Kargil - Discovering India

Travelling to Kargil

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kargil, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kargil and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kargil, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Kargil for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kargil

Kargil is a town located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in the Leh district and is situated at an altitude of 2,676 meters above sea level. Kargil is located about 205 kilometers from Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir. The town is known for its natural beauty, with the surrounding area being home to a number of stunning mountain ranges, glaciers, and rivers. Kargil is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with the town being home to a number of ancient monasteries and other historical landmarks. Additionally, visitors to Kargil can enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, trekking, and camping.

What to visit in Kargil

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Kargil and some information about each of them: 1. Mulbekh Monastery - This is a 7th Century monastery on the way to Leh from Kargil. It is famous for its rock carving of Maitreya Buddha, which is believed to be the tallest rock carving in Ladakh.
2. Suru Valley - This valley is known for its scenic beauty and is located between Kargil and Zanskar. It is home to some of the highest peaks of Ladakh, such as Nun Kun, which is over 7000 meters tall.
3. Kargil War Memorial - This memorial honors the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the Kargil War in 1999. It is located in Dras, which is about 60 km away from Kargil.
4. Shargole Monastery - This is a 17th Century monastery located in the Shargole village, which is about 32 km from Kargil. The monastery is known for its annual festival, which is celebrated in the Tibetan month of May.
5. Wakha Mulbekh Rock Carvings - These rock carvings are located near Mulbekh village and are believed to date back to the 8th Century. They depict various scenes from Buddhism, including the preaching of Buddha.
6. Rangdum Monastery - This monastery is located in the Suru Valley and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It is known for its beautiful wall paintings and is one of the most isolated monasteries in Ladakh.
These are just some of the many tourist attractions that Kargil has to offer. It is a beautiful place with a rich history and culture, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kargil

The best time to visit Kargil is during the summer months of May to June and then from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season (July to August) should be avoided as heavy rains can cause landslides and disrupt travel plans. Winters (November to February) are extremely cold and snowy, and the roads to Kargil may be closed due to heavy snowfall.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kargil

Kargil is a town in the Ladakh region of India. The most convenient way to get to Kargil is by road. Here are the steps to reach Kargil by road: 1. By Air: The nearest airport to Kargil is the Leh Airport, located at a distance of 220 km. You can travel to Kargil from the Leh airport by hiring a taxi or booking a shared taxi.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Kargil is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, which is located at a distance of around 700 km from Kargil. From Jammu Tawi Railway Station, you can hire a taxi to reach Kargil.
3. By Road: Kargil is situated on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway. You can take a taxi or a bus from Srinagar or Leh to reach Kargil.
I hope this information helps!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kargil, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kargil

Kargil, being a part of the Ladakh region, has a unique cuisine influenced by the Tibetan, Kashmiri, and Mughal cuisines. Here are some typical foods of Kargil with a short description of each: 1. Sku and Thukpa: Sku is a soup made with wheat grain and vegetables, and Thukpa is a noodle soup with vegetables and meat. These soups are a staple food in Kargil and are perfect for the cold weather.
2. Momos: Momos are steamed dumplings that are filled with vegetables or meat. They are a popular snack in Kargil and can be eaten with a spicy dipping sauce.
3. Khambir: Khambir is a local bread made with whole wheat flour and is usually eaten with butter or jam. It is a popular breakfast food in Kargil.
4. Rogan Josh: Rogan Josh is a slow-cooked lamb dish that is flavored with a variety of spices. It is typically served with rice or bread and is a favorite of meat lovers in Kargil.
5. Chutagi: Chutagi is a type of pasta that is made with wheat flour and served with a tomato-based sauce. It is a comfort food in Kargil and is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
6. Thenthuk: Thenthuk is a noodle soup that is made with vegetables, meat, and handmade noodles. It is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a cold day.
7. Phirni: Phirni is a sweet rice pudding that is flavored with cardamom and saffron. It is a popular dessert in Kargil and is often served during special occasions.
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Kargil an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in India, Kargil can be considered slightly more expensive due to its remote location and limited infrastructure. Accommodation and transportation costs may be higher than in more developed tourist destinations. However, food and local attractions may be relatively affordable. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before planning a trip to any destination.

Where to find accomodation in Kargil

The main areas to find accommodation in Kargil are: 1. Main Bazaar: This is the commercial hub of the town and has a variety of budget hotels and guesthouses.
2. Baroo: This area is located on the outskirts of Kargil and offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. There are a few luxury hotels and resorts here.
3. Shargole: This is a small village that is situated about 15 km away from Kargil. It offers a peaceful and serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of the town.
4. Chutney: This is another small village that is located about 10 km away from Kargil. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and has a few guesthouses for tourists.
You can check hotel prices at Kargil here:
Booking.com

Is Kargil a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kargil in India is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it is always important to take necessary precautions for personal safety, such as avoiding traveling alone at night, staying alert, and being cautious of pickpockets in crowded places. It is also recommended to stay up-to-date on local news and events, and monitor any travel advisories issued by the Indian government or your country's embassy. It would also be beneficial to consult with a trusted travel agent or local tour guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Kargil.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kargil.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kargil the most?

Kargil is a beautiful place situated in the Ladakh region of India. It is a great destination for travelers who are interested in adventurous activities, sightseeing, and cultural experiences. Kargil is an ideal destination for couples who are seeking a romantic getaway in the midst of the beautiful hills and valleys. The scenic beauty of the place makes it a perfect setting for couples looking for a peaceful escape from the chaos of city life. Young people who are seeking adventure and excitement will enjoy Kargil as there are various activities that they can indulge in such as trekking, hiking, mountaineering, river rafting, and camping. Families can also enjoy Kargil as there are many interesting places to visit and activities to do that are enjoyable for all ages. Families can visit the local monasteries, historical sites, and enjoy a stroll in the marketplaces to experience the local culture. However, it is important to note that the weather in Kargil can be extreme at times especially during the winter months, so travelers should plan accordingly.

How to get around Kargil

There are several modes of transportation available in Kargil, India including buses, taxis, jeep, and rented motorcycles. However, due to the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions, it is recommended to hire a four-wheel-drive vehicle for safe and comfortable travel. Local transportation is also available in the form of shared taxis and buses, but they may not be very reliable.

What to see around Kargil

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Kargil, India. Here are some suggestions: 1. Mulbekh Gompa - This is a 7th-century Buddhist monastery located about 43 km from Kargil. It is known for its intricate carvings and ancient rock-cut statues.
2. Suru Valley - This valley is located about 60 km from Kargil and is known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. It is a great place for hiking and trekking.
3. Drass War Memorial - This memorial is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives during the Kargil War of 1999. It is located about 55 km from Kargil and is a great place to pay respects to the fallen soldiers.
4. Zanskar Valley - This valley is located about 90 km from Kargil and is famous for its scenic beauty and adventure activities like trekking, rafting, and skiing.
5. Wakha Village - This village is located about 25 km from Kargil and is known for its beautiful countryside and traditional Ladakhi architecture.
6. Rangdum Monastery - This monastery is located about 130 km from Kargil and is known for its stunning location amidst mountains and glaciers.
These are just a few suggestions, there are many more places around Kargil that you can explore in a day trip.
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