Often overlooked by tourists, Patnitop in Jammu is one of the most picturesque locations in the Udhampur district. Encircled by the lush green deodar and pine forest, snow-capped mountains, small scattered villages in the hills, Patnitop is an ideal destination for a weekend trip.

To unwind amidst the forested area, go on a hiking trail, visiting temples, scenic lakes, or just lazing around, Patnitop offers a bundle of activities for weekend dwellers. Whether it is spending your day with your family in a scenic location, indulging in adventurous activities, going to the forest for a picnic, or just enjoying the spectacular views of nature, Patnitop should be on your list.

Patnitop is a destination that gives you enough reasons to spend a few days after your pilgrimage trip to Mata Vaishno Devi. The best part about Patnitop is that it offers something for everyone. Whether you are an adult, a couple, family, or old age people, Patnitop can be equally exciting for all age groups.

Due to its proximity with Katra and also excellent highway connectivity, Patnitop becomes the preferred leisure destination for travelers. Now, the destination has become an exciting stopover for adventure lovers as the newly opened Skyview Patnitop located between Sanget and Patnitop gives you some high adrenaline rush by its first in India adventure activities like the Gondola Ride, Magic Carpet, Tubing Sledge, and Zip-line.

More about Skyview Patnitop

I had recently visited Skyview Patnitop in Jammu. The view of the gigantic adventure set up in the hill town was quite impressive. It is a new adventure destination in itself, which offers Gondola ride (One of the highest CEN Standard certificate) rope-ways in Asia with one of the longest spans between its tower. The Skyview also has the  Magic Carpet, Tubing Sledge, and 9 courses Zip-line that pumps up your adventure spirit to another level.

They also have dining options on the premises where the visitors can relish a variety of cuisine. Like, FOOD CART offers a variety of Asian, Indian, and Continental snacks for the thrill-seekers while they are at Skyview Patnitop.

The carts are available in the adventure area, amphitheater, and at the top station. Two new upcoming restaurants are BANANA LEAF, which will offer a variety of authentic North and South Indian flavors served in a Thali. The good news is that the food served is 100% vegetarian and is pocket-friendly. Another upcoming café is PINE VIEW which will bring you an array of delectable international cuisines, a library, live coffee roasting, food stalls, etc.

What I Liked the Most (Skyview Patnitop)

It was my very first time in a destination that promises heart-pounding thrills that I had never indulged in before. More than anything else, I was excited to go on a Gondola ride which is one of Asia’s highest (From Ground Clearance) rope-ways that travels above the thick pine forest, offering spectacular views to die for.

I had more than 3 rides on the highest ropeway. The experience of the gondola ride was one of its kind. It takes your breath away, literally. The sound of the wind, changing landscapes, and valley views, when you cross the towers, one after another, makes your heartbeat fastest on the ride. It felt as if you are on the edge in the air.

What I loved absolutely is the way they operate the Gondola ride in the most efficient way. It is a one-of-a-kind Gondola ride covering a total inclined distance of 2.8 km, lasting for about 12 minutes. The upper terminal is at an altitude of 1998 meters while the lowest terminal stands tall at 1343.17 meters above sea level.

You enjoy the long-span ride with majestic views of the Shivalik Range and the lush thick forest below. I was quite impressed by the fact that there was hardly any deforestation while constructing the rope-way. It can be seen clearly while traveling above the forest which is really commendable.

Skyview Patnitop is the first to offer CEN (The European Committee for Certification) certified rope-way in India. The highest safety standards are maintained to ensure total safety to their guests.  The rope-way is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, making the Skyview Patnitop one of the best adventure destinations in India.

Whenever you are at Skyview Patnitop, don’t forget to get mesmerized by the breathtaking sunset while taking the Gondola ride at dusk. I had an unforgettable experience of witnessing the unfolding drama of the sky on my last Gondola ride during the sunset.

How to reach

Air:

You can take a direct flight to Jammu from Delhi. Hire a private taxi to reach Skyview Patnitop. The distance between the Airport and Skyview Patnitop is 96 Km. It will take around 2 hours and 46 minutes.

Rail:

You can also reach Udhampur via train. It covers 27.9 km on road. It will take around 1 hour 7 minutes to reach. If you are coming from Katra, it will take around 2 hours 5 minutes covering 67.5 km. If you get down at Jammu, it will take 2 hours, 44 mins to reach. The distance is 95.2 km.

If you are planning a trip to Jammu and Kashmir in the coming days, don’t forget to check the kashmir tour packages.

Must Visit Places

Patnitop in Jammu is undoubtedly one of the most scenic destinations. It offers a lot of captivating places to explore for travelers. Patnitop flaunts splendid views of pine forests, sprawling meadows, verdant landscapes, and famous tourist spots like Nathatop, Sanasar, Sudh Mahadev, Gauri Kund, Kud, Batote, Nag Temple, Mantalai, Madhatop, etc.

The destination is also known for adventure activities like paragliding, golfing, skiing, and trekking, etc. The pilgrimage site Mata Vaishno Devi is just 39 km away from Patnitop. Let’s find out the 5 must-visit places in and around Patnitop

Nathatop

One of the must-visit places in Patnitop is definitely Nathatop. Blessed with the scenic surroundings and the snow-capped mountains, Nathatop shouldn’t be missed at any cost. Situated at a height of 2711 meters, it provides uninterrupted views of the Himalayan range.

The cedar forests and the valley make you appreciate nature at its best. The tourists can also indulge in activities like paragliding and skiing there. The vast landscape of green meadow with flat huts belong to the Bakarwal community adds to the charm of the destination.

You will also find small tea stalls on your way to the top. The roadside stall also offers Maggi, Corn, Tea, Kaladi (Local Cheese), Pokora to the tourists. Nathatop promises jaw-dropping views in all seasons. In winter, it looks like a white paradise.

Sanasar Lake

When in Patnitop, you should not skip a visit to Sanasar Lake. It is a man-made lake, surrounded by the green meadows and lush forests. The mere look of the lake from far is mesmerizing. Situated at an altitude of 2050 meters above sea level, the name of the lake derives from two villages named Sana and Sar.

Well known for a variety of adventure activities like zip-lining, trekking, rock climbing, boating, and more, Sanasar lake is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure junkies as well. The serene views of the lake, grazing horses, layers of hills, and lush thick forest make it a picture-perfect tourist spot in Patnitop.

Nag Temple

Another must-visit place in Patnitop is the Nag Temple. This temple is one of the sacred religious places where it is believed that the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s marriage was held. The temple is one of the oldest places in Patnitop and is said to be more than 600 years old. Thousands of devotees visit this temple on the occasion of Naag Panchami each year.

Madhatop

Situated at an elevation of 2000 m, Madhatop is a must-visit place in Patnitop. Only a 5 km trek from Patnitop, this place offers the most captivating views of the Himalayan range. Nestled between fog-clad mountains, cedar woods, and dazzling white ice sheets, Madhatop attracts trekkers and adventure seekers across the globe. The vast white ice ground in Madhatop is excellent for skiing in the winter season.

Shiv khori

If you are someone fascinated by caves, a visit to Shiv khori is a must. It is a famous cave that is known for its natural formation of the Shiva Lingam. One needs to do a 3 km trek upwards to reach the main cave.

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