Zoji La Pass

Zoji La (Zoji Pass) is a high mountain pass at about 3,528 metres (11,575 ft) on the Srinagar–Leh National Highway (NH-1), located beyond Sonmarg in Jammu & Kashmir. It connects the Kashmir Valley with the Ladakh region (Drass and Kargil) and is one of the most strategically and scenically important passes in India.

Zoji La is typically open from around May/June to October/November. The pass receives extremely heavy snowfall in winter and is usually closed from late November until late spring, when the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) clears it. Exact opening and closing dates vary each year depending on snowfall, so always check current road status before travelling.

Zoji La lies about 15 km beyond Sonmarg, which is around 80 km from Srinagar. Most travellers reach it by road on the Srinagar–Leh highway, either by private taxi, shared cab, or as part of a Leh-bound journey. The road is narrow and can be rough in sections, so a skilled local driver is recommended.

When open and in fair weather, Zoji La is regularly travelled by tourists and commercial traffic. However, the road is steep, narrow, and can be muddy or icy, with sudden weather changes. Travel during daylight, avoid the pass in bad weather, hire an experienced local driver, and check road and weather conditions with the J&K Traffic Department before setting out.