There is no doubt that Jammu and Kashmir has been blessed with natural bounty and is a leading tourist destination in India. This place has become a great tourist destination because it has developed and taken care of its uniqueness in a perfect manner. It is called ‘Paradise on Earth’ because of its marvellous natural beauty, majestic Himalayas, snowy valleys, plenty of pilgrims and stunning lakes form the identity. It offers you to experience outstanding heights and an engaging climate. A few destinations offer tranquil peace in cool natural surroundings, while some are known for various adventure sports.
Patnitop is a scenic location in Jammu and Kashmir, which witnesses tourists in large numbers. It is located at the foothills of the Shivalik ranges of the mighty Himalayas and one of the best adventure places to visit in North India.
Over the past few years, Skyview by Empyrean has emerged as the new identity of Jammu. Its unique and numerous offerings namely a world-class gondola, zig-zag zipline, magic carpet, tubing, hiking, mountain biking, dining options, and hospitality have helped it emerge into a one-stop destination for adventure lovers. In other words, a destination that would cater to adventure lovers as well those who are looking for a getaway with their friends and family from their usual routine in a scenic setting amalgamated with world-class infrastructure and hospitality.
As part of their endeavour to offer guests unique adventure activities, Skyview by Empyrean has added new adventure thrilling activities, which have been listed below:
Mountain Biking:
You can relive the joy of cycling with the introduction of mountain biking at the foothills of the Himalayas! Mountain Biking by Skyview By Empyrean is an opportunity for you to experience the sensation of cycling as you ride past the bewitching fragrance of wild pine and deodar forests. Guided by a qualified instructor and equipped with MTB safety gear, make the best out of the newly developed circuit. The mountain biking circuit provides you with a perfect getaway from the mundane city life burdened by deadlines, technology, and pollution. The distance of 14 km is covered in two hours. The ride starts from the lower terminal of Skyview by Empyrean in Sanget Valley and goes along the same route as the gondola that connects the lower terminal to Patnitop. The scenic ride traverses a winding uphill mountain road that passes quaint villages, farm fields and a pristine pine and deodar forest. The experience aims to enthuse thrill-seekers for whom mountain biking is quickly emerging as a favourite adventure activity.
Hiking Trail:
Besides mountain biking, Skyview by Empyrean also now offers hiking trails that stretch through the dense forest which provide the perfect escape from the daily chores of the city. The trail, stretching about a total distance of 2.5 kilometres through the pristine nature of Patnitop, provides amazing views of Sanget Valley, snow-capped mountains, and the picturesque landscape of the Patnitop area. The leisure trip is generally moderate and does not require any special practice sessions to complete. For those who want to challenge themselves in hiking, they can also opt for the Skyview Trail which stretches for 5 kilometres and requires a certain level of expertise.
Keeping in view the current pandemic, the Skyview by Empyrean follows all necessary SOPs as per the preventive regulation of Jammu and Kashmir. People visiting Skyview by Empyrean can be assured of the implementation of these protocols by identifying the Safety Travel Stamp issued by WTTC to Skyview by Empyrean by Empyrean.
Skyview by Empyrean has limited the gathering of guests to under 200 at any given time in the 12 acres Sanget Valley. All the mandatory COVID protocols listed out by WHO, MoHFW, SGS, and WTTC are followed by the ones set out by SGS and WTTC to ensure a safe and healthy environment for both employees and visitors. Starting with employees, all have undergone a rigorous training programme on the implementation of COVID protocols which include self-safety and visitor safety techniques and practices.
Added to this are the checks and balances that have been put in place for each of the adventure activities which include sanitisation of all equipment after each use and deep sanitisation at the beginning and end of each day. The gondolas undergo deep disinfection and sanitisation many times a day, as well as at the start and end of daily operation. As per global COVID protocols standards, only 4 pax are allowed to travel in each cable car, as against 8 passengers that were allowed earlier.