Patnitop or Patni Top is a hill top tourist spot located in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. Situated on a secluded plateau in the Shiwalik belt of the Himalayas, Patnitop is a popular destination offering opportunities for adventure sports, walks and picnics. Situated amidst picturesque surroundings, Patnitop lies at an altitude of 2,024 m above sea level in the Lower Himalayan Ranges. As per the local lore, the name Patnitop originated from the phrase 'Patan da Talab', meaning ‘pond of the Princess’. It is believed that there was a pond on the grassy slopes of this place where a princess used to bathe. Patnitop has a lot to offer to its visitors which ranges from camping, trekking and nature walks to paragliding, abseiling, rock climbing and skiing. From Patnitop, excursions can be taken to Buddha Amarnath Temple, Bahu Fort and temple and the holy caves of Vaishno Devi.