Relatively
unknown, compared to the other tourist spots in the state Patnitop
is no less beautiful or serene. If one is aiming to get away from it
all for some time, this place is hard to beat.
With all its beauty at a hill station, it is a charming plateau at
2, 024m. The meadow is surrounded by dense woods and lush greenery
of Pines. Tracks lead to pockets where time stands still and calm
prevails.
Visiting Time
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.
Trekking
Picturesquely situated at a high altitude, there are many pleasant
walks around this popular hill station. Patnitop is a good starting
place for many short or longer treks into the nearby mountains. An
attractive one-day walk is to Shiva Garh, about 11-km from Patnitop
at an altitude of almost 3,500 metres.
Good bridle paths passing through wooded lanes and fascinating
scenery link Patnitop with Kud and Batote. There are three, gushing,
ice-cold freshwater springs in the area, which are said to have
medicinal properties. The complete tourist circuit covers Jammu-Katra-Vaishno
Deviji, Kud-Sanasar, Patnitop-Gourikund, Sudmahadev, Mantali,
extending upto Latti-Dhuna.
EXCURSIONS
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.
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.
HOW TO GET
THERE
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.
Where To
Stay
There are a
large number of huts and Tourists Bungalows, all managed by J&KTDC,
having facilities of Drawing room/Dining room and fully equipped
kitchen in all huts and LPG facility.
