Image Source: Ameer Ali
About Mushkoh Valley
Mushkoh Valley is an unexplored paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, and history enthusiasts. Tucked away near Dras in the Kargil district of Ladakh, the valley is often referred to as the “Valley of Wild Tulips,” which comes alive with colourful alpine flowers during spring and summer. Mushkoh has a dramatic history when it became one of the key flashpoints during the 1999 Kargil War. Mushkoh Valley was a strategic infiltration point during the 1999 Kargil War. The surrounding mountains were sites of conflict, and remnants of bunkers and observation posts still remain.
Geography and Landscape
Muskoh Valley lies at an elevation of 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) and is located about 8-10 km west of Drass town. In winter the valley remains covered under a high-altitude cold desert zone that changes into lush meadows during summer. It’s also the best time to visit the valley. It falls from late May to September, when the snow melts and the valley turns into a floral canvas. Seasonal wildflowers—particularly tulips, orchids, and edelweiss—bloom from May to July. Unlike the controlled gardens of Srinagar, Mushkoh is home to natural fields of wild tulips growing in the wild—something rarely seen in such abundance elsewhere in India. Muskoh Nala, a glacial stream flow in the valley, which eventually joins the Drass River. Wildlife lovers may spot Himalayan marmots, foxes, and a variety of birds in the valley.
Dramatic cliffs, glacial rivers, and snow-capped peaks around make it a must-visit spot.
Limited Civilian Access Until Recently: Due to its proximity to the Line of Control (LoC) and military sensitivity, the valley remained largely inaccessible to civilians for years. Only recently has it begun to open up for tourism.
Gateway to Remote Treks: Mushkoh is a trailhead for treks into the Suru Valley, Umba La, and towards the challenging routes leading into Zanskar.
How to Reach Mushkoh Valley
From Srinagar:
Distance: ~145 km (via NH-1D)
Route: Srinagar → Sonamarg → Zoji La Pass → Dras → Mushkoh Valley
Travel Time: Approx. 5-6 hours by road
Public Transport: Limited shared cabs and buses operate between Srinagar and Dras. From Dras, you’ll need to hire a local taxi or trek to the valley.
From Leh:
Distance: ~280 km via Kargil
Route: Leh → Kargil → Dras → Mushkoh
Travel Time: Approx. 8–10 hours by road
Note: Roads are open only from May to October, depending on weather and clearance of Zoji La.