Kargil War Memorial

About Kargil War Memorial

Kargil War Memorial is a famous tourist attraction in Kargil, one that you should not miss out on as it is an important part of India’s history. Built in pink sandstone, it commemorates the soldiers of the Indian Army who lost their lives in the Kargil War.

The Kargil War Memorial stands proudly by the side of the main highway which goes from Srinagar to Leh.

History of Kargil War Memorial

In the winter of 1998-1999, the Pakistan Army crossed the Line of Control (LoC) and occupied the roads connecting Leh and Kargil to Srinagar, along with numerous heights along the National Highway.

The Indian Army, in response, launched Operation Vijay (Victory) in May 1999 to retake the territory. Consequently, several fierce battles were fought, with the Indian Army finally winning the war.

Every year, 26th July is observed as Kargil Vijay Diwas, which means Kargil Victory Day. The memorial, as it stands today, was constructed by the Indian Army in November 2014.

Architecture

The must visit attraction in Kargil, the Kargil War Memorial, consists of a pink sandstone wall which bears a brass plate on which are engraved the names of the soldiers who attained martyrdom during Operation Vijay.

At the memorial, visitors can see some of the major sequence of events which transpired during the course of the war. A documentary movie is also shown, which explains the entire war, and the events leading up to it, in detail.

There is also a memento shop which sells items like T Shirts, coffee mugs & hats. From the memorial, one is treated to views of the Tololing Heights, Tiger Hill & Point 4875 (Batra Top), all of which were the sites of the conflict during the war.