The Drass War Memorial commemorates the soldiers who fought valiantly during the Kargil War in 1999. It serves as a poignant reminder of their sacrifices and stands as a symbol of national pride and resilience.
Significance
The memorial stands as a tribute to the bravery of the Indian Armed Forces and attracts numerous visitors each year. It is also known as the Kargil War Memorial and is a place where people come to pay their respects and honor the fallen heroes.
What to Do
- Visit the Memorial: Pay respects to the fallen soldiers and reflect on their courage. The memorial features a large wall with the names of the soldiers who lost their lives during the war.
- Explore the Area: Learn about the history of the Kargil War through information displays and exhibits. The memorial also has a museum that showcases artifacts, photographs, and documents from the war.
- Attend the Flag Hoisting Ceremony: Witness the daily flag hoisting ceremony, which is a moving tribute to the soldiers.
Location
The memorial is located in Drass, about 60 kilometers from Kargil, on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway. Drass is known for its strategic importance and its harsh climatic conditions
Sights
Map
Info
Did You Know?
- Drass is known as the “second coldest inhabited place on Earth,” making the memorial a site of resilience.
- The temperature in Drass once plummeted to a chilling -60°C in the 1990s, making it the coldest place in the world after Russia.
- The memorial features a replica of the famous Tololing Hill, which was a significant battleground during the Kargil War.
- The Amar Jawan Jyoti, an eternal flame, burns at the memorial to honor the soldiers’ sacrifices.
- The memorial is a popular destination for school trips and educational tours, helping to instill a sense of patriotism in young minds.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
- Maintain a respectful demeanor at the memorial.
- Take part in guided tours to learn more about the history.
- Dress warmly, as Drass is known for its cold weather.
Don’ts:
- Avoid touching or defacing the memorial structures.
- Do not make loud noises or disturb other visitors.
- Refrain from littering and keep the area clean.