What is Jammu best known for?
The winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu is located on the Shivalik Range overlooking the northern plains. The city is believed to have been founded by Raja Lochan in the 8th century. Jammu houses a large Muslim population, but the numbers of temples are more than that of other states. For this reason, Jammu is called the city of temples. The world-famous pilgrimage sites such as Vaishno Devi Dham, Bahu Fort, Amar Mahal, and other places of tourist interest attract tourists here. Jammu is located to the south of the Great Himalayan mountain range and to the north of the plains of Punjab. Jammu is famous for walnut and oak forests, while the cedar trees are forested in the north. October to March is the best time to visit Jammu.
Best places to visit in Jammu
- Vaishno Devi Temple: It is one of the most visited Hindu shrines in India. A million passengers walk along the trail to reach this holy shrine of Vaishno Devi.
- Raghunath Temple: The temple reflects a perfect blend of Sikh and Mughal architecture.
- Bahu Fort: Dating back to the 18th century, Bahu Fort is an excellent example of tough architecture. This temple is situated on the banks of river Tawi and is dedicated to Goddess Kali. It was built 300 yr ago by King Bahu Lochan, this fort reflects the Surya dynasty.
- Peer Kho Cave: This temple is one of the oldest in Jammu, dating back to the 15th century. This temple is also known as Jamwant Cave. Many peers, fakirs and sages meditated in this cave.
- Bhimgarh Fort: This fort is the perfect place to travel back in time and admire the historical aspects of Jammu. Situated on the bank of Chenab river, the fort was built as a protection against invaders.
- Manda Zoo: Also known as Manda Deer Park is a National Park in Jammu. It is the perfect place for family excursions. The zoo features numerous species of wild animals and birds. Built away from the hustle and bustle from city life.
- Amar Mahal Palace: This palace is one of the best places to look upon the art and culture of Jammu in the past times. The palace was built in 1862 for Raja Amar Singh. The architecture of the palace displays the true French-Chateau style.
- Dogra Art Museum: This museum is the perfect haven for art freaks as they will be rewarded with some marvellous pieces of fine arts, and traditional handicrafts.
- Shiv Khori: It is a cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated in between the hillocks. Shiv Khori exhibits a natural formation of shivling which is visited by hundreds of tourists in Jammu.
- Peer Baba Dargah: The dargah is dedicated to the famous Islamic saint Peer Budhan Ali Shah. The aura of this place is so serene that people from all religions are attracted here.
Airport in Jammu
Jammu Airport or Satwari Airport is situated 8 km from the city center. Jammu Airport consists of duty-free shops, trolleys, cafes, and other essential facilities.
- Airport address: Jammu Airport, Civil Airport, Raipur Satwari, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
- IATA code: IXJ