Aug 01, 2025 : A trip tp Kargil

We already decided to visit Drass and Kargil on the last day. Our driver came at the right time. We checked out of the hotel at Sonamarg and boarded the Tata Sumo. The driver was very polite; he stopped in between to explain to us the features. The boundary of the J&K union territory ends at a village before we reach Baltal. The tunnels under construction can be seen en route. 


These tunnels reduce travel time in a substantial manner. Slowly we could see the road towards Zoila Pass. The winding roads bring a pleasant surprise to the visitors. On the other side, we can see the sprawling valley. The camp spread around the Baltal area can be seen below. BRO maintains the road, and it’s not an easy task, as the harsh winter, snow and landslides damage the road badly. Each loop appeared to be a challenging task for the heavy truck drivers. I felt that my long-pending dream came true. I am passing through the Zoji'la pass. 

We stopped at multiple points before reaching Zero Point. This point is said to have snow all through the year. This year, there is no snow found here. After taking some pics, we moved to War Memorial.

We found some vehicles coming and stopping near the war memorial at Zojila. I noticed Prof. Saket Kushwaha, Vice Chancellor of Central University of Ladakh. I greeted him, and he recognised me. He asked me about my trip, and I explained to him our experience in detail. 

After a brief stay, then we continued the trip to Drass. We could see sheep herds at some distance. The driver told us that they are Gujar or Bakrawal communities. They rear sheep at green pastures. As the weather changes to winter, they move towards plains. The mountains and the green pastures, blue sky and pin-drop silence. A heavenly experience. 

While reaching ground level, we could see the tunnel project. In the top part, we could see an oxygen shaft which is around 360-plus metres. The stream has now turned into a small river, and it runs parallel to the road. 




After a gap of several kilometres, we could find the sign of the village. wondered how people live here during extreme winter. There could be some alternative arrangements. The stunning landscape changed to rugged mountains. The road accompanied a blue-watered river. The route reminded us about the Kargil War locations in the real world. 

The next stop was Kargil War Museum. The site tells us the bravery of our soldiers who gallantly fought against infiltrators supported by the Pakistan Army. A beautifully designed space with a collection of photographs of Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives, war zones, medals and honours conferred, etc. fills one's emotions with patriotic sentiments. Other objects include ammunition’s and weapon systems seized by the Indian Army in this operation.

After the visit, we had our lunch at a small hotel. The price of food is unbelievably high here. All essential materials come from Kashmir. The transport cost and weather conditions impact the food supply here.

We continued our trip to Kargil.




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