Jammu is an enchanting city that lies in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. This place needs no introduction as it is blessed with unmatched beauty, natural attractions and ancient temples that are known to all. Famous as the gateway to the popular pilgrimage shrine, Vaishno Devi Temple in Katra makes it a spiritually significant destination. Also reckoned as the state's winter capital, Jammu is indeed a place where one can enjoy the winter bliss. Situated right at the banks of Tapi river, the strategic location of the city adds more charm to its beauty. Offering incredible opportunities, it is one of the most fascinating places in India where holiday makers, pilgrims, honeymooners and almost everyone can have a wonderful time.
Best Time to Visit Jammu
The best time to visit Jammu is between March and October. This time is considered the peak season as the climatic conditions are very pleasant during this time of the year. In summers, the city experiences high temperatures that may go up to 45 degrees, making it tough to explore the destination in the daytime. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, which may hinder the tourists’ visits to different attractions. Thus, plan a trip anytime between March and October and enjoy the perfect mix of the best weather, lovely attractions, awe-inspiring temples, and spine-chilling adventure-based activities.
History Of Jammu
Named after the brother of Bahu, Jambu Lochan, Jammu is a city peppered with ancient temples. In the 9th century, Bahu ruled Jammu, a local chieftain with immense power vested in him. After becoming a king, he went out hunting across the River Tawi. He found a tiger and deer drinking water from the same tank. He was amused to see the sight. Upon asking his ministers about it, he was told that the land of this place is so virtuous that all living beings live peacefully with each other and bear no enmity with anyone. It motivated Jambu Lochan to build Jambupura, his capital on the banks of River Tawi. Later on, this place came to be known as Jammu.
Jammu is a beautiful city with temples where deities are worshiped, blessings sought, prayers offered, and a generally positive vibe experienced. The city flourished and prospered through the Middle Ages, and the town became immensely affluent. The land in Jammu is very fertile, and a variety of crops are cultivated that adds to its wealth. The medieval age started with the reign of Muslims and Mughals in the 13th century till the late 18th century. The first ruler was Shah Mir, who managed to take the responsibility of administration in 1339. Mughals ruled for almost the next five centuries. Then, the Afghan Durrani Empire administered the reign from 1747 to 1819.
This town was also used as a stopover for caravans passing through the area to Asia Minor, Kashmir, and beyond. It gained popularity as a base for the famous Silk Route. Until India gained independence, the city was ruled by Dogras.
Major Attractions In And Around Jammu
Jammu is a beautiful city blessed with the presence of some of the most beautiful and ancient temples and scenic splendours. These attractions make the destination famous among pilgrims and leisure travellers alike. Here we bring you a bouquet of the best places to visit in Jammu that you must explore when visiting this incredible destination.
1. Vaishno Devi Temple
Jammu is famous for Mata Vaishno Devi Temple,, one of the most visited Hindu shrines in the world. Millions of devotees visit this temple every year and the number is constantly increasing. People visit the temple with a lot of faith and hope in their hearts. They seek blessings from Maa Ambe and seek her blessings. The temple is perched atop a hillock 5200 feet above sea level and is constructed in a cave-like style.
2. Bahu Fort
The Bahu Fort is situated in Jammu and stands tall and immense on the left bank of the Tawi River. Moreover, what is quite interesting to know about this city is that the Jammu city is also referred to as the Gateway of Heaven. The impeccable beauty of this place leaves visitors awestruck, offering them delightful views.
3. Mubarak Mandi Place
Now, this is quite an iconic place to visit with your loved ones. The architecture of this place is an elaborate blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, and European influences.
4. Peer Kho Cave
It is a temple and an archeological marvel. Built by Raja Ajaib Dev in the 15th Century, it attracts a lot of visitors. The highlight of the temple is its huge courtyard which is used to celebrate major Hindu festivals with great pomp and show.
5. Shivkhori
Shivkhori is situated in the lap of nature and is specifically situated on a hillock in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. This particular cave has been specifically dedicated to one of the forms of Lord Shiva, who is depicted as unborn and invisible. Furthermore, this cave also consists of many magical places and natural impressions that look quite similar to Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesh, and Goddess Parvati.
6. Amar Mahal Museum
The Amar Mahal Museum is one of Jammu's most historically enchanting places to visit. The King Raja Amar of Dogra constructed it in the year 1890. Moreover, another interesting thing to know about this museum is that this was specifically planned by a French architect and is quite similar to the French Chateau with the Indian artisans.
7. Raghunath Temple Jammu
The Raghunath Temple specifically comprises a complex of Hindu shrines. And each of these shrines has its Shikhara. It needs to be seen that it is one of the largest temples constructed in North India. Maharaja Gulab Singh built this along with his son Maharaja Ranbir Singh.
8. Peer Baba Dargah
This spiritual place is dedicated to an Islamic saint Peer Budhan Ali Shah. And hence, this place also attracts many people and devotees from all across the country.
9. Baag-e-Bahu
It is a beautifully landscaped Mughal-style garden peppered with vibrantly-coloured flowers. With River Tawi flowing close by, the whole area looks enchanting and attractive. Stroll through the lovely garden, admire its surreal beauty, click selfies, and enjoy the heady fragrance of seasonal flowers. The fish-shaped aquarium has its own scenic charm and houses approximately 400 varieties of fish.
10. Mubarak Mandi Palace
It is the royal residence of erstwhile King of Jammu and is a very old structure, dating back to 1824. The palace was further expanded in the later years. Until 1925, the palace was used by the royal family of Jammu. Later, it was opened for the tourists who loved the eclectic blend of Baroque, Mughal, and Rajasthani styles of architecture. Gol Ghar Complex, Pink Palace, Nawa Mahal, and Rani Charak Palace are some of the attractions worth exploring within the palace premises.
It is one of the major hilltop tourist destinations in the area. Located at an altitude of 2024 meter above sea level, it is famous for paragliding joyrides. It is an ‘anytime’ place and welcomes visitors all through the year.
How To Reach Jammu
Jammu is a major city and is easily accessible through different modes of transport. It welcomes millions of visitors who arrive in the city for diverse purposes. Here are the details on how you can travel to Jammu by the following means of public transport.
- Nearest Metropolitan City. Delhi
- Nearest Airport. Jammu Airport.
- Nearest Railbase. Jammu Tawi Railway Station.
- Distance from Delhi. 588.1 Km
By Air
Deboard at the Jammu Airport (IXJ) and from there take a taxi or a bus to reach your respective destination. Jammu Airport is well connected with other Indian cities via good flight network and sees many prominent Indian airlines operating to and fro at a good frequency.
- Distance From Jammu Airport. 6.1 Km
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Jammu
By Train
Take a train to Jammu Tawi Railway Station and from there travel further via cab or a local bus to your respective destination. The Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT) sees frequent trains running to and fro via other Indian cities and towns transporting hundreds and thousands of passengers to Jammu.
- Distance From Jammu Tawi Railway Station. 3.8 Km
By Road
Depending on your geographical location, you can consider travelling to Jammu via interstate buses (private and government-run) for an affordable travel experience. You can also hire a cab from nearby towns and cities to reach here. If both these options don’t suit you then you can consider self-driving as well.
- Distance From Katra. 45.5 Km
- Distance From Ludhiana . 281 km via NH44
- Distance From Amritsar . 214 km via NH54 or NH44
- Distance From Kangra . 194 km via NH154 or NH44
- Distance from Delhi. 588 Km
- Distance from Mumbai. 1947 Km
- Distance from Kolkata. 2107 Km
- Distance from Bengaluru. 2751 Km
Frequently Asked Questions About Jammu
Ques 1. What are the most amazing attractions of Jammu?
Ans 1. Jammu is blessed with amazing natural attractions that are worth admiring. But what makes this city stand apart from other destinations in the state of Jammu and Kashmir are the magnificent ancient temples that lend a spiritual vibe to this place.
Ques 2. How far is Vaishno Mata Temple from Jammu?
Ans 2. The fabled Vaishno Mata Temple is 61.2 Km away from Jammu. The journey to the temple begins from Katra. Palanquins, ponies, and helicopter services are also available for the visitors of the temple.
Ques 3. What is the best time to explore Jammu?
Ans 3. The best time to visit Jammu is between March and October. This time is considered the peak season. The climatic conditions are also quite pleasant during this time of the year.
Ques 4. Is Jammu accessible by air?
Ans 4. Yes, Jammu is accessible by air. Jammu Airport is well connected with other Indian cities via good flight network and sees many prominent Indian airlines operating to and fro at a good frequency.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here and book your trip for Jammu, because with us, Nothing is Far.
