The Gateway to Ladakh & second coldest inhabited place on Earth
Drass
- Altitude
- 3,280 m
- From Srinagar
- 142 km
- Best time
- May – October (Zojila pass road open in summer)
Situated at 3,280m elevation across the Zoji La pass, famous for the Kargil War Memorial, rugged mountain peaks and Tololing heights.
Drass is the second-coldest inhabited place on earth (after Siberia's Oymyakon), regularly hitting −45°C in January. In summer it is a brown, high-altitude valley on the way to Kargil and Leh, with the Drass War Memorial and Tololing peak nearby. Most visitors stop briefly on the Leh highway.
The Kargil War of 1999 was fought largely on these ridgelines, and the memorial museum explains it clearly.
Getting there
140 km from Srinagar on the Srinagar–Leh highway, via Sonamarg and Zojila pass. The pass is closed in winter (roughly November to May). Drive time from Srinagar is about 5 hours.
Travel essentials for Drass
Practical tips and local rules to help you plan your visit without surprises.
Local transport & taxi rules
Outside taxis drop in town centers. Internal sightseeing points in Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and snow zones operate on registered local union cabs or ponies.
Mobile connectivity & SIMs
Prepaid SIMs from outside J&K do not work due to telecom regulations. Carry a postpaid SIM (Jio, Airtel, or BSNL) for dependable mobile data and calling.
Cash, UPI & payments
UPI and cards are accepted at major stays and restaurants. Keep cash on hand for high mountain passes, tea stalls, local boatmen, and pony rides.
What to pack & clothing
Weather can shift quickly in the mountains. Pack layered clothing, a warm fleece or light down jacket for mornings and evenings, and sturdy walking shoes.
Need transport to or from Drass?
Book verified local drivers who know Kashmir roads. All vehicles are registered, insured, and driven by experienced locals.