Winter is here and many people are looking for a way to escape the heat and enjoy the beauty of snow and ice. India has some of the coldest places in the world, where the temperature can drop below -40 degrees Celsius in some regions. If you are planning to explore these places, their extraordinary beauty, difficult climate, and distinctive culture, this article will give you some ideas. Here are some of the top coldest places in India that you must experience this winter.
Dras: The Second Coldest Inhabited Place on Earth
Dras is a town in the Kargil district of Ladakh, situated at an altitude of 3,280 metres above sea level. It is known as the Gateway to Ladakh and the second coldest inhabited place on Earth, after Siberia. The average temperature here can go below -45 degrees Celsius in winters, making it a challenging but rewarding destination for adventure seekers. Dras is also home to the Dras War Memorial, which was built in honour of the Kargil war martyrs. The town offers stunning views of the snow-clad mountains, valleys, and glaciers.
Siachen Glacier: The Coldest Place in India
Siachen Glacier is the highest and longest glacier in the Karakoram range, located at an altitude of 5,753 metres. It is also the coldest place in India, where the temperature can plummet to -50 degrees Celsius in winters. Siachen Glacier is a disputed territory between India and Pakistan, and both countries have military bases on the glacier. It is also a popular destination for mountaineers and trekkers, who have to undergo rigorous training and acclimatization before attempting to reach the glacier.
Leh Ladakh: The Land of High Passes
Leh Ladakh is a union territory in the northern part of India, famous for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich culture. Leh is the capital of Ladakh and one of the highest cities in the world, situated at an elevation of 3,500 metres. The average temperature here can drop to -35 degrees Celsius in winters, making it one of the coldest places in India. Leh Ladakh is also a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, who can enjoy activities like biking, trekking, rafting, and camping. Some of the attractions in Leh Ladakh include Pangong Lake, Khardung La, Magnetic Hill, and Nubra Valley.
Spiti Valley: The Middle Land
Spiti Valley is a remote and isolated region in the Himalayas, located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is also known as the Middle Land, as it lies between India and Tibet. Spiti Valley is one of the coldest places in India, where the temperature can dip to -30 degrees Celsius in winters. The valley is also one of the least populated regions in India, with a population of around 12,000 people. Spiti Valley is famous for its natural beauty, ancient monasteries, and unique culture. Some of the places to visit in Spiti Valley are Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Pin Valley National Park, and Kunzum Pass.
Srinagar: The Paradise on Earth
Srinagar is the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It is also known as the Paradise on Earth, for its scenic beauty, lush gardens, and serene lakes. Srinagar is located at an altitude of 1,585 metres, and the temperature here can fall to -30 degrees Celsius in winters, when the city is covered with a white blanket of snow. Srinagar is also famous for its houseboats, shikaras, and handicrafts. Some of the attractions in Srinagar are Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, and Hazratbal Shrine.
