Tourist attractions in Patnitop
Located in the disputed state of Jammu and Kashmir, Patnitop is a famous tourist destination in the district of Udhampur and on the National Highway 1A to Srinagar. This hill station is so named after a pond of princess whose remains can still be seen today. Nestled picturesquely in the Shivalik range of the towering Himalayas, the tourist attractions in Patnitop are quite captivating and adventurous. Yes, this is true as besides the natural delights, the hill station is famous for a myriad of winter and summer physical challenges.
On this eye-catching plateau, just exploring the beauty of mountains while being at an altitude of 2,024 m and the surrounding meadows is just not the only activity of adventure. In fact; trekking, skiing, and paragliding are the main tourist attractions in Patnitop. For those who are less adventurous, they consider this area as one of the ideals picnic spots in India due to refreshing walks and mind blowing vistas of the Himalayas.
Patnitop
Before starting the adventure, all first time tourists take a tour of the two famous towns called Kud and Batote accessible by the lifted routes via the wooded lanes. Kud is well known for the sweet called Patissa, while Batote is popular for the Kidney beans. The former is also proud of selling amazing handicrafts.
Kud is also famous for the short and long routes of trekking, which it has to offer. For trekking equipments, you need to contact the Tourism Department here. One of the most taken up routes is from here to ShivaGarh that is of 11 km at an altitude of 3,500 m. Located in the Jangal Gali is the route of Sundarani-JungalGali-Jasarkote-Sanasar route from where you can select a route from the three of them. It is suitable to trek in summers, as all the routes are open.
For paragliding, the hill station is an ideal place in India. Experience the flight along with a pilot for 7 to 15 minutes to reach Kud. However, the time duration is decided as per the weather conditions. To enjoy a ride in air, you need to reach Dawariyai located at 2 km on the road to Sanasar. Alternatively, you can take this ride at Patnitop Development Authority (PDA) barrier that is also called the Billoo Di Powri point. It is from here that you need to climb some 400 steps carved into the rock face for reaching Dawariyai. One more flying spot is from the Natha Top to Kud for 15 to 60 minutes.
Well, the fun of sports does not end here. There are some more aero sports that you can enjoy here, which are hot air ballooning and parasailing. If you are planning to come in winter, then skiing should not be missed at all. Mostly, the beginners can take the benefit of these gentle ski slopes. Ski courses are conducted during January and February.
To experience sports like camping, rock climbing, abseiling, trekking, and paragliding at one place, take yourself to Sanasar, one of the never to miss tourist attractions in Patnitop. Nestled at a distance of 20 km, this town is a must visit destination even for the sceneries. Further, you can also play golf and have a pony ride here. And yes if you are interested in eco-adventure, kindly contact the institution – Extreme Himalayan Adventures.
As this is a hill station, you might be looking for some boating experience. Well, this is possible here at a shimmering lake situated considerably far away from a hill resort. Come here at this place during the months of April/May when the festival of Baisakhi is about to approach. During this time, this becomes the venue of a food and crafts festival held by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism. Lastly, do not miss to explore those three chilled springs whose water is blessed to hold curative properties.
Best time to visit
Summer, especially the period of May to June and autumn, the time from September to October
Reaching Patnitop
By both plane and train, Jammu is the closest station, which is at a distance of 110 km. By road, there are buses as well as taxis that you can catch from Jammu, Udhampur, or Katra. If you want to reach fast, then taxis are preferable although it will be a bit more costly.
