Pony Ride in Kashmir

Quick answer: Pony rides are the classic way to reach meadows and glaciers in Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonmarg. Through Happy Jacks they start from Rs 800, and rides last 1 to 3 hours depending on the route, with a local ponywallah leading the horse. Rates are regulated locally, so fix the route and fare before you mount.

Explore Kashmir's valleys on a pony, a traditional way to reach viewpoints that cars cannot. In Pahalgam ponies take you towards Aru Valley and Baisaran, while in Gulmarg they carry you across the meadows towards Khilanmarg with Apharwat rising ahead. A local handler leads the animal throughout, so you simply sit back and take in the scenery. It is a gentle option for all ages. We recommend agreeing the route in advance, and our team helps arrange registered handlers and fair, transparent rates.

Duration: 1 to 3 hours depending on the route | Best time: April to October, and winter in Gulmarg for snow trails | Price: Rs. 1,200 per person, varies by route

Popular pony routes

• Sonmarg: from the main meadow to Thajiwas Glacier, about 1 to 2 hours return, snow often into early summer.
• Gulmarg: meadow loops and trails towards Kongdoori and the Strawberry Valley side in summer.
• Pahalgam: meadow and forest trails above the town and valley routes. Some routes can be closed by the administration; we check what is open for your dates.

How much does a pony ride cost?

From Rs 800 with us. Local authorities publish rate lists by route in Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg, but at busy points you will still be approached with higher quotes. Agree the route, waiting time and return before starting, and pay at the end.

Is a pony ride safe for children?

Yes, with a ponywallah holding the reins. Small children ride with a parent, everyone keeps feet in the stirrups, and you lean forward going uphill and back going downhill. Avoid pony rides on icy trails, and skip them if you have back problems or are pregnant.

Walk or ride?

Thajiwas Glacier is a pleasant walk for fit visitors; ponies make sense for elders, children and anyone short on time. See the Thajiwas Glacier guide.

How to book with Happy Jacks

We fix the pony route and fare in advance as part of your Pahalgam, Gulmarg or Sonmarg day so there is no haggling on the spot. Message us on WhatsApp (+91 94192 44962) with your dates and group size, and we confirm the plan and price in writing. Related: Pahalgam Tour Package, Sonmarg travel guide, All Kashmir activities.

Written and checked by the Happy Jacks Tours and Travels planning team in Srinagar, who run these trips, drive these roads and operate our own Pahalgam hotels and cab fleet. Package prices on this page are read live from our published rates. Updated 16 October 2026.