Located in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir, Dras basks in the honor of being the Coldest City in India. Also known as the “Foothills of Ladakh,” this little town endures fiercely cold winters with temperatures reaching -45°C. Globally renowned as one of the coldest inhabited sites on Earth, Dras provides a window into a place where the struggle for survival is married to peaceful serenity. Its special place in the world’s geography and extreme weather conditions guarantee an adventure travel destination, particularly for people who like exploring in winter or adventure.
Dras isn’t just about the cold. It is a center of cultural variety, local folklore, and historical importance. The town and its snow-covered peaks are used for treks to the Himalayas and as a pit stop for people traveling to Ladakh. In this, all you need to know about it.
Location and Climate
Dras is situated at a distance of about 60 km from Kargil, at an altitude of 10,990 feet above sea level. It is located strategically on the Srinagar-Leh Highway and therefore is a major entry point to Ladakh. The area is famous for its cold winters, high snowfall, and rugged terrain. Temperatures are around -20°C to -40°C (record lows -45°C) in winter at the peak of season and dip to -45°C.
Why Dras is the Coldest City in India
Dras’s extreme climate is caused by its high altitude and location. Because it is located in a small valley enclosed by the steep flanks of Himalayan mountains, it experiences the condensation of cold air, and therefore it is also one of the coldest regions of the Earth. The freezing Zojila Pass in the area supplements the local extreme harsh weather, especially under snowstorms.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Dras has an exceptional significance in the history of India, because of its location within the scale framework of the 1999 Kargil war. The Kargil war memorial, situated near Dras, commemorates the military personnel who fought during the war. The town also boasts a deep folklore, such as the story about Bhimbet, based on the Mahabharata. In this local population, mainly formed by Dard and Balti people, the language is Shina and it resisted the extreme environment with remarkable resistance.
Things to Do in Dras
- Visit the Kargil War Memorial: Paying respect to the martyrs of the 1999 Kargil War. The memorial, with its striking red sandstone structure and inscriptions, is a must-visit.
- Explore Snowy Landscapes: Dras becomes in winter a beautiful winter landscape of frozen rivers, roof-top houses, and landscapes of untamed Himalayan mountains.
- Trekking Adventures: Dras is a gateway for exploration of the Suru Valley and other high-altitude trails, entrepreneurs seek a path into the Himalayas.
Best Time to Visit 5. Best Time to Visit
The best time to go to Dras is in the summer, from June to September. The weather is nice, so it is convenient to travel around in this area. For those who have an appetite for coldness, the coldest city in India during all its winter splendor is December to February but be warned of the extremes.
How to Reach Dras
Dras is reachable by the Srinagar-Leh Highway, which is passable in the summer. The nearest airport is in Srinagar, 150km. There they can hail a taxi or take public transportation to Dras. During winter, heavy snowfall can make accessibility challenging.
Dras, the coldest city in India, is more than just a place to visit, it’s an adventure trail. With its extreme weather, its history, and cultural and artistic importance, Dras Beach provides a combination of excitement and calmness. Whether you’re a history buff, a trekking enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys winter landscapes, Dras is a must-visit location that will leave you in awe of nature’s beauty and resilience.
For a trip filled with unforgettable memories, add Dras to your travel list this winter!
Also, see: Top 5 coldest cities in India to visit this winter