Zham has a humid, subtropical climate and sits on the Tibet-Nepal border at an altitude of 2,300 meters. The climate combined with a drop in elevation from other areas of Tibet mean melting snow from the Himalayas create waterfalls along the roads that wind through this hilly region.

The architecture in Zham mainly consists of two- or three-story houses, many of which have small gardens and prayer flags which add color to the town. Zham isn't only a place of beauty. It's a place of business. It is a gateway to Nepal and has commercial appeal. The local marketplace is always crowded with businessmen and tourists.