Dainkund Peak - Jot Trek 

By road, you would reach till the base from where you can see the highest point of the peak inhabited by the Indian Air Force. Take a left turn, a climb of about 1.5 - 2 kms to reach the peak and the native temple of Pohlani mata.

Situated at a height of 2,755m above sea level, the peak was once believed to be the abode of powerful witches, thus deriving it's name from "Dain (witch) Kund (Lake)". The locals worship Pohlani mata (as an incarnation of the goddess who killed the resident witches). It is advisable to spend some time at the temple, enjoy the beauty, soak in the legend of the goddess. If you are hungry, there are few eateries around to satiate yourself.

Some prefer to hike till Dainkund peak and come back to the vehicle parking lot downhill. However, it is recommended that go for the Dainkund - Jot trek. I was immediately excited with the idea of the trek which is approximately 9 kms and easy in terms of difficulty level - as there are more of open meadows and picturesque landscapes of the Peer Panjal range. The trail is well marked and the gentle ascent downwards is extremely rewarding with serene views.

After the downward descent, we took our cab heading to Khajjiar. Quoted as "Mini Switzerland"; the name is apt with the views and surroundings. However, over the years, like many other destinations, this is a major tourist spot and might not entice the peace seeking nature lovers. It is overcrowded with people and hawkers. There would be numerous requests for a photo session or play with a rabbit or a group of them for starting 20 bucks. We simply enjoyed some food, watched the clouds play along and headed back to reach our hostel by the evening.