Exploring India’s historic battlefields: Revisiting tales of courage in scenic settings
‘Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan’ opens iconic battle zones
Several iconic and previously inaccessible war zones are being transformed into tourist destinations
In a unique initiative, the Ministry of Defence’s ‘Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan’ has opened iconic war zones and strategic locations to the public, blending history, adventure, and scenic beauty.

Several iconic and previously inaccessible war zones are being transformed into tourist destinations
Over the years, the Indian Army has fought numerous battles in defence of the motherland, resulting in the loss of countless brave hearts who gave their lives for the nation.
To honour the memory of the martyrs and create greater awareness about the numerous sacrfices made by the valiant soldiers over the course of the history, on January 15, Indian Army Day, the Ministry of Defence launched a historic initiative, ‘Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan’, opening both historical and active battlefields, along with strategic geopolitical zones, to visitors.
As part of this new endeavour, several iconic and previously inaccessible war zones are being transformed into tourist destinations. The list includes locations such as Galwan and Doklam, alongside 75 other forward military sites that have seen significant action in the past.
These sites, where sacrifices were made and battles fought, have not only shaped the history of the nation but also offer a unique opportunity for travellers interested in military history.
Additionally, they provide a chance to witness scenic beauty and explore the strategic defence points that have played a crucial role in marking the country’s borders.
Siachen Glacier

Siachen Glacier is recognised as the highest and coldest battlefield in the world (Photo: Haseeb97)
Located in the Karakoram Range of Jammu and Kashmir, the Siachen Glacier is recognised as the highest and coldest battlefield in the world. The conflict here began in 1984 between India and Pakistan over control of the glacier.
Both nations have maintained military presence in the area at altitudes above 6096 m, making it a dangerous and inhospitable environment. While not easily accessible for tourists due to its strategic significance, nearby regions such as Leh offer stunning views of the Karakoram Range.
The region’s untouched natural beauty, including glaciers and snow-capped peaks, makes it a dream destination for adventure enthusiasts. Though access to the glacier is limited, travellers can explore the surrounding landscapes through trekking or scenic drives, offering a chance to witness the harsh conditions soldiers endure.
Kargil

The rugged terrain and views of the Himalayas attract adventure lovers and trekkers (Photo: District Kargil)
Kargil, located in Kashmir, was the focal point of the 1999 Kargil War between India and Pakistan. The war was fought over strategic positions in the mountainous region, and India successfully reclaimed the territory from Pakistani forces.
The Kargil War Memorial located at Drass in Jammu & Kashmir, serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers during the battle. For tourists, Kargil presents a unique blend of history and nature.
The region’s rugged terrain and panoramic views of the Himalayas attract adventure lovers and trekkers. Drass, known as the second coldest inhabited place on Earth, offers a chilly but awe-inspiring experience. The Zanskar Valley, a short distance from Kargil, is a famous trekking destination, providing a glimpse of the area’s historical and cultural significance.
Rezang La
Rezang La, located in Ladakh, is famous for the heroic stand of Indian soldiers during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. In this fierce battle, 114 Indian soldiers, led by Major Shaitan Singh, fought against a much larger Chinese force.

The memorial at Rezang La honours is a site of pilgrimage for those who wish to pay their respects to martyred soldiers (Photo: PIB)
Despite being heavily outnumbered, the soldiers showed extraordinary bravery, and all of them were martyred in the battle. The memorial at Rezang La honours their sacrifice and is a site of pilgrimage for those who wish to pay their respects.
For tourists, Ladakh is a region of unparalleled beauty, offering scenic vistas of high-altitude deserts, snow-capped peaks, and stunning lakes like Pangong and Tso Moriri.
The area also attracts adventure enthusiasts for trekking, biking, and river rafting. Visitors can experience the warmth of Ladakhi culture while learning about the region’s military history.
Nathu La & Bum La
Nathu La in Sikkim and Bum La in Arunachal Pradesh hold historical importance as sites of border conflicts between India and China. Nathu La saw a major clash in 1967, while Bum La witnessed intense conflict during the 1962 Sino-Indian War.

Nathu La saw a major clash in 1967 (Photo: Sikkim Tourism)
These locations are now accessible to tourists, offering breath-taking views of the Eastern Himalayas. Nathu La is a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to Tsomgo Lake and the scenic beauty of the surrounding region.
Visitors can explore local villages, monasteries, and vibrant markets. Bum La, near Tawang, is known for its stunning landscapes, and the majestic Tawang Monastery.
Lipulekh Pass
Located in Uttarakhand, Lipulekh Pass has been historically important as a trade route and is now a key point in India’s relations with Nepal and Tibet. It gained attention due to its geopolitical significance, particularly concerning the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage route for Hindus.

Lipulekh Pass offers an incredible opportunity to experience the spiritual significance of the region (Photo: Wikimedia)
For tourists, Lipulekh Pass offers an incredible opportunity to experience the spiritual significance of the region while trekking through some of the most pristine landscapes of the Indian Himalayas.
The area is known for its panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and lush valleys, making it a popular spot for trekking and nature walks. Visitors can also experience the vibrant culture of the local people and explore the nearby villages.
Cho-La
Located in Sikkim, the Cho-La pass was the site of a significant military engagement during the 1967 border conflict between India and China. The battle took place in one of the most challenging terrains of the Eastern Himalayas, and the Indian soldiers’ resilience became a defining moment of the conflict.

Cho-La pass was the site of a military engagement during the 1967 conflict (Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg)
Today, Cho-La is a popular trekking destination, attracting adventure lovers with its pristine surroundings. Trekkers explore the dense forests, cross crystal-clear lakes, and navigate high-altitude passes, all while enjoying the majestic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
The nearby Goecha La trek, one of the most famous in Sikkim, also passes through the Cho-La area, offering an extended trekking experience for tourists.
For many, these sites are not just about learning history and getting inspiration from the tales of courage, but also about experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of the region.