PATNITOP

ABOUT PATNITOP

Although Patnitop is an ‘anytime’ place, the best time for a visit are summer, during May-June, and autumn, September-October. If seeking snowboard joys, December to March is the time to be here.

Situated on a plateau in the Shiwalik belt of the Himalayas, Patnitop sits at an altitude of 2024 metres. It comprises several meadows enveloped by thick forests of Deodar (Cedar) and Kail (Blue Pine) trees, and affords peaceful walks amidst conifer groves, beautiful spots for enjoyable picnics and breath taking views of the Chenab basin and the Pir Panjal range beyond. The river Chenab flows in close proximity to this location. Patnitop is an ideal place for walks and picnics. Sanasar, 19-km away was chosen by J&K Tourism for major development. Situated in a Gulmarg-like meadow it has picnic spots around. The 6-hole golf course is being expanded to 9-holes. For solace one can visit the beautifully located Nag Mandir at Karlah village. Patnitop other activities include horse rides and short treks into the surrounding hills. Patnitop also draws a lot of tourists when it snows during winters (January-February). The meadows with their gentle slopes are ideal for skiing and sledging. Pony rides along little known trails, camping and walks can be indulged in by those with a less adventurous spirit. The daring can opt for Para gliding and basic skiing, introduces in recent years. Sudh Mahadev is another sacred spot situated close to Patnitop. One can also drive through thick forests 12 kms downhill to Batote, an old hill station also known for apple orchards, Amar Cheshma and other springs and countless dhabas (eatries).

Although Patnitop is an ‘anytime’ place, the best time for a visit are summer, during May-June, and autumn, September-October. If seeking snowboard joys, December to March is the time to be here.

How to reach Patnitop

Road : Buses and taxis are available from Jammu/Katra/Udhampur. By a taxi it takes about 3 and a half hours to reach Patnitop and bus takes about 5 hours. From Srinagar local taxis are available.

 

Places of Interest

  • Nathatop : Nathatop is a place that is famous among nature lovers and especially for experience seekers. it is located abour 14 km away from Patnitop. It is a place where one can find a view of mountains coated with sparkling snow . the place is most visited by the tourist during winter season as many snow activities are organised by the peoples like paragridding , snow skeeing etc. About 8 km away is situated Shanta Ridge. Nathatop is approximately 14 km away from Patnitop and can be reached by taking a taxi or a bus. The nearest railway station is at Udhampur and from here on, you can avail the services of public transport or hire private cabs.
  • Madhatop : Situated at an altitude of 2,024 m, Madhatop is easily accessible by road and is a 5 km trek away from Patnitop. Surrounded by pristine natural beauty, Madhatop is a great getaway destination for trekkers, honeymooners, winter sport aficionados and pretty much everyone else in between.
    Madhatop, with its salubrious climes and silver mountains is almost a haven for honeymooners and adventure tourists.
  • Kud Park : Located in Kud, this park is famous for its beautiful flowers. It is also a favorite picnic spot to plenty who visit Kud. Also Kud, one can get their hands on some ‘Patisa’, a sweet that Patnitop is known for.
  • Naag Mandir : The Nag (Cobra) Temple near Patnitop is more than 600 years old. During the Nag Panchami Festival, it sees hundreds of Shiva devotees, who throng to this temple to pay respects and worship the snake King Cobra.
    Predominantly made of wood, this temple has weathered several centuries although it is not a conventional solid temple construction. Standing amidst lush green surroundings, the temple is not only a significant religious center for the area, but also a site which leaves its visitors fascinated by the sceneries around.
  • Billoo ki Powri : A staircase of 270 steps chiseled out of the mountain, a little away from Patnitop is known by the name of Billoo ki Powri and falls in the town of Dawariyai. Its origin remain untraced, though it often finds itself being referred to as a shorter way to Batote town, constructed by the former king of Chenani.