7 High Mountain Passes in India to Spot Summer Snowfall (2025)

Most people think of the monsoon as a season of rain-soaked days and misty valleys, with the skies covered day and night. But, did you that some places in India experience snowfall even during the monsoon?

Let’s explore where this magic happens – Here are 7 Indian destinations offer a chance to witness summer snowfall in 2025 along with helpful travel tips, budget hacks to the best time to visit.

1. Rohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh

Rohtang pass is one of the most stunning and popular mountain passes in the Indian Himalayas. It is surrounded by glaciers, rivers and rugged peaks. Travelers need to obtain a permit (available online) due to high traffic and environmental protection rules.

Even in July, Rohtang’s upper sections retain patches of snow, especially early in the morning.

Snow patches along the winding mountain road at Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh during early July, with misty clouds and melting ice under monsoon skies.

Rent a shared cab from Manali (₹600–₹800 round trip)
Snow gear available on rent en route (₹250–₹300)
Location: 51 km from Manali
Ideal for: First-timers & families

2. Zojila Pass, Jammu & Kashmir

Zojila Pass is known for its rugged terrain, steep climbs, and stunning views. It connects the Kashmir valley to Leh-Ladakh, and it is one of the most challenging passes of Himalayas. During the monsoon, rains fall over the valleys, the cliffs remain streaked with snow. It is located at an altitude of approximately 11,650 feet

Snow-covered cliffs and narrow mountain road at Zojila Pass on the Srinagar–Leh highway during late July, with fog and scattered ice patches.

Offers jaw-dropping landscapes and slippery thrill
Location: Srinagar–Leh Highway
Ideal for: Adventurers, bikers

3. Kunzum La, Himachal Pradesh

Kunzum La is a home to the Kunzum Mata Temple, where travelers stop to seek blessings before entering Spiti and also known as Kunzum Pass located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 15,000 feet. During monsoon season, when the lower regions receive rain, Kunzum la can still witness snowfall due to its extreme altitude.

Snow-dusted mountain pass at Kunzum La in Himachal Pradesh, with rugged peaks, a winding dirt road, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind under a partly cloudy sky.

Buses/taxis to Kaza available from Manali (budget: ₹1,000–₹1,500 total)
A sacred, windswept pass with unpredictable weather
Location: Gateway between Spiti and Lahaul
Ideal for: Spiti-bound backpackers

4. Baralacha La, Himachal–Ladakh Border

Baralachla La is a high mountain pass in the Zanskar range and located at an altitude of 16,040 feet. It is known for its rugged beauty, chilled air, and frequent snow even in summer. Baralacha La is one of the most scenic and thrilling passes in the Himalayas.

High-altitude mountain pass at Baralacha La with a winding road cutting through barren rocky terrain, patches of summer snow on the ground, and distant snow-capped peaks under a dramatic sky.

Open Season: Typically from mid-June to mid-October
Ideal for: Bikers, extreme terrain lovers
High altitude — stay hydrated and take it slow to avoid acute mountain sickness

5. Chandrashila Peak (via Tungnath), Uttarakhand

Chandrashila peak is just above Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world and located at an altitude of about 13,000 feet,. It is a popular trek in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand. During the monsoon, the lower part is full of blooming flowers and lush greenery, but might get a chance to see light snowfall neat the top.

Misty mountain trail leading to Chandrashila Peak, with wildflowers along the path, clouds covering the slopes, and distant peaks partially hidden by fog.

Chopta (shared taxis from Ukhimath ₹200–₹300)
Stay in Chopta tents/homestays (₹500–₹800/night)
Location: Chopta, Rudraprayag district
Ideal for: Trekkers & spiritual seekers

6. Khardung La, Ladakh

Khardung La is a legendary high mountain pass in Ladakh and connects Leh with the Nubra and Shyok Valleys and has long been considered one of the highest motorable roads in the world. It stays mostly dry but, due to its high elevation, light snowfall is common in summer. It is located at an altitude of approximately 17,982 feet.

High-altitude mountain pass at Khardung La with a snow-lined road, colorful prayer flags fluttering near a signboard showing the elevation, and rocky Ladakh mountains stretching into the distance.

Location: Leh region
Ideal for: High-altitude road trippers, Bikers
Leh to Khardung La: Rent a scooty (₹800–₹1000) or bike (₹1200–₹1500)

7. Zero Point (Yumesamdong), North Sikkim

Zero Point is located at an altitude of 15,300 feet. Moreover, this remote and breathtaking spot in North Sikkim lies close to the Indo-China border. Due to its elevation, it is often covered in snow even during summer months like May and June.

Location: Beyond Lachung, near Indo-China border
Ideal for: Snow chasers in East India
How to reach: Gangtok → Lachung → Zero Point (₹600–₹900 by shared cab)
Permit Required: Yes

India’s high passes and Himalayan gems offer a magical experience — unpredictable, thrilling, and rewarding. If you’re looking for an offbeat weather experience or summer snowfall, these destinations are the perfect places to plan for.

For more hidden gems, seasonal travel tips, and budget-friendly escapes across India, head over to TopTravelJourneys.com — your trusted guide to exploring more, spending less, and traveling smarter.