Pathankot, located in the Punjab region of India, holds significant geographical and religious importance. Here are some key highlights and tourist spots in Pathankot:
Geographical Significance:
Pathankot serves as a meeting point for three states: Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh. It is the last city in Punjab, connecting the National Highway of J&K to the rest of the nation.
It provides a gateway to the picturesque foothills of Kangra and Dalhousie. The Chakki River, originating from the high hills of Jammu, flows through this city.
Natural Beauty:
Pathankot is known for its lush greenery, making it an attractive destination for nature enthusiasts, even though it may not offer as many tourist attractions as popular hill stations or major tourist destinations in India.
Religious Spots:
- Ashapurni Mandir: A prominent shrine where local belief holds that Mata Ashapurni fulfills the wishes of her followers. It attracts large crowds, especially on weekends.
- Hanuman Mandir: The Sri Hanuman Bhagwan temple is another significant religious spot, particularly busy on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Kali Mata Mandir: This temple dedicated to Kali Mata is of great religious importance to the local population, offering a peaceful atmosphere for prayer.
- Kathgarh Temple: Located in the village of Kathgarh, this is one of the oldest temples in Pathankot, featuring a large Shiva Linga. Laxmi Narayan Mandir: Situated in Jugial Township, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Mata Laxmi and is known for its scenic surroundings.
- Sri Satya Sai Baba's Mandir: The ashram of Sri Satya Sai Baba and the accompanying temple provide a peaceful destination for travelers seeking blessings. Nurpur Fort: This historical fort, built by the Rajputs over 900 years ago, is a significant tourist attraction despite earthquake damage. It features a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Shahpur Kandi Fort: The Shahpur Kandi Fort, constructed in 1505, is the last fort in Pathankot, offering a glimpse into the region's history.
- Hanuman Mandir: The Sri Hanuman Bhagwan temple is another significant religious spot, particularly busy on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
- Kali Mata Mandir: This temple dedicated to Kali Mata is of great religious importance to the local population, offering a peaceful atmosphere for prayer.
- Kathgarh Temple: Located in the village of Kathgarh, this is one of the oldest temples in Pathankot, featuring a large Shiva Linga.
- Laxmi Narayan Mandir: Situated in Jugial Township, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Mata Laxmi and is known for its scenic surroundings.
- Sri Satya Sai Baba's Mandir: The ashram of Sri Satya Sai Baba and the accompanying temple provide a peaceful destination for travelers seeking blessings.
- Nurpur Fort: This historical fort, built by the Rajputs over 900 years ago, is a significant tourist attraction despite earthquake damage. It features a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Shahpur Kandi Fort: The Shahpur Kandi Fort, constructed in 1505, is the last fort in Pathankot, offering a glimpse into the region's history.
Reaching Pathankot:
By Air: Pathankot has an air force base occasionally used for civilian flights from Delhi and Dharamsala, but there is no regular airline service to Pathankot.
By Rail: Pathankot is well-connected by train, serving as a major railway junction with connections to significant stations like Dharamsala, Amritsar, Delhi, and Jammu. Chakki Bank, another station, is nearby.
By Road: Despite the condition of state roads, the roads within Pathankot are well-maintained. The city's main bus stand has been recently renovated, and buses from Himachal Pradesh regularly arrive, making it a convenient option for travelers wishing to explore Himachal. HRTC buses also connect Pathankot to Dharamsala.