← Concept Library · Polity & Governance
Polity & Governance GS 2 In the news 6 times

Zojila Pass

Geography and Strategic Significance

Zojila Pass is a high mountain pass in the Himalayan range, situated at an altitude of approximately 3,528 metres (11,575 feet) on the Srinagar–Leh National Highway (NH-1). It marks the boundary between the Kashmir Valley and the Ladakh plateau and is one of the most strategically critical passes in India. The pass typically remains snowbound and impassable for vehicles between November and April each year, historically severing Ladakh's road connection to the rest of the country for up to six months.

Key details
  • Location: Between Sonamarg (Kashmir) and Drass (Ladakh) on NH-1
  • Altitude: ~3,528 metres (11,575 feet)
  • Status: Seasonal pass — closed in winter due to heavy snowfall
  • Strategic role: The only road link between Srinagar and Leh; critical for military logistics to Siachen, Dras, and the Line of Control
In the news

Tracked since June 08, 2026 · last seen June 13, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes

Related concepts
See it in today’s brief. Daily current affairs with every static concept explained in place.
Read the daily brief