Sinthan Top – A View to Die For?

We welcome you to experience Sinthan Top, where nature’s grandeur unfolds before your eyes. Situated amidst Jammu and Kashmir, this iconic mountain pass offers an unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring views. 

When people book their Kashmir Tour Packages, Sinthan Top is a beloved destination that captivates visitors with its panoramic views and unparalleled beauty. Prepare to be enchanted as you traverse this remarkable route and immerse yourself in the splendor of the surrounding region.

A lesser-known attraction in Kashmir, Sinthan Top is a lofty mountain pass situated between the Breng Valley in Anantnag district and Kishtwar. Although it predominantly falls on the Kishtwar side, its allure is undeniable.

Those fortunate enough to have experienced its splendor can attest to its breathtaking beauty. For those yet to visit but contemplating a trip to Kashmir, Sinthan Top should undoubtedly feature on your itinerary. Despite the often challenging road and unpredictable weather conditions en route, the captivating vistas awaiting at the summit make the journey truly worthwhile. So here is providing you with a Sinthan Top Travel Guide.

Sinthan Top at a glance

Sinthan Top is also referred to as Sinthan Pass, and this mountain pass or hill station sits at an elevation of 12,440 feet above sea level. Despite being among the lesser-known and less explored tourist spots in the valley, it is steadily gaining popularity among travelers. Positioned approximately 80 km from Kishtwar and 73 km from Anantnag, it is situated around 130 km south of Srinagar.

Sinthan Top has served as grazing land for cattle for an extensive period. Along the route to Sinthan Top, approximately 40 km from Anantnag, lies another noteworthy destination called Daksum. The Anantnag district boasts several tourist attractions, including Kokernag, Achabal, Verinag, Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Tulain Lake, Sheshnag, Martand Sun Temple, Chandan Wari, Amarnath Cave Temple, and Daksum.

What is the Best Time to Visit Sinthan Top?

One of the best places to explore in Kashmir during summer, the best time to explore Sinthan Top in Kishtwar, Jammu is from April to September. During the winter months, heavy snowfall renders Sinthan Top unreachable.

Sinthan Top during January, February, and March

During the winter season, Sinthan Pass is typically closed off. The pass summit experiences substantial snowfall annually, resulting in road blockages throughout the winter months. Ordinarily, it reopens towards the conclusion of March or the beginning of April. However, depending on weather conditions, authorities have occasionally succeeded in reopening it as early as late February.

Visiting in March presents an opportunity to witness Sinthan Top covered in white, with imposing snow walls flanking the road. If fortunate, travelers may even encounter snowfall during their visit.

Sinthan Top during April, May, and June

Sinthan Top in summer is expected to remain accessible during this time, barring any temporary road closures due to late snowfall. Travelers arriving in April can anticipate encountering snow at the pass’s summit and lush greenery in the lower regions.

Views remain heavenly in May and June, although snow may be scarce during these months. Expect to encounter numerous families with children enjoying picnics, as Sinthan Top in summer prompts for school vacations and an increase in outdoor activities

Sinthan Top during July, August, and September

July and August coincide with the monsoon season, making it inadvisable to travel to the mountains during this period. It’s essential to check the weather conditions before planning your trip. Even in the absence of rain, the pass’s summit may be engulfed in clouds, obstructing the view entirely.

Visitors in July and early August might be surrounded solely by clouds, with limited visibility.

September emerges as the optimal time to visit. You can check out our guide to Kashmir in September for more details. By then, the monsoon has mostly receded, leaving behind verdant landscapes. Expect clear views and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to explore the area.

Sinthan Top during October, November, and December

Winter in Kashmir and snowfall in Kashmir lasts till early March from December. Sinthan Pass typically remains accessible in October, marking the onset of autumn with vibrant hues of orange adorning the trees and grasslands. This period offers an enchanting landscape, making it an opportune time to visit, preferably early in the month.

As October draws to a close, conditions begin to dry up, and Sinthan Pass may experience initial snowfall. By November, the likelihood of snow increases, prompting the closure of the pass sometime during the month, with continued blockage through December.

November may not be an ideal time for a visit. With minimal chances of snow, frigid temperatures, and lackluster scenery, the experience may prove to be dull and uneventful.

How to Reach Sinthan Top?

The roadway traversing Sinthan Pass is a segment of a much lengthier route that extends to Himachal Pradesh. This same thoroughfare navigates across the formidable Sach Pass, renowned for its thrilling cliffhanger route.

Commencing from Anantnag in Kashmir, your journey commences by traversing through the scenic Daksum Valley until you reach the summit of Sinthan Top. Subsequently, you can descend its opposite side, embarking on the exhilarating cliffhanger route, ultimately passing through Kishtwar.

Continuing onwards, the road transitions into Himachal Pradesh, crossing yet another lofty mountain pass, Sach Pass. From this point, you have the option to drive down to Dalhousie or opt for an onward journey to Keylong and Manali via Killar.

How to Reach Sinthan Top from Srinagar?

Sinthan Top lies approximately 130 km away from Srinagar. Fortunately, the road conditions are favorable, allowing for a smooth journey lasting around 4 to 5 hours. The prescribed route for the trip is as follows:

Srinagar to Awantipora then to Anantnag. From there you head onto Kokernag then Daksum and finally Sinthan Top.

Despite the considerable distance, it’s worthwhile to embark on a day trip to Sinthan Top from Srinagar. To make the most of your trip, it’s advisable to commence your journey as early as possible. Anticipate spending roughly 12 hours traveling, and plan your day accordingly.

Taking your vehicle and driving yourself would be the optimal approach for organizing this trip. Alternatively, if you’ve arrived in Srinagar by plane, securing a private taxi to transport you to Sinthan Top is a viable option. Expect the total fare for the day to range from INR 6000 to INR 8000.

Taking public transport

Although public transportation is an option, it may pose challenges and inconveniences for tourists. There are no direct buses or shared cabs available that can transport you directly to Sinthan Top, making it a segmented journey.

When you are commencing from Srinagar, you’ll initially need to secure a shared cab to Anantnag. From there, you’ll have to arrange additional transportation to Kokernag, followed by another cab to reach Sinthan Top. The return trip would entail following the same route.

It is recommended to avoid relying on public transport for your visit to Sinthan Top. Opting for a private taxi would be the preferable choice, saving you significant hassle and time along the route.

Traveling from Pahalgam to Sinthan Top?

If you are traveling from Pahalgam and taking a taxi to Sinthan Top, depending on the type of taxi you choose, the fare would amount to somewhere around INR 5000 to INR 6500.

Your initial stop is Achabal Gardens when you are traveling from Pahalgam to Sinthan Top. En route, you will pass through Kokernag before reaching Daksum, where you can take a stop for a break.

Situated roughly 30 km from Sinthan Pass, Daksum will provide a refreshing pause at the local dhabas and a delightful interlude at its waterfall. After a scenic route with a few stops along the way to admire the beauty and local food, you will eventually arrive at Sinthan Top.

Renowned as the 360-degree viewpoint, the summit offers a sweeping panorama of the surrounding valley. The view varies depending on the time of arrival, showcasing hues of green, yellow, or white landscapes.

5 Amazing Nearby Attractions at Sinthan Top

Sinthan Top holds its own as a notable tourist destination in Kashmir, often featured on itineraries for those planning a trip to Pahalgam. While the pass’s natural beauty stands as its primary allure, there are several other noteworthy tourist attractions near Sinthan Top.

• Achabal Gardens

Achabal Gardens, a lesser-known Mughal Garden situated in Achabal town, can complement your journey to Sinthan Top. Additionally, Kokernag hosts another Botanical garden, which, although we didn’t visit, is worth considering if time allows.

Achabal Gardens, also known as ‘the princess’s abode,’ is a famous Mughal Garden located in the town of Achabal, situated in the Anantnag district of the Kashmir valley. Positioned approximately 58 km south of Srinagar, this garden is revered as one of India’s finest Mughal Gardens. Tradition holds that it was commissioned by Mughal Empress Nur Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir. Subsequently, the garden was reconstructed on a smaller scale by Dogra King Gulab Singh.

One of its most captivating features is its irrigation by a sacred mountain spring from the neighboring hill. The fountains within the garden’s water springs carry with them a romantic legacy of ancient times. Spanning an area of 6.20 hectares at the foothills of the Himalayas, Achabal Gardens boasts rows of majestic Chinar trees that offer stunning vistas. The garden’s stepped terraces, complemented by fountains, waterfalls, and vibrant shrubs and flowers, further enhance its charm.

• Achabal Springs

Achabal Spring, emerging from Sonsanwar Hill, is often regarded as the most enchanting among all the springs. Emperor Jehangir himself was captivated by its beauty and designated it for the pursuit of pleasure and aesthetics. Legend has it that the true source of Achabal Spring is the Brengi Nallah, which vanishes into the limestone crevices near Dewalgam.

The water from this spring, flowing through the garden in three channels, adorns the terraced landscape beyond imagination. The addition of fountains along these water channels enhances the allure of this Mughal garden. Positioned approximately 9 kilometers southeast of the district headquarters, the health resort of Achabal offers a serene retreat in the district.

Just a few kilometers before reaching Sinthan Top lies the picturesque valley of Daksum, offering both natural splendor and accommodations in nearby hotels, ideal for an overnight stay. For avid trekkers, numerous trails lead up to Sinthan Top, while Daksum is an amazing place for camping in Kashmir, by allowing you to pitch your tents in scenic surroundings.

• Sun Temple

The Sun temple near Anantnag Kashmir presents another intriguing addition to your itinerary, particularly enchanting during sunset hours.

Anantnag, as a significant religious site, stands out as a prominent tourist destination in India and one of the amazing religious places in Kashmir. Being a part of Kashmir, it showcases a plethora of magnificent locations. Among these, the Martand Sun Temple of Anantnag holds historical significance and exudes splendor.

Perched atop a plateau in the Anantnag region, this temple offers a panoramic view of the Kashmir valley. Situated just 9 km away from the main town of Anantnag, travelers to the area often feel compelled to visit this iconic site. Referred to locally as Pandu Koru and also known as Pandavanki Lari, meaning the abode of the Pandavas, this temple is nestled amidst mountainous terrain near Krewa.

This remarkable monument is a key attraction in Kashmir, and the government has developed it to promote tourism in India. In Indian mythology, “Martand” signifies the sun, hence the temple is also known as the Sun Temple in India.

• Bringhi River

Fishing enthusiasts will find Daksum particularly enticing, though permission from the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department is necessary. The Bringhi River, renowned as Angler’s Heaven, teems with trout, promising an exciting angling experience.

The Bringhi or Brengi river, situated in Anantnag, Kashmir, courses through a distance of 30 km before merging with the Jhelum River at Haji Danter, Anantnag. Its formation is marked by the merging of three streams namely the Nowbugh Stream, Ahlan Gadol Stream, and Daksum Stream. Originating from the glaciers of Sinthan in the Anantnag district, the river navigates through a gorge at Daksum.

• Kokernag

Kokernag, derived from “Koker” meaning rooster, and “Nag” meaning springs or snake, is a vast garden area currently under development by the Floriculture department. Renowned for its springs, which emerge at seven points on the foothills and meander in various directions, creating a resemblance to a rooster’s claws, thus giving the garden its name.

The water from these springs in Kokernag, Kashmir, is reputed to possess medicinal and digestive properties, earning it the alternate name of Papashudan Nag, meaning the sin-cleansing spring.

Managed by the Floriculture department, the area boasts a splendid garden alongside the fresh springs. The Kokernag spring network comprises 300 channels, with 129 allocated for the garden and 171 for the forested area.

What are the things to do at Sinthan Top?

Sinthan Top provides you with an opportunity to bask in nature’s gift and enjoy your surroundings whether alone or with your loved ones. Some of the best things to do at Singthan Top include:

• Trekking: One of the most desired things to do in Kashmir is trekking. This destination is ideal for trekkers and enthusiasts, offering ample opportunities with its uncrowded surroundings.

• Photography: For photography enthusiasts, few places rival this one. The breathtaking landscapes and abundant natural beauty provide an unparalleled canvas for your camera.

• Immerse yourself with beauty: Sometimes, the best way to enjoy a vacation is by simply immersing yourself in the beauty around you. This spot offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and appreciate the surroundings. Find your favorite spot, sit back, and let the stunning view captivate your senses. It’s an ideal location for spending quality time with yourself or loved ones, without any specific agenda.

• Local Fodd: Indulge in the warmth of mountain cuisine at the local eateries dotted around this area. Sit back, savor a hearty meal, and relish the views that accompany your dining experience.

Where to stay near Sinthan Top?

There are no hotels or resorts in the Sinthan Top area and the closest accommodations will be in the Daksum region. Some of the places to stay near Sinthan Top are:

• Shah Abbas Hotel

Hotel Shah Abbas, affiliated with the Fairmont brand, presents an exceptional destination crafted by blending distinctive architecture, expressive décor, artistic elements, and remarkable amenities, all situated in a prime location. Within the hotel premises, guests can marvel at world-renowned Kashmiri historic Paper Mache Designs adorning the walls. Moreover, the hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of the Srinagar Tourist Reception Center.

Location – Dal Lake Boulevard Road, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

Cost – INR 3000 – 6000

• Sheesham Resort

The balconies of the resort offer breathtaking views, with exceptional cuisine, and the ambiance of the food court is amazing. The courteous service provided by staff members enhances your stay significantly. The rooms exude a tranquil atmosphere with a thoughtful design that minimizes external noise. Overall, it is a highly enjoyable experience that provides excellent value for money.

Location – Bindoo, Kokernag, Jammu and Kashmir

Cost – Starting From INR 3000

• Pahalgam Retreat

One of the sought-after stays in Pahalgam, Pahalgam Retreat is an amazing place to make yourself comfortable. The rooms are equipped with amenities such as a minibar, air conditioning, and mosquito nets, and guests can stay connected with complimentary WiFi. Guests have access to a 24-hour front desk, room service, and onsite shops. You can also indulge in our hot tub and dine at our onsite restaurant. Free parking is available at Pahalgam Retreat.

During your stay, don’t miss the opportunity to dine at popular Chinese restaurants in Pahalgam, just a short distance from Pahalgam Retreat. Pahalgam Retreat provides you with the best of Pahalgam, ensuring your stay is both relaxing and enjoyable.

Location – Yainer village, Movera Rafting Poing, Pahalgam 192126 India

Cost – INR 6000 onwards

Road to Paradise

Sinthan Top, with its breathtaking view, is truly a paradise for trekking and mountain enthusiasts. Despite the challenging roads leading to this destination, once you arrive, you’re guaranteed a memorable experience. With its snow-capped peaks for most of the year, it’s a must-visit for snow enthusiasts.

For adventure seekers seeking unspoiled mountain locales, this mountain pass is tailor-made. With a minimal local population, mainly comprising shepherds from nearby areas and those involved in tourism, it offers a serene and untouched environment. While Sinthan Top itself is a destination worth visiting, the journey to this mountain pass is adorned with several mesmerizing spots, adding to the beauty of the overall experience.