A few dates in Indian history can never be forgotten; 1999 is one of them. The Kargil War fought from 5th May 1999 to 5th July 1999, has been significant to Indians as it was the last war fought and won by India. But who can tell a place that is nothing but a replica of paradise today was filled with cries of our soldiers two decades ago? Pakistani soldiers’ sudden strike at the Drass Valley had sent a wave of shock among Kashmir news media, paralyzing the entire nation with fear. But due to the Indian Army’s calculated attack and unwavering courage, Kashmir found victory. One more time.
To honor the fallen soldiers and commemorate India’s victory (Operation Vijay), the Kargil War Memorial was built by the Indian Army. And thus, the Kargil Diwas is celebrated on 26th July each year.
If you are traveling to Leh and Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir Tourism, make a trip to Kargil and visit the Kargil War Memorial.
In May 1999, Pakistani army troops invaded the Drass village and captured many hills along the Line of Border of the Indian state, including Tololing and Tiger hill.
Indian defense line fought day and night unrelentingly and recaptured our land. However, many officers and jawans braved their lives and died in the war. The War Memorial humbly reminds us to pay tribute to those valiant soldiers who went down in honor of our country. The monument is built in Pink Sandstone in the backdrop of the two captured hills, with a vast 15 Kg flag hoisted and waving proudly atop, retelling the stories of the war and sacrifices.
There’s a cemetery and war museum at the Memorial that you can visit to pay homage.
The Memorial is located at Drass National Highway NH1.
You can visit the Memorial between 7 AM to 7 PM.
You can stay overnight at Kargil to cover other tourist areas, like Suru valley, Mulbekh Monastery, and Drass Valley.
Inside the War Memorial
You will be greeted with a beautiful poem, “Pushp ki Abhilasha” by Makhanlal Chaturvedi.
At the entrance of the Memorial, a MIG plane, army vehicles, and a few cannons from the war are kept for display.
Inside the Memorial, the Amar Jawan Flame is kept lit 24/7.
The memorial wall behind contains the names of the martyrs and a gallery named after Capt. Manoj Pandey, featuring pictures and weapons seized during the war.
The war museum inside holds war document archives, army emblems, and other artifacts.
There’s a cemetery where the jawans are put to rest.
There’s also a cafeteria, souvenir shop, and a light and sound video documentary screening.
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