VISIT LADAKH —» Places to Visit » Kargil

Kargil

Travellers should be aware that Kargil is very close to the Line of Control between India and Pakistan and throughout the spring and summer of 1997, 1998 and 1999 became the target of frequent artillery attacks from Pakistani troops - please read the warning on before visiting. This uninspiring Muslim town is the overnight halt for all buses travelling between Leh and Srinagar and' is the jumping off point for journeys up the Suru Valley and into Zanskar, so the hotels are used to travellers arriving late and leaving early the following morning on the next bus out. One of the most convenient hotels for the bus stand is Hotel Tourist Marjina ('Zr 2540) which has double rooms with attached baths for Rs. 100-150. Hotel Green-land ('Zr 2324) is another comfortable place to stay in a quieter part of town with a range of rooms from Rs. 100-400 (att). If you are looking for something more up-market try the Hotel Broadway Sum-View ('Zr 2304) around the comer, with doubles for Rs 600-700 (att). There are several places to eat along the Main Bazaar and most hotels provide food. It is possible to change money at the State Bank of India and there are many STD/ ISD booths in town. The Tourist Reception Centre near the taxi stand can provide suggestions for trekking itineraries in the area.

Buses leave Leh daily at 5am reaching Kargil at 4pm. Prices are Rs145 for an A class bus and Rs 11 0 for B class. Buses from Kargil to Leh leave at about 5am. Taxis between Leh and Kargil cost Rs3355 one way.Buses to Padum in Zanskar depart Kargil at 3am and cost Rsl50 (14-15 hours). If you wish to explore the Suru Valley or trek some of the way to Zanskar there are two buses a day to the villages of Panikhar and Parkachik. A taxi to Padum will set you back Rs7000, plus an extra Rs 11 00 if you want to take two days over the journey to enjoy some of the sights along the way.

Buses to Srinagar depart daily at 4.30am and arrive in Srinagar at 5pm. Taxis cost Rs3000 one way.

Places to Visit Alchi :: Zanskar :: Lamayuru :: Kargil :: Shrey :: Rizong :: Protected Areas