Overview
Kargil
The Trans Himalayan district of Kargil comprises the South Western part of Ladakh. Kargil town is situated at the height of 2740m. Kargil by virtue of its location, topography and contiguity with the alpine region of Kashmir, Kishtwar, and outlying areas of Himachal Pradesh is an ideal ground for trans-Himalayan trekking along the ancient trade route. Again we see in Kargil different customs and culture. The Kargillis are a mix of Dard-Balti-Tibeto-Mongolian stock. The Kargillis mainly practice Shiite Islam, the remaining population practicing Buddhism. Therefore, the area abounds with colourful and unique immamburras, mosques and khangahs, monasteries and hermitages. The most famous of these religious sites is by far the Matreya rock carved Buddha, this 9m, 7th Century Gandhara Art is a must visit.
Kargil is often just considered as a rest point between the major tourist hot spots of Kashmir and Ladakh and is located exactly half way between the two. But for centuries Kargil was an important link in various spice, silk and trade routes between China, India and Afghanistan, this leaving a rich cultural heritage. Essentially Kargil remains untouched, and the superb and welcoming villages surrounding the main centre remain undisturbed by the tourist’s feet.
The Suru Valley
The single most beautiful and breath taking part of the Kargil district is by far and away the Suru Valley. Those who are travelling from Kargil town to Zanskar will do so through this route. The Suru Valley has it all, fertile soil, rushing rivers, majestic peaks, picturesque villages, ancient Buddhist carvings, local mosques, medieval shrines, mud brick houses, strong healthy trees, flowers, valleys and silence. If you want an alternate holiday away from the crowds and the touristic hubs noise of Ladakh and Kashmir, this valley is perfect - stunning and unexplored. You could take a month visiting and experiencing its villages and hikes and the superb sounds of the great High Himalayan silence. Or depending on your predilection/time constraints there are a number of places that you can choose to stop at and enjoy in a day trip or two.