ByLocated on the borders of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, Pathankot is one of India’s largest cantonment areas, spanning approximately 2,000 acres. Its proximity to the picturesque regions of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir makes it a popular stop for travellers seeking downtime before exploring these scenic states.
Surrounded by the stunning Shivalik ranges and the foothills leading to well-known tourist spots such as Dalhousie and Kangra, there are many places to visit in Pathankot that are unique in their own way. The city is renowned for its religious temples and historical significance, which can easily engage visitors for several days. In this article, we have compiled a list of must-see tourist places in Pathankot that you should explore during your visit to this charming city in Punjab.
List of Famous Places in Pathankot
1. Mukteshwar Mahadev Mandir
The Mukteshwar Mahadev Mandir is one of India’s historic temples in Doongh, which is near Pathankot. Nearby, visitors can explore caves that are thought to be over 5,000 years old. This renowned temple is also called Mukesaran Mandir and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features a spacious parking area where devotees can leave their vehicles; however, it’s advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings due to the presence of monkeys in the vicinity.
Visitors will discover a Langar hall operating from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM at this site. Situated near the banks of the Ravi River, the temple provides a tranquil atmosphere. To reach the temple, devotees must ascend 300 steps. It is said that the nearby caves were constructed by the Pandavas, who resided there for approximately six months during their exile. The Mukteshwar Temple draws numerous devotees from across India during the Maha Shivratri festival, making it an essential place to see in Pathankot.
2. Nurpur Fort
Nurpur Fort, also referred to as Dhameri Fort, is believed to be around 1,000 years old. Situated in Nurpur, the Pathania Rajputs constructed this renowned fortress, which later received its name from Mughal Emperor Jahangir in honor of his cherished wife, Nur Jahan. The Brij Raj Swami Temple is within the fort complex and is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Meera Bai.
The fort is surrounded by lush greenery, giving it a striking appearance. While much of the temple area has been damaged due to earthquakes and British invasions, there are still numerous attractions to explore within the fort. For those who appreciate historical landmarks, Nurpur Fort is an excellent place to visit near Pathankot.
3. Ranjit Sagar Dam
Ranjit Sagar Dam, also called the Thein Dam, was constructed in 2001 and is situated in Shahpurkandi. This dam serves dual purposes: generating electricity and providing irrigation. It offers numerous viewpoints where tourists can take in the breathtaking scenery of the Ravi River, which is enveloped by lush greenery. To ensure a smooth visit to the dam, visitors are required to get permission from local authorities.
As one of Punjab’s largest hydroelectric dams, it draws many visitors looking for the best places in Pathankot. Additionally, guests can partake in various adventure activities such as boating, kayaking, and ziplining. Due to its tranquil ambiance and atmosphere reminiscent of Goa, Ranjit Sagar Dam is often called Mini Goa.
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4. Gurudwara Shri Barth Sahib
Situated in Barth Village, Pathankot, Gurudwara Shri Barth Sahib honors Baba Shri Chand Ji, the son of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. This site is thought to be where Baba Shri Chand Ji engaged in extensive meditation.
Within the Gurudwara’s grounds, visitors can find a beautifully maintained lake and a well, believed to have been constructed by Baba Shri Chand Ji to help alleviate skin ailments among his followers. Gurudwara Shri Barth Sahib is one of the prominent religious sites in Pathankot, operating all day and providing complimentary meals for all visitors.
5. Kathgarh Temple
Approximately 25 kilometers from Pathankot, Kathgarh Temple is a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is renowned for its intriguing phenomena, particularly its unique shivling, which is distinguished by being divided into two sections. One part of the shivling measures about 8 feet long, while the other measures around 6 feet.
Known as the Ardhnarishwar Shivling, this sacred symbol has historical significance; it is believed that during the era of the Ramayana, Bharat, Lord Ram’s brother, used to visit this site to pay his respects to Lord Shiva. Owing to its important spiritual significance and serene environment, Kathgarh Temple remains a popular destination for devotees across India.
6. Shahpurkandi Fort
Shahpurkandi Fort, constructed in 1505, is just a short distance from the city. Jaspal Singh Pathania built it to safeguard Nurpur Fort and the surrounding residential areas of Kangra from intruders. In the past, the British attempted to demolish Shahpurkandi Fort; however, this historical site near Pathankot still offers plenty for visitors to explore.
Nestled among verdant hills and offering stunning views of the Ravi River, the fort provides a serene atmosphere. Guests will find numerous opportunities to take captivating photographs while appreciating the location’s natural beauty and historical importance.
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7. Nagni Temple
Nagni Temple, dedicated to the goddess of snakes, is 30 kilometres from Pathankot city. It is reputed to be a healing site for those suffering from snake bites, with the temple’s water believed to offer cures. Each August, the temple hosts an event that draws numerous devotees and tourists across Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.
Like many other sacred sites, Nagni Temple is surrounded by stunning natural beauty; however, photography within the temple complex is prohibited. For those interested in experiencing a place in Pathankot where unusual occurrences may be observed, Nagni Temple is worth a visit.
8. Kathlour Kushlian Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the must-visit destinations in Pathankot is the Kathlour Kushlian Wildlife Sanctuary. Situated just a few kilometres from the Pathankot city, this sanctuary spans an impressive 1,870 acres. It provides an ideal setting for nature enthusiasts to explore the tranquil wilderness and observe various wildlife species in their natural surroundings.
The sanctuary is organized into three distinct zones: buffer, sensitive, and core. Access beyond the sensitive zone is restricted for visitors. The core zone serves as the primary area for wildlife observation, where guests can spot numerous animals.For added convenience, Kathlour Kushlian Wildlife Sanctuary features an 11-seater electric golf cart that operates quietly and without pollution, allowing tourists to traverse the area comfortably.
Additionally, there is a delightful café within the sanctuary where visitors can enjoy refreshments. Two observation towers, each standing 30 feet tall, provide excellent vantage points for viewing much of the sanctuary’s landscape. Visitors can bring cameras to capture memorable moments of wildlife encounters throughout their exploration.
9. City Centre Mall
Situated in Gandhi Chowk, City Centre Mall stands out as one of the most popular shopping destinations in Pathankot. This mall caters to diverse shopping preferences and features various national and international brands. Visitors can enjoy a cinema and an array of dining options within its premises, perfect for satisfying cravings before or after shopping.
Additionally, a gaming zone is designed for children, ensuring they have plenty to keep them entertained. City Centre Mall is ideal for families seeking a blend of shopping and entertainment in Pathankot.
Pathankot is not just a transit point to the stunning landscapes of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir; it is a destination rich in its own right. With its breathtaking Shivalik ranges, historical landmarks, and revered temples, the city offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. In conclusion, Pathankot is not just a transit point to the stunning landscapes of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir; it is a destination rich in its own right.
With its breathtaking Shivalik ranges, historical landmarks, and revered temples, the city offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The tranquil atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal travel stopover. Whether seeking spiritual solace or historical insight, Pathankot has something for everyone. So don’t miss your opportunity to discover the above tourist places in Pathankot before embarking on your journey through the majestic hills.
