Kishtwar is the main town of Kishtwar district of Jammu kashmir, the newest union territory of india. located in jammu region The district Kishtwar was carved out in 2007. Known for its lush green valleys, mountains Kishtwar is situated at a distance of 235 kms from the winter capital of Jammu. The largest and least populous district of Jammu and Kashmir, It is situated on the banks of Chenab river. Commonly known as the “Land of Sapphire, shrines and Saffron”, Kishtwar is also famed for its forests and wildlife.
Kishtwar National Park is a national park located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is bounded to the north by the Rinnai river, south by Kibar Nala catchment, east by the main divide of Great Himalaya, and west by Marwa river. The national park attracts wildlife and nature lovers for its rich flora & fauna which comprises of musk deer, snow leopards and Himalayan brown bear. Kishtwar receives heavy snowfall in winter and is also known for its vast ground with plateau-type geography, locally called Chogaan, it features numerous local folklore and legends.
Kishtwar is surrounded by the districts of Anantnag, Doda, and also borders the state of Himachal Pradesh. Known by its ancient name Kashthavata, it was an independent hilly state during the medieval period. Maharaja Gulab Singh, the Dogra ruler of Jammu annexed it in 1821 AD. Kishtwar is connected by roads to Jammu and Udhampur, with air link provided by both Jammu and Srinagar airports; rail link is provided by Jammu railway station. Kishtwar is mostly dependent on an agriculture-based economy alongside Pine nuts called chilgoza, a delicacy, and costly dry fruit, a major source of economy.
The town is known for giving a stunning view of Cerro Kishtwar, Tipendai, Gupta Peak, Shivling Peak, Aushuko Peak, Omasla Peak etc. ideal for weekend holiday there nothing much to see for tourist in the town. However, Katarsamna & Bharnoin, which is a famous picnic spot, Mughal Maidan & Padyarna, a historical site dotted with ruins of stone temples, stone inscriptions & idols are also worth visiting. Adventure seekers can try out paragliding, rock climbing, and trekking from here. Kishtwar is a peaceful town away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Kishtwar is an open as a year-round tourism destination. There are only a few hotels that provide mid-range and budget accommodation. The restaurants serve good food at reasonable prices
