Tourist Places To Visit In Kargil

Kargil is a charming district in Ladakh division of Jammu & Kashmir. It is located at an altitude of 8780 feet, on the banks of Suru River, a tributary of River Indus. Facing the Northern Area across the Line of Control (LOC), it is about 205 km from Srinagar. Given the beautiful locales and landscape, Kargil has some interesting tourist places to be explored, as shown below. 

The 18^th century Rangdum Monastery is located in Suru Valley at an elevation of 4031 meters. Towering over the surrounding landscape, hills and rugged mountains, the monastery commands a majestic presence. It houses a fascinating collection of Tibetan paintings and artefacts which people can visit and see. The remoteness of the monastery gives a serenity that is unparalleled and attractive.

The Mulbekh Monastery belongs to Gelugpa and Drukpa sects. It is famous for its twin gompas. This too is located at an altitude eof 3304 meters. It houses a stunning nine metres tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. The statue also known as Chamba was constructed in 8^th century AD. Many find a strong resemblance of Lord Shiva with this image of Lord Buddha. The monastery has many frescos, relics and inscriptions dating back to 14^th century.

This is a beautiful place where you will find yourself in the lap of nature surrounded by nature’s creations of valleys, hills and rivers. The valley is flanked by jugged and Rocky Mountains on one side and lush green meadows on the other. There are two peaks, the Nun Peak (7135 meters) and Kun Peak (7035 meters). It is well connected by Leh and Srinagar by road. There are regular bus services.

Pensi La serves as a mountain pass and a gateway to Padum. Padum is the headquarters of Zansjar division of Kargil district. Pensi La is worth visiting for the absolutely gorgeous and stunning view that it offers tourists of Drang Drung Glacier, glacial lake and Suru River Valley.

This is a must visit place in Kargil. Following the Kargil War, a war memorial was created in commemoration of the Indian soldiers. The memorial, maintained by the Indian Army has photos and stories relating to the soldiers who fought in the war and has 100 feet high flagpoles. There is also a Sandstone wall which has names of all men who were martyred in the Kargil War. From here tourists are also treated to a view of some peaks which India successful captured from the Pakistanis during the war. Those interested can even pick up a souvenir to take back home from the souvenir shop.

Kargil is a small place in a remote part of the country. Hence it does not boast of luxurious shops or markets. Nevertheless, the Kargil main street is quite an interesting place to explore. There are small dry fruit shops, eateries etc in the lanes and by lanes of this charming little town. There are also souvenir shops where travellers can pick up a souvenir of their adventurous trip.