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Situated at an altitude of 2024 m above sea level, Patnitaop is
located 112 km away from Jammu on Jammu-Srinagar highway. The
beauty and tranquility of this humble plateau is simply
unmatched. There is no place better than Patnitop if you want
some time just with yourself, away from the city chaos. The
landscape of Patnitop, covering the vast grasslands of shinning
green color in summers, takes totally different attire in
winters. The town receives a large amount of snowfall that
completely covers the lands. This gives a great opportunity for
winter sports like skiing.
Patnitop is full of picturesque walks that give great views of
the mountains in the Chenab Basin and options for excursions to
nearby areas like Sanasar and Sundarani. And with aero sports
taking a big l eap of development in the town, Patnitop surely
has become a heaven for adventure lover. Any time of the year is
a good time to visit Patnitop. It all depends on your wishes,
whether you like to indulge in aero sports or in winter sports
or you just want to get lost in the enchanting silence of the
town. Do carry light woolen clothes with you as Nights get a bit
chilly around here.
CLIMATE
Due to altitudinal variation from 600 meters to 3000 meters
within the PDA area these is a wide variation in temperature and
climate. The temperature varies between 40O C and – 5O C. it has
been observed that these is a fall of 1O C atmospheric
temperature in the hills for every 270M rise in altitude upto
1500M, beyond which the fall is more sharp. Since these is an
altitudinal variation of approximately 3,8000M a minimum
difference of 14O C or more can be expected at any given time.
December, January and February are the coldest months. July to
September is the rainy season.
The circuit gets the benefits of both winter & summer
precipitation. The Patnitop circuit receives major portion of
the precipitation from January to March during winter, both in
the form of snow at higher regions and rains in the lower
regions. The precipitation is mostly in the form of rains during
the summer months of July to September.
April to June and September are comparatively drier months of
year. Frost and mist are uncommon within the area as compared to
the Kashmir valley. Radiation frost is common in the region.
Sunny days are warm and occur frequently. The drought are of
rare occurrence in the region.
Attractions - Refreshing Sights
Patnitop as a whole is a replete with splendorous beauty
throughout the year during the festive times the devotees throng
the Naag Temple one of the most ancient shrine of the region, a
grand fair is also organised during the festival. Besides that
this sceneric town is a hub of winter sports activities, that
beckon tourist from around the world.
The Naag Temple
Situated on top of the hill, the temple is more than 600 years
old. The temple witnesses a large number of devotees on all days
and on special occasions, the number is mind boggling. The
temple is also a good option for excursions.
Skiing
Patnitop also attracts a lot of tourist because of the skiing
possibilities that are present here. In winter months, special
skiing classes for beginners has been introduced, specially in
January and February. The snow covered slopes of Patnitop are
not very steep or bumpy, so they turn out to be perfect for
starters. For more experienced legs, there is Madhatop, just 5
km away from here, which is more difficult and challenging.
Paragliding
In recent years, aero sports have become quite prominent in the
town. Tourist widely indulge in Parasailing and hot air
ballooning, but the most popular is Para gliding. May, June,
September and October are the most favorable months for
indulging is this activity.
Getting There
By Air
The nearest civil airport is at Jammu. The distance between
Jammu and Patnitop is around 112 km and it takes around 4 hrs to
cover the distance by road.
By Rail
Closest railhead Jammu Tawi is also in Jammu. The distance is
112 km.
By Road
Road The town is well connected to all major cities of Jammu and
Kashmir by state road transportation. Busses are frequent to
Patnitop especially from Jammu.
Local Transport
Buses are the main mode of transport inside the town. Taxis and
private coaches are also available for hire, |
