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Jammu

City Of Temples

Jammu

Jammu also known as the City of Temples is nestled against the backdrop of the snowcapped Pir Panjal Mountains, the region of Jammu constitutes the southern most unit of the state of Jammu &Kashmir. Jammu is separated from Kasmir by Pir Panjal mountain range.Jammu borders Kashmir to the north, Ladakh to the east, and Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south. In the west, the Line of Control separates Jammu from the Pakistan region called Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Sandwiched between the Vale of Kashmir to the north and the Daman Koh Plains to the south, the Shivalik Range comprises most of the region of Jammu. The Pir Panjal Range, the Trikuta Hills and the low-lying Tawi River basin add beauty and diversity to the terrain of Jammu.The city of Jammu, the winter capital of the state, is the epicentre of all socio-economic activities in the Jammu region. It is also the base for visiting various centres of tourist and pilgrimage interest in which the region abounds.

History Of Jammu
Many historians and locals believe that Jammu was founded by Raja Jambu Lochan in the 14th century BC. During one of his hunting campaigns, he reached the Tawi River where he saw a goat and a lion drinking water at the same place. Having satisfied their thirst, the animals went their own ways. The Raja was amazed, abandoned the idea of hunting and returned to his companions. Recounting what he had seen, he exclaimed that this place, where a lion and a lamb could drink water side by side, was a place of peace and tranquility. The Raja commanded that a palace be built at this place and a city was founded around it. This city became known as Jambu-Nagar, which then later changed into Jammu. Jambu Lochan was the brother of Raja Bahu Lochan who constructed a fort on the bank of river Tawi.The city name figures in the ancient book Mahabharata. Excavation near Akhnoor, 20 miles (32 km) from Jammu city, provides evidence that Jammu was once part of the Harappan civilization.During the partition of India the ruler was Maharaja Hari Singh and he along with all the other princes was given the choice according to the instruments of partition of India in 1947, to freely accede to either India or Pakistan, or to remain independent. The princes were however advised to accede to the contiguous dominion, taking into consideration the geographical and ethnic issues.
Places to see in Jammu
  • AMAR MAHAL PALACE MUSEUM: Amar Mahal building was planned in 1862 by a French architect, based on the lines of a French Chateau heavily influenced by the Queen Anne style. As a result one can't deny the overwhelmingly European "feel" of the place. The Amar Mahal Museum offers a commanding view of the river Tawi and the Shivalik ranges towards the north.
  • BAGH E BAHU FORT: Bahu Fort & Gardens - Situated 5 kms away from the city centre, Bahu Fort stands on a rock face on the left bank of the river Tawi. Perhaps the oldest fort and edifice in the city, it was constructed originally by Raja Bahulochan over 3,000 years ago. Inside, there is a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. An extensive terraced garden, known as Bagh-e-Bahu, has been developed around the fort.
  • AQUARIUM BAGH-E-BAHU: The subcontinent's largest underground aquarium in Jammu's Bagh-e -Bahu area is drawing a large number of tourists ever since it was opened to the public. The aquarium houses 400 variety of fresh water and marine Fish.
  • DOGRA ART GALLERY: The Dogra Art Gallery at Mubarak Mandi Complex is open from 10:30 a.m to 4:30 p.m (winter); 8 a.m to 1:30 p.m (summer); Monday closed. Exhibits include fine miniatures of the Jammu and Basohli School of painting.
  • MUBARAK MANDI PALACE: The oldest buildings in this palace complex date back to 1824. The architecture is a blend of Rajasthani, Mughal and even baroque elements. The most stunning segment is the Sheesh Mahal. "The Pink Hall" houses the Dogra Art Museum which has miniature paintings of the various Hill Schools.
  • PEER KHOH: 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.
  • RAGHUNATH TEMPLE: 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 AD and was completed by his son Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1860 AD. The inner walls of the main temple are covered with gold sheet on three sides. 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.
  • RANBIR CANAL: Ranbir Canal - A small garden along the Ranbir Canal, which runs through the city outskirts, provides a cool picnic spot during the summer. The canal branches off from the river Chenab at Akhnoor, 32 kms away. Its water remains icy-cold throughout the year and its banks serve as good viewpoints and walkways.
  • RANBIRESHWAR TEMPLE: The Ranbireshwar Temple has twelve Shiva lingams of crystal measuring 12" to 18" and galleries with thousands of saligrams fixed on stone slabs.
Excursions from Jammu
  • Akhnoor - 32 Kms. To the west of Jammu situated on the banks of the mighty Chenab river is the historic town of Akhnoor. This town is associated with the legend of Soni-Mahiwal. Ruins of the Indus-Valley civilization are to be seen along the river bank commanding a panoramic view all around.
  • CHINGUS:The famous Chingus Sarai designed with Mughal architect style located about 2,000 feet above sea level and on the right bank of nallah and just on the Jammu-Poonch highway is a spot of historical interest. The entrails of the Mughal emperor Jahangir were buried inside this Sarai when he passed away while returning from Kashmir. It is around 35 Kms. from Rajouri.
  • JAWAHAR TUNNEL: Jawahar Tunnel, one of the longest tunnel-road in Asia, links Jammu to Kashmir Valley. This architectural marvel, built at Banihal at a height of 2194 m above sea level, has two tubes each one with a length of 2825 m. This metal-road-tunnel is built through the heart of a mountain. The tunnel makes it possible to stay in touch with Srinagar even during winters.
  • BASHOLI: 125kms south east from Jammu,Basholi is near to the famous hill station Dalhousie.Basholi Minature paintings based on the theme of vaishnavism are of major interest in the region.
  • BATOTE: Batote - Situated 125 Kms. From jammu at an altitude of 1560 metres on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway, this resort straddles the forested slopes of the Patnitop mountain range, overlooking the spectacular lie of the Chenab gorge.
  • KRIMCHI: - On the way to Sudhmahadev-Mantalai, a short detour takes one to Krimchi, site of three of the oldest temples of Jammu. The architecture of the temples shows distinct Greek (Hellenic) influences. Pancheri, a hill resort is a short distance away from here.
  • KISHTWAR: is situated at an altitude of of 1600 m around 232 kms from Jammu,it is popularly known as “LAND OF SAPPHIRE AND SAFFRON”. There are hot water springs.
  • KUD: - Located 103 Kms. From jammu, this popular resort is situated on the Jammu-Srinagar Highway, at an altitude of 1738 metres.
  • MANASAR LAKE: - located 62 Kms. From Jammu is a beautiful lake fringed by forest-covered hills. Boating facilities are available in the spot. Every year around Baisakhi, a food and crafts festival is organised here by J&K Tourism.
  • PUR MANDAL: Purmandal - 40 Kms. From Jammu, just off the National highway leading towards Pathankot is the Purmandal Temple Complex built on the banks of the sacred, mostly underground river Decak. Often referred to as 'Chhota Kashi', its main temple is dedicated to 'umapati', while the other temples are associated with Shaivites of the Kashmir Valley. Regular bus service from Jammu.
  • PATNI TOP: Patnitop - Is the most popular tourist spot of Jammu region. Located 112 kms from Jammu this famous hill resort is perched on a beautiful plateau, at an altitude of 2024 metres across which the Jammu-Srinagar Highway passes. It has lush green meadow and pine trees which resembles with Gulmarg. Patnitop offers beautiful picnic spots, peaceful walks and breathtaking views of the mountains cape of the Chenab basin. In winter, it is covered with a white carpet of snow and its slopes have been successfully experimented for sking. Sking courses are conducted at Patnitop in the months of January and February. During winter months there are introductory courses for tourists / beginners at gentle gradient slopes of Patnitop. At Madhatop (5/6 Kms from Patni top on Sanasar Road) excellent possibilities for all kind of skiing exist. Skiing equipments and wooden sledges are available on hire at Patnitop and Sanasar. For beginners Instructors are also available. Accommodation is also available at Patnitop Hotels.
  • KOL KANDOLI(NAGROTA): 9km from Jammu the ancient temples at Kol Kandoli is said to be the first darshans of Mata Vaishnodeviji,when the pilgrimage was performed from Jammu,the first of the 6 nights used to be at this temple.
  • RAMNAGAR: Ramnagaris a town and a notified area committee in Udhampur District in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir There are many tourist and visiting places in Ramnagar like Pingla mata , Chountra mata , Marhada mata the famous temple of SHREE NARSINGH JI MAHARAJ located in the heart of Ramnagar and also at GURLANG.
  • SANASAR: 129 Kms.from Jammu and only 19 Kms. From patnitop is Sanasar (2079 m), a satellite resort of Patnitop, with a cup-shaped meadow surrounded by gigantic conifers. A place for a quiet holiday, the meadow has now been developed as a golf course. There are several walks in the surrounding hills. The resort itself is ideal for paragliding, which is being promoted by the Tourism Department. Equipment can be hired from the tourist office in Jammu city. May to June and September to October are suitable months for paragliding in Sanasar. Tourists with own vehicle can go on to Sanasar from Patnitop and return by the evening. The resort is 19 kms from Patnitop and a road connects the two. Sansar can be reached by bus or taxi from Jammu, via Kud and Patnitop.
  • SUDH MAHADEV: This holy spot near Patnitop is situated at an altitude of 1225 mtrs., about 120 Kms. From Jammu. The shrine is visited by pilgrims on the full moon night of 'Sawan'(July-August) to worship the 'Trishul'(trident) and a mace which is said to belong to Lord Shiva. The Devak stream originates at Sudh Mahadev and disappears among the rocks a few kilometres down stream.
  • SURINSAR LAKE: is approximately 26kms from Jammu.It is a beautiful picnic spot.
  • NAV PINDIA: represents the nine forms images of Goddess Durga.It is 3 km from Katra and common along the pilgrims of katra.
  • SHIV KHORI: 100 Kms. From Jammu this holy cave, nearly a kilometre long with a 4-feet high naturally formed shivaling, is considered second only to the shrine of Vaishnodeviji. A major festival is held here on Shivratri Day.
  • DERA BABA BANDA: It is a major Hindu-Sikh pilgrimage centre situated 75 Kms from Jammu. Baba Banda Bairaagi was Guru Gobind Singh's favourite 'Saint-Soldier', who had the Gurudwara constructed on the banks of river Chenab, where he spent his last days.
  • SALAL DAM AND LAKE: 95 Kms.from Jammu to the west of the Holy Shrine of Vashnodeviji is the Salal Dam and Lake. With an installed capacity of 400 mw of electricity, this is the largest Hydroelectric Project commissioned in the state so far. The lake formed behind the dam is 33 Kms. Long. The Dam site can be visited with the permission of the project authorities.
  • BABA DHANSAR: 65 Kms. From Jammu, on way to Salal Dam, Baba Dhansar is a beautiful and cool picnic spot. Here, a huge spring gushes out of the mountainside in a thick grove of trees and forms a number of small water-falls before flowing into the holy Banganga. Next to the spring in a small grove in the rock face is a naturally formed Shivling on which droplets of water fall naturally all the year round. A big mela is held here during Shivaratri.
  • GAURI KUND: Short of Sudh Mahadev is the legendary spring where the Goddess parvati used to bath before commencing Her daily prayers at Sudh Mahadev. This spring came to be named after Her as 'Gauri Kund'.
  • JAJJAR KOTLI: 35 Kms. From Jammu on the National Highway leading towards Srinagar is the Jajjar Kotli Tourist Complex, built on the banks of the Jajjar rivulet. The crystal clear, cool water of Jajjar attract picnickers in large number during summer. A Tourist Cafeteria, a Bar and a small Tourist Bungalow are the facilities provided here by JKTDC.
  • BURJ AND SUI: About 20 kms from Jammu off the Jammu-Akhnoor highway is the small village of Burj. The non-descript village has in its midst a singularly distinct temple dating back to the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
  • MANTALAI: is surrounded by Lush deodhar forests .This place is associated with the marriage of Lord Shiva and Parvati.
  • BHADARWAH: 178 kms from Jammu, Doda with an altitude varying between 2700 m to 5000 m is land filled with adventure which makes it an ideal place for paragliding.other places to see here are sarthal known as chota pahalgam and fishing in sewa river for trout fish.
  • MATA VAISHNAV DEVI (KATRA): Situated 50 Kms. From Jammu this small town serves as the base camp for visting the famous shrine of Vaishnodevi in the Trikuta hills
  • The cave shrine of Mata Vaishnodeviji or Trikuta Bhagwati (alt: 5,200 ft.) Has been a beacon of faith and fulfillment to millions of devotees from all over the world. The pilgrimage to the Shrine holds great significance for the pilgrims. Having taken a vow of celibacy, she spent almost all her life in meditation and prayers. In time she attained enormous spiritual powers and is believed to have extracted an assurance from Lord Rama that he will marry her in Kali-Yug if she persisted in her spiritual quest. This is why she is also known as Adh Kanwari or the "eternal virgin". Mata Vaishno Devi established an ashram in the foothills of the Trikuta Mountain and began to meditate. As predicted by Lord Rama, her glory started spreading and people began to flock to her ashram to seek her blessings. As time passed, Guru Goraksh Nath ji, who had a vision of the episode between Lord Rama and Mata Vaishno Devi, became curious and wanted to know more about her. Accordingly, he sent his most able disciple `Bhairon Nath' to find out. Bhairon Nath started observing her secretly and realized that despite being a `Sadhvi', she always carried a bow and arrows and was always surrounded by langoor (apes) and a ferocious looking lion. Bhairon, the demon God took a fancy to her. But the Mata spurned his advances and fled to the Himalayas to continue her spiritual quest. On the way the goddess felt thirsty at Banganga and shot an arrow into the earth from where water gushed out. Charan Paduka, which is marked by the imprints of her feet, is the place where she rested. The Goddess then meditated in the cave at Adh Kanwari. It took Bhairon nine months to locate her, which is why the cave is known as Garbh Joon. When the demon found her, Mata Vaishno Devi blasted an opening at the other end of the cave with her trident and fled to the Holy cave at Darbar (temple). However, Bhairon was persistent and followed her there to harass her. Then goddess became very angry and assuming the form of Mata Kali, beheaded Bhairon outside the cave with the aid of the flying disc gifted to her by Lord Krishna The severed head of Bhairon fell at a distant hilltop. In his dying moments, Bhairon begged and received divine forgiveness from the goddess. Today, it is believed that the Yatra is not complete unless the pilgrim has been to Bhairon Temple (Mandir), 2.6 km from the main sanctum as well, after the darshan of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. The goddess herself took up permanent abode in a cave in the Trikuta Mountains by metamorphosing herself in to three pindis (Rock). This holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is unique as it contains the holiest of holy Pindis manifesting the Mata in her three forms - Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi and Maha Saraswati. Each form representing a particular attribute. Maha Kali represents Tamas Guna, Tamas meaning darkness. In her manifestation of Kali the omnipotent, absolute and all pervasive, she is said to be beyond fear and finite existence and is therefore able to protect her devotees against fear and to give them limitless peace. Maha Lakshmi represents Rajas Guna, Rajas meaning prosperity. In this manifestation, the goddess blesses her devotees with wealth and prosperity for living a better life. Maha Saraswati represents Sattav Guna, Sattav meaning wisdom and knowledge. This manifestation enables her devotees to distinguish between good and bad and helps them to adopt the right path in life. The combination of these three attributes in a single Shakti is a unique combination, which is what makes it, revered all over the world.
Fairs & Festivals
  • Lohri 13th January is also known as Makar sankranti and is celebrated to herald the onset of spring.
  • Baisakhi 13th April is the harvest festival.
  • Bahu Mela March ,April,September and October is held twice a year in Bahu fort.
  • Purmandal Mela febuary ,March is celebrated on Shivratri.
  • Jhiri Mela: octover-November is celebrated in remembrance of the legend of Baba Jittu.
  • Mansar Mela :is a 3 day festival organized by the J&K Tourism Dept during Baisakhi at Mansarlake.
  • Jammu Festival: is held in April to promote regional culture and art and crafts.
  • Navratra Festival in September-October is celebrated at Katra. A ten festival with cultural and musical programmes.
Shopping in Jammu

Jammu is known for the cheapest textile products. Samba is famous for block printing and phoolkari embroidery.Paintings from Basholi which are based on vaisnavism are great buys.

Here the main bazaars Vir Marg, Raghunath Bazaar and Hari Market are famous for Kashmiri handicrafts, traditional Dogra jewellery and various dry fruits, chiefly walnuts (‘akhrot’) and almonds. Jammu is also known for the superlative quality of its ‘basmati’ rice, ‘rajma’ (red beans), ‘ampapar’ (dried and candied mango peel), ‘anardana’ (dried pomegranate seeds) and ‘barfi’ (milk sweets). For purchasing authentic Kashmiri handicrafts, one can visit the J&K Government Arts Emporium near the Tourist Reception Centre on Residency Road. The emporium displays and sells a wide variety of handicrafts, including Pashmina shawls and exquisite hand-knotted carpets of silk and wool.

Things To Do
  • SKING: In patni top and Sanasar.
  • TREKKING: To Mata Vaishnodevi shrine,Sanasar,patnitop,sarthal kailash Kund,Bhaderwah.
  • PARAGLIDING: Sanasar.
Getting to Jammu
  • Jammu city is well connected by Rail, Road and Airways.
  • Main Airport: Satwari Airport.
  • Main station: Jammu Tawi.
  • Main Highway: National Highway 14

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