Places of interest
Jammu is known for
its landscape, ancient temples, Hindu shrines, Mubarak Mandi Palace, Amar Mahal
Palace (a castle type) now a Museum, gardens and forts. Hindu holy shrines of
Amarnath (which actually lies in Kashmir) and Vaishno Devi attracts tens of
thousands of Hindu devotees every year. Jammu's beautiful natural landscape has
made it one of the most favoured destinations for adventure tourismin South
Asia. Jammu's historic monuments feature a unique blend of Islamic and Hindu
architecture styles.
Attractions in
Jammu serve the best way to enjoy a memorable vacation in this enchanting resort
destination of India which is worth exploring in every aspect. Jammu being the
winter capital of the state beckons tired city dwellers to its abode by
offering a range of options to stay, relax, and experience the true splendour
of nature at its best.
Tourist sites like
the
Jammu
sightseeing tours offer ample retreats and chances for visitors to explore its
scenic territories and the region’s surrounding areas but through an authorized
and legal tour specialist who can take care of all the legal aspects pertaining
to certain regions in Jammu requiring special permits to enter or visit.
Tucked away at the
foothills of the majestic Himalayan ranges, Jammu is a land of attractions and
places to visit therefore, any Jammu sightseeing tour will allow you to
experience its exquisite landscapes and ancient heritage wealth as well as
capture these moments in your camera or camcorder to take back home and cherish
for life.
Historical Places
Akhnoor Fort
Akhnoor
Fort is situated in the historic town of Akhnoor which is located on
the Jammu – Poonch National Highway places at a distance of about 28 kms from
Jammu. The Fort stands at a distance of about 4 kms from the main town of
Akhnoor at a quiet location.
This beautiful
ancient fort of Akhnoor is perched at a height of 301 meters or 988 feet above
surface level and formidably stands along the right riverbanks of the mighty
Chenab River that originates along the plains at Akhnoor.
Akhnoor Fort is
surrounded by the scenic landscapes of the majestic Shivalik Range and the
Trikuta Mountain Ranges on its Northern and Eastern sides lending one of the
most breathtaking sights to view.
Akhnoor Fort is
considered as one of the most beautiful historical places to visit in Jammu. It
is also believed that the Pandavas, of the epic Mahabharata, had once stayed in
the caves of Akhnoor near the Fort when they were on exile.
This Fort was
constructed during the early 19th century and stands along the right bank of
the River Chenab therefore commands a stunning view of the Chenab River and its
surrounding lush landscapes. The Fort in fact stands on an ancient site that is
known to date back to the Harappan period. The Fort also features a two-storey
Palace on its southern side with walls facing the large central courtyard depicting
arches and murals of an ancient era that once thrived within these walls.
A scenic walk
along the well lit park of Akhnoor is a remarkable experience to remember. This
small but stunning garden spans along the circumference of the riverbanks of Chenab
beginning from Jiya Pota Ghat and stretching up to Parashurama Temple lending
one of the most scenic sights to see, especially during nightfall. Other
ancient sites of religious significance also dot this town, of which, the
famous one is the Parashurama Temple.
Bahu Fort
Bahu Fort is located about 5 kms from the city centre of Jammu. It formidably
stands on a rocky hill situated on the left bank of the River Tawi. This Fort
is most likely the oldest forts in this region and dates back some 3,000 years
ago. Bahu Fort was erected by Raja Bahulochan and was later extended and
improved upon by the Dogra Kings. The fort features the Bagh-e-Bahu terraced
garden that surrounds the fort including Bagh-e-Bahu Aquarium which is the
largest underground aquarium in India.
Perched on a
plateau at a height of 325 meters or 1,066 feet above sea level measured from
the surface of the panoramic Bahi River, and just opposite the old town of
Jammu, the Bahu Fort is a spectacular sight to see and can be
reached from the main city of Jammu just 5 kms away.
Bahu Fort is
probably one of the most visited tourist attractions in Jammu & Kashmir. It
is an iconic heritage structure which is also perhaps considered the oldest in
Jammu. This Fort is known to have existed for over 3,000 years since its
construction. It is an ancient and historical site in Jammu that was originally
built under the instructions of King Bahulochana, who was then the Ruler of
Jammu & Kashmir.
Henceforth, post
construction and completion, the Bahu Fort has seen quite a
number of additions done under the orders of the successive rulers of J&K
including the Dogra Kings to further accentuate the grandeur of this majestic
and imposing structure.
The original
edifice of the Bahu Fort has been remodeled several times and even extended far
from what it used to be during its original construction phase. This Fort and
the establishment of Jammu as a town is somewhat linked together.
Legend has that
one day, Raja Jambu Lochan, who was the brother of Bahu Lochan, went on a
hunting trip and he witnessed an intriguing sight of a tiger and a goat
drinking water together from the same location of the Tawi River without the
goat being attacked by the Tiger. This sight represented a divine intervention
and hence, the King declared that his Capital City, which is Jammu as we know
today, will be built at that very site. He believed that this site represented
the amiable co-existence of animals that will transfer onto his people as well.
Later, his brother
Bahu Lochan erected a Fort on a rock face along the same site where the tiger
and goat had once drank water amicably due to its favorable direction and named
the Fort after him as Bahu Fort.
Bhimgarh Fort
Bhimgarh Fort or the Reasi Fort is situated near Reasi about 64
kms northwest of Jammu. Perched on a hillock set at a height of about 150
meters high, this fort offers excellent views of the surrounding region.
Bhimgarh Fort was constructed of clay but was later strengthened with stones by
one of the heirs of Maharaj Rishipal Rana who was the founder of Reasi. During
insurgencies, the royal family would take shelter in this fort. The fort houses
varied rooms, an armory, treasury, temple, and a pond.
This formidable
Bhimgarh Fort was originally constructed of clay alone and to strengthen its
foundation and structure, on one of the successors of Maharaja Rishipal Rana,
who was the founder of Reasi town, had the Bhimgarh Fort reconstructed with
stone.
The renovation
work of Bhimgarh Fort was initially started by Maharaja Gulab Singh, the former
Ruler of Jammu and Kashmir way back in 1817. This continued up till 1841 after
it was announced completed, and refurbished with stones to fortify the Fort.
Additions were
also introduced to Bhimgarh Fort including a new entrance gate and a massive
stone wall measuring a meter wide and 50 meters long that encircles the Fort
area to further strengthen and fortify the edifice from foreign attacks.
Made of Baluka
stones, the Entrance Gate features exquisite Rajasthan carvings while its
façade wall features loopholes measuring about 50 meters in length a meter in
width. The entrance is also decorated with gigantic statues of Goddess
Mahakaali and Lord Hanuman as a symbol of protection and strength to ward from
any evil threats and unwarranted invasions.
Bhimgarh Fort, as
the name suggest, symbolizes the strength and formidable aspects of Bhim, a
central character of the epic Mahabharata era. He was the second of the Pandava
brothers who was characterized by his great stature and strength.
The precincts of
Bhimgarh Fort feature a medieval temple, a small reservoir, an armory room, a
treasury, and a number of varied-sized rooms. After the demise of Maharaja
Gulab Singh, the former ruler of J&K, his heirs or successors, Maharaja
Ranbir Singh and Maharaja Pratap Singh used this Fort primarily as an armory
and treasury repository.
Later, the Armory
possessions within the storehouse of Bhimgarh Fort were shifted to Jammu and
the present storehouse was ordered to be destroyed by an English Minister to
make way for other multipurpose rooms, when Jammu and Kashmir was under the
rule of Maharaja Hari Singh.
After the
Imperials abandoned the Bhimgarh Fort, it was handed over to the Archaeology
Department of Jammu and Kashmir in 1989 as ordered by the State Government of
India. Later, Bhimgarh Fort was again renovated under the supervision of the
Vaishno Devi Sthapana Board Committee in 1990.
The façade and
surrounding extensions of Bhimgarh Fort were revived and restored with the
addition of beautiful meandering pathways and lush gardens to support its
exterior beauty. After enduring a number of earthquakes in the past, this fort
is formidable enough to support its own structure despite the lack of
maintenance after its facelift.
Bhimgarh Fort is opened to public visits and is soon becoming one of the most
visited, top, and attractive tourist Heritage Destinations in Jammu. It
majestically and quietly stands amidst utmost serenity and scenic expansions
and is considered as one of the most significant landmarks of the State of
Jammu & Kashmir.
Mubarak Mandi
Palace Complex
Mubarak Mandi
Palace Complex is probably the oldest
building in Jammu that extends its existence way back to 1824. Jammu is in
fact, separated by River Tawi with the Old City placed on one side and the New
City on the other side while this ancient Palace Complex magnificently displays
itself perpendicularly along the edge of a towering cliff within the Old City
of Jammu.
The Mubarak Mandi
Complex commands a spectacular view of the calm and majestic River Tawi that
cascades along one side while the New City of Jammu spreads over the other side
of its riverbanks.
Known for its
grandeur and beauty, Mubarak Mandi Complex is the heritage
pride of Jammu that was once the seat of the Dogra Rulers over the centuries.
The Palace complex is also known for its remarkable and exquisite architectural
excellence that reveals a perfect blend of extravagant Rajasthan, and Mughal
influences.
One of the most
stunning sections of the Mubarak Mandi Palace Complex is the Sheesh
Mahal that translates to ‘Palace of Mirrors’. Holding true to its name
this is an erstwhile Palace Hall completely embedded with mirrors in varied
shapes and intrinsic designs. Known today as the Pink Hall, it houses the Dogra
Art Museum or Dogra Art Gallery that holds a variety of miniature paintings
depicting various Hill Schools while also showcasing the extraordinary history,
tradition, and culture of Jammu & Kashmir.
Ramnagar Palace
Ramnagar Palace is also referred to as the Purana Mahal in Jammu. It was constructed
Maharaja Suchet Singh [AD 1801-44], who reigned over Jammu & Kashmir
between 1822 AD and 1844 AD. The Ramnagar Palace Complex is situated in
Ramnagar which is about 105 kms from the main town of Jammu.
The Ramnagar
Palace Complex is perched at an altitude of 828 meters or 2,716 feet above
surface level. It is surrounded by scenic landscapes that mainly comprise of a
hilly terrain dressed with roughly 90% of forested area with partial secondary
growth of scrubby plants seen in many parts of this region in Jammu.
Ramnagar Palace is
quite massive in its size featuring a huge complex fringed with rooms that
towers up to three floors. Every few rooms are intercepted by high walls and a
watch tower. Each room features a wooden ceiling and walls that are elaborately
adorned with stucco work and are painted with exquisite floral patterns.
The Nawa Mahal
complex within the precincts of Ramnagar was constructed by Maharaja Ram Singh,
who was the son of Maharaja Ranbir Singh of J&K. This Palace features an
inner courtyard encircled by rooms comprising of two entrances that face each
other.
Ramnagar was in
fact the Capital town of Bandralta who was last ruled by Raja Bhupendra Dev. He
was overpowered by the Sikh forces in 1821 after which he retired into
uncertainty near Ambala, a small town in the State of Haryana, India.
Spiritual Sites
The Vaishno Devi
Maa Shrine
In Hinduism, Vaishno
Devi, also known as Mata Rani and Vaishnavi,
is a manifestation of the Mother Goddess. The words "maa" and "mata"
are commonly used in India for "mother", and thus are often used in
connection with Vaishno Devi.
The Vaishno Devi
Maa Shrine as a Shakti Peetha
The shrine is
worshiped as a Shakti Peetha which believes its association towards the
mythology of Daksha yaga and Sati's self immolation as its origin.
Shakti Peethas are shrines enshrined with the presence of Shakti due to the
falling of body parts of the corpse of Sati Devi, when Lord Shiva carried it
and wandered throughout in sorrow. There are 51 Shakti Peeth linking to the 51
alphabets in Sanskrit.
Vaishno Devi
Temple is near the town of Katra, Jammu and Kashmir; in the Reasi district in
the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is one of the most revered places of worship
in India. The shrine is at an altitude of 5300 feet and a distance of
approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 mi) from Katra.About 8 million pilgrims
(yatris) visit the temple every yearand it is the second most visited religious
shrine in India, after Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. The Sri Mata Vaishno Devi
Shrine Board maintains the shrine. A rail link from Udhampur to Katra is
recently completed to facilitate pilgrimage. The nearest airport is Jammu
Airport which has very high flight frequency, and is served by all leading
domestic airlines. This place contains three idols of Maha Saraswati, Maha
Lakshmi, and Maha Kali, which are all images of Vaishno Devi.
Access
Maa Vaishno Devi
temple can be reached from Katra. Katra is a small but bustling town around 45
km. from Jammu. From Katra, after getting the 'Yatra Parchi' (Journey Slip) for
darshan, devotees can proceed to the Bhavan.
The way to Bhavan
is steep and requires a long walk uphill. Alternatively ponies and palanquins
are also available.
Helicopter service can also be taken for a large part of the
trip. The Trust offers comfortable stay for pilgrims.
Indian Railways
will start rail services up to Katra from July 1st 2013. They
are in communication with the Jammu and Kashmir Government to integrate permit
slips for Vaishno Devi Darshan with the train ticket.
Permit Slip / Yatra Slip
The passenger can get
permit slips while booking the train ticket or from Yatra Parchi Counter (Main Bus Stand Katra or Near Trikuta Bhawan Counter No. 2)
Purmandal
Purmandal, also
known as Chhota Kashi, is located 35 km from Jammu city. An
ancient holy place, it has several temples of Shiva and other deities. On
Shivratri, the town wears a festive look and for three days as people celebrate
the marriage of Lord Shiva to Goddess Parvati.
Raghunath Temple
Amongst the
temples in Jammu, the Raghunath Temple takes pride of place
being situated right in the heart of the city. This temple is situated at the
city center and was built in 1857. Work on the temple was started by Maharaja
Gulab Singh, founder of the Kingdom of Jammu and Kashmir, in 1835 CE and
was completed by his son Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1860 CE. The inner walls
of the main temple are covered with gold sheet on three sides. There are many
galleries with lakhs of saligrams. The surrounding Temples are dedicated to
various Gods and Goddesses connected with the epic Ramayana. This temple
consists of seven shrines, each with a tower of its own. It is the largest
temple complex in northern India. Though 130 years old, the complex is
remarkable for sacred scriptures, one of the richest collections of ancient
texts and manuscripts in its library. Its arches, surface and niches are
undoubtedly influenced by Mughal architecture while the interiors of the temple
are plated with gold. The main sanctuary is dedicated to Lord Vishnu's eighth
incarnation and Dogras' patron deity, the Rama. It also houses a Sanskrit
Library containing rare Sanskrit manuscripts.
Peer Kho Cave
Alongside the same
Tawi river are the Peer Kho Cave temple, the Panchbakhtar
temple and the Ranbireshwar temple dedicated to Lord
Shiva with their own legends and specific days of worship. Peer Kho cave is
located on the bank of river Tawi and it is widely believed that Ramayan
character Jamvant (the bear god) meditated in this cave. The Ranbireshwar
Temple has twelve Shiva lingams of crystal measuring 12" to 18" and
galleries with thousands of saligrams fixed on stone slabs.
Located on the Shalimar Road near the New Secretariat, and built by Maharaja
Ranbir Singh in 1883 CE. It has one central lingam measuring 2.3 metres
(7.5 feet) in height and, twelve Shiva lingams of crystal measuring from
15 cm to 38 cm and galleries with thousands of Shiva lingams fixed on
stone slabs.
Shivkhori
The cave shrine
of Shivkhori, situated in District Reasi of Jammu and Kashmir
state, depicts the natural formation of shivlingum. It is one of the most
venerated cave shrines of Lord Shiva in the region. The Holy cave is
approximately 200 metres long,one metre wide and two to three metres high and
contains a & houses 1.219 metres high Svayambhu Lingum, according to
mythology this lingum is never ending. The first entrance of the cave is so
wide that 300 devotees can be accommodated at a time. Its cavern is spacious to
accommodate large number of people. The inner chamber of the cave is smaller.
The cave is full of natural impression and images of various Hindu Deities and
full of divine feelings. That is why Shivkhori is known as "Home of
Gods". The route from Jammu to Shiv Khori is full of beautiful and
picturesque mountains, waterfalls and lakes.
A 3-day Shiv Khori
mela takes places annually on Maha Shivratri and thousands of pilgrims from
different parts of the state and outside visit this cave shrine to seek
blessings of Lord Shiva. Maha Shivratri festival is usually held in the month
of February or during first week of March every year.
Machail Mata
Machail Mata The
Chandi Maa temple is located in the village Machel, Distt Kishtwar, Jammu
Region. The place is about 290KM from Jammu. During 'Chhadi Yatra', thousands
of people visit the shrine.The pilgrimage happens in the month of August only
every year. The shrine was visited in 1981 by Thakur Kulveer Singh of
Bhaderwah, Jammu region. From 1987 onwards, Thakur Kulveer SIngh started
'Chhadi Yatra'that happens every year and thousands of people visit the shrine
every year during 'Chhadi Yatra'. To reach the shrine, lot of travel agents arrange
buses from Jammu, Udhampur, Ramnagar, Bhaderwah. One can also hire a cab as
well. It takes approximately 10 hours by road from Jammu to Gulabgarh. The
Gulabgarh is the base camp. From Gulabgarh, the foot journey starts, that is
32 km. Usually people take 2 days to reach the shrine by foot. On the way
there are many villages, where one can stay in the night.but the chaddi takes
three daye to reach machel. Many people organises roadside 'langers' (free food
points) on the way to the Gulabgarh. Government of Jammu & Kashmir also
arranges basic amenities for the pilgrims.
Other mean of
reaching the shrine is by helicopter from Jammu and Gulabgarh. The helipad is
only 100 m from the shrine. But if someone goes by helipcopter, he will be
missing many scenic beauties of the nature.
Ranbireshwar
Temple: Located on Shalimar Road near the New Secretariat .
Charar-e-Sharief
Chrar-e-Sharief is a shrine revered by both Muslims and Hindus
dedicated to Sheikh Nooruddin, who was arguably the greatest mystic-saint of
Kashmir.
Martand Sun Temple
The
most memorable and beautiful work of King Lalitaditya is the construction of
spacious Martand temple, which the emperor got built in honor of the Sun God or
Bhaskar. The Martand Sun Temple was a Kashmiri
Hindu temple
dedicated to Surya (the chief solar
deity in Hinduism) and built during the 8th century CE. Martand is
another Sanskrit name for the Hindu Sun-god. Now in ruins, the temple is
located five miles from Anantnag in the Indian state of Jammu
and Kashmir
Sudh Mahadev
Temple: Situated in the town of Chenani in the western
part of the Jammu region.
Peer Baba
This is one of the
holy places for Muslim saints. Here, people from all the religions comes in
large number to pray, on Thursday.
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