Sanasar is a cup-shaped meadow and small lake at about 2,050 m near Patnitop on the Jammu-Srinagar route: what to do there, paragliding seasons, winter snow, how to reach it, and Sanasar vs Patnitop.
Breaking the Jammu-Srinagar drive?
Tell us your dates. We plan a Sanasar or Patnitop stop on the way to the valley.
In This Article
Quick Answer: Sanasar is a cup-shaped meadow with a small lake at about 2,050 metres, around 17 to 20 km from Patnitop in the Jammu region. Ringed by tall conifers, it is known for paragliding (May to June, September to October) and winter snow. It makes a quiet half-day or overnight stop on the Jammu-Srinagar route.
Last updated: 3 November 2026. By Kashmir Pulse Editorial. Kashmir Pulse is Via Kashmir's editorial channel, written by locals.
Most travellers on the road between Jammu and Kashmir pass Patnitop without turning off. A few take the side road to Sanasar and find a round green bowl in the forest, with a small lake at one end and paragliders drifting overhead on a good day. It feels far quieter than the main hill station, and in winter it often turns completely white.
This guide covers what to expect, when to go and how to fit it into a trip. For Patnitop itself, see our Patnitop guide.
Sanasar at a glance
| What | Detail |
|---|---|
| Altitude | About 2,050 metres |
| Distance | About 17 to 20 km from Patnitop |
| Known for | Cup-shaped meadow, small lake, conifer forest, paragliding |
| Paragliding | Best May to June and September to October |
| Winter | Snow is common from December to February; roads can close after heavy falls |
| Time needed | Half a day, or one night |
What is Sanasar like?
The name is often said to come from two small lakes, Sana and Sar. Today the heart of Sanasar is a wide, gently sloping meadow ringed by tall deodar and pine, with a small lake at its edge. Part of the meadow has been developed as a golf course, and there are huts and a few places to stay around the rim. On weekends in summer families picnic on the grass; on weekdays it is calm.
Facilities are simple: a few hotels and huts around the meadow, tea stalls and snack stands in season, and basic parking. There is no large market, so carry what you need from Patnitop or Udhampur, especially in winter, when some places close and the road can be slow after snow.
Sanasar is the kind of place you remember for its silence: one meadow, one lake, and a ring of trees holding them both.
What can you do in Sanasar?
- ✓Paragliding from launch points on the surrounding hills, in the spring and autumn seasons, with registered operators.
- ✓Meadow and forest walks around the bowl and into the conifers.
- ✓Picnics by the lake in summer.
- ✓Snow play in winter, when the meadow is often covered.
- ✓Camping and nature stays with local operators in season.
Local tip: paragliding depends entirely on wind. Keep a flexible morning, and only fly with operators registered with the tourism department.
When is the best time to visit Sanasar?
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Spring (April to June) | Fresh green meadow, paragliding from May, pleasant days |
| Monsoon (July to August) | Rain, mist and slippery roads; fewer visitors |
| Autumn (September to October) | Clear skies, paragliding, golden light |
| Winter (December to February) | Snow on the meadow, cold nights, possible road closures |
For most travellers, May to June and September to October give the best mix of weather and activities. Winter is beautiful but plan for cold and check roads first. Stay options are limited, so book ahead in peak months, or stay in Patnitop and come for the day.
Related reading: Zero Bridge Srinagar: The Wooden Footbridge Over the Jhelum
Book for this trip
How do you reach Sanasar?
- Drive on the Jammu-Srinagar route towards Patnitop.
- From the Patnitop area, take the side road to Sanasar, about 17 to 20 km.
- Since the Chenani-Nashri tunnel opened, the main highway bypasses Patnitop, so you must plan the detour.
- In winter, check road status after snowfall before you leave.
Coming from Katra? See our things to do in Katra for day trips in the area.
Sanasar vs Patnitop: which should you choose?
| Sanasar | Patnitop | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Quiet meadow and lake | Busier hill station |
| Activities | Paragliding, walks, camping, snow | Gondola, paragliding, walks, snow |
| Stay options | Few | More hotels |
| Best for | A calm half day or night | Families wanting more facilities |
Many travellers stay in Patnitop and take a half day to Sanasar, or skip both and go straight to the valley by road or by the Katra to Srinagar Vande Bharat.
Driving from Jammu to Kashmir? We plan a scenic stop and the onward drive.
Plan my road trip →Via Kashmir plans Jammu-to-Kashmir road trips with stops at Patnitop or Sanasar, then Srinagar verified hotels and houseboats on Dal and Nigeen, Kashmir packages and local cabs. Tell us your dates.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Sanasar from Patnitop?
About 17 to 20 km by road, usually under an hour depending on traffic and weather.
What is Sanasar famous for?
Its cup-shaped meadow surrounded by conifers, a small lake, and paragliding in spring and autumn.
Does it snow in Sanasar?
Yes, Sanasar usually gets snow between December and February. Roads can close for a while after heavy snowfall.
When is paragliding possible in Sanasar?
The main paragliding seasons are May to June and September to October, weather and wind permitting.
Is Sanasar worth visiting?
Yes, if you want a quiet meadow and lake rather than a busy hill station. It works best as a half day or one night on the Jammu-Srinagar route.
Planning a trip to Kashmir? Via Kashmir offers custom itineraries, verified hotels, and local cab services, planned by people who live here.
Planning more than this? Get a full itemised Kashmir quote