Sonamarg in Winter: Now Open All Year Through the Z-Morh Tunnel
Sonamarg used to shut for winter. Since the Z-Morh tunnel opened in January 2025, the "meadow of gold" has become a snowfield you can drive to. What to expect.
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Quick answerSince the 6.5 km Z-Morh (Sonamarg) tunnel opened on 13 January 2025, Sonamarg can be reached by road in winter, about 80 km from Srinagar. Visitors come for deep snow, snow play and winter events; over 1.3 lakh visitors came between 1 January and 10 March 2025. Zojila pass beyond Sonamarg stays closed in winter.
For decades, the Sonamarg tourism board quietly came down every November and the valley slept under snow until spring. The Z-Morh tunnel changed that. Now you can drive from Srinagar into one of Kashmir's most dramatic snowscapes in winter.
Getting there
- About 80 km from Srinagar via Ganderbal and Kangan, usually 2.5–3 hours in winter conditions.
- The Z-Morh tunnel bypasses the avalanche-prone stretch that used to close the road.
- Check road advisories after heavy snow. See winter roads and flights.
What to do
- Snow play and walks on the snowfields near the town.
- Winter events: an ice skating event opened the season in January 2025, and the government plans more winter sports.
- Photography of the peaks. See winter photo spots.
- Local union taxis and ponies may operate in good conditions; follow local advice.
Safety
- The slopes around Sonamarg are avalanche-prone after heavy snow; stay on cleared areas.
- Do not attempt to go beyond the town towards Zojila; the pass is closed in winter.
- Facilities are fewer than in Gulmarg; carry snacks and water.
- See winter safety tips.
Day trip or overnight?
Most visitors do a day trip from Srinagar. If you stay over, confirm heating and power. For summer, read the Sonamarg travel guide.
Add Sonamarg to your winter trip
Sonamarg pairs well with Gulmarg in a 4 or 5-night plan. Ask through Get My Travel Plan, or see the winter 4 nights 5 days package.
Plan the rest of your Kashmir trip
- Best Places to See Snow in Kashmir (and When to Go): Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Yusmarg and even Srinagar itself: where the snow is most reliable, how to get there in winter, and which places are closed.
- Kashmir in January: January is the coldest, snowiest month in Kashmir: the best time for skiing and snow play in Gulmarg, frosty Srinagar mornings and a real taste of Chillai Kalan.
- Kashmir Tour Packages from Every State of India: Travelling from any of India's 28 states? Find the fastest route to Srinagar, how many nights to plan, the best season for your region and a link to your state's full…
Frequently asked questions
Is Sonamarg open in winter?
Yes. Since the Z-Morh tunnel opened in January 2025, Sonamarg can be reached by road in winter, subject to snow advisories.
Is Zojila open in winter?
No. The Zojila pass beyond Sonamarg usually stays closed for much of winter.
What can I do in Sonamarg in winter?
Snow play, walks on cleared snowfields, photography and winter events when they are held.
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