Patnitop is a gorgeous hill station in the Kashmir Valley. It is a hidden gem not known to many who visit this snowy wonder. Patnitop acts as a getaway to the Vaishno Devi Yatra and falls along its route. If you’re performing this pilgrimage, then you must visit Patnitop for a fun day out. There are many places to visit in Patnitop, and the best part is that it only takes a day to tour the town due to its small size. You can tour it on foot or a pony!
Patnitop is a wonderland for those who love to play with snow, and the many locations here offer many activities for friends and family to have fun. Let’s dive into them!
8 Best Places to Visit in Patnitop
1. Nathatop
Just two km from Patnitop in Jammu, Nathatop makes for a short yet enjoyable walk. When the hill station is covered in snow in the winter, it looks even more beautiful. Over the years, Nathatop has gained a reputation as a destination for skiing and paragliding, and it is much sought after today. The area is home to several roadside food stands selling delicious regional fare. Additionally, Nathatop has beautiful weather all year round, which draws tourists to the area. It is one of the best places to visit in Patnitop for sledging and playing with snow with your friends, family and lovers.
2. Sanasar
Sanasar is a hidden gem located just next to Patnitop. It is famous for its lakes and has been named after them as well. There are ample opportunities for adventure lovers here. You can go paragliding, abseiling, snow sledging and more. Camping at Sanasar Lake is a popular activity among tourists and locals. The region is surrounded by tall conifers that add to its beautiful attractiveness, and it is nestled within a cup-shaped meadow. Sanasar welcomes you to discover a serene side of Jammu & Kashmir that is subtly blended with excitement and adventure at your fingertips.
3. Madhatop
Situated at 2,024 metres, Madhatop may be readily reached, just requiring a 5-kilometre hike from Patnitop. Encircled by unspoiled splendour, it attracts hikers, newlyweds, and lovers of winter sports in equal measure. Adventurers and lovers of the natural world will find solace in this serene paradise with its cool atmosphere and mountains covered in silver. Madhatop, which is easily accessible by car, provides the ideal escape with its stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Madhatop, with its healthy climate, is one of the best places to visit in Patnitop, offering an escape into the peace of nature as well as exhilarating activities, whether they are looking for adventure or tranquillity.
4. Kud Park
This park is well-known for its charming arrangement of vivid flowers and provides a calm haven for kids and couples alike. It has become a popular area for picnics and attracts all visitors to Kud. Among the region’s gastronomic highlights is the well-known ‘Patisa’ sweet, which is a must-try treat. The park, which is conveniently situated on the Udhampur-Srinagar Highway between Jammu and Patnitop, entices visitors with its gorgeous flower displays and the exciting possibility of enjoying the regional speciality, making it a lovely place to halt along the road. The delicious patisas make it one of the most frequented places to visit in Patnitop by all.
5. Naag Mandir
Near Patnitop, the ancient Nag (Cobra) Temple, which dates back more than 600 years, is a popular destination for Shiva worshippers, particularly during the Nag Panchami Festival. Worshippers gather to honour and venerate the snake, King Cobra. The temple, which was mostly built of wood and has withstood ages, is a singular example of prehistoric artistry. Tucked away in verdant environs, the temple is not only significant religiously but also draws tourists in with its attractive setting. Due to a local superstition, taking pictures within the temple is absolutely forbidden. It is believed that those who disobey this restriction risk having nightmares. Many guests refrain from taking cameras or cellphones inside during darshan out of respect.
6. Sudh Mahadev Temple
Enter the magical world of Sudh Mahadev Temple, a holy sanctuary imbued with Goddess Parvati’s heavenly presence and devotion to Lord Shiva. Take in the story of how Parvati bathed at the Gouri Kund, which is close, and then worshipped the old Shivling. With a storied past extending over three millennia, this Shivling welcomes pilgrims hoping to receive the holy blessings of Lord Shiva. Inside the temple’s sanctuary, find a holy Trishul and an enthralling black marble statue that represents the regional manifestations of Shiva and Parvati. Devak, a mysterious underground stream that is thought to be as sacred as the Ganges and that originates here before inexplicably disappearing downstream, is a blessing bestowed upon Sudh Mahadev. Come along on this spiritual trip with us as we reveal centuries of dedication and mysticism at every turn.
7. Billoo ki Pawri
Tucked away in the gorgeous scenery of Dawaria, Patnitop, Billoo Ki Powri is a must-see site. This structure, notable for both its historical value and distinctive architecture, deftly interweaves a captivating story into the fabric of the area’s past. Though untraceable, it is sometimes called a shortcut to Batote town and is thought to have been built by the former Chenani rulers. The old-style building of Billoo Ki Powri, which is a tribute to Patnitop’s architectural legacy, is what gives it its appeal. A spectacular 270-step stairway that has been expertly chiselled out of the mountain highlights the location, making it accessible and charming and one of the best places to visit in Patnitop.
8. Shiv Garh
Shiv Garh is one of the best places to visit in Patnitop. It takes you on a beautiful trek to a temple 3500 metres above. It is a prime trekking destination for trek lovers and spans 11 kilometres. It is an enthralling climb and offers a panoramic view of the hill town. Set off on the hiking track to Shiva Garh, where travellers are led through a captivating grove of pine trees and bask in the tranquillity of nature. The route opens up into a serene setting that provides a calm diversion. Trekkers meet a hard uphill climb that adds an exciting challenge to the trip, giving the route an exciting twist. After completing the climb and arriving at the summit, hikers are met with an amazing reward: a panoramic view of the Patnitop region that captivates them with its stunning sights. The breathtaking splendour that adorns Shiva Garh’s peak amply repays the effort expended in the ascent.
Things to Do in Patnitop
Skiing
Patnitop offers a great arena for those who wish to try their hands at skiing. The perfect place for skiing in Patnitop is Madhatop. You can ski here if you’re a beginner and will also find rental ski gear and guides. It is also a great place for experienced skiers due to its amazing slope and snow quality. The Madhatop in Patnitop offers an alpine getaway where the unspoiled beauty of the environment amplifies the excitement of the skiing experience, whether you’re looking for the thrill of cutting through new snow or the delight of negotiating mild descents.
Trekking
Patnitop offers extensive opportunities for those who love trekking. There are many destinations for trek lovers to hike to, like Madhatop and Nathatop. The Shiva Garh trek is an exhilarating one that’s 11 kilometres long and gives an aerial view of the town. Sanasar also provides this opportunity along with other adventure activities.
Paragliding
Nathatop is a great place for paragliding in Kashmir. The expansive view you get when you fall from a considerable height here is amazing. If you’re here during April-June and September-October, you must go for paragliding at Nathatop. Monsoons and extreme winters are not ideal for paragliding here. You may also find many operators that give paragliding starting at Rs. 2500 for 15-30 minutes.
Playing in Snow
Playing in the snow is an amazing experience. You can make snow angels, snowmen and more. You can also play with snowballs in Patnitop. There are many operators giving sledge rides that you can take. Kids will especially love this place.
Nature Walks
Patnitop provides a picturesque setting for engrossing nature excursions because of its verdant landscapes and scenic charm. Take a stroll into the neighbouring natural areas and allow yourself to be enveloped in the peace of the area. These hiking paths lead to areas of breathtaking tranquillity where it appears as though time has stopped. Set off on an adventure where every turn reveals stunning scenery, letting you bask in the unadulterated panoramic magnificence of the area’s hills and valleys. The nature hikes in Patnitop provide more than simply a stroll; they are an opportunity for spiritual contact with the enthralling beauty that the landscapes so freely reveal.
How to Reach Patnitop
Patnitop is the gateway for Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra and is easily accessible by road, rail and air.
By Road: Road connections from Patnitop to the larger cities in North India are excellent. You may take a bus or a cab to go to Patnitop. The town is just 112 kilometres away from Jammu, and the drive is picturesque. You may go by automobile to get to Patnitop if you want to drive. The National Highway 44 leads to the town, and the journey provides lovely vistas of the surroundings.
By Air: The closest airport to Patnitop is around 112 kilometres away, at Jammu Airport (also known as Satwari Airport). To get to Patnitop from the airport, you can take public transit or hail a cab.
By Rail: Patnitop is around 46 km away from Udhampur Railway Station, the closest train station. To get to Patnitop from the railway station, use a local bus or rent a cab.
Conclusion
Patnitop is a great town to spend a day in with your family, friends and lover. It offers many adventure opportunities for everyone to try out, from trekking to abseiling. The places to visit in Patnitop are unique and offer an insight into the mystical past of Kashmir. It is a great place to be and tour when visiting Kashmir.
