How to Reach Base Camp of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

Location of KGL Trek Base Camp

Sonamarg is situated in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, approximately 80 km from Srinagar. It lies on the Srinagar–Leh highway, making it one of the last accessible destinations before the rugged terrains of Ladakh. Since Sonamarg is a high-altitude destination at 2,730 meters (8,957 feet) above sea level, reaching it requires strategic planning, especially for trekkers carrying gear. 

Best Time to Travel to Sonamarg

Before embarking on the journey to Sonamarg, it is crucial to consider the ideal travel months:

• Summer (June to September) – This is the best time for trekking as the roads remain open, and the weather is favorable.
• Winter (October to April) – Heavy snowfall blocks access to Sonamarg, making it nearly impossible to reach via road.

For those planning the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, it is recommended to arrive in Sonamarg at least a day in advance to acclimatize. 

Check the trek route & weather conditions: 
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek In June
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek In July

How to Reach Sonamarg Base Camp from Srinagar?

Since Srinagar is the closest major city with an airport, it serves as the primary entry point for travelers heading to Sonamarg.

A. By Air: Flight to Srinagar International Airport

The fastest and most convenient way to begin the journey is by taking a flight to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR) in Srinagar. This airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata with multiple airlines operating daily flights.

• Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR), Srinagar
• Distance to Sonamarg: ~80 km
• Travel Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours

After arriving in Srinagar, the next step is to reach Sonamarg via road.

B. By Road: Travel from Srinagar to Sonamarg

The road journey from Srinagar to Sonamarg is incredibly scenic, passing through lush valleys, pine forests, and the famous Zoji La Pass.

Private Taxi

Hiring a private taxi from Srinagar is the most comfortable and hassle-free option.

• Cost: ₹2,500–₹4,000 for a one-way trip (depending on the vehicle type)
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Route: Srinagar → Ganderbal → Wayil → Kangan → Gund → Sonamarg

Shared Cabs

Budget travelers can opt for shared cabs available at Srinagar’s Tourist Reception Center or the Pari Mahal Taxi Stand.

• Cost: ₹500–₹700 per person
• Duration: 4+ hours (as it stops for passengers)

Public Bus Services

J&K State Transport operates buses from Srinagar to Sonamarg, but they are infrequent and less reliable.

• Cost: ₹150–₹250 per person
• Duration: 4–5 hours

Pro Tip: For the smoothest experience, book a private cab or shared taxi early in the morning to avoid delays. 

How to Reach Sonamarg Base Camp from Jammu?

For those traveling from other parts of India, Jammu serves as another entry point before heading to Srinagar.

A. By Train: Arriving at Jammu Tawi Railway Station

Since Srinagar does not have a railway station, the nearest major railhead is Jammu Tawi (JAT).

• Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi, ~270 km from Srinagar
• Major Trains: Jammu Rajdhani, Vande Bharat Express, Shalimar Express
• Travel Time to Srinagar: 7–8 hours by road

From Jammu, travelers can either take a flight or a road journey to Srinagar, followed by a trip to Sonamarg.

B. By Road: Jammu to Srinagar to Sonamarg

The road distance from Jammu to Srinagar is approximately 270 km, taking 8 to 10 hours via the NH44 highway, which passes through:

• Udhampur
• Patnitop
• Banihal
• Qazigund
• Anantnag
• Srinagar

From Srinagar, travelers must take another 3-hour road journey to reach Sonamarg.

Alternative: Luxury buses and shared taxis run between Jammu and Srinagar daily, offering affordable travel options. 

Special Permits and Requirements

For domestic travelers, no special permits are needed to enter Sonamarg. However, foreign nationals must register at the Tourist Registration Center in Srinagar before proceeding to Sonamarg.

Important Considerations

• Inner Line Permits (ILP): Not required for Indian citizens.
• Foreigners: Must carry passport and visa copies.
• ID Proof: Always keep a government-issued photo ID handy for security checks.

Create a complete checklist of Packing Essentials on Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Reaching Sonamarg, the base camp of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, is an adventure in itself. Whether you fly to Srinagar, drive from Jammu, or take a shared cab, the journey to this alpine paradise is a memorable experience.

Proper planning, early departures, and checking weather conditions will ensure a smooth and comfortable trip to Sonamarg, setting the stage for an unforgettable trekking expedition through Kashmir’s pristine wilderness.

Prepare well, travel safely, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime!

Here are the other informational articles related to the trek:
Cost of Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
How Difficult Is Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
Tarsar Marsar Trek Vs Kashmir Great Lakes
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Do’s and Don’ts
Campsites On The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
Lakes On Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
How Safe Is Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
Is It Worth Doing the Kashir Great Lakes Trek?