The Hindu Business Line : Ideal getaway

Have you always been fascinated by a holiday in the Himalayan region — surrounded by beautiful snow-capped mountains and lush green pine trees? Well, Patnitop, known as the Gateway of Kashmir, is one such place. Situated about 110 km from Jammu, at an altitude of 2,024 metres, it is a relatively unknown tourist destination compared to scores of others in the region. But Patnitop, which is enveloped by serenity, is one of the most developed resorts near Jammu.

It is also an ideal place to visit if one wants to experience the famed beauty of the Kashmir valley. Its proximity to Jammu makes it a place free from insurgency. There are many pleasant walks around this hill station. It is also a good starting place for treks into the nearby mountains. An attractive one-day trek is to Shiva Garh, about 11 km from Patnitop, at an altitude of almost 3,500 metres. There are also three gushing ice-cold freshwater springs in the area, which are said to have medicinal properties.

An added attraction is Sanasar, 19-km away from Patnitop, chosen by Jammu and Kashmir Tourism as one of the important centres for development. Sanasar boasts a golf course too, and one can take a pony ride along lesser-known trails, as well camp and go on walks here. Paragliding has also been introduced here and at Jammu too. Equipment is available on hire from the tourist office in Jammu city. The period from May-June and September-October are best suited for paragliding. Trekking and skiing equipment are available on hire from shops at Jammu and Kud. Other aero sports such as parasailing and hot air ballooning are also likely to become operational soon.

Sudh Mahadev is another sacred spot situated close to Patnitop. While going towards Sanasar, Mathatop/Natha Top is the place to visit. From this point, you can get a clear view of Patnitop. This place also offers some excellent trekking routes.

In winter, Patnitop is covered in a blanket of snow, making it ideal for skiing. Though one can visit this quaint resort at any time of the year, the best time is from December to February, since one can indulge in winter games at this time of the year. Skiing courses are conducted at Patnitop in the months of January and February. There are introductory courses for tourists/beginners too. One should keep certain things in mind before visiting Patnitop. There is no mall (or even a small marketplace) and one has to walk for a kilometre or two to find any sign of habitation. Secondly, it is best to carry cash since there are no ATMs and all dealings are in cash.

With its beautiful picnic spots, peaceful walks and breathtaking views of the Chenab valley, Patnitop is a perfect place to unwind and de-stress your mind. Now, what are you waiting for? Just get going.

Picture by the author

Fact file

How to get there: Buses and taxis ply from Jammu/Katra/Udhampur. It takes about three-and-a-half hours to reach Patnitop by taxi and about five hours by bus.

Where to stay: The best place to stay at are the cottages, owned by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Authority. Their location, at the centre of the town, is just perfect. These cottages are fully equipped with geysers and LPG facilities.

Other options include Green Top hotel, Hotel Samsar, Hotel Vardaan Resort, Hotel Oasis Resort and Hotel Jaiskahan.

When to go: Though it is a year-round destination, the best time to visit Patnitop is from end-December to February, since one can indulge in a number of winter sports at this time of the year.

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