Zoji La Summit — Zanskar Range High-Altitude Pass Viewpoint

Zoji La sits on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway (NH-1) and marks the transition from the lush Sindh Valley to the stark, rain-shadow terrain of Drass and beyond. The summit is narrow, frequently one-lane, and managed by Border Roads Organisation’s Project Beacon. In summer, the pass is flanked by snowbanks well into June; in winter it closes entirely to civilian traffic, making it one of the most strategically critical chokepoints in the Himalayas. The views from the top — green Kashmir behind you, grey Zanskar ranges ahead — are genuinely staggering.

No services at the summit. BRO keeps the road cleared seasonally but conditions can change fast — rockfall, sudden snowstorms, and thin air at altitude all demand respect. Typically open May through November for civilian overlanders; exact dates vary by snowpack. No fuel, no water, no cell signal at the top. Fill up and rest in Sonamarg before committing to the climb.

Kashmir ends. Ladakh begins. Right here.