Patnitop
Patnitop is a beautiful hill station situated at an altitude of 2,024 m in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It is about three hours drive from Jammu. Even though Patnitop is no less beautiful and serene, it is not a place heavily frequented by tourists. This charming plateau is surrounded by dense forest and lush green pines.
Shiva-Garh:
The lush wooded pine forest in Patnitop offers ample opportunity for trekking. This place acts as a good starting point for short and long treks to the nearby mountains. The one-day walk to Shiva-Garh at an altitude of 3,500 m, which is about 11 km away from Patnitop, is quite exhilarating. Also there is a rich selection of peaceful and scenic spots for picnic lovers. The only sound one hears is the tinkling of bells around the neck of goats and cows and the rustling of fiber and twigs as one walks in the lush meadow in a dream world of one’s own.
The walk in the unpaved path (named Kutcha) between the rows and rows of tall trees leads to quiet retreats and excellent views of pine-covered forest. The beautiful paths passing through wooded lanes and fascinating scenery links Patnitop to Kud and Batote. Travelers can also visit three springs, gushing with ice-cold freshwater, in this hill station. They are said to have medicinal qualities.
The complete tourist circuit comprises Jammu-Katra Vaishnodevi temple, Kud-Sanasar, Patnitop-Gourikund, and Sudmahadev, Mantali, extending upto Latti-Dhuna. Sanasar, situated at 19 km away from Patnitop was chosen by Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Board for major development. The 6-hole golf course is being expanded to a 9-hole course. Travelers who are less adventurous can take up pony rides in little known trails. Those who are highly adventurous can indulge in para-gliding and basic skiing.
The pride of Patnitop is its 600 years old Naga temple. Though small in its size, it reflects the faith and reverence shared by millions of Indians all over. Patnitop does not offer opportunities for shopping. However, a few kiosks are situated beside the meadows for compulsive shoppers. Here one can buy Kashmir’s specialties like handicrafts, embroidered wool carpets, embroidered long shirts and woolen products.
The evenings in this hill station are quite cold. The mountains are covered by fog and visibility is just 10 feet at the time. The peak season is in summer (May to June). If travelers want to have a peaceful holiday, then the best time would be July end to August, as the place is less crowded at this time. If you are seeking snowboard thrills, then the best time would be September to December.
The nearest airport and railhead are in Jammu. Patnitop is well connected to Jammu, which is 112 km away, by road. Taxis can be hired outside the airport and railway station of Jammu. This hill station is well connected to the rest of India through Jammu and Kashmir. As there are very few hotels available in Patnitop it is advisable to stay in Jammu and visit the place in the daytime.
Shiva-Garh:
The lush wooded pine forest in Patnitop offers ample opportunity for trekking. This place acts as a good starting point for short and long treks to the nearby mountains. The one-day walk to Shiva-Garh at an altitude of 3,500 m, which is about 11 km away from Patnitop, is quite exhilarating. Also there is a rich selection of peaceful and scenic spots for picnic lovers. The only sound one hears is the tinkling of bells around the neck of goats and cows and the rustling of fiber and twigs as one walks in the lush meadow in a dream world of one’s own.
The walk in the unpaved path (named Kutcha) between the rows and rows of tall trees leads to quiet retreats and excellent views of pine-covered forest. The beautiful paths passing through wooded lanes and fascinating scenery links Patnitop to Kud and Batote. Travelers can also visit three springs, gushing with ice-cold freshwater, in this hill station. They are said to have medicinal qualities.
The complete tourist circuit comprises Jammu-Katra Vaishnodevi temple, Kud-Sanasar, Patnitop-Gourikund, and Sudmahadev, Mantali, extending upto Latti-Dhuna. Sanasar, situated at 19 km away from Patnitop was chosen by Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Board for major development. The 6-hole golf course is being expanded to a 9-hole course. Travelers who are less adventurous can take up pony rides in little known trails. Those who are highly adventurous can indulge in para-gliding and basic skiing.
The pride of Patnitop is its 600 years old Naga temple. Though small in its size, it reflects the faith and reverence shared by millions of Indians all over. Patnitop does not offer opportunities for shopping. However, a few kiosks are situated beside the meadows for compulsive shoppers. Here one can buy Kashmir’s specialties like handicrafts, embroidered wool carpets, embroidered long shirts and woolen products.
The evenings in this hill station are quite cold. The mountains are covered by fog and visibility is just 10 feet at the time. The peak season is in summer (May to June). If travelers want to have a peaceful holiday, then the best time would be July end to August, as the place is less crowded at this time. If you are seeking snowboard thrills, then the best time would be September to December.
The nearest airport and railhead are in Jammu. Patnitop is well connected to Jammu, which is 112 km away, by road. Taxis can be hired outside the airport and railway station of Jammu. This hill station is well connected to the rest of India through Jammu and Kashmir. As there are very few hotels available in Patnitop it is advisable to stay in Jammu and visit the place in the daytime.
