Born in Switzerland of Indian parents Zahan grew up with the Himalayas in his blood, and the Alps in his back yard. He was always drawn to wild places, exploring the woods behind his childhood home, riding bikes and climbing trees. When he was 15 he took his still nascent climbing skills to the high peaks of the Mt. Blanc massif and was benighted while climbing the Aiguille du Midi in winter. There began the lifelong journey of learning to climb mountains with speed, safety, and efficiency.

Today he calls the Tetons his home where he works for Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, and as an Exum Mountain Guide. He was a member of the US National Ski Mountaineering Team that competed in the 2008 World Championships, has climbed all over the Rockies, including a 12 hour round trip on the North Face of the Grand Teton. He currently holds the 10h 39m speed record on the 'Trifecta,' a ski enchainement of the Grand, Middle, and South Tetons. In 2007 he made one of the most complete ski descents of the Grand Teton to date. He has redpointed upto 5.12, with routes in the Alps, El Cap, Zion and Squamish, the Needles and the Tetons.