places to visit in jammu Archives - Skyview by Empyrean – One Destination, Endless Experiences

September 2, 2020May 7, 2022

How to Spend a Week in Jammu and Kashmir

Whenever a discussion takes place related to the most scenic places of India, the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir always find a place for itself. Here, we will talk about the places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir and how you can spend a week here with your loved ones. Jammu & Kashmir is home to several picturesque valleys, water bodies, and snow-covered mountains peaks. Given the natural beauty, pleasant weather, and hospitality of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, this place has been a preferred tourist destination for tourists across India and worldwide for several decades. Apart from being naturally gifted, Jammu and Kashmir is home to several rich and vibrant cultures. These consist of famous handicrafts and much-loved dining options. Jammu & Kashmir is also known for its religious and spiritual offerings, transforming it into an epicenter of religious tourism in the county. In this blog, we will be talking in detail the best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir and will help you to plan your whole week trip to this amazing place in such a way that you experience the best of what Jammu & Kashmir has to offer.

Day 1: Jammu City

Coming from Delhi or any other Indian state, we would suggest that you start with Jammu, the winter capital of Jammu & Kashmir. Given the location of this place, it has always been a preferred destination for tourists and is always considered an option for a weekend getaway from Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and other states of India. Jammu, also known as ‘City of Temples’ offers several ancient temples. You can start the trip by visiting the famous Raghunath temple located in the city center. Also, do not miss out on several historically significant places like Bahu Fort and Amar Mahal Palace which will give you a glimpse of the erstwhile Dogra rulers of Jammu and Kashmir.

Source: Goibibo

While in Jammu, relish several north Indian delicacies at the famous Pahelwan’s. We strongly recommend their rajma chawal and lassi.

Day 2: Katra and Patnitop

The second day of your trip, head to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra, just 49 km from Jammu city. We are sure you will love the buzz of the city infused with the divinity present in the atmosphere. Post this visit, we recommend you drive towards the beautiful hill station of Patnitop. To make the most out of your visit to this scenic location, we recommend you to experience India’s highest ropeway at Skyview Patnitop. Additionally, you can also make the most out of a gamut of adventure activities like zipline, tubing sledge, and India`s first magic carpet.

The adventure destination also offers several mouth-watering dining options. In Patnitop, don’t forget to ride a horse through the beautiful meadows and parks and visit the 600-year-old Nag temple. Your day full of fun and adventure at Patnitop may have come to end but evenings in Patnitop are more beautiful given to its misty weather and over-night stay at this pleasing destination.

Day 3: Road Trip from Patnitop to Srinagar

This 200 km can be the best part of your trip given the view the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway offers. However, before leaving Patnitop don’t forget to taste the mouth-watering sweets such as patisa, kaju barfi at Kud market. This road trip is full of excitement and fun and will allow you to explore the famous 9 km long Dr Syama Prasad Mukherjee Tunnel and various streams and rivers all the way till Srinagar.

Chenani-Nashri_Highway_Tunnel — Source: Wikimedia

Day 4: Srinagar City

Srinagar is one of the most beautiful places to visit in jammu and kashmir and has a lot to offer to every visitor given the number of Mughal Gardens located at the bank of Dal lake such as Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Garden, Chashma Shahi, Pari Mahal etc. Also, visit to several shrines of different Sufi saints in the old town of Srinagar that can be interesting and provide you with a spiritual experience like no other. While in Srinagar, don’t forget to try the Kashmiri Wazwan at the famous Mughal Darbar restaurant and spend your night in a beautifully crafted houseboat on Dal lake.

Day 5: Gulmarg

Gulmarg is one of the most famous hill stations in India. Located 55 km from Srinagar, it is a destination for every season and one of the best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir.

During the summers, the meadows are a delight while winters here offer a view from a postcard as this extremely popular destination receives a significant amount of snowfall. Gulmarg is also known as the best winter sports destination in India.

Day 6: Pahalgam

Pahalgam is another beautiful places to visit in Jammu & Kashmir located at an altitude of 2740 meters above sea level. This beautiful town features pristine valleys such as Betaab valley, Chandan Wari, etc. This place is also an important religious tourist destination and is associated with the Amarnath Yatra. Pahalgam is home to several glaciers which ensure the roaring Lidder river is full of water during the entire year.

Day 7: Return

On the 7th day, you can return to your origin with the lasting memories of your trip to paradise on earth.

So here it is, your one-week itinerary for Jammu and Kashmir. We hope you enjoy your trip.

June 16, 2020November 5, 2020

The Best 4 Days Itinerary for Jammu

Jammu is increasingly getting popular as a tourist destination both for domestic and international travelers. Gone are the days when this place was only known for religious tourism. In the past few years, it is being favourably considered as a weekend getaway from Delhi. Not only the national capital but people from nearby states like Punjab and Himachal Pradesh are also visiting this less promoted place. The importance of Jammu on the tourism map can be gauged from the fact that in 2018, more than 15 million people visited this region. Earlier, the only place people would pay a visit was Vaishno Devi, which is one of the most important shrines in India. However, in recent times, Jammu’s leisure tourism sector is witnessing a huge surge as people have been thronging tourist hotspots like Patnitop, Sanasar, Kishtwar, Bhaderwah, Mansar, and many others. Jammu is a perfect mix of historical and natural wealth. One who would like to explore this place in-depth may need several weeks. But if someone has a limited time schedule say for example 4 days, then the below itinerary would come handy with all major places to visit in Jammu.

Day 1: Arrival in Jammu

Jammu, also known as the City of Temples, is well connected to all major cities of India through air, rail, and road. The airport here though a small one has daily flights from major metro cities of India. The Indian Railways also runs trains from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, etc. Jammu is also connected with Delhi, Himachal, Chandigarh, Punjab, and the rest of the country through National Highway 1A. On arriving at Jammu, there might be a list of places to visit in Jammu that you might want to explore but, here are some that we would suggest. You can explore the Bahu Fort, one of the oldest forts in Jammu, built by Raja Jambu Lochan. It also has a huge terraced garden, housing the subcontinent’s biggest underground aquarium. History lovers can then visit The Amar Mahal Palace, built in the 19th century for the Dogra King Raja Amar Singh, by a French architect on the lines of a French Chateau. Nature enthusiasts can either spend some leisure time in the Ramnagar Wildlife Sanctuary or relax in the soothing waters of Mansar Lake. While you are in Jammu city, don’t forget to savour delectable local culinary delights like rajma chawal, ambal, and gul gule. Jammu has hotels for every budget, so choosing one online won’t be a difficult task.

Amar Mahal Palace (Source: goibibo.com)

Day 2: Visit Vaishno Devi, Katra

To reach Vaishno Devi Shrine, one has to either drive across the recently completed four-lane highway or take a train till Katra which is a 1-hour journey. Further, the trek to the shrine depends on the time of the day and fitness of the person. After an early morning breakfast either in Jammu or Katra, begin your journey by foot to the shrine, a trek of total 28 km. Like Jammu, there are hundreds of hotels and lodges in Katra too, who will be more than happy to welcome you for some much-needed rest and a warm meal.

Vaishno Devi (Source: lonelyplanet.in)

Day 3/4: Patnitop and Sanasar

At a distance of 2 hours from Katra, is a less discovered but a place with immense tourism potential, called Patnitop. Bringing Patnitop even closer to Jammu and Katra is Patnitop Gondola, which is the highest ropeway in India, in terms of ground clearance. It takes between 12 – 20 minutes to reach the upper terminal at Patnitop. The breath-taking view of the lush green forests when you glide through the air in ropeway cabin is unimaginable. The gondola is part of the recently launched mountain adventure destination called Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean. There were hardly any adventure activities in Jammu previously. But now, with the development of this recreational site, Jammu/Patnitop will surely find a place in the best adventure destinations in India. This place boasts of India’s first magic-carpet which is a modern and rugged conveyor belt that takes you uphill. Adventure lovers can also experience Asia’s longest zipline and a dry tubing sledge to swirl down the mountain.

Source: Skyview Patnitop

Additionally, Skyview Patnitop offers a gamut of dining options. This includes a specialized Indian restaurant, an upcoming continental restaurant, an open roof Chinese restaurant, and one of the best cafés in Jammu and Kashmir. It is suggested that only after one has thoroughly explored this place, he should check into a nearby hotel. Evenings can be spent breathing fresh and cool air in a close-by meadow or sipping coffee/tea in the hotel balcony. On the 4th day, an hour should be spent in Nathatop which a hilltop surrounded by pine and deodar trees. It offers a great view of the snow-coated hills, especially during winters. Lastly, Sanasar, which is a meadow 20 km from Patnitop is worth visiting before returning to Jammu. This place is a hidden jewel known for its golf course, paragliding, and a lake. If you are traveling to Sanasar anywhere between March and April don’t forget to visit Sanasar’s tulip garden. Besides the Tulip Garden of Srinagar, this is the only other tulip garden in India in March/April. Patnitop has many other places of interest within one-hour distances like Sudhmahadev, Mantalai, and Madhatop; but to explore them more than two days are required.

So here it is. Your best 4 Day itinerary for places to visit in Jammu. Have fun on your next trip!

May 14, 2020November 5, 2020

My Exhilarating Trip to Patnitop

We’ve been missing the band of adventurers that made Skyview Patnitop feel like a home. So, here’s a short experience of one of the fellow travelers who dropped by and journaled their experience here!
It was October 2019 when I had recently shifted back to my home-town Jammu after an 8-year professional stint in Delhi. While I was in the national capital, I would escape the chaos of the city by traveling to popular tourism spots. Having covered over 100 destinations of India and South Asia, I always wanted to explore the tourist destinations of Jammu and Kashmir. I had returned to Jammu for good and was having a few weeks in hand before I was supposed to start my new professional assignment. I concluded that this was the best time for me to explore the places to visit in north India, particularly Jammu and Kashmir.

My trip started by visiting The Amar Mahal Palace, built in the 19th century for the Dogra King Raja Amar Singh, by a French architect on the lines of a French Chateau.

Next, I visited Bagh-e-Bahu which boasts of having India’s largest underground aquarium.

This was followed by a visit to other local sites like Mansar lake, Surinsar lake, and Mubarak Mandi Palace. All nearby historical palaces and lakes were covered, so now I was looking forward to visiting Patnitop, a hill station 2.5 hours drive away from Jammu city and one of the several less explored places to visit in north India. Before hitting the road, I wanted to check what all is to be explored in Patnitop, and to my surprise, the name Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean popped up on my browser. It was one of the upcoming adventure places in India featuring a gondola ride, adventure activities, and dining options. There was no way I was missing out on it!

The next morning, I set to explore Patnitop with its scenic landscape, culinary delights, and the recently launched adventure destination. On reaching the destination, the first aspect that stood out for me was the grandeur of the place amidst a scenic location. I realized how much I missed this while I was away in Delhi. I took my own sweet time to just sit there and absorb the natural setting around me. An executive from Skyview Patnitop handed over a pamphlet to me and I was overjoyed to know that the multi-entertainment destination had so much to offer. It truly was a complete getaway and I was ready to explore! First, I glided upon India’s first magic carpet (a modern and rugged conveyor belt that takes you uphill). On reaching the top of their “Adventure Mountain” I experienced the first zig-zag zipline in India. Having experienced that, it was time to swirl down the Adventure Mountain on a dry tubing sledge.

Next in line was experiencing the culinary offerings of this adventure destination. To begin with, I ordered a portion of buttery popcorn, Kalari sandwich, a portion of freshly made noodles and topped it up with a nice cup of freshly brewed coffee. Now was the time to experience the main attraction of Skyview Patnitop i.e. the gondola or cable car. Heading towards the lower terminal, I could not help being amazed at the state-of-the-art infrastructure. I was briefed about the way all this was set up and built in a record 2 years and 4 months! The 2.8km ropeway was built collaboration with POMA and adhered to the highest ropeway safety norms. The cable car takes you from Sanget to Patnitop. With all the necessary information I boarded the spacious cabin and was ready for the experience that awaited ahead. Words will not do justice to the scenic view from the gondola hovering lush green forests. You have to actually experience to understand the serenity of the ride.

On reaching Patnitop, I checked into one of the several hotels of the serene hill station. The next morning, I explored the meadows and other tourist places in Patnitop and it was now time to grab some much-awaited lunch. I headed back to Skyview Patnitop’s lower terminal via the ropeway and was again in awe of the picturesque view that the gondola offered. On reaching the terminal, I headed towards Banana Leaf. The ambiance of the restaurant is wonderful, to say the least. My meal consisted of one of the best Indian cuisines that I have tried in a long time. Someone at the restaurant recommended me to check out Sanasar and Mantalai as well but that would have to wait. I had such a memorable experience here that there was no more room for more. I wanted to cherish my experience to the fullest. By the afternoon, I headed back to Jammu pledging that I would be back here in December when the area gets covered by a sheath of milky white snow. Skyview Patnitop had now become a destination that I would recommend to anyone planning an itinerary for places to visit in north India

Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean is India’s latest adventure destination that offers adventure activities, gondola ride, and dining options. In 2019, it was awarded the Best Adventure Tourism Destination of India by The Travel & Tourism Excellence Award organized by FICCI and Ernst & Young. You can know more about what Skyview Patnitop has to offer by visiting www.skyviewpatnitop.com.

May 5, 2020August 27, 2022

5 Places to Visit Near Vaishno Devi

Located in Katra at the Trikuta Mountains, of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi is one of the most popular pilgrim destinations of India. As the name suggests, the shrine is an ode to Mata Vaishno Devi. Devotees from across the country pay their homage to the Goddess, walking 12 km uphill and seeking her blessings. The popularity of the shrine has resulted in Katra developing into a leading tourist destination in north India. 2019 witnessed 79.4 lakh pilgrims coming for the darshan. A significant majority of these tourists visit here during the Navratris and their itineraries also include places to visit near Vaishno Devi.

The popularity of this destination has subsequently resulted in pilgrims not only coming for their pilgrimage but also as tourists to explore the places around Vaishno Devi. In this blog, we will look at 5 places to visit near Vaishno Devi, so that the next time you decide to come to Vaishno Devi, you can explore these destinations as well.

Read on!

Table of Content:

Jammu City
Katra
Patnitop
Bhaderwah
Kashmir

1. Jammu City

One of the 2 major divisions of the Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu city is the winter capital of the union territory and is home to several tourist destinations. The city has been home to the Dogra dynasty, who were the erstwhile rulers of J&K. Jammu city is only 45 minutes away from Katra and has several tourist spots that one can experience. To begin with, you can explore the Raghunath Mandir which has 300 icons of gods and goddesses. You can follow this up by visiting Bagh-e-Bahu located at Bahu Fort. The bagh or garden offers a scenic view of the Tawi river. Moving on, while in Jammu you must visit the Amar Mahal Palace which was built in the 19th century on the lines of a French Chateau. Now a museum, it exhibits miniature paintings, books, and a golden throne.

2. Katra

Famous for the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, you can also visit the ISKCON Temple while you are in Katra. Also, do not forget to explore the Katra market, which has numerous shops that sell dry fruits, honey, herbs, and pashmina items. You can also visit the Nau Devi Cave Temple, which is located 10 km away from Katra and features a 200 years old cave and features nine naturally carved idols of goddesses. Additionally, Baba Dhansar temple is one of the popular places to visit in Katra.

3. Patnitop

One of the several pristine hill stations of Jammu and Kashmir and is one of the most popular places to visit near Vaishno Devi as it is located only an hour’s drive from the famous shrine. The destination is famous for its pleasant weather during summers and snowfall during winters. It also is home to Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean, an adventure tourism destination of north India. The destination features the highest gondola ride in India in terms of ground clearance, the first zig-zag zipline in India, the first magic carpet in India, and restaurants that are one of the best places to eat in Patnitop. While you are in Patnitop, you can explore the meadows and the nearby tourist places of Patnitop as well. These include Sanasar, Madhatop, and Nathatop.

4. Bhaderwah

Located at the foothills of the Himalayas, Bhaderwah is an upcoming tourist destination of Jammu and Kashmir with serene views earning it the name of “mini Kashmir”. While in Bhadarwah, don’t forget to visit the Bhaderwah Fort which belonged to the erstwhile rulers of this picturesque destination. Additionally, you can also experience paragliding while you are here giving you a memorable aerial view of the valley. Other famous tourist destinations of Bhaderwah are Gupt Ganga, Jai Valley, Thanalla Village, Laxmi Narayan Temple, and Chinta Valley.

5. Kashmir

Despite being at a distance of 240 km from Vaishno Devi, several tourists add Kashmir to the itinerary thanks to Kashmir’s popularity across the world. The best way to experience its beauty is to hire a cab or drive to Kashmir’s capital Srinagar. The famous destination is known for its water bodies such as Dal Lake, Wula Lake, Manesar Lake; hill stations such as Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonamarg. While you are in Kashmir, you can get your hands on the finest cashmere products made in the world along with saffron, one of the most expensive spices in the world. Kashmir is also a delight for people who love exploring different cuisine, Kashmir’s much famous wazwaan is a must-try for every visitor to the pristine valley.

Vaishno Devi is one of the numerous places that make Jammu and Kashmir a traveler’s paradise. From the historic palaces, serene hill stations, and pristine lakes, Vaishno Devi is in the vicinity of all of these. We are sure whenever you decide to visit Vaishno Devi, you will visit these places as well.

March 13, 2020May 27, 2022

8 Best Places to Visit in Jammu & Kashmir

Best Places to Visit in Jammu and Kashmir

Are you planning a family vacation? or maybe a weekend getaways from Delhi or Punjab with your friends? You might be browsing through the internet to get good ideas about some places to visit and let me guess traveling to alluring hill stations of Northern India might somewhere be on the top of your list. Well, if that’s the case, then have a look at some of these amazing places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir and an unexplored destination which might surprise you with its adventuresome atmosphere. Let’s get into it.

Vaishno Devi

Located at about 5200 ft. above the sea level, Vaishno Devi is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world. The cave-styled sanctorium is devoted to goddess Mahalakshmi and is visited by millions of devotees every year with a belief that whatever they wish for will come true if they visit there with a pure heart.

Reaching the Bhawan from the foothills is an experience in itself. There are a few options available, you can either trek from base camp to the temple, book the helicopter service which starts from Katra on the foothills and the flight will drop you at Sanjichhat, or hire the Pony, Porter, and Palanquin services to ease your journey.

One of the most common questions that pop up in people’s minds after completing the pilgrimage is what are some other places to visit in Katra besides Vaishno Devi temple or what are some other places to visit in Jammu & Kashmir other than Vaishno Devi? Well, there might be not a lot to do in Katra but you can visit the mall road which is the perfect place for devotees and tourists to buy a few souvenirs.

BEST WAY TO TRAVEL – If one is preferring to travel by air, then the Jammu airport, located at 50 kms is the nearest airport. Alternatively, Udhampur railway station is the closest railway station from which cabs can take directly to Vaishno Devi. Also, deluxe buses and cabs are available from Jammu city.

Bahu Fort

Believed to be one of the oldest structures in the city of Jammu, Bahu Fort was built around 3000 years ago by Raja Bahulochan of the Dogra dynasty. This magnificent Fort stands tall on the banks of river Tawi and is a major tourist attraction.

This fort provides history enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers with amazing opportunities to spend their share of time with nature and appreciate it.

The Mahakali temple built within the fort makes it a holy place for the devotees. The popular Bahu Mela held during the Navratri, in the fort, twice a year, attracts thousands of tourists and worshipers of Kali.

BEST WAY TO TRAVEL – Bahu Fort can be easily accessed by taxi as the fort is within the city range.

Mubarak Mandi Palace

Situated in the heart of the old walled city of Jammu and famed for its archaeological significance and astounding narratives, this grand abode was the main seat for maharajas of the Dogra dynasty till 1925 and is now one of the main tourist attractions of Jammu.

Various buildings and complexes such as Darbar Hall, the Pink Palace, Royal Courts, Gol Ghar, Hawa Mahal, the Toshakhana palace, and the Sheesh Mahal, which is made entirely of glass, are encompassed within the walls of this palace.

The oldest complex in this palace dates back to the early 18th century and has seen its share of time and accumulated specimens from the past making Mubarak Mandi Palace one of the best places to visit in Jammu for history buffs.

BEST WAY TO TRAVEL – Mubarak Mandi Palace is located within the heart of Jammu city and can be easily travelled by taking a taxi in Jammu city.

Peer Kho Cave

Peer Kho cave is the oldest site in the Shivalik region and attracts thousands of devotees during Shivratri and other Hindu festivals.

Situated along the banks of river Tawi, the Peer Kho cave temples are remnants linked with the instances from the Ramayana. The legend has it that the King of bears, Jambavan, meditated in this cave which is why the place is alternatively known as Jambavan Cave.

BEST WAY TO TRAVEL – The best way to reach the Peer Kho Cave is by taking a taxi from Jammu city which is located not more than 4 kms.

Mansar lake

Encompassed by the dense forest cover of the deodar forests and archaic temples, Mansar Lake is a popular excursion site in Jammu and is one of the popular places to visit near Vaishno Devi.

The Sheshnag shrine on the eastern bank of the lake makes it a sacred place for the newlyweds who perform three Parikrama (circum-ambulations) around the lake to seek the blessings of Sheshnag, the lord of serpents. The temples on the shore of Mansar Lake makes it a popular spot among the devotees.

During the summer season, the lake is swarming with lotus flowers blooming on its surface. Tourists also engage in bird watching around the lake during this season. The lake also offers breathtaking views for capturing amazing pictures of the changing hues of the sky at dawn and dusk.

BEST WAY TO TRAVEL – Best way to reach Mansar Lake is to take NH1A bypass road to Surinsar road and continue 2-hour drive through wildlife sanctuary to reach Mansar Lake.

Srinagar

The Summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar, is situated on the banks of the Jhelum river. The stationary houseboats and colourful Shikaras in Dal Lake along with some of the most admirable Mughal-age gardens in India make Srinagar the perfect place to be.

Apart from being a tourist attraction, the many mosques and temples in this city attract lots of pilgrims every year as well.

The carpet and silk mills, silverware and copperware manufacture, leatherworking, and wood carving make Srinagar an ideal place for shoppers.

BEST WAY TO TRAVEL – Srinagar Airport is located around the city which is the easiest mode of travel. One can also travel to Udhampur railway station, from which taxis can be hired or if one is a travel enthusiast, an approx. 6 hour drive from Jammu city can be covered through beautiful hills and mountains.

Gulmarg

Located at an altitude of about 2700 meters above the sea level, Gulmarg is an adventure hub of India popular for skiing and mountaineering.

Popularly known as the “Heartland of winter sports in India”, Gulmarg is voted as Asia’s seventh best ski destination. Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and heli-skiing take place on the slopes of Mount Apharwat and are reachable by a Gondola lift.

Apart from being the destination for winter sports, the famous Maharani temple and St. Mary’s church attracts pilgrims to Gulmarg.

BEST WAY TO TRAVEL – The beautiful meadow of Gulmarg can only be reached by roadways which is well connected to Srinagar at almost 50 kms, though Srinagar can be reached by multiple ways including airways, roadways and even railways.

Patnitop

Located at about 6600 ft. above the sea level, Patnitop is a hilltop tourist attraction place in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir and is one of the most popular places to visit near Vaishno Devi.

The dense woods, lush greenery of Pines, and tracks that lead to pockets of scenic views make it a perfect destination for adventure activities.

Skyview Patnitop is one such unexplored destination for adventure activities including a gondola ride, zipline, magic carpet, tubing sledge, and ropeway making it one of the best adventure places in India.

The ropeway at Skyview Patnitop is one of the highest ropeways in India with over 65 meters. of ground clearance and the longest span of 849 meters between 8 towers and is quickly becoming popular among the tourists and adventure buffs.

This ropeway is set in a scenic countryside view where you can see the beautiful mountains. Starting from Sanget, the lower terminal, this ropeway makes you reach the beautiful Patnitop in about 10-12 minutes.

The ropeway adheres to CEN (European) standard certification making it one of the safest ropeway in the world.

In addition to adventure activities, Skyview Patnitop offers a variety of cuisine representing Asian, Indian, and Continental, through multiple outlets.

There is a Kids Zone also which is equipped with slides, swings, trampolines, etc. giving something to enjoy for everyone visiting.

The perfect blend of adventure, food, and mesmerizing scenic views makes Skyview Patnitop one of the best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir with your family.

BEST WAY TO TRAVEL – Patnitop can be reached by a local bus or taxi from Jammu city which would take an approx. 3-4 hours. The nearest railway station to Patnitop is Udhampur Railway station, from where buses and taxi regularly ply to Patnitop.

February 24, 2020August 27, 2022

Planning a Long Weekend Escape in Jammu?

When you are surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the city trying your best to prove yourself on every front, a small vacation escape to the hills is what you need to revive yourself. Though there are a lot of holiday destinations in India worth-visiting, a trip to Jammu is most recommended owing to its immaculate beauty. The city of Jammu offers great tourist attractions, from religious sites to grand palaces, with a lush topography of spectacular glacier-laden hills, mesmerising valleys, picturesque towns, and much more. A perfect retreat for leisure travellers, honeymooners, and wildlife enthusiasts, Jammu attracts visitors from across the country. Let’s get straight to how you can make the most of your weekend vacation and which places to visit in Jammu. We have curated a list of tourist places in Jammu & Kashmir:

Day 1 – Arrival at Jammu and Local Sightseeing:

Early arrival at Jammu will give you enough time to visit some of the major hotspots of the city. A quick trip to Amar Mahal, Bahu Fort, Raghunath Temple, Mandi Palace will give you a brief idea on the historic facets of this ‘City of Temples’. Your stay at Jammu will enhance with some delicious top-ups of local dishes like Ambal, Khatta Meat, Aloo Dum, Pulao, and Maa da Madra, all complimented with famous sweets like Sund Panjeeri, Patisa, and Chocolate Barfi.

Day 2 – Jammu to Katra:

An easy 1-hour drive from Jammu will get you to Katra. There are various places to visit in Katra, each having its religious significance. Being home to one of the most important temples in India, Mata Vaishno Devi, you will find various cultural and religious sites here. It is also filled with undulating hillsides offering breathtaking views of great Himalayas.

For shopping freaks, a wide variety of dry fruits, leather articles, and tapestries are available on the main street to be bought as souvenirs for friends and family.

Day 3 – Katra to Patnitop:

A total distance of 70 km covered with a 2.5-hour drive from Katra, you will arrive at Patnitop. Located at an altitude of 6640 ft. above the sea level, it is nestled amidst the lush and luxuriant forest cover. Offering panoramic views of the Shivalik Range, Patnitop offers a number of places that you can visit. When it comes to the tourist places in Patnitop, you can visit Madhatop, Nathatop, Sanasar Lake, and Naag Temple among others. Each destination offers unique experiences for you to take part in. You can trek through some uncharted terrains at Madhatop, paraglide through the skies at Nathatop, or take a serene stroll at Sanasar Lake.

Day 4 – Adventure Time at Skyview

Skyview Patnitop is a one-stop destination for endless experiences. Be it indulging in the adrenaline-pumping activities or relishing lip-smacking delights from around the globe or simply getting up close to nature, you are going to find it all. There is a reason why we have suggested a full day at Skyview!

Adventure Activities:

Gondola Ride: Designed with the latest French technology in collaboration with POMA, Gondola at Skyview covers a total span of 2.8 km and adheres to CEN (European) standard of safety norms. It is the highest ropeway in India (highest ground clearance) with the longest span of 849 m between two of its eight towers. With a total of 18 cabins, each capable to accommodate up to 8 adults, you are bound to have a great time, no matter how large is your group. All in all, a great experience for everyone!

Zipline: Participate or compete with your friends along with a series of 9 zip wires. Built-in collaboration with Flying Fox, this activity offers a zigzag ziplining experience. Test your skills and set new records for everyone to break. You surely are going to love it.

Tubing: India’s first grass tubing sledge offering all-season fun; jump in for pure pleasure with your friends. Indulge in an exhilarating experience as you slide down the descending terrain!

Sumptuous Delights

Referred to as a ‘Paradise for Foodies’, Skyview offers numerous options for your tummy cravings, each offering delicious and finger-licking cuisine from around the globe, never before in Jammu. You can dine at The Wok – An Oriental Restaurant; Banana Leaf – offering flavours from North & South India; Pine View Café, or Skyview Café by Empyrean as per your taste and choice.

After a day full of adventure and fun, you can shop for some souvenirs at the Skyview Patnitop.

Next-Day – Drive Back To Home!

And that’s how your long weekend escape to Jammu will come to an end.

May 3, 2019May 17, 2022

Top 4 Places to Visit in Patnitop

Patnitop is counted among the most popular hilltop tourist locations in India. Located at an elevation of 6640 feet in the district Udhampur of Jammu and Kashmir, Patnitop boasts dense forests, mesmerizing clouds, and sits next to the Chenab river. There are dozens of popular destinations you can visit at Patnitop. Due to the absence of industrialization, one can truly experience the virgin aura of mother nature. During winters, you will find white snow blankets spread over the entirety of what your eyes can see. Let’s take a look at the top 4 Patnitop sightseeing attractions or places to visit in Patnitop where you can relax and spend a refreshing holiday:

Madhatop: If you are in love with trekking, then Madhatop is a must visit location for you. Situated at an elevation of 2000 metres, you can trek on a 5 km terrain from Patnitop. Madhatop offers a complete package of adventure and entertainment. Be it spending a calm and soothing holiday or participating in various fun-filled activities, you can do whatever you want in this serene destination.

Sanasar Lake: Situated at an elevation of 2050 metres, just 20 km from Patnitop, rests the Sanasar Lake. Its name consists of two parts derived from two villages – Sana and Sar. Experience the breath-taking views of Himalayan mountains, witness the dense vegetation with horses grazing on it, crystal clear lake water with astonishing waves dancing with the breeze, and much more. Sanasar offers adventure activities like Rock-climbing, Paragliding, Hot-air ballooning, Parasailing, and Abseiling.

Shiva Garh: Situated at a distance of 11 km from Patnitop and an elevation of 3500 metres, Shiva Garh is simply trekking heaven for all trekking lovers. The amazingly beautiful view of snow-covered mountain peaks, lush green vegetation carpets, numerous grazing cows ringing their bells to create a soothing rhythm etc., this place makes it a hotspot for nature lovers.

Nathatop: Counted among the most popular tourist attractions in India, Nathatop has a lot to offer. Resting at an altitude of 2133 metres, gift your eyes with the majestic views of Lower Shivalik range and Brammah Massif of the Kishtwar range. Visitors can witness peaks like Flat top (height 6103 metres), Brammah I (height 6416 metres), Brammah II (height 6485 metres), and Arjuna (height 6230 metres). You can also participate in adventure activities like Paragliding, Trekking, and Skiing.

There are many such tourist attractions in Patnitop that are worth visiting. This unknown and somewhat uncharted destination has a number of spectacular tourist spots which makes it one of the most sought-after travel locations in India. Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean has put in efforts to create a one-stop experience for all the visitors planning a trip to this unblemished hill station. With a high-altitude cable car ride, zip lining, ropeway, and a plethora of dining options to offer, Skyview Patnitop do justice to its slogan – “One Destination, Endless Experiences”. So, pack your bags and plan your visit soon!

March 5, 2019May 17, 2022

Skyview Patnitop: Jammu’s newest destination offering breathtaking views, entertainment, adventure & tastes!

Jammu region is one of the world’s most sought-after destination for travelers seeking adventure and witness nature at its finest. Just two hours ride from Jammu, lies the hilltop tourist destination, Patnitop which is one of the best places to visit in North India. The summer of 2019 would see the launch of Skyview Patnitop, an integrated destination with the theme “One destination, endless experiences” offering stunning views, entertainment, adventure and a range of food options. The destination’s key highlight would be one of the most scenic and state-of-the art ropeway in India spread between the ground station in Sanget near the famous Chenani Nashri tunnel and top station located at Patnitop and soaring high above the pine trees. The destination offers the following activities:

One of the highest (ground clearance) CEN (European) Standard Certified ropeways in Asia with one of the longest spans between its towers, its spacious gondolas offer a captivating view of the scenic destination. The cable car offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness Patnitop sightseeing through never-before-seen panoramic views of Jammu’s hidden gem.
Ziplining is for all thrill seekers and adventure enthusiasts who love the rush of hanging from a line, and zipping through the majestic Deodar and Kail trees.
If sliding down a slope wasn’t titillating enough, experience tube sledging amongst the magnanimous hill-scapes of Patnitop. If you’ve never been tubing, sitting in an air-filled rubber tube as you slide down a steep slope is something you must try! It’s a rush of excitement and a truly exhilarating experience.
Witness the local arts and culture at Skyview’s expansive Amphitheatre. Learn about Patnitop as you sit around the Amphitheatre stage, viewing amazing performances presented by the Patnitop locals and other acts.
Aladdin has left behind his magic carpet in Patnitop! Escapade all the way up to the mountain top when taking a ride on the Skyview magic carpet. Experience a sense of solitude as you take in the breathtaking sights all around you. A whole new way of adventure traveling, never seen in India!
Indulge in sumptuous varieties of food at the best restaurants in Jammu at Banana Leaf – a 100% vegetarian North & South Indian cuisine restaurant and Pine View – a market café offering an array of international cuisines.

Summer is not too far away, so start planning your this year’s summer visit to the Jammu region and visit Skyview Patnitop for a lifetime experience. Comment below if you know any other beautiful places to visit in North India.