the weather like at Thajiwas Glacier?

The weather is generally cold, even in summer, with temperatures ranging from 5–15°C . In winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, and the area is covered in snow