Rajouri – The Gateway to the Pir Panjal
An intriguing town is known for its subtle natural beauty, Rajouri is a place that any travel lover would definitely want to explore. The fact that Rajauri shares its borders with Pakistan makes it a unique travel getaway and worth your time. Traveling here, it feels as if nostalgia of the long-gone past registers its presence in the very air of this place. It is situated at an approximate distance of around 154km from Jammu and is definitely an exciting travel getaway.
Geography and Climate
- Location: Rajouri is located 150 km from Jammu and 40 km from Poonch, on the Mughal Road that connects Kashmir with Jammu.
- Altitude: Approx. 915 meters (3,002 feet) above sea level.
- Climate:
Summer (April–June): Pleasant, temperatures range from 15°C to 35°C.
Monsoon (July–September): Moderate rainfall, with lush greenery.
Winter (October–March): Cold, with temperatures dropping to 0°C or below, and occasional snowfall.
Best Time to Visit: March to June (Summer) and September to November (Autumn) for pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
History of Rajouri
One can sense a profound sense of history here. Going back in the past, you would be intrigued to know that it was the decisive year of 1813 when Gulab Singh of Jammu had captured Rajouri for the Sikh empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. After this, some parts of the captured land were given in the form of jagirs to Rahim Ullah Khan and Gulab Singh.
The First Anglo-Sikh War
Following the first Anglo-Sikh war, the geographical territories between the river Ravi and Indus were transferred to Gulab Singh and he was then recognized as the independent Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir. It was him who changed the name of Rajouri to Rampur. With this, Rajauri had now become a princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. A man named Mian Hathu was further appointed as the governor of this place. It is said that it was he who made the Rajouri Fort at Dhannidhar village. And after the timeline of Mian Hathu, Rajouri was then converted into a tehsil and was also affiliated with the Bhimber district.
The Partition And The War
Soon after the partition, a brutal war between India and Pakistan followed during which the Pakistani forces were able to capture Rajouri. It is said that about 30,000 Hindus and Sikhs were murdered or abducted during this period. However, on 12th April 1948, Rajauri was recaptured by the Indian forces.
Major Attractions in and Around Rajouri
1. Manma Mata Temple
If you are wondering about the things to do in Rajouri then visiting Manma Mata Temple is one of the best things you would be doing, making your vacation even more interesting.
2. Muradpur Sarai & Mosque
The Muradpur Sarai & Mosque is again a very religiously active place to visit. It is situated in Muradpur town at a distance of 7 km from Rajouri. Fundamentally, it is a medieval Sarai with enclosure walls giving it a religious feel.
3. Nadpur Sarai
The Nadpur Sarai is situated at a distance of around 10km from Nowshera. This tourist destination comprises a very spacious rectangular courtyard that is surrounded by an enclosed wall.
4. Rajouri Fort
- An ancient fort dating back to the Mughal and Dogra era.
- Offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
5. Dehra Ki Gali (DKG)
- A beautiful hill station near Rajouri, surrounded by thick pine forests and meadows.
- Ideal for picnics, trekking, and photography.
6. Thanamandi
- A historically significant town on the Mughal Road, known for its cool climate and scenic beauty.
- Once a summer retreat for Mughal emperors.
7. Kotranka (Budhal)
- A picturesque valley with lush greenery, waterfalls, and adventure trails.
- Famous for trekking and nature walks.
8. Darhal Valley
- A stunning valley known for its rich flora and traditional villages.
- A peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
9. Dhanidhar Fort
- Built by the Maharaja of Jammu to protect Rajouri from invasions.
- Now a popular historical and trekking destination.
10. Peer Ki Gali
- A breathtaking mountain pass on the Mughal Road, offering spectacular views of the Pir Panjal Range.
- Considered a spiritual site by locals.
11. Mangla Mata
- A revered Hindu shrine located atop a hill.
- Offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
12. Shadra Sharif Dargah
- A famous Sufi shrine dedicated to Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah.
- Attracts devotees from all faiths and offers a serene spiritual experience.
13. Lakes and Waterfalls
- Rajouri is home to several hidden lakes and waterfalls, such as Tarkundi Lake and Nowshera Waterfalls, offering tranquil spots for nature lovers.
Things to Do in Rajouri
- Trekking & Hiking
- Camping & Nature Walks
- Explore Mughal Road
- Pilgrimage & Spiritual Retreats
- Photography & Birdwatching
What is the best time to visit Rajouri?
- March – June (Summer): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
- September – November (Autumn): Best for trekking and nature walks.
- Winter (December – February): Snowfall in higher areas like Peer Ki Gali.
How to Reach Rajouri
Rajouri, also known as Rajouri is a very beautiful town situated in Jammu and Kashmir. It is the kind of place you visit if you love nature and are looking for making some cherishing memories. Rajouri is located at a distance of 733 km, 2,099 km, 2,248 km, and 2,902 km from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Here is how you can reach Rajouri via the following routes.
By Air
The town of Rajouri doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest airports are the Jammu and Srinagar Airport. The Jammu Airport is located at a distance of 150 km whereas the Srinagar airport is located at 177 km approximately. Out of the two, Jammu Airport would be a suitable option for you. After you deboard at the airport, you will need to cover the remaining distance by some means of public transportation like a cab.
The Jammu Airport (IXJ) is officially called the Jammu Civil Enclave and handles only domestic flights. On the other hand, the Srinagar Airport (SXR) is a military airbase. Various airlines operate to and fro from Jammu and Srinagar like Indigo, Air India, Air Asia, Vistara.
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Rajouri
By Road
Depending upon your location, you can plan a trip to Rajouri by road either by your own vehicle or by a bus. Here is the route you can take to reach Rajouri by road.
- Delhi - 737 km via NH44
- Patiala - 516 km via NH44 or NH54
- Bikaner - 868 km via NH54
- Ludhiana - 425 km via NH44
- Amritsar - 357 km via NH54
According to your suitability, you can choose to travel by interstate buses or private buses as well. From Amritsar, the bus fares are starting from Rs.344. From Dehradun, the fares are starting from Rs.600. From Shimla, fares are starting from Rs.500.
By Train
If you are planning a trip to Rajouri by train, then your best option would be Jammu Tawi railway station which is located at a distance of 150-160 km. Thus, after deboarding at the station, you will need to travel via some means of public transportation. Here is the route you can take to reach here by train.
- Delhi - Board SVDK Vande Bharat from New Delhi Railway Station and deboard at the Jammu Tawi
- Jaipur - Board AII JAT EXPRESS from Jaipur Junction and deboard at the Jammu Tawi station
- Lucknow - Board Amarnath Express from Lucknow NR and deboard at the Jammu Tawi station
- Amritsar - Board JU JAT Express from Amritsar Junction and deboard at the Jammu Tawi Station
Frequently Asked Questions about Rajouri
Q. Where is Rajouri located?
A. Rajouri is a district and town in the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory of India, situated in the Pir Panjal Range, about 150 km from Jammu and 40 km from Poonch.
Q. What is Rajouri famous for?
A. Rajouri is known for its scenic beauty, historical forts, pilgrimage sites, and Mughal-era landmarks. It is also famous for the Mughal Road, Rajouri Fort, Dehra Ki Gali, and Shadra Sharif Dargah.
Q. Is Rajouri a good place for family trips?
A. Yes! Rajouri is great for families who enjoy nature, history, and spirituality. It has pilgrimage sites, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage suitable for all ages.
Q. Does Rajouri receive snowfall?
A. Yes, higher-altitude areas like Peer Ki Gali and Dehra Ki Gali receive snowfall in winter (December–February), making it a great time for snow lovers.
Q. Can I visit Rajouri as a solo traveler?
A. Yes, solo travelers can explore Rajouri safely, but it’s recommended to plan accommodations and transportation in advance.
