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3 Days in Sonamarg for a Food Trip
Sonamarg isn't just about stunning landscapes—it's a hidden gem for food lovers too. Over three days, you'll taste the best of Kashmiri cuisine, from rich wazwan feasts to simple street-side delights. I've spent years exploring the local food scene, and this itinerary covers the must-try dishes and where to find them.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Sonamarg
Start your Sonamarg adventure with its most iconic sights and flavors, from breathtaking mountain views to hearty Kashmiri meals.
Activities
Thajiwas Glacier Trek
Kick off your morning with a gentle trek to Thajiwas Glacier, Sonamarg's star attraction. The 3-4 km trail winds through pine forests and meadows dotted with wildflowers, ending at a stunning glacier surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Local pony rides are available if you prefer not to walk.
- Wear sturdy shoes - the trail gets rocky near the glacier
- Bargain firmly for pony rides - rates are flexible
Lunch at Glacier View Restaurant
Refuel after your trek at this unassuming local favorite with panoramic mountain views. Their signature dish is the Kashmiri thali - a spread of rogan josh, dum aloo, rajma, and steaming rice topped with crispy saunth (dried ginger) garnish. Don't miss the kahwa (saffron tea) served in traditional samovars.
- Ask for the day's special - often fresh trout from Sindh River
- Try their homemade walnut chutney with bread
Sindh River Walk & Photo Stop
Spend your late afternoon strolling along the turquoise Sindh River. The best photo spot is near the old wooden bridge where locals often graze their sheep. If you're visiting May-July, you'll see colorful nomadic Gujjar settlements with their distinctive woven tents along the banks.
- Wear windproof layers - river breeze gets chilly
- Look for the hidden waterfall 15 mins upstream from the bridge
Must Try Foods
Transportation
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Day 2
Day 2 in Sonamarg
A mix of scenic beauty and local flavors, with a visit to a high-altitude meadow and a taste of Kashmiri hospitality.
Activities
Baltal Valley Visit
Head to Baltal Valley, a stunning meadow surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It's quieter than Sonamarg but just as beautiful, with lush greenery and the sound of the Sindh River nearby. Perfect for a peaceful walk or just soaking in the views. If you're up for it, you can even take a short pony ride around the valley.
- Wear sturdy shoes—the terrain can be uneven.
- Carry a light jacket; it gets breezy even in summer.
Local Kashmiri Wazwan Experience
For lunch, dive into a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan feast. This multi-course meal is a celebration of flavors, with dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Gushtaba. Many local guesthouses offer this experience—ask around for the most authentic spot. The slow-cooked meats and rich gravies are a must-try.
- Call ahead to confirm—some places prepare Wazwan only on request.
- Go hungry—it’s a lot of food!
Nilagrad River Dip & Tea Break
Visit Nilagrad, where the reddish-brown waters of the river are believed to have healing properties. Locals swear by a dip here, but even if you skip the swim, it’s a serene spot to relax. Pair it with a cup of Kahwa (Kashmiri saffron tea) from a nearby stall while enjoying the mountain views.
- The water is icy—even a quick splash is refreshing!
- Bargain lightly at tea stalls; prices can be flexible.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Hidden Gems of Sonamarg
A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and savoring local flavors in Sonamarg, with a mix of nature and culture.
Activities
Morning at Zojila Pass Viewpoint
Head to the Zojila Pass viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. It's less crowded than Thajiwas Glacier but equally breathtaking. The drive itself is scenic, with winding roads and dramatic landscapes. Pack a thermos of kahwa (Kashmiri saffron tea) to enjoy with the view.
- Dress in layers—it gets windy at the pass
- Ask locals for the best photo spots—some angles aren’t obvious
Village Walk in Shitkari
Visit Shitkari, a quiet village near Sonamarg, to see traditional Kashmiri life. Walk past wooden houses, meet shepherds with their flocks, and maybe even spot a walnut woodcarver at work. The village is surrounded by apple orchards and tiny streams—perfect for a slow-paced wander.
- Wear comfortable shoes—paths can be uneven
- Carry small change if you want to buy homemade jams or crafts
Lunch at a Local Home (Dastarkhwan Experience)
Skip restaurants and opt for a home-cooked meal with a Kashmiri family. Many locals offer 'dastarkhwan' (traditional dining spreads) for visitors. Expect dishes like rogan josh, dum aloo, and fresh nadru (lotus stem) cooked in mustard oil, served with warm rice and homemade yogurt.
- Ask to help roll out the wazwan bread—it’s fun!
- Try the salted noon chai (pink tea) post-meal for digestion