Pathankot is a small city of Punjab at Latitude 32° 16′ 40″ N (southern limit) to 32° 21′ 21″ N (northern limit) and Longitude 75° 31′ 15″ E (western limit) to 75° 46′ 56″ E (eastern limit). It was officially declared as district on 27 July, 2011 by Government of Punjab. In past, it was a Tehsil of the District Gurdaspur. It is a meeting point of the three northern states Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. Due to its ideal location, Pathankot serves as a travel hub for the three northerly states. It is the last city in Punjab on the national highway that connects Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India. Situated in the picturesque foothills of Kangra and Dalhousie, the city is often used as a rest-stop before heading into the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, Dalhousie, Chamba, Kangra, Dharamshala, Mcleodganj, Jwalaji, Chintpurni and deep into the Himalayas.
Pathankot is an important place in terms of tourism. It is found in the Gurdaspur district. It is situated the foothills of Kangra and Dalhousie. The River Chakki and Bari Daob Canal are found close by. The population of Pathankot makes it the 5th largest city in the state of Punjab. Asia’s largest military based is found here.
Nurpur princely state was ruled over by the Pathania Rajputs. Pathankot formed part of this state till 1849. Paragans considered it as their headquarters. Pathans settled over here since the medieval times, giving the place its name. The hill stations of Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Mcleodganj, Kangra Valley, Jwalaji and Chintpuri can be reached through Pathankot.
Pathankot is also bound by the states of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. Loi and shawl weaving are important industries here.
