Dras (also spelled Drass)
Dras, known as the "Gateway to Ladakh," is a picturesque town in the Kargil district of Ladakh. Situated at an altitude of 3,230 meters (10,600 ft) on National Highway 1, it holds the distinction of being the second coldest inhabited place on Earth after Oymyakon, Russia. The town's unique location at the start of the Dras Valley makes it a vital stop for travelers on the Srinagar-Leh highway. The stunning landscape is defined by its harsh yet beautiful climate, with temperatures dropping to as low as -23?C in winter. Dras gained prominence following the 1999 Kargil War, and its history is now intrinsically linked to this conflict. Today, it is a hub for tourism, offering trekking routes, historical sites, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the legendary Tiger Hill.Idea Duration2-3 Days
General information
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Place Type:
Town, Hill Station, Tourist HubPhoto Gallery
Things To Do
The Brigade War Gallery is an extension of the Kargil War Memorial, providing a more detailed and immersive experience of the 1999 conflict. It houses a collection of photographs, maps, and military artifacts from the war. The gallery offers a comprehensive timeline of the events, the strategic importance of the peaks, and the heroic deeds of the soldiers. It serves as an educational and historical resource, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the challenges and sacrifices involved in Operation Vijay. The gallery's exhibits are designed to honor the memory of the martyrs and instill a sense of pride and patriotism in visitors.
Manman Top is a viewpoint that offers a panoramic "eagle-eye" view of the entire Dras Valley and the surrounding peaks, including the Line of Control (LoC). Located at a significant altitude, this spot provides a breathtaking perspective of the cold desert landscape, with its stark mountains and lush green meadows during the summer months. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers. From Manman Top, one can also see the famous Tiger Hill and Tololing Peak, which adds to its historical and strategic significance. The journey to Manman Top itself is an adventure, with a challenging but scenic drive that takes you through the beautiful terrain of the Zanskar Range. The place is known for its serene environment and the feeling of being on top of the world.
Sankoo is a beautiful and serene town in the Suru Valley, often referred to as a "mini-Kashmir" due to its lush greenery and stunning landscapes. The town is a major administrative and commercial center in the region and is a hub for tourism. It is surrounded by majestic mountains and is a great base for trekking to the surrounding valleys. The town also has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Buddhist and Muslim communities.
Known as the "Valley of Wildflowers," Mushkoh Valley is a breathtaking landscape that stands in stark contrast to the barren terrain of Dras. In the summer months, the valley transforms into a vibrant canvas of wildflowers, including the rare Himalayan yew and other alpine flora. This stunning natural beauty belies its past as a strategic and heavily contested area during the 1999 Kargil War. The Dras River flows through the valley, adding to its serene and picturesque charm. The valley serves as a base for several trekking routes, including the one leading to Gurez in Kashmir. Mushkoh is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat away from the main tourist trail.
Zoji La, or the "Mountain Pass of Blizzards," is a high mountain pass at an altitude of 3,528 meters (11,575 ft). It is the strategic gateway that connects Kashmir to Ladakh and is renowned for being one of the most treacherous roads in the world. The pass remains closed for about six months a year due to heavy snowfall. The drive over Zoji La is a thrilling and unforgettable experience, offering dramatic views of deep gorges, snow-covered mountains, and winding roads. The pass's importance was highlighted during the 1947-48 Indo-Pak War and the 1999 Kargil War. It is a rite of passage for all travelers heading to Ladakh, marking the transition from the lush landscapes of Kashmir to the stark, cold desert of Ladakh.
Goshan is a beautiful polo ground located in a picturesque meadow on the banks of the Dras River. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a serene environment for relaxation and recreation. The ground is a hub for the traditional sport of polo, which is a popular pastime in the Ladakh region. The lush green meadow provides a stark and beautiful contrast to the surrounding barren mountains. Goshan is an ideal spot for a picnic, a short walk, or simply to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The Drang-Drung Glacier is a spectacular glacier located on the way to Zanskar. It is one of the largest glaciers in the Ladakh region and is a source of the Suru River. The glacier is a majestic sight, with its vast ice fields and towering peaks. It is a paradise for trekkers and mountaineers and offers a truly adventurous experience. The trek to the glacier is a challenging but rewarding journey, offering stunning views of the pristine, high-altitude ecosystem.Show All
Ningoor Masjid is a beautiful and historically significant mosque that holds a special place in the hearts of the local Balti Muslim community. The mosque is known for its graceful domes and minarets, which are said to be inspired by Turkish architectural styles. Legend has it that one of the mosque's walls was miraculously raised on its own during its construction, adding a mystical element to its history. The vibrant blue, green, and turquoise colors of the mosque stand out against the barren, brown landscape, making it a visually striking sight. It is a symbol of the region's rich cultural and religious heritage.Information
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