Drang-Drung Glacier, Himalayan glacier in Kargil district, India

The Drang-Drung Glacier is one of the largest ice masses outside the main Himalayan range in India, sitting in the Zanskar Range at high elevation. It feeds two river systems that bring water to the valleys below.

The glacier began to be systematically documented from the 1970s onward, with observations recording its gradual retreat. These records are among the earliest for any glacier in this part of India.

The glacier feeds the Stod River, known locally as the Doda, which joins the Zanskar and then the Indus. The Kargil-Zanskar Road past Pensi La carries travellers and goods through this high country, and the one-day walk from the road to the glacier head follows a route used by local people crossing the pass.

The glacier is best reached from the Pensi La pass, which involves a trek across rough terrain at high elevation. Visitors should bring solid gear and warm clothing, as conditions can change quickly at this altitude.

A mountain peak rises directly from the surface of the glacier and is clearly visible from many points along the approach route. This feature sets Drang-Drung apart from most other glaciers in the region.