Republic Day is a day of national importance, a day when India became a ‘sovereign, democratic, and republican’ nation. On this day in 1950, the Constitution of India came into effect and replaced the British-era Government of India Act. Hundreds of revolutionaries, freedom fighters, and great thinkers laid down their lives and strived for the country to see this day. To honor their sacrifices and uphold the value of the Constitution, here are 7 war memorials that you can visit across India this Republic Day.
6 Best War Memorials To Visit In India 2026
1. Sea War Memorial, Visakhapatnam
The Victory at Sea memorial, also known as the ‘Sea War Memorial’, is located in the city of Visakhapatnam. It was constructed after the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 and is dedicated to the heroes of the Indian Navy and the Eastern Naval Command sailors. The memorial is home to a wide variety of missiles, tankers, and fighter plane models, attracting history buffs from all over India. It is a well-maintained memorial, sitting on the scenic beach road, and an excellent place for kids and adults.
Address: 31, Beach Rd, Kirlampudi Layout, Chinna Waltair, Pedda Waltair, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530017
Nearest airport: Visakhapatnam Airport (14 km)
2. Tawang War Memorial, Tawang
Tawang War Memorial sits in rugged hills and snow-capped mountains and was built in memory of the 2,420 members of the armed forces who sacrificed their lives during the 1962 Indo-China War. The memorial has the National Flag, the flags of all three branches of the armed forces – the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force.
It has two major halls, where one is a museum and the other is an auditorium. Wall-mounted photographs, glass-encased displays of ammunition, historic photos, and other exhibits showcase the brave stories of Indian soldiers and the 1962 war. Definitely one of the top military heritage sites in India for Republic Day 2026!
Address: Kitpi, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Nearest airport: Guwahati Airport (480 km)
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3. Kargil War Memorial, Dras
Against the scenic backdrop of the Tololing Peak and Dras Valley, the Kargil War Memorial stands out for its pink sandstone facade. The memorial, built in honor of the 1999 Kargil War martyrs, is a symbol of unwavering patriotism.
Kargil War Memorial documents archives, miniatures of Himalayan ranges, army emblems, and features important photographs from the war. At the entrance, the memorial also has an elegy written by Dr. Harivansh Rai Bachchan. Additionally, it has the names of all the soldiers and officers who sacrificed their lives during the war.
Address: Drass, National Highway 1D, 194103
Nearest airport: Srinagar International Airport (160 km)
4. Chandigarh War Memorial, Chandigarh
Chandigarh War Memorial is the largest post-Independence war memorial of the country with about 8,459 names of martyrs since 1947 from all the three armed forces. The memorial is designed to pay homage to the martyrs using elements of nature, such as a bougainvillea garden and manicured landscaping.
At the center of the memorial stands a modern sculpture, symbolic of the martyrdom of the armed forces. The memorial has an open theater as well as where light and sound shows take place.
Address: Bouganvillea Garden, Sector 3, Chandigarh, 160001
Nearest airport: Chandigarh Airport (24 km)
5. National War Memorial, New Delhi
The National War Memorial in New Delhi is a monument of national importance. It honors the sacrifice of Indian soldiers who laid their lives in independent India’s conflicts. It is located near India Gate and is designed with concentric circles representing sacrifice, bravery, and immortality. The memorial also has an eternal flame and names etched in granite.
The memorial’s location in the country’s capital and its proximity to India Gate makes it worth a visit. It is a symbol of sacrifice and patriotism and makes for one of the best war memorials to visit in India on Republic Day.
Address: Kitpi, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Nearest airport: Guwahati Airport (480 km)
Also Read: 5 Best Day Trips To Take From Shimla This Winter For Snow, Views & Quiet Escapes
6. Darjeeling War Memorial, Darjeeling
Situated in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district and in the famous Batasia Loop, the Darjeeling War Memorial is one of the scenic war memorials in the country. It is dedicated to Gorkha soldiers and regiments who sacrificed their lives to serve the nation. Built in 1995, the oval-shaped raised platform with a triangular cenotaph honors 75 martyred soldiers.
The Gorkha regiment, having made an immense contribution in the country’s defence, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. You can also take a glimpse of the iconic Batasia Loop through a scenic toy train journey from Darjeeling to Ghoom.
Address: NH110, West Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102
Nearest airport: Bagdogra Airport (65 km)
Summing Up
In this article, we’ve mentioned some of the best war memorials to visit across India this Republic Day. From Darjeeling War Memorial to Tawang War Memorial, we’ve rounded up war memorials that stand as fierce symbols of patriotism and sacrifice, reminding us of the bravery of the Indian soldiers.
FAQs
Can We Visit The Kargil War Memorial In January?
Yes, though it’s cold; ensure you check for road closures via Zojila Pass.
What Is Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan?
An Indian Army initiative to promote tourism at historic battlefields.
Which Is The Largest War Memorial In India?
National War Memorial, New
