Dras Travel Guide: 2nd Coldest Places in the World

Dras, also known as the Gateway to Ladakh, is a small town in the Kargil district of Ladakh. It is famous for being the second coldest inhabited place in the world, where temperatures can drop as low as -45°C in winter. Located on the Srinagar-Leh Highway, Dras is not just cold—it’s also full of beauty, history, and pride. From the Kargil War Memorial to peaceful mountain views, Dras is a hidden gem that every traveler should explore once in a lifetime.

Where is Dras Located?

Dras is a small town located in the Kargil district of Ladakh, India. It lies on the famous Srinagar–Leh Highway (NH1) and is about 140 km from Srinagar and 60 km before Kargil. Sitting at an altitude of about 10,760 feet (3,280 meters), Dras is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and stunning valleys. It is often the first major town you enter when travelling to Ladakh from Srinagar side.

Why Dras Location is Important?

• Strategic Location: Dras is very close to the India–Pakistan border and has played an important role during the Kargil War in 1999. The Indian Army guards this region heavily, and it holds great military importance.
• Gateway to Ladakh: For people travelling from Jammu & Kashmir to Ladakh, Dras is the first gateway town. It’s an ideal stopover between Srinagar and Leh.
• Tourism Importance: With its natural beauty, peaceful environment, and war history, Dras attracts tourists who are looking for offbeat Himalayan experiences.
• Weather Watch: Dras also shows how extreme Himalayan climates can be. It is known as the second coldest inhabited place on Earth, which makes it a special attraction for curious travelers.

Role of Dras in the Kargil War 1999

Dras became famous and important during the Kargil War that happened between India and Pakistan in 1999. This small town was one of the main battle zones during the war. Pakistani soldiers had secretly crossed the Line of Control (LoC) and captured the mountain peaks near Dras and Kargil.

These enemy soldiers were sitting on high mountains and attacking the Srinagar–Leh Highway, which is the only road that connects the Indian Army to Ladakh. Because of this, Dras was under heavy shelling and fire.

The Indian Army bravely fought to push back the intruders from those peaks. Many important battles like the Battle of Tololing and Tiger Hill happened near Dras. These victories were very tough, as our soldiers had to climb steep mountains under enemy fire.

Due to this, Dras is now a symbol of bravery and sacrifice. The town is home to the Kargil War Memorial, where names of the soldiers who lost their lives are written. Every year, people visit this place to pay respect to the heroes of the Kargil War, especially on Kargil Vijay Diwas (July 26th).

Dras in Ancient Himalayan Trade Routes

Long before roads and highways were built, Dras was an important stop on the ancient trade routes that connected India, Central Asia, and Tibet. Traders used to travel through these tough mountain paths with their caravans of horses, yaks, and mules, carrying goods like wool, spices, dry fruits, salt, and silk.

Dras acted as a resting point for these traders because of its strategic location on the route between Baltistan (in present-day Pakistan) and Ladakh. The valley of Dras was easier to pass through during the warmer months, and it helped travelers cross the high mountains safely.

These trade routes were not only for business but also for cultural exchange. People brought with them stories, traditions, languages, and food habits, which shaped the rich culture of the Dras region.

Even today, you can feel the old-world charm in Dras, as the town still carries the legacy of being a part of those historic Himalayan journeys.

Weather in Dras – One of the 2nd Coldest Places in the World

Dras is famous for its freezing cold weather. It is known as the second coldest inhabited place in the world—the first being Oymyakon in Siberia, Russia.

Even today, winters in Dras are extremely harsh. From November to March, the temperature often goes below -20°C. The current temperature during winter usually stays between -10°C to -25°C, and sometimes even lower at night.

Coldest Temperature Ever Recorded

Around 40 to 60 years ago, Dras recorded its lowest-ever temperature of around -60°C. This was one of the coldest moments in Indian weather history! It was so cold that water pipes froze, vehicles wouldn’t start, and even daily life became a challenge for the people living there.

Summer Weather

In summer, the weather becomes pleasant and cool. From May to September, daytime temperatures stay between 15°C to 20°C, which is perfect for sightseeing and trekking. Nights are still chilly, but manageable.

Best Places to Visit in Dras

Dras is not just known for its cold weather and war history—it also offers beautiful landscapes, peaceful valleys, and meaningful places to explore. From war memorials that make you feel proud, to valleys full of wildflowers and calm mountain views, Dras has a lot to offer for nature lovers, history fans, and curious travellers. Here are some of the best places you should definitely visit when you’re in Dras!

1. Kargil War Memorial (Vijaypath)

The Kargil War Memorial, also called Vijaypath, is the most important and emotional place to visit in Dras. It was built by the Indian Army to honor the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Kargil War in 1999.

The memorial is located on the Srinagar–Leh Highway, with the beautiful Tololing Hill and Tiger Hill in the background—both of which were key war zones. When you visit, you’ll see names of the martyred soldiers engraved on a giant pink sandstone wall. It’s a moment that makes every Indian feel proud and emotional.

Inside the memorial, there is a museum with pictures, documents, and weapons used in the war. A short video documentary is also shown, which explains how our soldiers fought at such high altitudes in freezing cold temperatures.

The entire place is neat, peaceful, and well-maintained by the Indian Army, and the Indian flag flying high makes you feel proud of our country.

If you’re in Dras, this is a must-visit place—not just for sightseeing but to pay respect to the real heroes of our nation.

2. Dras River & Valley View

The Dras River flows gently through the heart of the valley, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and green meadows. The view of the river and the wide valley is so peaceful, it feels like nature is giving you a warm hug—even in the cold!

In the summer months, the valley becomes green and full of flowers, making it a perfect spot for photography, small walks, and enjoying silence. The clear blue water of the Dras River and the calm surroundings create a picture-perfect Himalayan landscape.

If you love sitting quietly near water or watching the hills change colour as the sun sets, then Dras Valley View is a place you must experience. It’s a great spot to relax and feel connected to nature.

Many travellers stop here on their way to Kargil or Leh to take in the breathtaking views and click some memorable photos.

3. Mushkoh Valley

Mushkoh Valley is one of the most beautiful and lesser-known places near Dras. It is located just about 8–10 km from Dras town and is often called the “Valley of Flowers of Ladakh” because in summer, the whole valley is covered with colourful wildflowers.

Surrounded by majestic mountains and peaceful green fields, this valley is a dream come true for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. You can enjoy short nature walks, spot rare Himalayan birds, and take in the fresh air and silence all around.

During the Kargil War in 1999, Mushkoh Valley also played an important role, and the region still holds that proud war history. So, this place is a mix of natural beauty and emotional memories.

If you visit Dras in the months of May to August, don’t miss Mushkoh Valley—it’s like a hidden paradise waiting to be explored!

How to Reach Dras?

Reaching Dras is not difficult, especially if you are already in Jammu & Kashmir or Ladakh region. It is well connected by road and lies on the famous Srinagar–Leh Highway (NH-1).

From Srinagar to Dras (Approx. 140 km)

• By Road (Taxi or Private Vehicle): You can easily hire a taxi or drive from Srinagar to Dras. The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours. On the way, you will pass through Sonmarg and the famous Zojila Pass, which is a beautiful but high mountain pass.
• By Bus: JKSRTC and local private buses also run between Srinagar and Kargil, and you can get down at Dras. It’s a budget-friendly option but slightly slower.

Note: In winter (Dec–March), Zojila Pass may be closed due to heavy snow. Always check road conditions before planning.

Nearest Airport

• The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport (140 km away) for Dras. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus towards Dras.

Final Words

Dras is not just a cold town—it’s a place full of emotions, history, beauty, and pride. From the brave stories of the Kargil War to the peaceful views of valleys and rivers, Dras offers an experience that touches your heart.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or peace seeker, Dras has something special for you. The Kargil War Memorial will make you feel proud to be an Indian, and the snowy mountains and colourful valleys will make you fall in love with nature all over again.

Life in Dras may be tough, but the warmth of its people and the beauty of its land make it truly unforgettable. So, pack your bags and take a trip to this hidden gem in Ladakh—Dras is waiting to tell you its story.