Zoji La Pass & Zero Point, Sonamarg - Timings, Safari Cost, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 23 km from Sonamarg, Zoji La is a high mountain pass located in the Kargil district of Ladakh, India. Situated in the Dras subdivision, it is one of the world's most dangerous mountain roads and among the must-include places in Sonamarg tour packages.

With an altitude of 3258 m, Zoji La Pass is situated on the NH 1 that connects Srinagar to Leh and prides itself in being the second highest pass on the highway with the first being the Fotu La Pass. It connects the Kashmir Valley to its west with the Dras and Suru Valleys to its northeast and the Indus Valley further east. Historically, the pass was captured by Pakistan in 1948 during their attempt to acquire control over Ladakh. Later, the Indian Army launched Operation Bison to regain control over this pass, which was successfully captured in November 1948.

Translating to the 'mountain pass of blizzards', the pass is known for its breathtakingly beautiful views and landscapes. This high mountain pass offers a bird's-eye view of the low-lying valley, which is why it is an ideal place to get some beautiful photographs. Besides, it is a must-visit place in Sonamarg for adventure seekers as well as bike riders as it is one of the most difficult & challenging passes in Ladakh. One can also visit Zero Point located nearby where the entire range of mountains was covered with snow. Here, one can enjoy playing in the snow and also several activities like sledding and ATV bikes. There are also small huts here serving tea, coffee, and hot Maggi.

The best time to visit Zoji La is from April to late October. This mountainous pass is closed during winter due to excessive snowfall. To avoid inconvenience caused to visitors and make the pass accessible throughout the year, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is working extensively. The Beacon Force unit of this organization looks after the maintenance of Zoji La during winter. Due to its high altitude, it can be a bit of a dangerous ride, hence one must travel down this one, only with a seasoned driver, used to such steep and playful turns and roads. Tourists do not need any permit to visit Zojila Pass.

Subject to fair weather and good road condition, only one-way traffic shall be allowed on alternate days between 7 AM to 9 AM. No vehicle shall be allowed after the cut-off time. What it means is that if the traffic was allowed from Sonamarg on Monday, vehicles from Kargil would be allowed on Tuesday. Then Sonamarg on Wednesday, Kargil on Thursday, and so forth. Sometimes, if there is not a lot of snow on the road, traffic can also be allowed from both sides on the same day. In that case, from the Kargil side, vehicles are allowed to travel between 4 AM to 10 AM. The traffic from the Sonamarg side is released after 10 AM. The pass remains closed on Fridays for all kinds of traffic for maintenance work.

Timings: 7 AM - 9 AM (Alternate Days)

4 AM - 10 PM from Kargil Side & After 10 AM from Sonamarg (Same Day)

Entry: Free