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April 29, 2021May 7, 2022

5 Famous places in Jammu and Kashmir to Unwind

The place famous all over the world, Jammu & Kashmir, located in the Northernmost part of India, is a land of unimaginable beauty. Ranging from amazing lakes, snow-clad peak top, lush green meadows, and hill stations, it has several exotic locations which are very suitable places to get some relief from the scorching heat of summer or enjoy the beauty of winters, J&K has it all. Here are 5 famous places in Jammu & Kashmir that you can unwind with your family.

1. JAMMU

Surrounded by the backs of the Pir Panjal mountains, Jammu is a famous historical city and a land of great ancient temples. It is built on a series of hills and consists of many temples, hence it is known as ‘The City of Temples’. Other tourist’s attraction includes Bahu Fort, Raghunath Mandir, and Hari Niwas Palace. The place is also a focal point on the route to Mata Vaishno Devi. You can reach Jammu anywhere in India, thanks to the excellent road, railway network, and air connectivity.

2. PAHALGAM

Pahalgam lies at a distance of about 100 kilometers from Srinagar city. It is surrounded by the Lidder river on one side and Betaab Valley on the other. While you are here you can explore the market for traditional Kashmiri art, and enjoy other leisure activities. River rafting is a major adventure activity that often happens here every summer. Closed during the winter season, Pahalgam is the perfect summer destination.

3. PATNITOP

Patnitop is easily one of the best tourist places in North India. It is also a great place for people who want to have fun and who enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty. Located in the region of Jammu, Patnitop is one of the most beautiful and famous places in Jammu and Kashmir because of its impressive features and amazing landscapes. Skyview by Empyrean is located at Patnitop which offers many activities such as gondola, which is India’s highest in terms of ground clearance, a zipline ride, and mountain biking. You can also relish the mouth-watering dining options in its restaurant and café. There are many hotels for staying overnight which makes a trip to Patnitop a must-visit place.

4. SONAMARG

The word ‘Sonamarg’ translates into ‘Golden meadows’ and exhibits one of the most spectacular views in Kashmir. With lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, Sonamarg is also one of the starting points of Amarnath Yatra. Horse riding and hiking are a variety of activities performed at this beautiful location. The best time to visit Sonamarg is in the summer season, as it receives heavy snowfall during winter.

5. KUPWARA

Rocky high mountains, flowing rivers, and amazingly beautiful meadows paint a beautiful picture of this place. Popularly known as the ‘Crown of Kashmir’, Kupwara is visited by many tourists and adventurers alike. It is one of those places is a place where one can live, relax, and enjoy the best that nature can offer. The Lolab valley, which is an unexplored gem, is a beautiful place with open lush green meadows and sky-blue rivers, depicting the raw beauty of the region.

April 1, 2021May 7, 2022

6 Unexplored Tourist Places in India

6 Unexplored Tourist Destinations in India

Exploring a remote place is always fascinating, to say the least. The excitement of discovering something new is sought by most travelers. Challenging and adventurous, every traveler yearns for exploring the raw and remote places, full of nature, less of people. Here, we will discover some unexplored tourist places in India which are less known but amazing and mesmerizing in terms of scenic landscape.

Fortunately, India is a haven for such places. From uncharted lakes, hidden waterfalls, and forests, boasting about many such remote places promises quite an adventure.

1. LANSDOWNE

Lansdowne, located in Uttarakhand, is one of the few places containing the roots of British origin. Surrounded by a belt of heavy oak and pine trees, this place got its name from Lord Lansdowne who was the British viceroy till 1894. A perfect holiday destination, Lansdowne consists of a variety of activities such as trekking, sightseeing, boating, and many more. A plus point would be that Lansdowne has good motorable roads, yet still possess unexplored beauty making it one of the most exciting unexplored tourist places in India.

2. BHALUKPONG

Bhalukpong, located in Arunachal Pradesh, is easily one of the most unexplored tourist places in India due to its limited connectivity and remote location. Full of surprises and beauty, Bhalukpong has it all! Activities include sightseeing, trekking, and camping. Along with this, Bhalukpong also consists of Pakhui wildlife sanctuary and is home to several wild cats such as Tiger, leopard and even wild dogs, and Asiatic jackal. The region also consists of an Orchid research center.

3. SIKKIM

Home to many mystical and fascinating places, Sikkim has a blend of the Himalayan kingdom mixed with Indian traditions. Sikkim is bordered by Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet from the North. It is also home to Khecheopalri lake which is considered sacred by Hindus and Buddhists alike. The lake, however, cannot be used for recreational activities like swimming or fishing. There is also Khecheopalri village, a small village with old age-style homes having no roads and connectivity. Altogether, this gives classic vibes and old age feel about the place.

4. GANGBAL

Gangabal Lake — Source: Living Kashmir Travels

The Gangbal lake, also known as the Harmukh Ganga Lake, is situated in the foothills of Harmukh mountain in Ganderbal, Kashmir. The pristine lake lies at a high altitude of 3570 meters above sea level. To reach the Gangbal lake, you will have to trek for 15 km covering hilly terrain, crossing 4 different lakes before reaching the majestic Gangbal lake. Worth mentioning here is that it is also home to famous rainbow trouts. The spectacular views while trekking gives a whole new feel and refreshing auras of the lakes provide a refreshing outlook towards nature and are one of the best unexplored tourist places in India.

5. JAWAI

Jawai is a place not known to many people. However, this unexplored gem is adventurous and fun. Jawai got its name from the Jawai river also has a dam built on it. There are luxurious tents that also provide Rajasthani cuisines and also offer sightseeing views of water bodies. Birdwatching is a known activity since the place is considered a haven for migratory birds and more than 100 species of birds have been known to flock every year. Along with birds, Indian leopards have also been known to wander there.

6. PATNITOP

Located at about 86 km from Jammu city, Patnitop is covered with lush green forests on a plateau in the Shivalik belt, which adds a touch of nature to its beauty. At a height of 2024 meters above sea level, Patnitop is a charm for treks and trails along with adventurous forests. For activity, Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean offers many firsts of adventure activities in India. They offer a ropeway cable ride, which is the highest ropeway in terms of ground clearance. They also provide zip line rides and Magic carpet rides, which is also the first magic carpet in India. On the leisure side, the place consists of a restaurant, which offers top-class cuisines and there are several hotels nearby to relax and enjoy.

March 11, 2021May 7, 2022

Three Lesser-Known Tourist Destinations in India

India is a mixture of multi-cultural diversity. It is one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a rich heritage and natural beauty, the country is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. As you explore the vast country, you are welcomed by diverse nuances of cuisines, faiths, arts, crafts, music, nature, lands, tribes, history, and adventure sports. Read here to know three lesser-known tourist destinations in India.

India is a colourful country where tradition and modernity meet side by side. The world’s seventh-largest nation by area and the second-largest in terms of population, India boasts a rich heritage that’s the result of centuries of different cultures and religions leaving their mark.

1. Patnitop, Jammu and Kashmir

Patnitop is one of the most famous hilltop tourist destinations of J&K located at an altitude of 2024 m above sea level in the Udhampur district. Situated in the Shivalik belt of the mighty Himalayas, Patnitop comprises some meadows festooned with the deep forests of deodar and pine trees.

Earlier times, the place was named Patan Da Talab (Pond of the Princess) and it is said that the British probably could not get the correct name in revenue records and thus named it Patnitop. In olden times a pond existed in the meadows and the king’s princess often used to have her bath there. Part of the pond still exists near the youth hostel.

People visiting Patnitop can enjoy it as the place has a lot to offer including sightseeing tours, forests, and temples. The other activities include horse rides and short treks into the surrounding hills. The natural beauty of Patnitop makes it the best tourist destination in India.

The best place to visit in Patnitop is Skyview Patnitop. For those who seek solace in nature and want to experience adventure backed with world-class hospitality and other amenities, Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean is an apt place to visit. The major attraction of this location is that the place has the highest ropeway in India in terms of ground clearance and has one of the longest zig-zag ziplines in Asia. Besides the magic carpet, tube sledge, and hiking trails. For food lovers, the scenic destination offers several culinary delights in its restaurants and cafes. It has emerged as one of the best destinations for adventure activities in India.

The place remains open throughout the year. However, July and August are the hottest months with an average of 30°C, whereas December and January are often coldest, averaging -2°C. The moderate weather and beautiful landscapes make it the best place to visit in north India.

2. Chopta, Uttarakhand

Chopta is a small settlement and valley that is located in Uttarakhand, which is one of the top tourist destinations in India because it offers spell-binding beauty of the Himalayas, snow-capped mountains, and thick forest trails.

This untouched natural destination is situated on the lap of the Himalayas, offers vistas of the imposing Himalayan range including Trishul, Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba. It is located at an elevation of 2,680 metres (8,790 ft) above sea level.

The valley is surrounded by the dense forests of pine, deodar, and rhododendron. This place is rich in flora and fauna include rare species of birds and musk deer. Many Indian travellers have named this place as ‘Mini Switzerland’ of India.

3. Damro, Arunachal Pradesh

The village of Damro is surrounded by the beautiful states of Assam and Myanmar in Arunachal Pradesh in North East. The place has abundant natural resources. This village in the northeast is the base of the longest hanging bridge (1,000 feet). It is a rural sort of a getaway for exhausting city life. The major attractions of this place are sights of harvested crops, not-so-wild bison, a vast expanse of meadows and grasslands making it one of the best tourist destinations in India.

Damro has a small population of just under 500 living in 78 houses. The place is known for its simple way of living. While you are in Damro, you can take a hike up to the Damro bridge or trek down the famous routes at Pasighat and Yingkiong. The only thing that you should never miss is to try your hand at fishing with the locals. During your visit, we recommend you not to miss the local delicacies of smoked pork, raja chilli chutney, and apong (rice beer).

March 4, 2021May 7, 2022

5 Best Holiday Destinations in India that you need to take your family to

The year 2020 has been a hectic year for almost all of us and especially for travelers. The good news though is that the world is slowly getting back to normal ways. After a year of closed borders, many places are now welcoming visitors and travelers, hence allowing you to finally hop around on some of the best places to visit with family.

A country of diverse culture and landscapes, India is the perfect escape for a getaway trip, especially when planned with family and your loved ones because there are lots of amazing places one can explore and enjoy. Ranging from classic palaces of Jaipur to beaches of Kerala and lush green mountains of Himachal, India has it all!

In this blog, we will tell you the list of the five best holiday destinations one can visit in India with their families: –

Table of Content:

Himachal Pradesh
Kerala
Rajasthan
Patnitop
Meghalaya

1. Himachal Pradesh

Himachal is the hub of adventure activities such as trekking, paragliding along with other scenic views and hence can be considered as a paradise for family trips. There are several places one can explore in Himachal including Manali, Shimla, and much more. For a different experience, Kufri offers Yak rides which provide a unique experience.

2. Kerala

Famously known as the ‘God’s Own Country’ and after exploring along the coastal lines, Kerala deserves all the praise it receives. From cruising on the backwaters of Alleppey to rides on elephants, it has all the ingredients for a perfect family vacation. Among its host of activities, Kerala also offers Ayurvedic massages which are beneficial especially to older people making it one of the best places to visit with family.

3. Rajasthan

Boasting its glorious princely past, royal cultural heritage, and incredible forts Rajasthan is one of the amazing places to visit in India. A complete family holiday destination, one can enjoy all sorts of arts, cuisines, and tour some of the beautiful palaces in Jaipur. Known as ‘Pink City’ Jaipur is a vibrant and colourful city. Along with that, one can also visit Ranthambore National Park, Jodhpur, and Udaipur.

Rajasthan is a prominent place for adventure activities in India such as hot air balloons, zipline, elephant safari which is also considered a popular family sport.

4. Patnitop

Located at about 95 km from Jammu airport, Patnitop has everything a nature lover asks for. Lush green forests covering the mighty Himalayan ranges and a picturesque view soothes the minds of people. The Patnitop along with its raw nature and beauty is home to a world-class adventure destination know as Skyview Patnitop.

Skyview Patnitop is a must-visit place for leisure as well as adventure activities. Ranging from amazing food cuisines, mountain biking, or simply rest in the lap of nature or if one is looking for something exciting and adventurous, adding to this Skyview Patnitop offers cable car ride which is India’s highest in terms of ground clearance.

5. Meghalaya

Meghalaya, with its high winding valleys, high plateaus, and beautiful waterfalls is located in the North-eastern part of India. Its capital, Shillong is the highest visited place in the state and easily one of the best places to visit in North India. Historically, Shillong was a summer retreat for Britishers. Since then, it has become a famous place as a tourist destination.

The exquisite beauty of Shillong includes activities such as a visit to Umiam lake or one can take a dip in the Elephant falls.

January 14, 2021May 7, 2022

4 Best Places for Adventure Travel in India

When it comes to the best places for adventure travel, no one can omit India from their bucket list as the country offers a lot to adventure seekers. The wide range of the place that falls under the mighty Himalayan region makes it a must-visit place for travelers across the globe.

The highest peaks, best hiking trails, dense forests, and an amazing variety of flora and fauna are some of the tropical features that make India an epicenter for adventure tourism.

In this blog, we will be sharing the four amazing places that adventure seekers should not miss out on in India.

Table of Content

River Rafting, Kashmir
One Destination, Endless Adventure, Patnitop
Goechala Trek, Sikkim
Bike Trip, Manali to Leh

1. River Rafting, Kashmir

Mesmerizing beyond words. Kashmir is known for its natural beauty. The pristine lakes, snow-clad mountains, and endless meadows have put Kashmir on the top of the tourism map in India and are one of the reasons that the place remains abuzz with tourists across the globe and is one of the best places for adventure travel.

Pahalgam is considered the most scenic place in the valley and this place is simply a paradise for those who are fond of water sports. This destination witnesses pleasant weather and climate throughout the year. It generally snows during the last portion of December and continues till March so the perfect time for river rafting remains April onwards. There are three stages of river rafting locally known as Lidder joy ride, Lidder long ride, and extra-long ride. The first stretch is 2.5 km,5 km, and 8 km with grade II to III and IV rapids on the Lidder River.

2. One Destination, Endless Adventure, Patnitop

For the people who connect with nature and seek solace in the lap of nature, Skyview Patnitop offers reminiscences for a lifetime. The amalgam of adventure and leisure are the prime reasons that this place has become the most favorite destination among travelers around the globe.

Situated at a distance of 95 kilometers from Jammu airport which is generally covered in two hours via the national highway that passes through many tunnels.

With an aim to promote mountain tourism, adventure activities in India, and public infrastructure, the Skyview Patnitop has the highest ropeway in India in terms of ground clearance. Skyview Patnitop also has Asia’s longest and best zig-zag zipline in India measuring 580 meters which includes nine wires and 10 poles. This ride will give you the experience of a lifetime.

Among the volley of offerings, one among the favorite experience remains an all-season tubing sledge of 238 meters, and India’s first ‘magic carpet.

Besides the scenic offerings, Skyview Patnitop has a variety of dining options catering to the culinary needs of visitors. The menu is served while following all the safety protocols of digital menus, social distancing, sanitized cutlery, and more!

3. Goechala Trek, Sikkim

Goechala is counted among the toughest treks in the Himalayan region. With an altitude of 4,940 ft, this level-4 difficult journey is completed in 10 days. Displaying the finest of the famed North-East, this trek is a way to get an inch closer to the legendary Kangchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world making Goechala Trek one of the best places for adventure travel. Besides offering dazzling views of the Singalila range from the Dzongri top, this trek is also widely popular for the unmatchable sight of the sunrise over the Kangchenjunga range. The best times to plan a visit are the summer months of April and May where the region bursts into red and pink rhododendron blossoms, while some also prefer the stretch from September to December.

The Samiti Lake possesses ravishing beauty where early morning hours offer the quaint reflection of Mt. Pandim in the still waters of the lake. The charm of the journey is best captured in the quiet presence of suspension bridges, Pha Khola, Tshushay Khola, and Mentogang Khola, which hang above the gurgling Prekchu river.

4. Bike Trip, Manali to Leh

Among all your journeys, this hiking trail in India is the best, and traveling here will be the memorable trip of your lifetime. The distance of 253 kilometers from Manali to Leh will be covered in 10 hours. You will be exploring natural beauty along with monasteries, lakes and high altitude passes ride across high passes like Nakeela Pass, Whisky Nallah, Lachulung La Pass, Pang, More Plains, and Tanglang La pass. And the moment you reach Leh you will be back by the beauty of the place and the freezing cold.

November 19, 2020May 7, 2022

5 Must Visit Exhilarating Places to Visit in North India

5 Must Visit Exhilarating tourist destinations in North India

Extending from the snow-capped mountains of Kashmir to the high dunes of Rajasthan, North India comprises a traveler’s paradise. North India is signified by hill stations, temples, pristine lakes, historical monuments, and beautiful waterfalls. Along with that, there are lots of places that are unexplored and not touched by human presence. Below are some exhilarating tourist destinations in North India which are amazing family holiday destinations.

1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Ideal for family vacations and honeymoon, Shimla is one of the best tourist destinations in North India. Surrounded by lush green forests, the erstwhile summer capital of British India offers a destination that has a fusion of history, scenic settings, and rich local culture. Along with the natural beauty, there are hosts of adventure activities to extend the fun, or else, you can enjoy the tour on a wildlife sanctuary and view some of the exotic animals such as the barking deer, Tibetan wolf, and the monal bird. Lakkar Bazaar is quite a famous market in Shimla where you can select from a host of local items as souvenirs.

2. Rishikesh, Uttrakhand

Most people envision Rishikesh as the place only for river rafting, but Rishikesh is much more than that. Located along with the convergence of Ganga and Chandrabhaga, Rishikesh is a hub of meditation and yoga ashrams, comprising many cafes, temples, and huge potential for adventure tourism. The industry of whitewater rafting has grown exponentially hence Rishikesh has been quite a popular choice for all types of people.

3. Udaipur, Rajasthan

For the people who are interested in lakes and museums, Udaipur is the place for them. It is also known as “The City of Lakes” and the historical capital of the Mewar kingdom. You can explore forts, palaces, temples, and many other attractions while you are here. Some must-visit places while you are exploring Udaipur are City Palace, Lake Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Pratap Park. The best time to visit Udaipur would be during the winter season when the weather is much pleasant.

4. Patnitop, Jammu and Kashmir

Located at the foothills of the Shivalik range in Jammu and Kashmir, Patnitop features evergreen forests, meadows, and so much more. While you are here, a must-visit destination is Skyview Patnitop which offers a gamut of adventure activities unique to India such as magic carpet, zipline, hiking trails, birding, and a gondola ride as well. Not forget some mouth-watering dining options as well. The all-season destination will surely leave you with memories lasting a lifetime.

5. Leh, Ladakh

No list would be incomplete without mentioning Leh when it comes to exhilarating tourist destinations in North India. Best explored in your vehicles like a car or a motorcycle, Leh is a cultural and natural treasure chest. Places to visit are the Pangong Lake, Royal Leh Palace, Khardung La, and Tsomoriri Lake. The ideal time to visit Leh would be in summers as the winters are extremely cold and harsh.

November 5, 2020May 7, 2022

All weather vacation places in India

The year 2020 has still some months left and with the arrival of the winter season, eagerly awaiting travelers and backpackers are keen to travel to warm weather destinations that can make them escape the cold climate. The diverse geographical settings and varied culture of India provides an opportunity for travelers to explore the locations irrespective of the season. Additionally, India is home to several destinations that are can be termed as all-weather holiday destinations. Here are 7 all-weather vacation places in India that we recommend.

1. GOA

Goa is a hard-to-miss vacation places in India for any beach enthusiast, famous for being a land of beautiful resorts, palm-fringed beaches, delightful culture, wonderful cuisines, and every other thing related to fun. Goa was a former Portuguese colony and that imperial influences can be best experienced in exotic Gothic churches, buildings, food, and culture. You can also make the most of activities such as water sports, para-sailing, and much more while you holiday with your loved ones or decide to travel solo.

2. GOKARNA

Gokarna is quite the ‘hidden gem’ since few travelers come to this unexplored heaven. The beaches are quiet, serene and beautiful, plus the accommodation would be the old school ‘Thatched’ hut style. Gokarna is also one of the important Hindu pilgrimage centers and there are old temples nearby the shore that lit up during important festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Mahashivratri, hence making it the perfect holiday destination in India. Additionally, there are markets and bazaar which offer souvenirs and travel items.

3. PONDICHERRY

Pondicherry, which was recently named Puducherry, is a town of considerable appeal. During colonial times, it was under French rule and their influence is visible everywhere with streets, buildings, neighborhoods, and alleys. The town boasts of several elegant structures including churches, public buildings, townhouses, the most famous being the Aurobindo Ashram and its sister building in Auroville that draws several tourists from all over the world.

4. RAJASTHAN

Palaces and castles here focus on the historical kings and empires that existed in the region. Be it the joy of Jodhpur, or the sand dunes of the Thar Desert, this place offers a unique experience for its visitors. You can also have a ride on camels. Visual beauty combined with historical significance makes Rajasthan one of the best, if not the best holiday destinations in India. Jaipur, India’s pink city, marvels at its architecture, revealing its entire city and its activities. City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Dera Amer Elephant Safari, and other attractions of Jaipur make the city a popular tourist destination. During the winter season, the weather is pleasant and tourists can enjoy the splendid night views of the desert while notwithstanding the scorching heat, making Rajasthan one of the perfect all-weather vacation places in India.

5. KERALA

As soon as the Monsoon ends, the natural splendor of Kerala reaches its peak. The Western Ghats and backwaters enhance the unique charm of Kerala and make it one of the best winter vacation places in India. Kovalam and Varkala Beaches, Alleppey Backwaters, Thekkady and Kumily Spice Gardens, Kalady Spas and Ayurveda, and Munnar Tea Gardens – there are many options in Kerala. The varied topography makes Kerala one of the wonderful winter destinations in India. The lion-tailed macaque at the Silent Valley National Park, the Tiger and Elephant Sanctuary at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and the diverse bird sanctuary at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary make Kerala a prime destination for nature lovers.

6. KASHMIR

Kashmir is famously known as the ‘Heaven on Earth’ and there is a very good reason for that, considering that Kashmir has its own charm during every season of the year. The temperature during summer is usually between 15 and 25 degrees, the place feels like heaven as soon as you arrive; so much to see and do in the region. The Winter season in Kashmir gives a totally different picture of the place which includes chilly weather along with occasional and sometimes heavy snowfall, especially in the upper reaches. Gulmarg is a hill resort which is often called ‘ski haven’ since it possesses perfect characteristics for skiing and adventure sports. Without a doubt, Kashmir is one of the best places to visit in North India.

7. PATNITOP

patnitop vacation places in india — Source: ixigo

Located in the UT of Jammu & Kashmir, Patnitop is a quiet and scenic place offering many places to explore and is one of the best places to visit in Jammu. Patnitop features rich landscape views, pleasant weather, and lots of activities to do. On a Patnitop tour, you can do a lot more than just visit the tourist spots in Patnitop; a must-visit destination is Skyview Patnitop, which offers the highest ropeway in India in terms of ground clearance along with unique adventure activities, hiking trails, and dining options.

May 11, 2020July 10, 2020

5 Less Explored Holiday Destinations in India

5 less explored family destinations in india

There are no second opinions about the fact that the world is vast, serene, and amazing. Additionally, traveling is the best possible way to scout the endless possibilities of the same. Usually, people travel to famous and popular tourist destinations within their country or abroad. These ‘spots’ are often crowded and experience great rush during peak season. However, there are several destinations across the world that come up less frequently in the list of “must travel destinations”. Tourist destinations of India are no different. Travel and tour brand Thomas Cook lists Andaman Island, Auli, and Bikaner as one of the most loved tourism destinations of India. However, in this blog, we present to you 5 less explored holiday destinations in India.

These destinations are ideal for solo travelers and are some of the best family holiday destinations in India, which most of us are unaware of.

Let us begin!

Gurez Valley, Kashmir

Kashmir may be a world-famous tourist destination but there are certainly some untapped places and the best among them is the Gurez valley. Located in the remote district of Bandipora and almost 123 km from Srinagar, this place is as beautiful and charming as one can imagine. With some dazzling landscapes, beautiful mountains peaks and smooth flowing streams and rivers this place gives the visitor a great opportunity to spend some quality time. As most roads leading to Gurez are blocked due to heavy snow during winters the best time to visit is mid-summer.

Patnitop, Jammu

Located in the Shivalik range of the great Himalayas, Patnitop is one of the most serene hill stations of Jammu. Summers here are pleasant, and winters witness a significant amount of snowfall. The main attraction of the serene destination is Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean. The most serene gondola ride, adventure activities, and dining options at Skyview Patnitop makes it one of the best family holiday destinations in India.

Gokarna, Karnataka

Gokarna is a beautiful town located at the bank of the Arabian Sea in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. If you are looking to spend a memorable day at less crowded beaches with your family, then this is the ideal destination. Apart from being a magnificent remote sea town, Gokarna is also famous for its temples and is an important pilgrimage center for the devotees of Lord Shiva. In the recent past, foreign tourists have been taking a keen interest in the untapped beaches of Gokarna.

Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Ziro is a mountain town located 115 Km from the state capital Itanagar. The town is covered with gentle hills, rice fields, and lush green valleys which makes it a perfect family getaway from the noise and pollution of big cities. Apart from being a naturally beautiful location, Ziro is one of the oldest towns of Arunachal Pradesh. Ziro is also included in the tentative list for UNESCO`s World Heritage Site and is home to the famous Apatani tribe.

Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

Mawlynnong also knows as “Gods Own Garden” is a beautiful village in the East Khasi Hills district of the northeastern state of India. Apart from its beautiful scenery, Mawlynnong is famous for its cleanliness and eco-friendly and organic ways of waste management and this village was declared as cleanest village of Asia in 2003. If you are from a big city and craving a clean and hygienic place with fresh air and beautiful surrounding, this border village is the place to be.

So here it is, the list of some of the less explored holiday destinations in India that you can explore solo or with your family.

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.