Thajiwas Glacier Guide: Distance, Pony Rates, Trek Time & Best Season
HOME
STAY
BOOK

Thajiwas Glacier: Distance, Trek, Pony Rides and Best Season

Thajiwas Glacier is 3 to 4 km from Sonamarg town, set at about 9,800 ft in a meadow ringed by snow-capped mountains. You can walk, ride a pony, or take a cab to the meadow entry and walk the last stretch. Entry is free, no permit is needed, and the best months are June to September. Here is everything to know before you go.

Thajiwas Glacier above the Sonamarg meadow

Thajiwas Glacier at a Glance

Distance
3 to 4 km one way from Sonamarg town
Altitude
About 9,800 ft (roughly 2,990 m)
On foot
About 1 to 2 hours one way, depending on your pace
By pony
1 to 1.5 hours, Rs. 1,500 to 2,000 per person
By cab
10 to 15 minutes from the resort to the meadow entry, then a short walk
Entry fee
Free for all domestic and foreign visitors
Permit
None required. Rules can change seasonally, so check before you visit.
Best season
June to September. Sledging on snow patches, April to June.

How to Reach Thajiwas Glacier

On Foot

The meadow trail is a short trek of about 3 km and starts minutes from our resort. Wear comfortable trekking shoes, start early, and allow extra time on the uphill stretch.

By Pony

Book ponies in Sonamarg market. They carry you through the meadow to the glacier base, which suits children and elderly family members. Expect Rs. 1,500 to 2,000 per person, and confirm the rate before you set off.

By Cab and a Short Walk

Hire a cab to the meadow entry point, about 10 to 15 minutes from the resort, then walk the last short stretch.

Guides

First-time visitors should consider a local guide, arranged at a negotiable cost from Sonamarg market. Our team can help arrange guides and pony bookings.

What to Do at Thajiwas Glacier

Trek

A short, scenic route through pine and fir meadow.

Sledging

On snow patches near the glacier from April to June.

Photography

Soft blue light in the morning, glowing glacier in the afternoon.

Nature Walk and Birdwatching

Wildflowers bloom in late June and July.

Best Time to Visit Thajiwas Glacier

June to September

The best window. The route is open, the weather is pleasant, and meadows are green with wildflowers. June and July suit families and first-timers.

September

Quieter trails, clearer skies, and beautiful valley light. Ideal for photographers.

April to June

Snow patches remain near the glacier base, so this is the sledging window.

Winter

Heavy snow can make the route inaccessible. Check conditions with our front desk before you plan a winter visit.

Tips Before You Go

Start early

Beat the crowds and enjoy the best light.

Dress warm

Carry a jacket or fleece even in summer, as it stays chilly at the glacier in every month.

Carry water and snacks

A few vendors operate near the meadow, but do not rely on them.

Pack essentials

Sunscreen, sunglasses, gloves, and a basic first-aid kit.

Check the weather

It can change quickly in the hills. Our team advises on trail conditions each morning.

Read this season's notes

Our blog carries the 2026 Thajiwas Glacier season guide with updated tips. Read the 2026 guide.

Thajiwas Glacier FAQs

How far is Thajiwas Glacier from Sonamarg?

3 to 4 km one way. From our resort it takes 10 to 15 minutes by cab to the meadow entry, 1 to 1.5 hours by pony, or about 1 to 2 hours on foot.

Is there an entry fee or permit?

No fee and no special permit. Check current rules before visiting, because they can change seasonally.

How much does a pony ride cost?

Around Rs. 1,500 to 2,000 per person, booked in Sonamarg market.

Can I visit Thajiwas Glacier and Zero Point in one day?

Yes. They lie along the same route, and covering both in a day is very manageable with an early start.

Is it suitable for children and older travellers?

Yes, most activities suit all ages. Ponies are a comfortable option for children and elderly family members.

Stay Close to the Glacier

The trail starts minutes from our door. Be on the meadow before the day-trip crowds, then return to a hot meal and a warm room.

TripAdvisorReviews