A visit to Nathatop

A short trek from Patnitop takes one to Natha Top, which remains covered in snow during winters. It is a good place for skiing and is also known for paragliding. Situated at an altitude of 2,711 m, the Kishtwar range of the Himalayas is visible from Natha Top, as is the Brammah Massif, which comprises the well-known peaks of Flat Top, Arjuna, and Brammah I and II.

The interesting thing about these peaks is that Brammah II is the highest of the lot, despite its name suggesting otherwise. However, Brammah I is definitely the most dramatic, rising theatrically from the western edge from a lower base.

A visit to Nathatop

Trekking at Shiv Garh

Enjoy the company of lush wooded pine forests on a day's walk to Shiv Garh. It is a starting point for long and short treks to nearby mountains and makes for a rich experience. Around 11 km away from Patnitop, Shiv Garh is quite peaceful, and offers splendid views of the mountain towns of Kud and Batote. As you drive down the road, the mighty Himalayas seem to accompany you on your journey, and the sun plays hide and seek amidst the tall pine trees. Since it is still known only to a few intrepid travellers, chances are you will not be disturbed.

 

Trekking at Shiv Garh

Pine Forest

Patnitop is known for its exquisite pine forests that have several beautiful picnic spots, serene walkways and a stunning view of the Chenab basin. The trees themselves are evergreen and coniferous, and grow quite tall in right conditions. Their branches are thick, and the trees thrive in the sun, making a lush canopy. The cover of snow in the pine forest makes it a delightful place for skiing. Tourists can also spend a night in holiday homes in the company of pine trees and nature. The forest also plays host to winter resorts which, due to their close proximity to Jammu and Udhampur, attract visitors from all over the country. Jammu and Kashmir Tourism as well as the Indian Army have holiday homes here.

Pine Forest

Naag Mandir

The 600-year-old Naag Mandir sits on top of a hill in Mantalai and is said to be the place where Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati. The temple is dedicated to Naag Devta (serpent god), and people come here to worship snakes and offer prayers and sweets to the deity. Surrounded by lush greenery and snow-covered mountain peaks, the temple is visited by thousands of pilgrims during the Naag Panchami festival, when snakes are traditionally worshipped.

 

Naag Mandir

Sudh Mahadev Temple

The temple is said to be about 2,800 year old and invites devotees for its spiritual significance and architectural beauty alike. It houses a natural black marble, a trident (trishul) belonging to Lord Shiva and a mace (gada) that is believed to have belonged to Bheema, one of the five legendary Pandava brothers. It sits at an altitude of 1,225 m above sea level, and also has a spring named Pap Nashni Bowli, where taking a bath is believed to free one from all their sins.

 

Sudh Mahadev Temple