Kargil stands at a towering height of 8,780ft and is regarded as one of the most sensitive places along India’s Line of Control (LOC). It is situated on the banks of the pristine Indus River (or the Suru River), and is around 205km from the state capital Srinagar and around 1,047km from India’s capital New Delhi.
History
Until 15th August, 1947, before the independence of India, Kargil was a part of the Baltistan district of Ladakh. It is home to diverse linguistic and religious groups. During the first Kashmir war, which resulted in the LOC splitting the Baltistan district and Kargil becoming a part of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Following the culmination of Indo-Pakistan war in 1971, India and Pakistan signed the Shimla agreement guaranteeing not to engage in armed conflict. In 1999, the area witnessed unethical intrusion by Pakistani troops, who were repulsed by India in the Kargil war. The area which saw penetration is a 160 kilometer long stretch of ridges overlooking the national highway
Best Time to Visit Kargil
Summer (April to June) is the best time to visit Kargil. During this period of the year, the town stays comparatively warm with cooler nights. Visitors can expect a pleasant experience as the climate stays quiet and calm with clear views all around.
On the other hand, if you are planning for a Leh Ladakh trip and visit Kargil during the winters (October to February), you must postpone your plans! Winters in Kargil are marked by drastic drop in the temperature; -40 to -50 degrees is the average winter temperature.
Even monsoon (July to September) is also a good time to indulge in Leh Ladakh tourism and visit Kargil. Heavy rainfall during this season increases the chances of landslides; roadblocks might prove to be a huge obstacle to all the Leh Ladakh tour packages in Kargil during the monsoons.
Tourist Attractions in Kargil
Mulbek Chamba
nown for the Buddhist structures, Mulbek Chamba is popular for a 9 metre high sculpture of Maitreya (the future Buddha), which was built during the 7th and 8th century.
Mulbek Gompa
Mulbek Gompa, a Buddhist Monastery, has a number of Buddha statues and wall paintings. Located on a hilltop, the monastery was once used as an outpost to preserve the route of travellers and merchants.
Shergol
This beautiful, small village in the Wakha River valley is the starting point for trekking tours to the Suru Valley.
Kargil War Memorial:
This is in fact one of the must-not-miss places to visit in all the Leh Ladakh tour packages. Located in Kargil, the Kargil War Memorial is maintained by the Indian Army and it was built to commemorate the heroic sacrifices of the brave soldier who sacrificed their lives while saving the country.
Pensi La Pass:
Located around 14,436ft above the sea level, Pensi La Pass connects the Zanskar Valley and the Suru Valley. Pensi La Pass is located on the way to Rangdum Monastery in Ladakh.
Suru Valley:
Visit this captivating valley during the summer, and you will be greeted with mesmerising views of its lush greeneries. Adorned by the charm and warmth of the Indus River, Suru Valley is also the home to fascinating peaks like Nun (1,135m) and Kun (7,035m).
How To Reach
By Air:
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the nearest airport to Kargil. Visitors can board flights to Leh from almost all major Indian cities in India. Almost all primary airlines have flights to Leh. On arrival in Leh, visitors can hire private cabs, taxis, or regular buses to reach Kargil.
By Road:
Road journeys to Kargil are one of the best ways to make it to the valley. The drive is accompanied by gracious views of the nearby peaks and magnificent valleys. Visitors can hire private cabs or taxis to reach the main valley. Buses are also available from Srinagar and other tourist places in Ladakh.
By Train:
Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station to Kargil. It is in fact the only railway station that can be used by the visitors to reach Kargil.
