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P.C: Luke Richardson
Pathankot in Punjab opens doorways to history that predominantly embraces the bearings of its glorified historical past. Once a capital of the Pathani Rajputs state of Nurpur in India, Pathankot has pages of history and antiquity attached to its subsistence. Nestled at the conflux of the three states Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, Pathankot is celebrated as a popular tourist spot. The town's rich past of the Rajput rule still resonates in its architectural edifices. With glimpses of the mighty Shivalik ranges peeking from its stunning backdrop, Pathankot is a history buff's euphoria and here's why.
How To Reach Pathankot:
By Air: The Pathankot Airport is primarily used by the Indian Air Force with very rare civilian flights that operate to and from Delhi and Kullu. Other than that, the nearest airport to Pathankot is the Amritsar Airport. Its location is about 125 km away from the town. From both the airports, frequent cab services are available to take you to the town.
By Rail: The Pathankot Railway Junction makes up an important part of the town. This railhead is well connected by regular trains, to all the major cities of India.
By Road: Buses to the town of Pathankot are available from major cities in the country. The bus junction of Pathankot remains quite busy with buses running at regular intervals that connect the town to other parts of the country.
Best Time To Visit Pathankot:
The best time to visit Pathankot is in the months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and does not get extreme with an average temperature of 15°C to 20°C.
Places To Visit In Pathankot:
1. Shahpurkandi Fort
P.C: Donald Teel
The Shahpurkandi Fort dating back to the 16th century with its worn out rustic interiors is one of the most beautiful forts that flank the town. Of late, a guest house for travellers and tourists, the fort was once a strategic military fort snuggled on the banks of the Ravi river. Bordering on the outlines of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, the fort bears a prosperous history of the by-gone days.
2. Kathgarh Temple
P.C: Gayatri Malhotra
The sacred Kathgarh Temple is of immense religious significance. Sanctified to the Hindu deities Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the temple is characterized by an antiquated lingam that is associated with mystical origins. As the legends have it, the temple was once visited by the mythological character Bharat during his search for Lord Rama. Nestled at the confluence of the Beas and the Chonch rivers, the Kathgarh Temple boasts of aeons of heritage and exceptional architectural craftsmanship.
3. Nurpur Fort
P.C: Clickgram 1
Amongst the many architectural marvels and historical edifices that dot the well-known town of Pathankot, Nurpur Fort is the most notable of all. Formerly known as Dhameri Fort, the origin of the fort dates back to the 10th century. Of late, existing in ruins and shambles, the fort was dismantled by the British followed by an earthquake in the year 1905. The fort houses a temple, popularly known as the Brij Raj Swami Temple, and scores quite a footfall of the locals and the tourists alike. It is the only known place in the country where the idols of the Hindu deities of Lord Krishna and Meera Bai are worshipped together. Built in the 16th century, the temple is a must-see when in town.
4. Mukteshwar Temple
P.C: Mike Prince
Pathankot is home to several magnificent edifices dedicated to the Hindu deities, and one such is the Mukteshwar Temple. The sacred Mukteshwar Temple makes for one of the most-visited spiritual sites in Pathankot. Located on the banks of the Ravi river, this holy sanctum is perched atop a hillock and houses a marble Shiva lingam with a copper yoni. The temple is a cluster of cave temples sanctified to the Hindu mythological deity of Lord Shiva. Myth has it, these caves were once a refuge for the Pandavas during their stay in exile. The temple also houses idols of other Hindu deities like Brahma, Vishnu, Hanuman, Parvati and Ganesha, that ensconce the Shiva lingam.
