India’s northern mountainous regions experience extremely low temperatures due to high altitude and snowfall. Areas located near the Himalayas face freezing winters with heavy snow accumulation. These regions receive very little sunlight during winter months, which further lowers temperatures. Limited vegetation and icy winds make survival difficult in such locations. Among these places, one town is widely recognised as the coldest inhabited location in India.
Coldest Place in India
Dras, located in the Kargil district of Ladakh, is known as the coldest place in India. It is situated at an altitude of about 3,280 meters above sea level, which significantly affects its climate. The lowest temperature recorded in Dras is around −45°C, making it one of the coldest inhabited places in the world outside polar regions. Winter temperatures remain below freezing for several months, often causing rivers and water pipelines to freeze. Snowfall is frequent and heavy, sometimes blocking highways and restricting travel to nearby towns.
Other Coldest Regions in India
Apart from Dras, regions such as Siachen Glacier, Leh and Keylong also experience extremely cold temperatures. The Siachen Glacier is considered one of the coldest battlefields in the world, with temperatures dropping below −50°C. Leh experiences long winters due to its high elevation and dry desert-like conditions. Keylong, located in Himachal Pradesh, remains snow-covered during winter months. These regions face extreme weather that limits agricultural activities and outdoor work.
Why Dras Experiences Extreme Cold?
Dras lies in a narrow valley surrounded by high mountain ranges, which trap cold air during winter. Cold winds flowing from Central Asia contribute to sudden drops in temperature. Snow-covered land reflects sunlight, preventing heat absorption and lowering surface temperatures. Thin air at high altitudes reduces heat retention. The combination of these geographical features results in prolonged cold conditions.
Interesting Facts About the Coldest Place in India
Dras Records Some of the Lowest Temperatures in India
Winter temperatures frequently fall below −40°C, making survival extremely challenging. Water stored outdoors freezes within minutes during peak winter. Vehicles require special antifreeze systems to function in such conditions. Many households store fuel and food supplies before winter begins.
Dras Is Among the Coldest Inhabited Places Globally
Despite severe winters, Dras supports permanent human settlements. Residents adapt by constructing thick-walled houses to retain heat. Traditional heating systems such as wood and kerosene heaters are widely used. Limited farming activities take place only during short summer months.
Snowfall Can Last for Several Months
Snowfall begins in late autumn and continues through winter. Thick layers of snow accumulate on rooftops and roads. Snow removal operations are necessary to maintain transportation routes. Melting snow provides water supply during warmer months.
Strategic Location Near Important Routes
Dras lies along the highway connecting Srinagar to Leh. This route is essential for civilian and military transport. Heavy snowfall sometimes forces temporary closure of the highway. Snow-clearing operations are carried out regularly to restore connectivity.
Read more: Which Is the Largest Mountain in Asia?
