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How To Reach Dras
Jammu and Kashmir, India
Extreme Geography: Dras is famously known as the second coldest inhabited place in the world, situated at an altitude of over 10,000 feet in the Kargil district. It serves as the gateway to the Ladakh region, marking the transition from the lush green valleys of Kashmir to the high-altitude cold des ert. The winters here are incredibly harsh, with temperatures often dropping below -40 degrees Celsius, yet the resilience of the local population is legendary. In summer, the valley transforms into a beautiful landscape of green meadows and wildflowers, fed by the melting snow of the surrounding peaks. It is a place of stark contrasts, where the raw power of nature is visible in every mountain ridge and river stream. Kargil War Significance: The town gained global prominence during the 1999 Kargil War, as it was one of the primary battlegrounds between Indian and Pakistani forces. The surrounding peaks, such as Tiger Hill and Tololing, were the sites of intense conflict, and their names have become synonymous with bravery. Today, the Dras War Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the Indian soldiers during the war. Visitors from all over the country come here to pay their respects and learn about the history of the conflict. This military history has deeply influenced the town's identity and its relationship with the rest of the nation. Cultural Mosaic: The population of Dras is a unique mix of Dardic and Balti ethnicities, with a culture that is distinct from both the Kashmir Valley and the rest of Ladakh. The local language, Shina, is an ancient tongue that reflects the region's deep historical roots. Despite the isolation caused by the heavy winter snows, the people maintain a vibrant social life centered around their mosques and community centers. Traditional sports like horse polo are still played with great passion during the summer months, showcasing the community's rugged and spirited nature. This cultural distinctiveness makes Dras a fascinating stop for travelers interested in the human side of the Himalayas. Strategic Importance: Located on the crucial National Highway 1, Dras is a vital link between Srinagar and Leh. It is the first major settlement after crossing the formidable Zojila Pass, which remains closed for several months due to snow. The town's economy is heavily dependent on this transit trade and the presence of the military, which provides logistics and employment. Efforts are ongoing to develop the region as a major eco-tourism and trekking destination to diversify the local economy. The completion of the Zojila tunnel will soon provide year-round connectivity, which is expected to bring significant changes to the socio-economic landscape of this high-altitude valley.
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How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is in Srinagar, 140 KMS away, or Leh airport, which is about 280 KMS away. From either airport, one must travel by road to reach Dras, which is a significant part of the Himalayan journey.

By Train: The closest major railway station is Jammu Tawi, about 440 KMS away. Most travelers prefer taking a train to Jammu and then a taxi to Srinagar before continuing to Dras as part of a larger Ladakh trip.

By Road: Dras is located on the National Highway 1 connecting Srinagar to Leh. The journey involves crossing the Zojila Pass, which is an adventurous drive. Taxis and buses run regularly from Srinagar to Kargil, stopping at Dras.

Local Transport: Since the town is small, most places within it are walkable. For visiting nearby valleys like Mushko, hiring a private local taxi from the main town stand is the most reliable option for tourists.

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