In this my 4th Episode of Beauty of Kashmir, I am going to share or describe about the way of Thajwas Glacier, Sonamarg visit. After leaving my camping site as I mentioned in my previous post Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 3 - My Camping experience at Sonamarg we arrived at Sonamarg market. We parked our vehicle at Sumo Stand, Sonamarg. After that with the help of our driver, we booked horses for my all family members to reach up to Glacier. You must be able to bargain as they quote high rate at the initial which is negotiable. You can hire Snow boots and Jacket near the parking area as you will find many shops. We went there in Summer so we did not hire anything as there was not much snow and atmosphere was also pleasant. So we started heading towards Thajwas Glacier.
Caption: Thajwas Glacier View from Parking.
Caption: While going towards Glacier.
Visiting Thajwas Glacier was an incredible experience. The glacier is located in the Pir Panjal mountain range, in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India. The glacier is situated at an altitude of 3,000 meters and is spread over an area of 3 to 4 Kms. The landscape around the glacier is breath taking. The mountains are covered in small amount of snow and the view of the surrounding valleys is truly amazing. It was a truly humbling experience to stand in the middle of such a vast expanse of nature.
Caption: A view while riding on a Hrose.
Visiting Thajwas Glacier on horse was an incredible experience…! The horse ride was a great way to explore the glacier, as it allowed me to take in the breath taking views. The horses were very friendly and easy to ride, making it a very pleasant experience. The views of the glacier were stunning, and it was amazing to witness the power of nature. The snow-covered mountains, the glistening ice, and the vast expanse of the glacier made it a perfect setting for a peaceful ride.
Caption: Glacier view while riding on a Horse.
The glacier has many features such as a lake, a cave, and a large glacier moraine. There is a lake known as Royal Sar Lake. The lake provides some of the best trout fishing in the region. Unfortunately, we could not visit this lake due to some constraints. The cave provides shelter during the harsh weather of the region and also serves as a place of worship for the local people. The moraine is a huge wall of ice, which is estimated to be around 300 meters in height and stretches for several kms.
Caption: View of beautiful Thajwas Glacier.
The view of the mountains and the valley were breath taking, and the sound of the horses’ hooves clattering against the rocky ground made the experience even more authentic. The joy of riding on a horse through the stunning valley on a narrow trail was a life time experience. We all were enjoying the ride very much.
Caption: Another view of Glacier.
While riding, I got every view was eye-catching. I was looking each and every direction, I was getting great shot. During my 2 hours riding I got lots of shots. The contrast of Greenery and the white Glacier making us feel in a different world.
Caption: The way of Glacier.
The local government has made small trail for the tourist to reach up to the Glacier. Along, the trail you will find the small water trail which is very mesmerizing. The noise of water in such a beautiful valley makes us fresh and energetic.
Caption: View near the base of Glacier.
At the base of the Glacier, we got down from the horse. We had tea and snacks and headed towards the Glacier. Glacier had small amount of snow. We reached on the snow just by trekking some few hundred meters. There was only sledging available. So I enjoyed a sledging with my son.
Caption: The View through the valley.
Standing between the breathtakingly beautiful valley of Thajwas Glacier is a surreal experience. The massive glacier is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush greenery. The air is crisp and fresh, and the sound of the water cascading down the glacier is calming. As I stand there, I was filled with a sense of awe and wonder, as I take in this incredible view. The glacier is a reminder of the power and beauty of nature, and I feel so lucky to be able to witness it. I can only hope that in the future, this beautiful valley will remain untouched, and that it will continue to be a source of inspiration and solace to all who visit it.
Caption: The Thajwas Glacier in Summer.
Caption: The trail route.
Caption: Contrast between two mountains.
The white snow on the mountains is a stark contrast to the lush green neighbour mountain, creating a picturesque backdrop. The tranquil atmosphere makes it the perfect place to take a break. The sound of running water and birds singing in the background creates a calming atmosphere. As you take in the beauty of the glacier, you can’t help but feel a sense of peace and serenity. Whether you take a hike, go for a picnic, or simply sit and admire the view.
Caption: Grazing Sheeps.
Sheeps graze contentedly in a lush green valley, their mouths full of juicy grass. The sound of their munching is the only sound that can be heard, disturbed only by the occasional bleat of one of the flock. The sun beats down on their fleece and warms their skin, while the breeze rustles through the tall grass. The valley is a peaceful and tranquil place, and the sheep enjoy the delicious meal they’ve been presented with. As they wander around, they take in the beauty of the landscape around them, and are content with the world. In above photo, I think, the wool on this sheep has been cut recently as the cutting marks by trimmer is visible. I am blessed to witness such a beautiful moment in the vicinity of beautiful nature at Sonamarg.
Caption: Nature is Supreme.
In Kashmir, the atmosphere changes any time. While we were returning, we witnessed short stormy weather with chill strong air. But witnessing such a moment is truly pleasant. We spent some time on the ice, clicked our family photos, had lots of fun in the snow and left.
Caption: Returning from Glacier Valley.
Caption: Beauty is everywhere.
Caption: The real sleep.
The place where the man is sleeping near the river in the valley is surrounded by the beauty of nature. The gentle sound of the river, the birds singing in the surrounding trees, and the cool breeze of the valley all provide a restful atmosphere for the man. His face was weary, giving off a sense of weariness and hardship. As he sleeps, his dreams are likely filled with hopes of a refreshing better future and the promise of a new beginning. I can imagine what he must be filling at that moment.
Caption: My selfie while riding on Horse.
The experience of visiting Thajwas Glacier was truly unforgettable. The serenity and beauty of the place really left me in awe. I would definitely recommend visiting this place to anyone looking for a peaceful and tranquil experience in the midst of nature. The Thajwas Glacier is a place of beauty and tranquillity, and the memories I created there will stay with me forever.
Other Episodes:
1. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 1 - Shalimar Garden
2. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 2 - Gulmarg Gondola Ride (Kungdoor & Aphrawat)
3. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 3 - My Camping experience at Sonamarg
5. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 5 - Evening Shikara Ride at Dal Lake, Srinagar
6. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 6 - Houseboat Stay at Dal Lake, Srinagar.
7. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 7 - Visit to Famous Saffron Shop in Kashmir.
8. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 8 - Baisaran Valley, a Mini Switzerland in India.
9. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 9 - Aru Valley, Pahalgam.
10. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 10 - Visit to Poshwan Park.
11. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 11 - Visit to a Pristine Alpine Betaab Valley.
12. Beauty of Kashmir - Episode 12 - River Rafting and Visit to Apple Farm.
Simply unbelievable!!!
