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December 10, 2020May 7, 2022

Best Outdoor Activities in Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir, a piece of heaven on earth, due to the impeccable natural beauty, the place remains the major attraction for tourists across the globe. Not only does it provide a tranquil escape from the commotion of the city, but also the perfect spot to quench the thirst of an adventurer. From tubing sledge, skiing, rafting to paragliding, and more, it caters to the needs of everyone. Now that the lockdown has been lifted, this part of the year is ideal to visit and explore nature at its best. In this blog, we will tell you 6 outdoor activities in Jammu and Kashmir that you must try.

Table of content:

Skiing Down the Slope
The Rift in the River
Adventures in Patnitop
Safari for the Wildlife
Paragliding in Heaven

1. Skiing Down the Slope – Gulmarg

Dubbed as one the best skiing destinations in India, Gulmarg is festooned with lofty snow-capped mountains, lush greenery, small lakes, and a large variety of flowers. It is located in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir and remains abuzz with tourists belonging to India and abroad from December till April. If you want to feel the adrenaline rush of this adventure and the chilly wind hitting your face as you slide down the slope, then you ought to try this one!

2. The Rift in the river

The Lidder river in Pahalgam offers a terrific challenge to the adventure devotees with a touch of beauty. To make it an exhilarating river rafting experience; the turbulent river challenges you the same way as the rugged mountains do! The river rafting in Pahalgam has two, three, and four rapids for adventure lovers making it one of the best outdoor activities in Jammu & Kashmir This escapade is worth a try if you love being near water and aren’t scared of it.

3. Advenuture in Patnitop

Patnitop is a scenic location in Jammu and Kashmir, which witnesses tourists in large numbers. It is located in the Shivalik ranges of the mighty Himalayas and offers a gamut of activities for an adventurer like you. It has one of the highest ropeways in India and that surely will make you admire the beauty of nature as you hover over lush green forests. Skyview Patnitiop by Empyrean offers the first ride on a magic carpet in India straight out of a fairytale! It also has one of the longest zig-zag ziplines in Asia! You will love the cool breeze on your face as you zoom past by the panoramic views of the Himalayas. Moreover, you can also record your thrilling experience while you are there so that you can share it with your loved ones and relive your experience at one of India’s leading adventure and hospitality destinations.

4. Safari for the wildlife

Who doesn’t love a good, old safari? This place is, particularly for wildlife lovers. Dachigam National Park boasts an impressive list of species, both in flora and fauna. It is famous for its populations of leopard, Himalayan Grey Langur, Musk Deer, Leopard Cat, Yellow-throated Marten, Himalayan Black Bear, etc. It’s a paradise for bird watchers; Golden Oriole, Pygmy Owlet, Himalayan Monal, Kashmir Flycatcher, Koklass Pheasant, Tytler’s Leaf Warbler, Himalayan Rubythroat, Streaked Laughing Thrush, etc. can be found here.

5. Paragliding in Heaven

When it comes to Paragliding in Jammu and Kashmir, the first place that comes to mind is Bhaderwah. It is located on the sloppy hills and that makes it the epicentre of attraction for paragliding activities. Undoubtedly, you will be left speechless after witnessing the aerial view of this picturesque location while you are paragliding. The feeling of soaring through the sky is inexplicable, it is an experience that should definitely exist in your bucket list! The different locations for paragliding are : Chinta & Jai Valley, Padri & Bal Padri, and Seoj meadow.

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.

August 26, 2020May 7, 2022

6 Thrilling and Exciting Adventure Places in India to visit

India is usually known for its magnificent heritage and scenic beauty. Traditionally, tourists from across India and abroad travel to or within India to experience monuments, culture, or heritage. However, there is another segment that has significantly increased in the last decade. This refers to the tourist who wants to let go of the usual tourist destinations and experience destinations that offer thrilling and exciting experiences like never before. In this blog, we will share with you 6 thrilling and exciting adventure places in India that would please the adventure junky inside you. Over the years several tourist destinations and activities have emerged that allow visitors to the best of nature, adventure, and technology.

Have a look!

Table of Content:

Rock climbing in Shey
Adventure activities at Skyview Patnitop
Hot air balloon ride in Jaipur
Snorkeling in the Andaman Islands
Caving and Trekking in Meghalaya
River rafting in Arunachal Pradesh

1. Rock Climbing in Shey

Source: Treebo

Located in Ladakh, Shey offers rock climbing experiences unlike anywhere else as it is the best cragging near Leh in Ladakh. The rock is made of monzogranite similar to the ones found in Arizona. It is also the only rock in Leh that can be climbed. Local guides will be able to assist you in terms of routes and the best possible way to reach the top. As most cliffs face south-east, we would recommend that you start your trek in the second half of the day. You can also visit the Shey Monastery while you are here. A word of caution here, there are certain rocks that have Buddhist text paintings on them, these rocks are not to be climbed.

2. Adventure Activities and Gondola at Skyview Patnitop

Skyview Patnitop offers a gamut of adventure activities and is one of the popular adventure places in India. Nestled in Patnitop, J&K, this destination offers the highest ropeway in India in terms of ground clearance, zigzag zipline, magic carpet, and a tubing sledge amidst a scenic location and along with dining options. This largest Indo-French mountain tourism infrastructure project is definitely one of the top places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir. One can visit Skyview Patnitop throughout the year as every season offers a unique experience of the ambiance.

3. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Jaipur

Jaipur is not known as one of the many adventure places in India, but traditionally, it is known for its heritage tourism. However, you can now experience the thrill of a hot air balloon tour. Via this aerial tour, you can get a never like view of the Jal Mahal, Amber Fort, and Shiv Villas. These rides are usually conducted 2 hours before sunrise and 2 hours after sunset. The maximum elevation of the flight is 1200 feet from the ground leaving you with an experience like never before!

4. Snorkeling in the Andaman Islands

The clear waters of Andaman Island’s Elephant beach make it the ideal destination for snorkeling. Unlike other beaches in India, beaches of Andaman are less crowded. One can see the wonders that reside under the water. These include fishes of all sizes and type, and undamaged corals and reefs. It would not be an exaggeration to say that it is as if one visits an alternative world altogether. You can also explore snorkeling at Jolly Buoy, Red Skin Island, and Neil Island. The best time to experience snorkeling is from November to May.

5. Caving and Trekking in Meghalaya

Not many are aware that Meghalaya has over 1200 caves stretching over 300 kilometers thanks to the abundant deposits of limestone, high level of rainfall, and elevation. All these together allow you to explore the thrill of caving like anywhere else in India. The cave trek will give you an opportunity to marvel at the abundant formations created over thousands of years. These treks are not easy and will test the best of trekkers as one requires swimming and walking to navigate the caves making it one of the best adventure places in India to visit. We would strongly suggest that you hire a trained and experienced caver to ensure safety at all times.

6. River Rafting in Arunachal Pradesh

A river rafting experience on the Brahmaputra river in the remote regions of Arunachal Pradesh is an experience that you would not want to miss out on if you truly are an adventure enthusiast. River rafting of this nature and difficulty requires the best of team-work, coordination, and physical health. However, I would surely recommend this to challenge the best of you. There are several local travel and tour companies that offer a variety of packages and offers. The ideal time to experience this would be from November to early December. In addition to the rush of adrenaline, this will also allow you to experience remote tribal settlements of Arunachal Pradesh.

July 22, 2020July 30, 2021

Best Family Holiday Destinations in India to Revisit After the Lockdown

hampi karnataka best family holiday destinations in india

On 11 March 2020, WHO declared Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic and reiterated the call for countries to take immediate actions and scale up the response to treat, detect and reduce transmission to save people’s lives. With lockdown remained imposed in most of the cities and towns, a huge number of the population is missing spending time outdoors with friends, family, and loved ones.

With domestic tourism slowly picking its pace, read here to know the four best places where the government has lifted the travel ban.

1. Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi is an ancient village in the south Indian state of Karnataka. It’s dotted with numerous ruined temple complexes from the Vijayanagara Empire. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit if you are someone who delights in historical architectural marvels. Hampi was the capital of the erstwhile capital of the Vijayanagar Empire.

The dry lands of eastern Karnataka present an unimaginable amalgamation of history, culture and nature. These drylands form an excellent dry deciduous habitat for a number of dwindling populations of unique wild animals and birds.

The nearest airport to Hampi is the Hubli Airport, you can also make use of Karnataka State Road Transportation Corporation’s several buses that connect from various states located in South India. The ideal time to visit Hampi would be between October to February.

2. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

About 107 km from the metropolis of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, are the rock-cut caves of Ajanta nestled in a panoramic gorge, in the shape of an enormous horseshoe. A set of 29 caves, Ajanta is amongst the best examples of some of the earliest Buddhist architecture, cave artwork and sculptures. These caves incorporate Chaitya halls or shrines, committed to Lord Buddha and Viharas or monasteries, used through Buddhist monks for meditation and the find out about Buddhist teachings.

Historians believe that these caves were occupied by monks and merchants as a stoppage. The wall painting present here is believed to be the oldest ancient wall paintings to exist in India.

The best time to visit Ajanta and Ellora caves is June to March and remember when you are in Ajanta Ellora, don’t miss visiting Bibi Ka Makbara. It is called Taj of the Deccan (Dakhani Taj), and situation 5 km away from Aurangabad. It was build in 1661 in the memory of Emperor Aurangzeb’s wife Rabia-Ul-Daurani alias Dilras Banu Begum.

3. Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean, J&K

The exemplary natural beauty and adventure are some of the many reasons that make Skyview by Empyrean the best holiday destination in India. From Jammu airport to Skyview by Empyrean – a distance of 95 kilometres is covered in approximately two hours, passing through the four-lane highway and several small tunnels.

The major attraction of this location is that the place has the highest ropeways 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. As per global COVID protocols standards, only 4 pax are allowed to travel in each cable car, against 8pax.

During the lockdown due to the pandemic, the site was comprehensively audited for COVID-19 preparedness by SGS – the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company. A COVID-ready compliance certificate of safety was issued by them just before the reopening making Skyview by Empyrean a safe destination for all visitors and employees with stringent SOP’s like face masks, online bookings, thermal screening, social distancing, sanitization routines, and digital menus, etc.

4. Kaas Plateau, Maharashtra:

Kaas plateau, also known as Valley of Flowers is situated 25 km from Satara city in Maharashtra. Spread over 1000 acres, Kaas is a protected biodiversity reserve and has been designated as a World Heritage Nature Site by UNESCO. The entire grassland turns into a valley of flowers during the monsoon season. The cool hill station of Mahabaleshwar is only about 70 km/ or 2 hours away, so for those who prefer staying at the hill station, it is possible to stay there and drive to Kaas Plateau early morning.

The e-pass rule to travel in different districts has been relaxed by Maharashtra state Government. Many Hotels have started operating enroute to Kaas Pathar Satara. We would strongly recommend that you check before making the hotel booking to avoid the frustration of not being to visit the Valley of flowers Maharashtra.

5. Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh:

This hill station is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Delhi. Nestled amidst picturesque forests of cedar trees, herbs, and pines. Popular among the British officials post 1947, the Victorian legacy is still evident in the buildings of Kasauli.

Kasauli is famous for its many attractions like the Central Research Institute, Christ Church, Kasauli Brewery, and Sunset Point as well as various activities like trekking, shopping, and even paragliding.

6. Sundarbans National Park:

Sundarbans National Park is a large coastal mangrove forest, shared by India and Bangladesh. The area is home to the Royal Bengal tiger, plus other endangered species such as the estuarine crocodile and Ganges River dolphin. Additionally, it also includes reptiles, birds, and invertebrates.

The Sundarbans covers 10,000 sq. km of land and water, in the Ganges delta. It contains the world’s largest area of mangrove forests. The best time to visit the national park is from November to March as the weather is pleasant in these months. The safari time is from 8.30 AM to 4:00 PM so remember to plan your trip accordingly to ensure that you don’t miss out on making the most out of this natural wonder.

These are challenging times and we are sure you must be eagerly waiting to revisit some of your favorite places with your family. So here it is, a list of best family holiday destinations in India to revisit after the lockdown period is over.

July 2, 2020November 5, 2020

Ropeways – The Future of Urban Transportation and Tourism

ropeway the future of urban transportation

Ropeways are emerging as the latest way of urban transportation and tourism attraction across the world. From Bolivia to Hong Kong, cable cars, ropeways, or gondolas as they are also called, offer a unique experience altogether. It was in 2004, that Medellin, Columbia pioneered the use of cable cars for urban transportation. The world’s longest metro ropeway system is in La Paz, Bolivia which stretches over 16kms and is the city’s primary public transportation system. It features 25 stations and costs $0.42 for a return ticket. In 2017, China’s first tri-cable ropeway successfully was started as part of its initiatives to enhance tourism transportation in Lushan.

Cable car in La Paz, Bolivia (Source: itinary.com)

It would be correct to speculate that globally the implementation of ropeways will only increase. In a report published by Market Reports, the cable car and ropeway market are to reach US$4201 million by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during 2021-2026. A World Bank study concludes that the average journey length of modern ropeway systems is 2.7 km, and has an average speed of 10-20km/hr. An article published by the BBC, states that the reason for the rise in ropeway systems can be attributed to the fact that they are quiet, emit no direct air pollution, and in contrast to new railways, tunnels or bridges, are significantly cheaper to build. A major advantage of ropeways is its ability to connect the hilly and hard-to-reach regions. Additionally, in less economically developed cities that can’t afford light railway systems, they offer a faster and more comfortable method of commuting long distances than buses and can also help reduce congestion.

India too is catching up on the ropeway development and adaptation market for tourism and urban transportation. India already had several ropeways across the nation. Several states including Uttarakhand, Orissa, Maharashtra, Punjab, etc. are seeking to develop numerous ropeway systems for tourism and public transportation. India’s north-eastern states seem to adopt the implementation of ropeways more aggressively as compared to the rest of the nation. Guwahati will feature India’s longest ropeway over a river. The ropeway sprawls over the Brahmaputra river and will connect North Guwahati and Guwahati. Worth mentioning here are also the Darjeeling ropeway, Namchi ropeway, and the upcoming Bhaledhunga ropeway. The Bhaledhunga Skywalk as it has been termed is expected to have 18 cabins and will connect stations at Dhappar to Bhaledhunga. Additionally, the ropeway at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Katra, Jammu has one of the highest traffic when it comes to the commercial use of ropeways. The ropeway was inaugurated in 2018 and helps pilgrims reach the Bhairo Mandir offering a picturesque view of the Bhairo Valley and minimizing the time taken to cover the distance by three hours.

In 2018, WAPCOS and a leading cable car manufacture signed an MoU for end-to-end solutions for ropeway projects in India. The MoU features the entire gamut of studies, project reports, installation, operations, and maintenance and is aimed to boost tourism particularly in tier 2 cities of India, and to reduce traffic congestion. The latest addition of ropeways in India was in 2019, with the commencement of Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean for commercial operations in J&K. The adventure destination features the highest ropeway in India (in terms of ground clearance) and functions in a PPP model with the government. It is expected to be one of the leading places to visit near Vaishno Devi.

Furthermore, in 2019, FIL Industries Private Limited and POMA S.A.S France were awarded the Dehradun-Mussoorie ropeway project in a public-private-partnership with the Government of Uttarakhand. The ropeway project involves the development of approximately 5.5 km of aerial passenger ropeway system, which will significantly reduce the traveling time between two scenic and famous hill stations of north India. The project will also include developing 2 terminals each at Dehradun and Mussoorie, parking spaces along with other facilities like ticket counters, waiting for lounges, food & retail, public amenities, etc. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 300 crores.

As ropeways come with several significant advantages and the ever-growing need for modern urban transportation systems across the world, it would be optimistic to speculate that in the next decade the cities across the globe will be developing and adopting ropeways aggressively. Ropeways are not only an excellent alternative for urban transportation but also are a major attraction to the tourism industry and its offerings.

June 2, 2020

Looking for an Adrenaline Rush? Visit Skyview Patnitop: A Multi-Activity Destination

skyview patnitop leading multi activity adventure places in india

For the last 10-15 years, hospitality and outdoor offering have witnessed a significant development when it comes to having dedicated adventure places in India. One could hardly consider any destination that would either adhere to international norms or match adventure destinations located abroad. However, with the demand for such engagements increasing more than ever, Empyrean Skyview Projects Private Limited has come up with its pilot adventure destination named Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean.

Skyview Patnitop is a unique destination located in Patnitop, a beautiful hilltop in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. This destination is home to India’s highest Ropeway in terms of ground clearance and features a gamut of adventure activities that are unique and first of its kind in India. Being a multi-activity destination, Skyview Patnitop has emerged as one of India’s leading tourism destinations since its commercial launch in 2019. Additionally, thanks to its serene location and year-round accessibility, one could say that it is the finest possible weekend getaways from Delhi and other north Indian states. Apart from being a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, it is also the ideal destination for family holidays, school picnics, and corporate trips. In 2019, Skyview Patnitop was awarded the Best Adventure Tourism Destination 2019 by The Travel & Tourism Excellence Award organized by FICCI and Ernst & Young.

Let us look at four aspects of this unique project that make it a must-visit for everyone!

India’s Highest Ropeway

The USP of Skyview Patnitop is its ropeways, which covers a total distance of 2.8 km between the lower terminal of Sanget and upper terminal of Patnitop. This ropeway consists of 8 towers and 18 spacious cabins and adheres to the CEN (European) standard of ropeway safety norms. The ropeway is a fine fusion of world-class technology and the tranquillity of nature, raising the standard of gondola rides in India.

Zig-zag Zipline

Although most of the adventurers may have experienced zipline before; however, the zigzag zipline at Skyview Patnitop is one of its kind. The zig-zag structure of this zipline just doubles the thill and makes it more adventurous and exciting. This zig-zag zipline is the longest in Asia with 580 meters of total length starting from the altitude of 1371 meters and ends at the altitude of 1344 meters above the sea level. The zipline features 9 wires and 10 poles with a capacity of 25 people per hour. Additionally, a highly trained and experienced team is always present to guide you and ensure your safety and well-being.

India’s First Magic Carpet

With the riding distance of 162 meters from bottom to top, Skyview Patnitop’s magic carpet is a must-try for every adventure seeker given the experience and view it provides to every rider onboard. The user-friendly design and highest safety standards help this carpet to cater to every age group. It is innovations like these here at Skyview Patnitop that makes it one of the most popular adventure places in India.

Tubing Sledge

Most of our readers may have taken a ride of a tubing sledge in any waterpark or so but have you ever taken a ride in a dry tubing sledge rolling down a hill? If not, Skyview Patnitop is the place to be. This tubing sledge with the total downslope distance of 238 meters gives the person onboard the thrill and excitement like never. Moreover, the pleasing breeze and the view visible is a delight like no other. The unique mechanism of the dry tubing sledge helps it to operate with a highly efficient braking system making it extremely safe yet full of joy and fun.

All of these activities along with a range of dining and shopping options make Skyview Patnitop one of the best Multi-activity adventure places in India.

May 20, 2020December 17, 2020

6 Ropeways in India Worth Including in Your Bucket List

Ropeways have emerged as a leading way of transportation and tourism in India. They not only are an ecological way of transportation but also offer a scenic view to several exotic locations of India. From snow-covered hills to lush green forests, ropeways allow you to experience a destination uniquely. In this blog, we will be talking about six of the most magnificent and best ropeways in India which should be on your bucket list. Each of these ropeways standout in terms of its locations, infrastructure, and experience.

Table of Content:

Gulmarg Gondola
Skyview Patnitop
Darjeeling Ropeway
Auli Ropeway
Malampuzha Ropeway
Manali Solang Ropeway

1. Gulmarg Gondola

Summer or winter there can be no place better than Gulmarg situated at an altitude of 8960 ft in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. Apart from being the heartland of winter sports in India, it offers an experience like nowhere else in the country. Gulmarg’s picturesque offerings can be best experienced in its two-stage ropeway which stretches to a combined length of 4.2km and has the capacity of accommodating 600 people per hour from Kongdoori to Apharwat peak. The ropeway not only gives you a first-hand experience of Kashmir’s famous natural setting but also enables you to explore the high-altitude snow cover peaks of Apharwat.

2. Skyview Patnitop by Empyrean

Located in the beautiful hill station of Patnitop, Skyview Patnitop is the highest ropeway in India in terms of ground clearance. The 2.8 km long ropeway from Sangot to Patnitop offers a mesmerizing view of the lush green forests and Shivalik range like never before! This ropeway features 18 spacious cabins and each cabin accommodates 8 adults at a time. To complement this world-class ropeway, the adventure destination not only has a variety of culinary offerings but also a gamut of adventure activities such as India’s first Magic Carpet, Zigzag Zipline, and Tubing Sledge. All these offerings put Skyview Patnitop at the top of the tourist places in Jammu. In 2019, The Travel & Tourism Excellence Award organized by FICCI and Ernst & Young awarded it with the Best Adventure Tourism Destination of India.

3. Darjeeling Ropeway

Darjeeling is one of the most visited hill stations of India and has always been able to attract a large number of tourists. Adding to its natural beauty and charm, the Darjeeling Ropeway runs from North Point to Singla. This journey presents you with a beautiful view of hills, lush green valleys, tea gardens, and waterfalls of this Himalayan town. Darjeeling Ropeway is the first ropeway of India as it commenced operations in 1968. In the recent past, it has undergone several upgrades to align it with modern safety standards and technology.

4. Auli Ropeway

Auli, a destination better known for skiing and paragliding has emerged as one of the leading tourist destinations of India. The pristine hill station is blessed with beautiful mountain peaks and oak forests. The 4 km long bi-cable ropeway consists of 10 steel towers to connects Auli with Joshimath. The ride time of 15-20 minutes presents a picturesque view of the dense oak forest from all sides to the visitors.

5. Malampuzha Ropeway

Located near the Malampuzha Dam in Kerala, the ropeway offers a scenic view of the Malampuzha Gardens and Dam. It is said to be one of the first of its kind in South India. With a total distance of 2km and featuring 64 cable cars that accommodate 2 persons at a time.

6. Manali Solang Ropeway

With its snow-capped mountains and pleasing climate, Manali is a delightful escape for residents of north India. One of the highlights of the most popular hill stations in India is 1.8 km long. Manali Ropeway. The ride offers an aerial view of the wonderful Solang valley and the astonishing peaks of Mount Phatru.

Let us know if you have taken a ride of any of these or if you know of any other best ropeways in India.

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.

October 21, 2019May 17, 2022

Experience India’s Highest Cable Car at Skyview Patnitop

Travelling is fun but when your expectations are higher, the destination must have some unique elements to it. Whether you are a nature lover or prefer to explore new cultures, one thing is common in every travel – adventure. What if you get to know about a location that guarantees adventure but can also satisfy the explorer and nature lover within you? Read on! Spread across the lush meadows covering green landscapes and snow-clad mountains, Skyview Patnitop is an experience of a lifetime. Designed and constructed as per the highest regulations, you get to live each second of your day with unmatched facilities. Let’s get to know in detail, why Skyview Patnitop is one of the best ropeway in India and why you must visit:

Longest Ropeway in India: Skyview Patnitop is home to one-of-a-kind Gondola ride covering a total inclined distance of 2.8 km. The upper terminal is at an altitude of 1998 metres while the lowest terminal stands tall at 1343.17 metres above the sea level. You not only get to enjoy the longer span ride, but you also get to experience flying over the mountains of majestic Shivalik Range.

Highest Safety and Security: Skyview Patnitop is the first to offer CEN (The European Committee for Certification) certified ropeway in India. The highest safety standards in the design ensure total safety and security of the guests. The ropeway is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, making the Skyview Patnitop an all-season multi-entertainment destination.

Best Hill Station near Delhi India: Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Skyview Patnitop is an ideal destination resting in the foothills of the Shivalik Range. It is the closest such destination to Delhi and Punjab, where guests can spend some quality time with their friends and family while enjoying the fun activities at Skyview.

Full Package: Skyview Patnitop isn’t only known for its Cable Ride, it offers a plethora of activities for the guests to choose from. Visitors can enjoy India’s first zigzag zip lining, Tubing, and Magic Carpet. Each experience at Skyview Patnitop distinguishes itself from others owing to its unique concept and design.

Mouth-watering Cuisines: At Skyview Patnitop, guests can savour delicious Indian, Mughlai, and International Cuisines. Visitors can try out yummy snacks at various food carts or dine at our full-fledged multi-cuisine restaurant.

Head over to Skyview Patnitop today and indulge in some of the best adventure activities in India. If you are planning for a longer stay, you can request for comfortable and elegant accommodation facilities as well. For more information on our packages, click here.