Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu is a popular tourist destination in the northernmost Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Known as the "City of Temples", Jammu is famous for its ancient temples, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. The city is situated on the banks of the Tawi River and is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.

Jammu also has several historical and cultural landmarks. The Mubarak Mandi Palace is one such landmark, the residence of the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir. The palace blends Mughal and European architecture and is now a heritage museum.

Jammu is also known for its scenic beauty, with several parks and gardens dotting the city. The Bahu Fort Park is one such park, which is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Tawi River. The park has a fort, a temple, a garden and a popular picnic spot.

Nature lovers can head to Mansar Lake, about 60 kilometres from Jammu. Dense forests surround this lake, home to several species of migratory birds. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake or go for a nature walk in the surrounding woods.

The best time to visit Jammu is from September to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly and snowy, making it difficult to explore the city. However, if you are a winter sports enthusiast, winters are the best time to visit Jammu, as the town has several skiing and snowboarding destinations.

Adventure Activities In Jammu:

Trekking:

Jammu has many trekking routes that pass through scenic landscapes and offer stunning views of the mountains. Some popular trekking courses in Jammu include the trek to Triund, Nag Tibba, and Har Ki Dun.

White Water Rafting:

The Chenab River in Jammu is a popular destination for white water rafting. The river has rapids ranging from Grade I to Grade IV, making it suitable for beginners and experienced rafters.

Mountaineering:

The Pir Panjal mountain range in Jammu offers great opportunities for mountaineering. Several peaks can be climbed, including Kolahoi Peak, Harmukh Peak, and Tatakooti Peak.

Paragliding:

Jammu offers excellent opportunities for paragliding, with many scenic locations that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The most popular site for paragliding in Jammu is Sanasar.

Skiing:

During the winter months, skiing is a popular activity in Jammu. The slopes in the Pir Panjal mountain range offer excellent skiing opportunities, and several ski resorts in the area cater to skiers of all levels.

Camping:

Jammu has many scenic locations that are perfect for camping. Some popular camping sites in Jammu include Sanasar, Patnitop, and Shivkhori.

Rock Climbing:

Jammu has many rock climbing sites suitable for beginners and experienced climbers. The most popular rock climbing site in Jammu is the Tawi Riverbed.

Wildlife Safari:

Jammu has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that offer wildlife safaris. The Dachigam National Park is a popular destination for wildlife safaris, and visitors can spot animals such as the Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and leopard.

Best Time To Visit Jammu:

The best time to visit Jammu is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. During these months, the temperature ranges from 5°C to 25°C, and the weather is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Places To Visit In Jammu:

Vaishno Devi Temple:

The Vaishno Devi Temple is one of India's most important religious sites. It is located in the Trikuta Hills, around 42 km from Jammu. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Vaishno Devi and is visited by millions of pilgrims annually.

Bahu Fort:

The Bahu Fort is a 300-year-old fort located on the banks of the Tawi River. The defence is home to the Bawe Wali Mata Temple, one of the most popular temples in Jammu. The reason is also home to a beautiful garden, a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks.

Raghunath Temple:

The Raghunath Temple is one of Jammu's largest and most important temples. It is dedicated to Lord Rama and was built in the 19th century by Maharaja Gulab Singh. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.

Amar Mahal Palace:

The Amar Mahal Palace is a beautiful palace on a hilltop in Jammu. It was built in the 19th century and served as the residence of the Dogra kings. The court is now a museum and houses a collection of paintings, artefacts, and manuscripts.

Surinsar Lake:

The Surinsar Lake is a beautiful lake located around 30 km from Jammu. Lush green forests surround it and are popular for picnics and boating. The lake is also home to several species of migratory birds.

Bagh-e-Bahu:

The Bagh-e-Bahu is a beautiful garden on the banks of the Tawi River. It is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks and is home to several species of plants and trees.

Jammu has a pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from September to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

How To Reach In Jammu:

By Air:

Jammu Airport, known as Satwari Airport, is approximately 8 km from the city centre. It is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara operate regular flights to and from Jammu.

By Rail:

Jammu Tawi Railway Station is the main railhead in Jammu and is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. Several trains, including the Jammu Rajdhani Express, Jammu Mail, and Shalimar Express, connect Jammu to other parts of the country.

By Road:

Jammu is well-connected by road to other parts of India. The National Highway 44 passes through Jammu and connects it to major cities in North India, including Delhi, Amritsar, and Chandigarh. Several state-run and private buses operate to and from Jammu.