Drass facts for kids

Drass (Urdu: دراس) is a special sub-district found in the Kargil District in Jammu and Kashmir, India. It's famous for being one of the coldest places where people live!

Welcome to Drass: The Coldest Place!

Drass is often called "The Gateway to Ladakh" and is known as the second coldest inhabited place in the world. Imagine living somewhere that gets super chilly! This small town is nestled high up in the mountains, making it a truly unique spot on Earth.

Where is Drass Located?

Drass is part of the Kargil District, which is in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It sits right on the National Highway 1D, which connects Srinagar to Leh. This highway is super important because it's the main road through the Himalayan mountains in this area. Drass is also located in the beautiful Suru Valley, surrounded by stunning mountain views.

What's the Weather Like in Drass?

The weather in Drass is extreme, especially in winter. Temperatures can drop incredibly low, sometimes even below -40°C (-40°F)! This is why it's known as one of the coldest inhabited places. Summers are short and mild, but winters are long and very harsh, with lots of snow. The high altitude and its location in the Himalayas are the main reasons for this super cold climate.

Life in Drass: People and Culture

Despite the challenging weather, people have lived in Drass for a very long time. The local communities are strong and have adapted to the cold environment. They often wear warm traditional clothes and rely on farming and animal rearing during the warmer months. Life in Drass is simple and close to nature, with a rich cultural heritage shaped by the mountains and the unique climate.

Exploring Drass: Things to See and Do

Drass is a great place for adventurers and nature lovers.

• Trekking: Many people come here for trekking and hiking in the beautiful Himalayan landscape.
• Tiger Hill: You can see famous peaks like Tiger Hill from Drass, which are important for their natural beauty and history.
• Drass War Memorial: This memorial is a very important place. It honors the brave soldiers who protected the country during the Kargil War in 1999. It's a place to learn about courage and sacrifice.

Drass and Its History

Drass has always been an important stop for traders and travelers moving between Kashmir and Ladakh. Its location made it a key point on old trade routes. More recently, Drass became well-known during the Kargil War in 1999. This conflict involved fighting between India and Pakistan in the high mountains around Drass. The Indian Army showed great bravery and determination during this time. The Drass War Memorial stands as a reminder of these events and the heroes who fought there.