Best Places Visiting in Kishtwar – Must-See Attractions and Scenic Spots

1.Chowgan

The large space known as Chowgan stands in the center of Kishtwar district as both a recreational field and grazing area. The area of the field spans 520 Kanals or 165 Acres. The area receives its greenery from both Chinar trees and Deodar trees together with various other types of vegetation. Kishtwar district primarily draws its visitors to this location. One can find a significant temple known as Gori Shanker Mandir in the northern section of Chowgan and the southern side houses Asrar-Ud-Din- Bagdadi Shrine. The area used to contain Goverdhansar which was an elegant water source from antiquity but today it exists as grazing land because all its water drained off naturally. A modern playground with electric lighting now stands where the previous area did before its transformation to a contemporary sports facility around which various flower species grow.

All livestock belonging to Kishtwar’s population depends heavily on this specific grazing ground which includes goats, cows and animals from other domestic species. The highly nutritious herbaceous plants that grow on the ground provide essential nutritional value to domestic animals. A vast number of people use this ground for walking during both morning and evening times. This land extends to NH1B toward East and other connecting roads lie to the West. The northern side of this land contains a small airport with helipad facilities. The field reaches multiple villages throughout its surrounding area therefore making it more beautiful. The main bus stand of Kishtwar is located exactly 1500 meters away from this site. Every type of services is available to access this destination. The site touches three areas in the opposite direction starting with Dak Bungalow and then Kuleed and it continues to Bun Astan, Matta and Sarkoot in sequence before finishing on the left. This ground serves as an intermediary connection between the surrounding places.

Why Visit Chowgan?

• A natural retreat in the heart of Kishtwar
• The space offers perfect conditions for both walking and recreational activities together with jogging.
• A peaceful escape with scenic beauty
• Rich in cultural and religious significance

2. Machail Mata

Hindu sages developed the Himalayan pilgrimages through time until they became the longest-running organized travel system which merged elements of trip-taking with religious discovery. Among the three divine entities Maa Chandi serves as a present goddess. Various sacred beliefs including Vedic mythology and spirituality and astronomical evidence prove that Shiva has existed since the beginning of time. Due to the Chandi Mata temple in Paddar’s village Machail villagers now recognize this area as a sacred religious destination. Every first day of Bhadon or Bhadoon Sankranti (15th or 16th August) marks the opening of Paddar temples when a massive Mela takes place outside Chandi Mata temple in Machail for the local population to pray and ask for divine blessings.

Devotees lead out a mace called Holi Chhari starting from village Chinote Bhaderwah which belongs to Thakur Kulbir Singh. During his sacred guidance the procession moves to Machail as people sing devotional songs in her honor while using drums and playing flutes alongside chanting mantras. The pilgrimage function is currently organized from both Jammu and Bhaderwah. The pilgrimage represents the leading factor in showing the distinctive features of Paddar to the world while inspiring people to engage in adventurous experiences. The procession originates in Bhaderwah before reaching Pul Doda during noon and continues its route to Kishtwar passing through Thatari Drabshalla Kandni Hasti finally arriving near Kishtwar at 4 pm. The yatra proceeds from Kishtwar towards Atholi Paddar during the following day.

3.Kishtwar National Park

The Kishtwar High Altitude National Park in Jammu and Kashmir presents a distinct role due to its 2,190.50 sq. km expansive domain. Several varieties of mammals together with different bird species live in this natural habitat which extends from 1700 to 4800 meters above sea level.

Three tributary catchments of Kiber Nalla and Nanth Nalla and Kiyar Nalla pour their drainage toward Marwah River (rightfully named Mariv Sudir) at Bhandarkoot near Kishtwar town.

The region presents steep elevated grounds which are bounded by higher ridges as valleys narrow downstream to develop into glacial areas at increased elevations. The park occupies position within the central crystalline section of Great Himalayas Mountains. Granite combined with gneiss and schist are the main geological components of this region where marble rock layers appear occasionally.

Best Time to Visit

Mammal Viewing & Bird Watching: September to March, March to May.

4.Sinthan Top

Returning 24 kilometers from Synthen Maidan leads travelers to Synthen Top which reaches a height of 3,784 meters above sea level. Reaching the summit brings a deep feeling of peace which makes people lose connection with their daily responsibilities. A magical view stretches across the surrounding terrain that treats visitors with an extraordinary panorama from the peak.

The area possesses uniqueness through its Agricultural Department potato farm which operates in the region. The potato cultivation in this area produces premium quality products which also carry exceptional deliciousness. The descent from Synthen Top leads cars to Daksum which serves as a leading health resort located in Anantnag district of Kashmir Valley.

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