Think Leh is the coldest place you’ve been to? Wait till you meet Drass! Known as the second coldest inhabited place in the world, Drass is that hidden gem you didn’t know your bucket list needed. Whether you’re the kind who gets excited by war stories, loves offbeat spots, or simply wants a photo with snow in your eyebrows, Drass is a must-add to your Ladakh trip packages.
Located about 60 km from Kargil, Drass is more than just a pitstop. It’s home to the Kargil War Memorial, which honors the bravery of our soldiers. The nearby Zoji La Pass offers stunning views and snow even in summer. You’ll also find traditional villages, ancient shrines, and untouched landscapes that feel like they belong in a movie.
Planning a wild Ladakh bike trip? Don’t just ride past Drass—pause and feel its heartbeat. Between the cold winds and warm locals, this town leaves a lasting mark. Your adventure won’t feel complete without breathing in the brave and beautiful spirit of Drass. Now, gear up—let’s check out the best places to visit in Drass Valley!
When it comes to tourist attractions in Drass, the War Memorial tops the list. Built by the Indian Army, this place is a tribute to the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the 1999 Kargil War.
- What to See: A massive sandstone epitaph with the names of the martyred soldiers, a war gallery showcasing photos and seized Pakistani weapons from the war (including a section named after Captain Manoj Pandey), and army emblems.
- Location: At the foothills of Tololing Hill, near Tiger Hill.
- Timings: Generally open from 10 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm on all weekdays except Sunday. (It's always good to confirm local timings).
Tiger Hill isn’t just a mountain—it’s a chapter of Indian bravery. This peak played a major role in the Kargil War and stands tall at 5,307 meters. From up there, the views of the mountains and Drass Valley are unreal. Visiting this spot feels like standing in history. If you're into epic views with a story behind them, this is one of the top places to see in Drass.
It's a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during the war. The Drass War Memorial is located in its vicinity.
Love nature? You’ll adore Mushkoh Valley. In summer, the whole place turns into a field of wildflowers, and the Drass River flows right through it. Calm, beautiful, and perfect for peaceful walks or a little photo session. Fun fact—it was once an infiltration point during the war. This valley is a great pick among offbeat places to visit in Drass Valley.
Just about 30 km from Drass, Minamarg is a green meadow straight out of a dream. In summer, it’s full of flowers and fresh mountain air. It’s also the starting point for treks like the one to Amarnath Cave. So if you’re searching for quiet nature spots, Minamarg is one of the best places to go in Drass in Kargil.
This mosque, just 7 km from Drass in Bhimbat, is a visual delight. Painted in turquoise, green, and blue, it pops against the grey mountains like a gem. Local legends say one of the mosque’s walls stood up by itself during construction. Whether you believe it or not, this spot is peaceful, spiritual, and definitely one of the more unique places to visit in Drass.
About 18 km from Drass, Draupadi Kund is a sacred pond linked to the Mahabharata. It’s said that Draupadi stopped here during her journey, making this a quiet spiritual spot. It’s surrounded by hills and perfect for those who love places with stories. One more gem on your list of places to visit in Drass.
Just 2 km from Drass, on the Kargil–Srinagar highway, lies Stagsboo (Stiaqbo)—a quiet gem full of ancient charm. This spot features fascinating rock carvings and stone images of Maitreya Buddha and Padma Pani Avalokiteshvara, along with Tibetan inscriptions etched into the rocks. If you love history, culture, and peaceful places, this is one of the most underrated places to visit in Drass you shouldn’t miss.
Zoji La isn’t just a mountain pass—it’s the dramatic gateway to Ladakh. You’ll drive through it on your way to Drass, and it’s always an adventure. At 11,575 feet, it gives jaw-dropping views of snow, cliffs, and winding roads. The Drass Valley officially begins here, making it a natural entry point and one of the most thrilling places to visit in Drass.
9. Amarnath (via Baltal route near Drass)
While technically in Jammu & Kashmir, the Amarnath Cave is often accessed via Baltal, which is not far from Drass. This holy site, famous for its naturally formed ice Shiva Linga, attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. If you're planning your Drass trip between June and August, you can combine it with a spiritual trek to Amarnath. Though not always listed among Drass tourist places, it's a meaningful detour that offers a deeply rewarding experience for both adventure seekers and devotees.
Just a short drive from Drass towards Kargil, Hunderman Village sits quietly near the Line of Control. Once part of Pakistan before the 1971 war, this village is now an open-air museum of history and resilience. You can explore abandoned homes, war relics, and get a glimpse of life on the border. It's one of the most offbeat places to visit in Drass for history buffs and culture lovers.
When to Explore the Top Places To Visit In Drass Valley?
The best time to explore the places to visit in Drass is between May and September. During these months, the weather is pleasant, the roads are open, and the landscape is at its most beautiful—green valleys, blooming flowers, and clear views of the mountains. It's perfect for sightseeing, photography, and light treks in Ladakh. Winter visits are tough due to extreme cold and snowfall, so summer is your best bet for a comfortable trip.
Final Words
Drass isn’t just a cold stop on the way to Ladakh—it’s a destination full of depth and discovery. From the emotionally powerful Drass War Memorial and historic Tiger Hill, to scenic gems like Mushkoh Valley, Minamarg, and the ancient carvings at Stagsboo, there’s a surprising variety of experiences here. These tourist attractions in Drass offer a perfect blend of war history, spiritual sites, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a curious explorer, these Drass tourist places deserve a spot on your itinerary. Take your time, explore slowly, and let Drass show you its quiet magic—with WanderOn by your side, the adventure only gets better..
