Zoji La Pass is one of the most thrilling, emotional, and breathtaking travel routes in India. Located at a height of 11,649 feet, this mountain pass connects Srinagar to Kargil and eventually to Leh. While the journey is filled with extreme roads, chilling winds, and jaw-dropping Himalayan views, it’s also a path layered with deep patriotism, sacrifices of soldiers, and moments that will leave you speechless.
The Beginning of the Journey – From Srinagar to Sonamarg
The adventure kicks off from Srinagar, heading towards Kargil. The first stop is the Ganderbal Waterfall, just 20–25 km from Srinagar. It’s a great place to pause, enjoy nature’s beauty, and shoot some memorable reels.
From there, the road crosses over the Sindhu (Indus) River, one of the most sacred rivers in Indian history. Interestingly, this is the same place where the Sindhu Snan (holy dip) took place.
Through the Z-Morh Tunnel – Gateway to Sonamarg
Entering the newly built Z-Morh Tunnel is a game-changer for travelers. Earlier in winters, travelers had to change taxis at Gagangir and use snow chains to reach Sonamarg. But now, thanks to this tunnel, even heavy snowfall won’t stop you from reaching Sonamarg by your own vehicle.
Just 15 km from Sonamarg, the journey proceeds to Kargil. The roads here are wider, smoother, and more reliable—even in extreme winters.
Sonamarg – The Snowy Meadow
Sonamarg offers an unmatched scenic charm. This is the gateway for the Amarnath Yatra and the famous Zero Point Glacier.
- You’ll need to pay a ₹200 private toll.
- After this point, private taxis are not allowed. You must hire union taxis or go on horseback to explore the glacier.
- Sonamarg has excellent hotel options if you wish to stay overnight.
Entering the Wild – Towards Zoji La Pass
After crossing Sonamarg, the real adventure begins. You’ll see a massive bridge under construction — part of the Zoji La Tunnel Project, which is expected to make this dangerous pass safer in the future.
You also pass Baltal, the helicopter base for the Amarnath Yatra. Nearby are blue sheds—accommodations for workers constructing the tunnel.
Then begins the 40 km stretch on one of the most dangerous roads in the world. From November to April, this road remains closed due to heavy snowfall and landslides. That’s why it’s known as one of the toughest mountain passes on Earth.
The terrain becomes rough, the climb steepens, and even your camera starts failing in the freezing temperatures. The road condition is so bad that stabilizing any footage becomes nearly impossible. Yet, the surreal beauty of the snow-covered peaks keeps your spirit high.
Zoji La Zero Point – Where Heaven Touches Earth
Reaching Zoji La Zero Point feels like a divine blessing. The snow here is pure white, like marble, and the air is chilling yet fresh.
Military trucks clear the snow constantly, and the tire size on those vehicles is just unbelievable. It’s a place where only clean, untouched snow surrounds you — no dust, no pollution, just white serenity.
From here, Kargil is just 96 km away.
The Most Dangerous Stretch – Snow Dunes & Avalanche Zones
One of the riskiest sections of Zoji La is where natural snow dunes form, just like sand dunes in Rajasthan. A slight shift in the snow here can block the entire road within seconds. It’s an avalanche-prone zone, and even military convoys tread carefully here.
You’ll also come across signs like “I am at Zoji La”, often buried under heavy snow. The rivers freeze solid. The entire landscape looks like a white desert, silent and still.
Sunglasses are a must here to protect your eyes from snow glare.
Traffic, Checkposts, and The Final Stretch
Even though the pass had been open for just 15 days, a massive jam of trucks and cars builds up—proof of how vital this route is. Everything going to Leh passes through here, including goods, fuel, and supplies.
If you’re a solo traveler, you can take shared taxis from Srinagar to Leh for around ₹3500.
Once past the check post, the road improves, and you head towards Drass, which is 25 km away from this point.
Zoji La Pass is not just a route—it’s an emotion. From scenic waterfalls to terrifying cliffs, and from army memorials to frozen rivers, this journey is one of the most enriching travel experiences in India. You’ll come back with not just pictures, but stories etched deep in your heart.
If you’re an adventurer, a patriot, or a lover of the mountains—Zoji La Pass will leave you transformed.
