Rezang La, situated in the Chushul sector of Ladakh, is a mountain pass surrounded by breathtaking views of the Himalayas. This stark yet rugged terrain makes it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and exploration. Rezang la holds a significant place in India's military history for its unparalleled display of valour during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. At an altitude of over 16,000 feet, the pass is surrounded by snow-covered peaks during winters, enhancing its striking beauty. Visitors can experience the majestic beauty of the region while paying homage to the soldiers who defended India's sovereignty with unmatched courage.
Note:1 Since Rezang La is situated at a high altitude of over 16,000 feet above sea level, tourists are advised to follow proper acclimatization processes. Please refer to the PDF attached in the important links section.
2. Visitors are advised to obtain Inner Line Permit to access this region.
The Battle of Rezang La, fought on November 18, 1962, stands as one of the most
heroic defences in world military history. Led by Major Shaitan Singh, a company of the
13 Kumaon Battalion of the Indian Army, comprising just 120 soldiers, faced a massive
Chinese force of over 5,000 troops during the Sino-Indian War. Despite being heavily
outnumbered and positioned at a height of over 16,000 feet, the Indian soldiers displayed
extraordinary courage and resolve. They fiercely defended their positions, inflicting
significant losses on the Chinese forces, even though they were eventually surrounded
and overwhelmed.
114 soldiers of the company made the ultimate sacrifice, but their fierce resistance
delayed the Chinese advance and helped safeguard the Chushul sector, a strategically
critical area. The battle, though a tragic loss, became a testament to the indomitable
spirit, resilience and patriotism of the Indian Army. Major Shaitan Singh's exceptional
leadership in the face of overwhelming odds earned him the Param Vir Chakra, India's
highest military honour, posthumously. The legacy of the Battle of Rezang La continues
to inspire generations, symbolising the unwavering commitment of India's soldiers to
defend their homeland, no matter the cost.
CITATION
Major Shaitan Singh
13 KUMAON (IC 7990)
Major Shaitan singh was commanding a company of an infantry battalion deployed at Rezang La in the Chusul sector at a height of about 17,000 feet. The locality was isolated from the main defended sector and consisted of five platoon-defended position. On 18 November 1962, the Chinese forces subjected the company position to heavy artillery, mortar and small arms fire and attacked it in overwhelming strength in several successive waves. Against heavy odds, our troops beat back successive waves of enemy attack. During the action, Major Shaitan singh dominated the scene of operations and moved at great personal risk from one platoon post to another sustaining the morale of his hard-pressed platoon posts. While doing so he was seriously wounded but continued to encourage and lead his men, who, following his brave example fought gallantly and inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy. For every man lost to us, the enemy lost four or five. When major Shaitan Singh fell disabled by wounds in his arms and abdomen, his men tried to evacuate him but they came under heavy machine-gun fire. Major Shaitan Singh then ordered his men to leave him to his fate in order to save their lives.
Major Shaitan Singh’s supreme courage, leadership and exemplary devotion to duty inspired his company to fight almost to the last man.
Leh → Karu (40 Km) → Chang La (76 Km) → Tangtse (160 Km) → Chushul (200 Km) → Rezang La (214 Km)
