Kud, Jammu and Kashmir: A Hidden Gem in the Himalayas
If you're looking for a destination that offers natural beauty, tranquillity, and adventure, Kud in Jammu and Kashmir, India is a perfect choice. Situated on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, Kud is a small town that is often overlooked by travellers. However, those who do venture here are rewarded with stunning views of the Himalayas, pristine forests, and a peaceful atmosphere that is hard to find in other popular tourist destinations.
In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what makes Kud so special and explore some of the top attractions in and around this hidden gem in the Himalayas.
Getting to Kud
Kud is located about 106 kilometres from Jammu and 50 kilometres from Udhampur. The nearest airport is the Jammu Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kud. If you're coming by train, the nearest railway station is in Udhampur, which is about 50 kilometres away.
The best time to visit Kud is during the summer months from April to June and the winter months from November to February. During the summer, the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. In the winter, Kud is covered in snow and offers a different kind of beauty and adventure.
Things to Do in Kud
Kud is a destination that is perfect for those who love nature and adventure. Here are some of the top things to do in and around Kud:
Trekking and Hiking: Kud is surrounded by beautiful forests and hills that are perfect for trekking and hiking. There are several trails that you can follow, each offering a different kind of experience. Some of the popular trails include the Kud-Patnitop trek, the Kud-Sanasar trek, and the Kud-Nathatop trek.
Camping: If you're looking for a unique experience, camping in Kud is a must-do. There are several campsites in and around Kud that offer tents and other equipment. You can spend a night under the stars and wake up to a stunning view of the Himalayas.
Sightseeing: Kud is surrounded by several tourist attractions that are worth visiting. The Vaishno Devi temple, which is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India, is located about 30 kilometres from Kud. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi and attracts millions of visitors every year. Other popular attractions include Patnitop, Sanasar, and Nathatop.
Skiing: If you're visiting Kud in the winter, skiing is a popular activity. Nathatop, which is located about 12 kilometres from Kud, is a popular skiing destination.
Photography: Kud is a photographer's paradise. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers several opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography.
Where to Stay in Kud
Kud has several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the popular hotels and resorts in Kud include:
Hotel Pine View: This is a budget hotel located in the heart of Kud. The hotel offers basic amenities and is perfect for those who are travelling on a tight budget.
The Kud Retreat: This is a mid-range resort located on the outskirts of Kud. The resort offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and several recreational facilities.
Hotel Green Top: This is a luxury hotel located in Patnitop, which is about 10 kilometres from Kud. The hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, a swimming pool, and other amenities.
JKTDC Tourist Bungalow: This is a government-run guesthouse located in Kud. The guesthouse offers basic amenities and is perfect for those who are looking for a budget-friendly option.
Where to Eat in Kud
Kud has several restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of cuisines. Some of the popular restaurants in Kud include:
Hotel Pine View Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the Hotel Pine View and offers a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes.
The Kud Retreat Restaurant: This restaurant is located in The Kud Retreat and offers a variety of Indian and international dishes.
Café Coffee Day: This is a popular café chain that is located in Kud. The café offers a variety of coffee and snacks.
Vaishno Dhaba: This is a popular dhaba that is located on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. The dhaba offers a variety of vegetarian dishes.
Tips for Visiting Kud
Carry warm clothes: Kud can get quite cold, especially during the winter months. Make sure you carry warm clothes, jackets, and boots.
Plan your itinerary in advance: Kud has several attractions and activities to offer. Plan your itinerary in advance so that you can make the most of your time.
Hire a guide: If you're not familiar with the area, it's best to hire a guide who can show you around and provide you with valuable information.
Respect the local culture: Kud is a small town with a rich culture and traditions. Respect the local culture and customs when you visit.
Kud is indeed famous for a local sweet known as "Desi Ghee Patisa,". This delectable sweet is made from a combination of milk products, wheat flour, sugar, desi ghee (clarified butter) and cardamom (elaichi) for fragrance.
The process of making Desi Ghee Patisa involves first preparing a thick and creamy mixture by heating milk, wheat flour, sugar, and ghee. Once the mixture reaches the desired consistency, it is spread out on a flat surface and left to cool. The mixture is then cut into bite-sized pieces and garnished with nuts such as pistachios, almonds, cashews and cardamom.
The result is a mouthwatering sweet that is crisp, flaky and has a unique texture. The combination of desi ghee and sugar creates a rich and indulgent flavour that is hard to resist. The addition of nuts adds a crunchy texture and enhances the flavour of the sweet.
Desi Ghee Patisa is a popular sweet in Kud and is often served during special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and other celebrations. It is also a popular souvenir for tourists visiting the region. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to try this delicious and indulgent local sweet during your visit to Kud. It is a must-try delicacy that will leave you craving for more.
In conclusion, Kud is a hidden gem in the Himalayas that offers natural beauty, tranquillity, and adventure. Whether you're a nature lover, a trekking enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Kud has something to offer. So, pack your bags and head to Kud for a memorable experience in the lap of nature.