It is one of the coldest inhabited places on earth
Explanation
Drass, located in the Kargil district of the Union Territory of Ladakh, is geographically significant due to its extreme climatic conditions and strategic location as the "Gateway to Ladakh".
- It is the hottest place in Ladakh is incorrect: Drass is characterized by an extremely cold climate, with winter temperatures frequently dropping below -40°C. It is not a hot region.
- It is one of the coldest inhabited places on earth is correct: Drass is widely acknowledged as the second coldest inhabited place in the world (after Oymyakon in Siberia, Russia) and the coldest inhabited place in India. Its high altitude (approx. 3,280 meters) contributes to these extreme temperatures.
- It is famous for its date palms is incorrect: Date palms require a hot, arid climate to thrive. The vegetation in Drass is sparse and typical of a cold desert, consisting mainly of willows, poplars, and thorny bushes, but not date palms.
- It is the capital of Ladakh is incorrect: The capital of the Union Territory of Ladakh is Leh (with Kargil serving as a joint capital). Drass is a sub-division within the Kargil district.
Key Takeaway: Drass is geographically distinct for being the coldest inhabited place in India and the second coldest in the world, often experiencing sub-zero temperatures for a significant portion of the year.