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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.
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.
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.
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.