Tourist Reception Centre Campground — Sonamarg

Sonamarg’s Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) campground sits at the western foot of the Zoji La approach, right in the Sindh Valley at roughly 2,740m. It’s a government-run J&K Tourism facility with tent plots and a handful of basic hut-style accommodations. The grounds face the Thajiwas Glacier ridgeline — you wake up staring at snow even in June. It’s the logical staging point before an early-morning departure over the pass, when the road is firmer and military convoy traffic is lighter. Busy in July-August with domestic pilgrims and Amarnath yatris — book ahead or arrive early.

Access is straightforward paved NH1 from Srinagar (~80 km). The campground is in the main Sonamarg bazaar area near the TRC office. Cell signal is patchy but Jio sometimes works. Water available on-site. Fuel in Sonamarg town before you head up — next reliable fuel is Drass, 60 km past the pass.

Last camp before Zoji La — stage here.