Chenani

Description

Introduction to the Village

Chenani is a small town located in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir ,India where we  explored a small village Tandhar situated at an elevation of around 1500 meters above sea level , it is nestled amidst the scenic foothills of the Shivalik range.  The town is about 70 kilometers from Jammu and serves as a key transit point for travellers heading towards the hill station of Patnitop.

History

Chenani, located in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir , has a rich history dated back to ancient times. It was a part of the Jammu Kingdom . Under the dogra rulers in the 19th century ,it became part of princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. The town's strategic location made it important for trade and military purposes. In modern times , Chenani gained significance with the construction of the Chenani - Nashri Tunnel, which improved connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar.

Culture

 The culture of Chenani is deeply influenced by its Hindu traditions,local customs and rural lifestyle . The town is home to several temples, including the SudhMahadev  Temple , and celebrates festivals like Diwali , Holi , and Shivrathri with enthusiasm. 

Popular Dishes

 It includes Rajma ,Kadhi(yogurt based) ,Traditional bread like Roti served commonly with local chutneys and pickels. 

1. Patisa (Kesar Patisa):

One of the most famous sweets from Kud is Patisa, also known as Kesar Patisa. This sweet is made from gram flour (besan), ghee, sugar, and cardamom, giving it a rich texture and a unique flavor. The addition of saffron (kesar) imparts a golden color and a special fragrance, making it a standout dessert. Patisa is often prepared during festivals and special occasions and is known for its crisp yet melt-in-the-mouth texture.

2. Kaladi (Kashmiri Cheese):

Kaladi is another famous delicacy from Kud, especially popular in the Jammu region. It is a traditional Kashmiri cheese made by frying fresh milk curd or cheese in ghee. The resulting dish is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a rich flavor. It is typically served with a sprinkling of salt or enjoyed with sugar syrup for a sweet touch, making it a versatile treat.

Development

 Chenani has seen growth in road upgradation , tourism development , and advancements in agriculture have boosted the local economy .

Employment

 In Chenani, the primary sources of employment are agriculture , tourism and local businessess . Many people are engaged in farming , particularly fruit cultivation , such as apples and plums . Tourism provides jobs in hospitality , transportation , and services , as the town servers as a transit point for pilgrims.

Sports

In Chenani , popular sports include cricket,Kabaddi, and volleyball. Local tournaments are often held ,especially during festivals . Traditional games likes wrestling and gilli-danda are also enjoyed.

Tourist Places

Popular places to visit in Chenani includes the SudhMahadev temple,Chenani -Nashri tunnel,Krimchi Temples, Patnitop , Dehratop, and Nathatop for scenic views and outdoor activities.

SudhMahadev: Sudhmahadev is a picturesque religious and tourist destination located near Chenani, in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. Situated at an elevation of around 1,300 meters, Sudhmahadev is renowned for the Sudhmahadev Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, attracting devotees, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Navratri.

Patnitop: Patnitop is a popular hill station located near Chenani in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, situated at an altitude of about 2,024 meters. Known for its scenic landscapes, lush pine forests, and cool climate, Patnitop offers breathtaking views of the Shivalik Range and is a favored destination for tourists, especially during the summer months. The area is ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, paragliding, and skiing in winter. Patnitop is also known for its peaceful ambiance, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and nature walks. It is easily accessible from Chenani and is well-connected to Jammu.

Nashri Tunnel: The Chenani-Nashri Tunnel is India's longest highway tunnel, stretching 9.2 kilometers, and connects Chenani and Nashri on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. It significantly reduces travel time by bypassing the hilly terrain and harsh weather conditions in the region. The tunnel, inaugurated in 2017, enhances road safety and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.

Dehra Top: Dehra Top is a scenic hilltop near Chenani, located at an altitude of about 2,200 meters. Known for its panoramic views of the Shivalik Range and lush valleys, it is a popular spot for trekking, nature walks, and camping. The area is rich in wildlife and offers a peaceful escape, making it ideal for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Flora and Fauna

Flora:The flora of Chenani Udhampur includes a variety of coniferous and broadleaf trees such as chir pine, blue pine, deodar, oak, and rhododendron. The region is also rich in medicinal plants, bamboo, ferns, and mosses.

Fauna:As for the fauna, the area is home to mammals like the Himalayan brown bear, leopard, black bear, and musk deer. Bird species such as the Himalayan monal, koklass pheasant, and western tragopan are commonly found, along with various reptiles, amphibians, and insects, which contribute to the biodiversity of the region.

Photos

Videos

Location Map

Contact Information

Reviews (2)

Sraban Mondal

09 Nov, 2024

very nice pics

Pragati .

03 Nov, 2024

The content provided is good

Write a Review