Pathankot is a beautiful city located in the state of Punjab, India. Pathankot is a city of great historical significance and is well known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and scenic beauty. It is situated at the foothills of the majestic Himalayas and serves as a gateway to the northernmost state of Jammu and Kashmir.

In this blog, we will explore the various aspects of Pathankot, including its history, culture, traditions, food, and tourist attractions. We will also take a closer look at some of the lesser-known facts about the city and its people.

Culture of Pathankot

The culture of Pathankot is a blend of Punjabi and Himachali traditions, as the city is located on the border of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. The people of Pathankot are known for their warm hospitality and their love for their cultural heritage.

One of the most important aspects of the culture of Pathankot is its festivals. The city celebrates all major Indian festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Eid with great enthusiasm and fervor. Additionally, the city has several unique festivals that are celebrated only in Pathankot, such as the Lohri Mela and the Basant Panchami Fair.

The traditional attire of the people of Pathankot is Punjabi, with men wearing kurta-pajama and women wearing salwar-kameez. The city is also known for its traditional handicrafts such as phulkari embroidery, juttis, and pottery.

Punjabi cuisine is a significant part of the culture of Pathankot, with its famous dishes like sarson ka saag, makki ki roti, and butter chicken being popular among locals and tourists alike. Street food like chole bhature, gol gappa, and tikki also form an integral part of the food culture in Pathankot.

Music and dance are also essential parts of the culture of Pathankot. Bhangra, Giddha, and Jhumar are some of the popular dance forms that are performed during weddings and other festivities.

Top Tourist Attractions in Pathankot

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Pathankot:

1- Mukteshwar Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the region. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and architecture and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists.

2- Ranjit Sagar Dam: This magnificent dam is situated on the Ravi River and is a popular spot for picnics and boating. The dam offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a must-visit for nature lovers.

3- Nurpur Fort: This 900-year-old fort was built by the Pathania Rajputs and is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. The fort houses a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and is surrounded by lush greenery.

4- Shahpur Kandi Fort: This historic fort is located on the banks of the Ravi River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The fort was built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir and is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.

5- Kathgarh Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. The temple is known for its beautiful location and serene ambiance and is a popular spot for meditation and spiritual retreats.

6- Chamera Lake: This picturesque lake is located near the town of Dalhousie and is surrounded by lush green forests and majestic mountains. The lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnics, and is a must-visit for nature lovers.

7- Kali Mata Mandir: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is located on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. The serene atmosphere and stunning architecture of the temple are well renowned.

Famous Foods of Pathankot

Here are some of the famous foods in Pathankot that you should try:

1- Chole Bhature: Chole bhature is a popular North Indian dish that is a staple in Pathankot. It consists of spicy chickpeas served with fluffy deep-fried bread.

2- Amritsari Kulcha: Amritsari Kulcha is a popular Punjabi dish that is made with maida flour and stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes. It is then cooked in a tandoor oven and served with chole, butter, and pickles.

3- Makki ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag: Makki ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag is a traditional Punjabi dish that is made with cornmeal flatbread and a spicy mustard greens curry. It is a popular winter dish in Pathankot.

4- Chicken Tikka: Chicken Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer that is made by marinating chicken pieces in a mixture of yogurt and spices, and then grilled to perfection. It is frequently served with onions and mint chutney. 

5- Lassi: Lassi is a popular Punjabi drink that is made with yogurt, water, and sugar. It is often flavored with cardamom, rose water, or mango pulp, and is a refreshing drink that is perfect for the hot summer months.

6- Rajma Chawal: Rajma Chawal is a popular North Indian dish that is made with kidney beans and rice. It is often served with a side of pickles and yogurt.

Best Places to Eat in Pathankot

Pathankot is known for its rich and diverse food culture, with a wide variety of local and regional dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Here are some of the best places to eat in Pathankot:

1- Friends Dhaba: This popular dhaba is located on the National Highway and is known for its delicious Punjabi food, including butter chicken, sarson ka saag, and makki ki roti. The dhaba has a rustic ambiance and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

2- Vaishno Dhaba: This vegetarian dhaba is located in the heart of the city and serves delicious North Indian food, including chole bhature, samosas, and lassi. The dhaba has a clean and hygienic ambiance and is a great place to enjoy a quick and tasty meal.

3- Kwality Restaurant: This popular restaurant is located on the Dalhousie Road and serves a variety of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance and courteous staff, and is a great place for a romantic dinner or a family outing.

4- The Bakers Hut: This bakery is located near the Bus Stand and serves a variety of freshly baked cakes, pastries, and cookies. The bakery also serves a wide range of sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas, making it a great place for a quick bite.

5- Hardev Punjabi Rasoi: This small eatery is located near the Chakki Bridge and serves delicious Punjabi food, including kadhi chawal, rajma chawal, and paneer tikka. The eatery has a simple ambiance and is a great place to enjoy a hearty and delicious meal.

6- Chopsticks Restaurant: This Chinese restaurant is located near the Bus Stand and serves a variety of Chinese and Thai dishes, including noodles, fried rice, and stir-fried vegetables. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and is a great place to enjoy a quiet dinner with friends and family.

Accommodation Options in Pathankot

Pathankot offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Here are some of the accommodation options in Pathankot:

1- Hotels: Pathankot has a wide range of hotels, ranging from budget hotels to luxury hotels. Some of the popular hotels in Pathankot include Hotel Venice, Hotel Woodland, and Hotel Leo. These hotels offer comfortable rooms with all the basic amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and room service.

2- Guest Houses: Pathankot also has a number of guest houses that offer affordable accommodation. Some of the popular guest houses in Pathankot include Satyam Guest House and Kumar Guest House. These guest houses offer clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities.

3- Homestay: For those who want to experience the local culture, homestays are a great option. Pathankot has a number of homestays that offer comfortable rooms and a chance to interact with local families. Some of the popular homestays in Pathankot include Anand Lok Homestay and The Kalyan Heritage Homestay.

4- Resorts: For those who want to indulge in luxury, Pathankot has a number of resorts that offer premium amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and fine dining restaurants. Some of the popular resorts in Pathankot include Norwood Green Resort and Himachal Resort.

5- Campsites: For those who want to experience the great outdoors, Pathankot also has a number of campsites that offer camping facilities in scenic locations. Some of the popular campsites in Pathankot include Pine Hill Camps and Himalayan Adventure Camps.

How To Reach

Pathankot is well-connected to other parts of India by air, rail, and road. Here’s how you can reach Pathankot:

By Air:

The Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, which is around 110 kilometers from Pathankot, is the closest airport. You can take a bus or a taxi to go to Pathankot from the airport. 

By Train:

Pathankot is a major railway junction and is well-connected to other parts of India by train. There are direct trains to Pathankot from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Amritsar, among others. Some of the popular trains to Pathankot include the Jammu Tawi Express, Dhauladhar Express, and the Jhelum Express.

By Road:

Pathankot is well-connected to other parts of India by road. The city is located on National Highway 44, which connects it to major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar. There are regular bus services to Pathankot from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Jammu, among others. You can also hire a taxi or drive to Pathankot.