Siachen- Coldest and Highest Glacier of India
Siachen glacier is the largest ice sheet and is gigantic. It’s called the third pole. It falls in the Karakoram Range. Trust me, it’s one of the coldest places, and we can imagine how tough our soldiers can get, as it is the highest battlefield. It is also vital for India and Pakistan. India secured its stance in Operation Meghdoot and established its posts in 1984.
The Saltoro ridge is where we have a constant military presence. In -40 degree celsius, with those extreme and coldest conditions, our soldiers stand strong protecting our country. Sadly, there have been several who lost their lives due to the weather conditions and not during any conflict or combat. The Nubra River, which feeds the Indus system, faces environmental threats from military activity.
It’s a mesmerising stretch that goes upto the Himalayan ranges. Its unreal view of nature is just so wow and formidable. Outside the polar region, it’s one of the longest glaciers. Its crucial for controlling routes from Leh to the Karakoram pass
It also had the world’s highest helipad for supply. It’s known as Sonam. One interesting fact we would like to share is about the bed of roses you will find here. Like, really, at that altitude. Well, I’m talking about wild roses, but a little on the lower side of the valley. Siachen, the name itself, portrays the place of roses. Sia(rose) and Chean (place of ). But the military presence has created pollution, waste, and threatens rare species like snow leopards, and there have been a lot of climate changes too. It’s 5,753 m above sea level.
Our very own Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has permitted tourists to travel from the Siachen Base camp to the Kumar post. So your thermals and get set go
To boost tourism and give a glimpse of the beautiful Indian third pole, Siachen, the Indian government had opened the gates in 2019. But you can only do so with a lot of permits to a certain limit. This has increased tourism in Ladakh.
Tourists also get a close look at the hard work and efforts the Indian Army puts in to keep them safe. One can feel true patriotism in this snowland and proudly salute. They can also pay their respects to the soldiers at the Memorials like OP Baba and the Siachen War Memorial. It’s easily accessible from Leh with several tours, but with strict permissions. Local operators can get you there easily. You can have an exterior view of the Siachen Battle School.
Also, you should be fit enough physically to acclimate and spend time at that altitude and extreme conditions. Its give a unique experience into the Indian Military history.
Its important to go with good health and be careful of getting AMS. Proper gears are most important even im summers. No camping is allowed, and you must respect the place and military posts and follow all rules. It can be an adventurous and patriotic trip. The hot springs at the Panamik are a great experience.
The deep treks need permits; the base camp doesn’t need a NOC. Photography is forbidden in army areas. August septembers are ideal for treks.
With permits how you can visit Siachen
Fly from your city to Leh, Ladakh (IXL). Take a drive to Nubra Valley, and you can also visit the Khardung La pass. Villages like Sumur and Panamik are other special places to see, but you will need permits. The final road to the past Warshi and the OP BaBa Shrine area is a journey one can’t miss. It highlights the military significance and stunning high-altitude terrain.
