Operation Bison saw the deployment of M5 Stuart light tanks at record altitudes for that era.
The memorial honors the capture of Zojila Pass, which prevented the isolation of Ladakh during the 1948 conflict.
It is situated in one of the most treacherous mountain corridors, known for extreme weather conditions and heavy snowfall.
The site commemorates the 'Saviers of Ladakh' who defended the Zojila Pass against overwhelming odds.
The location was chosen to reflect the exact geography where the decisive tank battle occurred.
The Zojila War Memorial commemorates the 1948 victory of the Indian Army over Pakistani raiders in Operation Bison. It is located at an altitude of approximately 11,500 feet near the strategic Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh Highway. The site features a cenotaph and a wall inscribed with the names of soldiers who secured the pass during the Indo-Pakistani War. The memorial stands in the rugged terrain of the Gumri area of Ladakh. It serves as a tribute to the logistical and tactical efforts required to move tanks to such a high altitude for the first time in military history. The structure is maintained by the Indian Army and serves as a significant site for military heritage tourism in the region.
The main memorial plaque with the Zojila mountain range providing the backdrop.
Carry portable oxygen cylinders if you are prone to altitude sickness.
Dress in heavy layers regardless of the season, as mountain winds are piercing.
Ensure your vehicle is capable of handling high-altitude mountain passes.
Maintain a respectful, quiet demeanor as this is a solemn military site.
Do not attempt to visit outside of the summer season when the pass is often closed due to extreme snow accumulation.
The site is typically inaccessible in winter months due to the heavy snowfall that closes the Zojila Pass.
Dress modestly; remove headgear near the cenotaph; maintain a quiet tone; do not litter in this pristine mountain environment.
