Driving from Srinagar to Leh
In the summer of 2017, we embarked on a memorable 10-day road trip from Srinagar to Leh, traversing some of the highest passes and roads in the world. This journey is etched as one of my most cherished experiences, filled with the serene beauty of towering mountains and winding valleys with snaking roads. The route is not only a feast for the eyes but also a passage through history and of the Kargil War of 1999. I've been meaning to write about this road trip, and someday, I hope to capture and share that experience.
As we celebrate 25 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas, I look back on visiting the unforgettable Kargil War Memorial during that journey, paying homage to the heroes of Operation Vijay.
Kargil Halt: A Time for Reflection
As you approach Kargil, the landscape whispers tales of courage and sacrifice. The Kargil War Memorial, located in the Dras sector, stands as a poignant reminder of the fierce battles fought during the summer of 1999. This halt in Kargil is not just a break from the drive but a moment to honor and remember the brave soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation.
After crossing the Zojila Pass, the green mountains of Kashmir fade into the harsher landscape of the Kargil Valley. Driving along this particular highway, I recalled the stories and movies about the Kargil War. It was along these roads and mountains that a tough and costly conflict was fought. How our soldiers fought valiantly to regain control.
The memorial itself is a sight to behold, with a backdrop of majestic mountains that once served as battlegrounds. The Amar Jawan Jyoti, an eternal flame, burns brightly in memory of the fallen heroes. Walking through the memorial, and reading the names etched in stone, one cannot help but feel a deep sense of gratitude and respect. The location of the memorial is profoundly fitting, nestled at the foothills of Tololing and Tiger Hill, historic battlefields that continue to inspire generations, including me.
Overwhelming Experience: Tololing and Tiger Hill
Standing at the memorial, you can gaze upon the towering heights of Tololing and Tiger Hill. These peaks, now synonymous with bravery and strategic importance, were the sites of some of the most intense combat during the Kargil War. Seeing these heights up close, it is overwhelming to imagine the grit and determination required to reclaim them under such arduous conditions.
The stories of brave soldiers scaling these peaks under heavy fire, enduring harsh weather, and overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds, come alive as you stand there. The sheer magnitude of their sacrifice becomes evident, making the experience profoundly moving.
On the left side of the Vijaypath, we saw some primary weapons of the Kargil War, such as the Bofor Guns, and 75/24 Pack Howitzer were displayed.
A Close Call: The Proximity of the Enemy
One of the most striking realizations during the visit is how close the Pakistani forces were to the highway we now travel on. The strategic importance of the Srinagar-Leh Highway cannot be overstated, and during the war, the enemy positions were perilously close, threatening the crucial supply route.
Driving along this highway today, in the comfort of modern vehicles, it is almost unfathomable to think of the perilous conditions under which our soldiers fought. The proximity of the enemy positions, just a few kilometers away from the road, underscores the bravery and strategic acumen of the Indian armed forces.
The Kargil War Memorial is more than just a tourist stop; it is a sacred ground where history, bravery, and sacrifice converge. It stands as a poignant salute to the soldiers and their indomitable spirits, forever etched in our nation's history.
Driving from Srinagar to Leh, with a halt at the Kargil War Memorial, is a journey through not just physical landscapes but also the landscapes of our nation's history and heroism. It is a journey that leaves you with a profound sense of pride and a renewed appreciation for the sacrifices made by our soldiers. Let us remember and honor them, not just on anniversaries, but every day, as we traverse the roads they once fought to keep safe.
General tips
- Let's maintain the decorum and sanctity of the Memorial in honor of our martyrs.
- The Kargil War Memorial (or Drass War Memorial) is a great place for those who love military history. Built in 2000, it has a rich history dating back to the 1999 Kargil War.
- As with most military establishments, covered footwear is mandatory; entry is denied otherwise. So, please wear shoes.
- Visiting Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM - 12 PM, then 2 PM - 5 PM; Sundays: Closed