Hung Park

Ganderbal

Overview

Hung Park is a scenic eco-tourism spot located approximately 6.8 kilometers from Sonamarg, along the Srinagar-Leh Highway. Nestled amidst the Sindh River, the park offers picturesque views and serves as an ideal picnic spot for travelers. Developed by the Forest Department to promote eco-tourism, Hung Park features a play area for children, including a trampoline, and several cafeterias offering a variety of food options.

Weather

Spring (March to May)

Temperatures range from -3°C to 15°C. The snow begins to melt, revealing lush green meadows and blooming flowers. .

Summer (June to August)

The most pleasant time to visit, with temperatures between 5°C and 25°C. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. .

Autumn (September to November)

Temperatures gradually drop from 15°C to -2°C. The landscape transforms with autumnal hues, offering a different kind of beauty.

Winter (December to February)

Temperatures can plummet to -15°C, with heavy snowfall making the area inaccessible at times. This period, known locally as 'Chillai Kalan', is characterized by intense cold.

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar, approximately 80 kilometers from Sonamarg. .

By Train

Nearest Major Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station Distance to Hung Park: Approx. 300 km. From Jammu, take a taxi or bus to Srinagar (around 270 km), then continue to Sonamarg. There is no direct train to Sonamarg or nearby Ganderbal area.

By Road

From Srinagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Sonamarg via National Highway 1. Hung Park is situated 6.8 kilometers before Sonamarg on the Srinagar-Leh Highway.

Best time to Visit

Apr-Oct

The optimal time to visit Hung Park is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant, and the park is accessible. During these months, the natural beauty of the area is at its peak, making it ideal for picnics and outdoor activities.

History

Hung Park is a relatively recent development , it is part of modern eco-tourism initiatives launched by the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department and local authorities to promote sustainable tourism in the Sonamarg region. Hung Park was developed as part of a government-backed plan to enhance tourism without harming the environment. Located along the Sindh River, the park was chosen for its scenic beauty and easy accessibility from the Srinagar-Leh highway.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hung Park known for?

Is there an entry fee to visit Hung Park?

Are food and basic facilities available inside the park?

Is Hung Park open all year round?

Can I visit Hung Park with family and children?

Flora Fauna

Deodar (Cedrus deodara) – Himalayan Cedar

Type: Evergreen coniferous tree Found in: Surrounding forests near Hung Park Notable for: Tall, majestic appearance; often part of scenic forest cover Cultural/Ecological role: Considered sacred and known for resistance to rot—commonly used in Kashmiri wooden architecture.

Blue Poppy (Meconopsis aculeata)

Type: Alpine flowering plant Season: Blooms in late spring to summer Found in: High-altitude meadows near Sonamarg; occasionally in protected edges of Hung Park Notable for: Vivid blue color; rare and endangered Special Note: Considered Kashmir’s “state flower” in local culture.

Wild Iris and Daisies

Type: Seasonal alpine flowers Found in: Open patches near the river and meadows around Hung Park Season: Spring to early autumn Notable for: Adding color and attracting butterflies, bees, and pollinators

Brown Trout (Salmo trutta)

Habitat: Sindh River (which flows beside Hung Park) Introduced during the Dogra rule, it is now a signature fish of the region. Ecological role: Supports local angling tourism. Note: Often found in the cold, fast-flowing streams around Hung Park; fishing requires permits.

Himalayan Marmot (Marmota himalayana)

Habitat: Alpine grasslands, often visible during summer months near Sonamarg and along meadows around Hung Park. Marmots are frequently seen on grassy banks and roadsides leading to Sonamarg. Behavior: Social rodents, often whistling loudly to signal danger.

Himalayan Bulbul (Pycnonotus leucogenys)

Habitat: Shrubbery, open wooded areas around Hung Park. Common bird of the area, recognizable by its melodic call and black crest. Presence: Often seen hopping around picnic zones or perching on fences and trees.

Jungle Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos)

Habitat: All over Kashmir, particularly near human settlements and forest edges like Hung Park. Adapted to picnic and tourist sites; commonly scavenges leftovers. Role: Environmental cleaner, though often seen as a nuisance.

Himalayan Weasel (Mustela sibirica)

Habitat: Forest edges and riverbanks Sometimes spotted in quieter corners of Sonamarg and nearby stretches like Hung Park. Behavior: Elusive, active during twilight hours; preys on rodents and insects.

European Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis)

Habitat: Riverine trees and grass patches near Hung Park A colorful migratory songbird that frequents Himalayan meadows Appearance: Bright red face with yellow wing bars; very social

Adventures

Picnic and Riverside Exploration

Casual nature walk, riverside relaxation, and picnic setups Hung Park is specifically developed for eco-tourism with gazebos, benches, green lawns, and direct access to the Sindh River’s edge. Easy (suitable for all age groups)

Short Nature Trails and Forest Walks

Exploring trails around the park and nearby coniferous forest zones The park is nestled in a forested zone, ideal for short hikes, birdwatching, and plant observation. Easy to moderate Best in spring and summer

Riverbank Adventure for Children

Safe, structured play areas and river-edge stone hopping Hung Park has been equipped with children-friendly play areas and shallow riverside zones ideal for soft exploration. Supervised family-friendly

Photography and Birdwatching

Capturing Himalayan landscapes, birds, and wildflowers Due to minimal crowding compared to central Sonamarg, the park is quieter, making it a good spot for wildlife or landscape photography. Morning or late afternoon

Fishing (with permit) in Sindh River

Angling for brown trout The Sindh River flows right beside Hung Park and is a known brown trout fishing zone. Requirements: Fishing license from the Fisheries Department Season: Spring and early summer

Foods

Kehwa (Kashmiri Saffron Tea)

Traditional warm beverage Green tea leaves, saffron strands, cardamom, almonds Served at most roadside tea stalls; popular with tourists for its soothing effect in the mountain chill.

Nadir Monje

Deep-fried lotus stem fritters Spicy and crispy; served hot with chutney Often sold at small stalls or by local vendors, especially near tourist hubs like Hung Park Popular Kashmiri street snack

Nearby Places

Ganderbal - The Peaceful Paradise

Sonmarg - Meadow Of Gold

Baltal Meadows

Krishansar Lake - Jewel of the Himalayas

Vishansar Lake - Gem Amidst the Peaks

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