---
title: "Zoji La Pass: Kashmir–Ladakh Himalayan Route"
description: "Zoji La is a 3,528-metre pass linking Srinagar to Leh via Sonamarg and Drass — the strategic Himalayan chokepoint UPSC aspirants must place precisely."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/zoji-la-pass"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Zoji La is a high-altitude mountain pass in the western Himalaya at about 3,528 metres that links the Kashmir Valley to Ladakh.
- What does Zoji La Pass connect?
- Why is the Zojila Tunnel being built?
- How is Zoji La different from Banihal Pass?
- When does Zoji La reopen each year?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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Example

In November 1948, during Operation Bison, the Indian Army deployed Stuart tanks at over 3,500 metres to recapture Zoji La and reopen the supply route to Leh during the First Kashmir War.

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