Kargil Travel Guide: Visit Kargil on Vijay Diwas, know which 8 beautiful and historical places you must visit

The entire country celebrates Kargil Vijay Diwas every year on 26 July. This day is an opportunity to remember the bravery and sacrifice of those brave soldiers who laid down their lives for the country during the Kargil War of 1999. This year, a three-day event is being organized at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, Ladakh to commemorate the occasion. If you are planning to visit Kargil, then you will not only get to see war related monuments but also beautiful valleys, old monasteries and historical places. Here are eight such places in Kargil that you must visit.

The Kargil War Memorial in Dras was built by the Indian Army in memory of the soldiers and officers who were martyred in the 1999 Kargil War. It is also known as ‘Vijaypath’ (path of victory). The memorial is made of pink sandstone and has the names of soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country written on it. It houses the Manoj Pandey Gallery, where war photographs, weapons and artillery related items are kept. The main event of Kargil Vijay Diwas takes place here every year on 26th July.

If you like natural beauty, then definitely visit Suru Valley. The valley is famous for its lush green landscape and spectacular views of the Nun and Kun mountain peaks. Tourists like the peaceful atmosphere here very much.

Mulbekh Monastery, located on National Highway 1D, about 36 kilometers from Kargil, is famous for its 9 meter high rock-cut statue of Maitreya Buddha. This statue is believed to be from the 8th century, but some theories say that it was made during the Kushan period. An old inscription written in Kharosthi script is also found near the statue.

Mushkoh Valley is famous for its natural beauty, wild tulips and trekking opportunities. People coming here can enjoy the spectacular views of the valley and can also feel the thrill of trekking. If you like snowy views, then Parkchik Glacier can be a great place for you. This place is also known for adventure activities and picnics.

Shargol Monastery is a unique cave monastery which is built on a rocky hill and is famous for its unique structure. At the same time, Aryan Valley is famous for its unique culture and traditions; Here the lifestyle and culture of the Drokpa community can be seen closely.

Hunderman is an old and now abandoned village near the Line of Control (LoC). The ‘Hunderman Museum of Memories’ here gives a glimpse of the history and past of this area.

Dras Valley is considered the gateway to Ladakh. This area played an important role during the Kargil war of 1999. Nestled amidst snow-capped mountains, this valley is considered to be one of the coldest places in India, where the average temperature falls to 12 degrees Celsius in winter.