Kargil Tourism, Kargil Tour, Kargil Attractions, Kargil Tour Packages

Located in the centre of the Himalayan region with the most pleasing natural beauty, majestic hills and tremendous potential for adventure activities, Kargil is the second largest urban centre of Ladakh. It is situated at an altitude of about 2704 m, and 204 km from Srinagar in the west and 234 km from Leh in the east. The town is nestled along the rising hillside of the Suru basin. It is the confluence point of the Drass and Wakha tributaries of the Suru River.

Kargil was the ancient trade and transit route for the Pan-Asian trade network. Products like silk, brocade, carpets, felts, tea, poppy, ivory etc. were transported to other countries and various parts of India from Kargil. The traditional market at Kargil still displays a variety of Central Asian and Tibetan items. From the shopping point of view, pashmina shawls and carpets are the local specialties of Kargil.

The land along the narrow valley and the rising hillside is abundant with crops like barley, wheat, peas, and a variety of vegetables and other cereals. Kargil is known for its fine apricots. May to August is the most favourable season for apricots.

Kargil is the gateway to the exotic Zanskar Valley. Being midway between Srinagar and Leh, Kargil has become a great adventure sport destination. Its geographical position makes it an ideal place for adventure sports like mountaineering and river rafting. Besides, trekking excursions to the nearby areas like the Zojila Pass, Suru Valley and Drass are also thrilling. Kargil witnessed the war between India and Pakistan in 1999. A major part of Kargil is still under the army control.

Attractions

Known 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, 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.

This beautiful, small village in the Wakha River valley is the starting point for trekking tours to the Suru Valley.

How To Reach

By Road: Buses are regularly operated from Srinagar and Leh. Taxis can also be hired for a convenient journey and for exploring the nearby areas/valleys as well.

Staying at Kargil is not at all a problem. There are various hotels that are well equipped with all basic facilities.

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