Why Zero Point Sonmarg Should Be on Every Traveler's Itinerary in Kashmir
Why is it called Zero Point? Because it’s the point beyond the roads are often closed during heavy snowfall in winter, it is also the boundary between Kashmir and Ladakh situated on the Zojila Pass on the Srinagar Leh national highway at a high altitude of 11,646 feet and 3,549 metres above sea level. The distance from Sonamrg to Zero Point is 24 km and 1 hour to drive.
Zero Point Zojila is the mountain pass is a gateway to Ladakh, with over two entrance gates one from Kashmir and another from the Ladakh side. Zero Point is surrounded one side by Himalayan mountains from the other side is a deep valley that flows crystal clear water from the Sindh River.
In this guide, we have covered almost everything about Zero Point like what is the best time to visit, how to reach Zero Point from Sonmarg also about the temperature along with the best itinerary suggestion that offers a seamless and enjoyable trip.
Also Read: Cheapest Kashmir Tour Package
How to Reach Zero Point Zojila Pass from Sonmarg and Srinagar
Srinagar to Sonmarg Taxi Fare
- Distance: Approximately 80 kilometres to Sonmarg.
- Travel Options: You can hire a private or sharing cab, or bus, up to Sonmarg the journey is 2-3 hours.
- Taxi fare ₹2500 return
Sonmarg to Zero Point Zojila Taxi Fare
- Distance: Zero Point is about 25 kilometres from Sonmarg.
- Travel Options: Local taxis are available. The taxi fare start from ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 for a round trip.
The best way to explore Zero Point is from Sonmarg will be your starting point, the distance from Sonmarg to Zero Point is around 25 km and 1 hour of journey. A day trip to Zero Point is often mentioned in the Kashmir trip itinerary. By staying in Sonmarg or Srinagar the Zero Point can be covered in half day easily. It is a go-to choice for visitors to explore this high-altitude mountain pass.
Kindly note, that once you arrive in Sonmarg, tourists need to hire a separate local Union taxi in Sonmarg to explore Zero Point. Outside commercial taxis are not permitted for local sightseeing in Sonmarg.
While hiring a taxi in Sonmarg for Zero Point be aware that some taxi drivers might initially quote a high price of Rs.6000 to 8000 thousand per taxi kindly bargain with them.
Also Read: Ultimate 4 Nights 5 Days Kashmir Tour Package for 2024
The government-approved taxi rate from Sonmarg to Zero Point is Rs. 4000 for a return trip and includes a two to three-hour halt. To book a taxi for Zero Point, please contact our sales team at +91 9055055556.
Best Time to Visit Zero Point Zojila Sonmarg in Different Seasons and Weather Tips
Yes, you heard right May, June, July, August and September are the best time to visit Zero Point Zojila Pass Sonmarg. During these months the snow has melted enough, the roads are open and the weather will be pleasant, still, there will be plenty of snow after Gulmarg Zero Point is the second most popular destination for experiencing snow throughout the year in Kashmir Valley.
Spring (May)
May is spring month and turns into early summer on Zero Point Zojila. The temperature will stay quite chilly. The day and night time temperature may range from 5°C to 28°C. There gonna be plenty of snow so carry some warm clothes you may require while you are there on a day trip.
Summer (June to August)
June and July weather will be slightly warmer as the summer begins to start although the day temperature can reach up to 35°C so you will feel more pleasant during the day and the night temperature drops to 12°C. The snow will start melting and the changing of weather is common in Zero Point Zojila, so our advice is to pack some lightweight warm clothes.
August is monsoon season the weather can be unpredictable, rain showers can start any time in Zero Point Zojila Sonmarg. The day temperature can reach up to 34°C and the night can drop up to 5°C. So you can carry waterproof and warm light clothing.
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Autumn (September to October)
September as the autumn begins, the trees in Kashmir Valley will turn their leaf colour from green to amber and finally to a fiery red shade and the weather will be cool and pleasant. During the day the temperature can reach up to 30°C. It is the best time to visit Zero Point Sonmarg for those who are planning to explore Kashmir not in hot summer or not in cold winter.
October at Zeropoint Zojila Pass the weather will turn into winter colder and frosty and starting the beginning of winter. The temperature will drop significantly up to -5°C during the night and up to 10°C during the day and there are chances of heavy snowfall especially on the mountain peaks. If you are planning to visit Zeropoint Zojila Pass for a day trip in the month of October if the route is open, kindly pack wollen warm heavy clothes and snow boots
By packing these items below we have mentioned you will stay warm and comfortable during your day trip to Zero Point Sonmarg.
- Body Thermal
- Insulated Jacket
- Woollen Scarf
- Warm Gloves
- Woolen Cap
- Warm Socks
- Heavy Woolen Sweater
Winter (November to March)
From the beginning of November, the weather conditions are unpredictable at Zero Point Sonmarg therefore heavy snowfall can start at any time, which makes your travel difficult and it can be dangerous because of the snow and the cold freezing temperature may make your travel unsafe. It is our advice better to plan your trip to Zero Point Zojila before November month the weather will be better and stable. Furthermore, kindly follow the travel guidelines issued by the local authorities of Jammu and Kashmir.
Activities at Zero Point Zojila
Zero Point offers plenty of adventurous activities, it is the best place for enjoying snow biking sledging, trekking and photography. Below we have written a comprehensive description of each activities as follows:
Visitors can experience the thrilling rides in Zero Point at an elevation of 11,646 feet.
Snow Biking Cost
- Phase 1 Rs. 2000
- Phase 2 Rs. 3000
During April, May and June you can do Snow biking in Zero Point Zojila.
ATV Bike Ride Cost
- Rs. 1200 per ride (Self Drive)
Mr Zahoor has been operating Snow Biking also known as snowmobiling for the past 6 years in Zero Point Zojila Pass. He is an expert mountaineering guide, leading treks across both explored and unexplored trails and alpine lakes in Kashmir. Further more, he also provides services for ATV rides at Zojila Pass from July to October and organizes various treks and day hikes in that region. Zahoor is a registered mountaineer guide cum adventures activity service provider from Jammu and Kashmir Tourism For more details kindly contact +919596412133, +919055055556
Snow Sledding
Snow sledging is a funny activity in Zero Point Zojila Pass where you sit on a wooden sledge and glide down from the high altitude of a snowy hill. The thrill of gliding down from the mountain slopes and then you will feel the cold wind on your face that makes it an exciting and memorable experience. You don’t require any special skills it’s an easy activity for everyone including kids. Snow Sledding is the best way to enjoy with family and friends the laughter and joy of racing with each other and create adventurous memories in the snow wonderland of Zojila Pass.
Snow Sledding Cost: Rs. 1000 per ride up and down
Snowball Fighting is a delightful game to enjoy with friends and families at Zero Point Zojila Pass. How the snowball game is played? In this game, you have to make snowballs by hand and throw them to each other, the goal of the game is to have a fun and exciting way to bond with loved ones.
Snowman Building at Zero Point Zojila Pass is a creative activity you can enjoy on this mountain pass. How do you make a snowman? You have to gather fresh snow, roll it, and give it the shape of a classic snowman. Then start to make large round snowballs for the body part and for the head, once you finish that, create eyes, nose, and mouth with the help of using round stone. It is a joyful activity, especially for children which makes them extremely happy.
Top Attractions and Places to Explore Around Zero Point Zojila
Sonmarg Hill Station
Sonmarg is the 4th primary tourist destination of Kashmir Valley famous for its gold meadows, Thajiwas Glacier and Sindh River. The distance from Zero Point Zojila Pass to Sonmarg is 25km, visitors can easily explore both places on a day trip. Sonmarg is the starting point for exploring Zero Point and Thajiwas glaciers. If you are planning to visit both places from Sonmarg, then an overnight stay is required in Sonmarg. The hill station offers various accommodations from five-star hotels to budget-friendly guest houses.
Also Read: 10 Best Budget Hotels Near Dal Lake Srinagar | Starts Rs.750
Zojila War Memorial A Tribute to Brave Soldiers
The Zojila War Memorial is located at Zojila Pass at an altitude of 11,575 feet and very close to Zero Point the distance is 2 km and 5 min of drive. The place honours the memories of brave Indian soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives for the country. During the Kashmir War in 1947–48 Operation Bison. Visitors come to the memorial to pay their respect to the bravery of the soldiers and learn about the history at a museum that tells the story of the war which gives a reminder of the courage and dedication of those soldiers.
Nearby Trekking from Zero Point Zojila Sonmarg
Thajiwas Glacier
Thajiwas Glacier is a must-visit attraction near Zero Point, situated 9,186 feet (2,800 meters) above sea level. The starting is from Sonmarg to Thajiwas Glacier you can hire a pony in Sonmarg and the distance is approximately 3 km and 2 hours in one way duration. On this high-altitude spot, you find a cool and fresh climate and the glacier is surrounded by snow during the whole year, and that is the main reason tourists come to explore the snow worlds of Thajiwas
Gadsar Lake Trek
Gadsar Lake also known as Yemsar, the lake is situated at a very high altitude up in the mountains 11,800 feet above sea level. The distance is around 25 km from Sonmarg. During the trek, you will cross from the Gadsar Pass is the highest mountain pass of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek which is 16000 feet above sea level.
If you are planning to trek for Gadar Lake the best time for trekking is June July and August. During these months the weather will be nice and the trails will be clear that will making your trek easy and adventurous.
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Hotels at Zero Point Zojila Pass Sonmarg
Zero Point is a high-altitude mountain pass, even though there aren’t any hotels. But don’t worry Sonmarg is situated at very close to Zero Point just 1 hour drive and you can find from five-star hotels to Budget-friendly guest houses in Sonmarg. So you can explore Zero Point during the day and for overnight you can stay in Sonmarg.
List of the best hotels in Sonmarg
JKTDC Hotel Kongposh Sonamarg
Hotel Sonamarg inn
Sonamarg Snow View
Hotel Thajwass Glacier
Imperial Resorts
Radisson Hotel Sonamarg
Travel Tips and Safety Guidelines at Zero Point Zojila
Road Safety: Driving Conditions and Tips
The journey from Sonmarg to Zero Point Zojila Pass is smooth and comfortable, the conditions are generally good and well paved with tiles. You may face a few potholes during the journey along the way. Drive always slowly at high altitudes and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
Emergency Contacts in Zero Point Zojila Pass Sonmarg
Police Station Sonamarg
Srinagar – Ladakh Rd, Sonamarg, Forest Block,
Jammu and Kashmir 191203 Contact no: 01942417242
JKTDC Office
Ganderbal, Ganderbal Sonamarg Road, Jammu and Kashmir 191201
0194 2502274, 0191 2549065 email: info@jktdc.co.in
Police 100
Fire Station 101, 132
Ambulance 102, 108
Altitude Sickness: Prevention and Remedies
For the day trip to Zero Point Day trip, you can follow these simple steps to make your trip enjoyable and safe. Whenever you plan to explore a high-altitude mountain pass remember that the air in that region is thin, and you may feel dizzy, tired, or have a headache It is called altitude sickness.
To prevent altitude sickness drink plenty of water that will keep you stay Hydrated. Once you are there start slow walking and take deep breathing that way your body will adjust to that atmosphere.
If you feel sick, inform your cab driver and move to a lower altitude, by following these tips will help you to enjoy your day trip at Zero Point Zojila without any worries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is it called zero point in Sonmarg?
Zero Point is also known as Zojila Pass both the name signifies the same meaning It marks the point of the boundary between Kashmir and Ladakh, by the Geographical Significance its also called Zero Point because of its high altitude and the snow on the mountain peaks throughout the year.
Therefore, the zero point emphasises the geographical significance as a boundary and Zojila Pass highlights the high mountain pass at the altitude of 11,575 feet above sea level.
Do We Require Permit?
No, you do not require any permit to visit Zero Point Zojila. You can carry a valid ID card for checks that may be required in Jammu and Kashmir.
Can I Visit Zero Point Zojila in Winter?
No Zero Point Zojila is closed during Winter because of heavy snow, from November or December till April. The best time to visit is between May to October.
Are There ATMs and Banking Facilities Nearby
ATM and banking facilities are in the Sonmarg, you can carry some cash, you may feel hungry so buy snacks, Maggi, Water or tea from roadside eateries.
What is the Cost of Visiting Zero Point Zojila?
The car cost from Sonmarg to Zero Point Zojila is Rs. 4000 per cab return to Sonmarg
How Much Time Should I Spend at Zero Point?
Usually, 2-3 hours at Zero Point Zojila, is enough time to explore, you can click photos, snow sledging or snow bike riding
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