Tourist places in Kathua District

 FAMOUS PLACES OF ATTRACTION IN KATHUA DISTRICT OF JAMMU REGION

Kathua district is situated in the Indian Union Territory Jammu and Kashmir. Kathua District is one of the 20 districts of the Jammu region. There are various tourists of attractions in the Kathua District where tourists can enjoy their journey and can make their journey more memorable. Here are the lists of some tourist of attractions in Kathua District are-

1- Sukrala Mata Temple

2- Ranjit Sagar Dam

3- Mata Bala Sundri Temple Nagri

4- Jodiyan Di Mata Religious Center

5- Duggan Valley

6- Purthu Beach- Mini Goa

7- Chandel Valley

8- Dhoula Wali Mata Religious Center

9- Banjal Garden of Natural Flowers

10- Asha Purani Mandir

11- Gurudwara Singh Sabha

12- Shree Anand Ashram

13- Airwan Temple

14- Narsingh Ji Temple

15- Sapt Sarober Mandir

16- Sarthal

17- Bani

18- The Dream

19- Mata Sundrikote

20- Peer Chattershah

21- Panyalag

22- Mahabilvakeshwar Temple

23- Chamunda Devi Temple

24- Sanan Ghat

25- Hiranagar

26- Jasrota

27- Billawar

28- Machhedi

29- Bhaddu

30- Mankote

31- Shiv Temple

32- Basohli

33- Dhar Mahanpur

Dudhadhari Mandir

 DUDHADHARI MANDIR- The Highest in the City

(Dudhadhari Temple)(source- Google)

Another popular and top sightseeing option in Jammu District is the Dudhadhari Mandir. Dudhadhari Mandir of the Jammu region is one such temple that is old and visited by many travelers whether religious or not who come to Jammu and Kashmir. Dudhadhari Mandir is located in Rajouri Village in Rajouri District near Poonch Highway of Jammu and Kashmir. Dudhadhari Mandir is established in white Marble and is situated on the highest peak in the Rajouri District.

HISTORY OF DUDHADHARI MANDIR JAMMU

(Dudhadhari Temple)(source- Google)

The Dudhadhari Barfani Ashram or Dudhadhari Mandir is established in the memory of Saint Dudhadhari Baba, who lived in the hills of Rajouri District near Pir Panjal Ranges. It is said that Saint Dudhadhari Baba got his name as he lived by drinking milk only. In Indian Language ‘milk’ means ‘dudh’ and ‘food’ means ‘aahar’ who took milk as his food so he became Dudhadhari. It is believed that the Dudhadhari Mandir is the only place in Jammu where devotees fulfill their wishes (Mannat) by making several promises.

BEST TIME TO VISIT DUDHADHARI MANDIR IN JAMMU

Dudhadhari Mandir is located on a high hill in Rajouri District in the Jammu region. Dudhadhari Mandir has a cooler temperature as compared to Jammu and Rajouri District is situated in the Pir Panjal Ranges. In winters, snowfall is constrained tourists to reach the Dudhadhari Mandir. From October to May is the best season to visit the Dudhadhari Mandir. Dudhadhari Mandir and Rajouri District receive moderate to heavy rainfall from July to September which makes the journey of the travelers more complex rather than exciting. 

HOW TO REACH DUDHADHARI MANDIR IN JAMMU

Dudhadhari Mandir is located in the Rajouri District, which Poonch highway and NH144A can reach. First must reach Jammu City then you will reach the Rajouri District. Jammu District is prominently attached with major cities of India so you can use any of the transport to reach Jammu City like Air, Railways, and Road transportations.

 The nearest airport from Rajouri District in Jammu is Jammu Domestic Airport which is located around 151 kilometers from the Rajouri District. Several domestic flights regularly travel between Jammu and other states every day for the benefit of travelers. 

The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi railway station which is located in Jammu City and is around 150 kilometers away from the Rajouri District.

NH44 and NH1A have highly connected Jammu to Punjab, Delhi, and other states in India.

From the Railway Station, Airport, and other parts of the city, local buses, private cars, and taxis are readily available to reach the Dudhadhari Temple in Jammu city.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS FROM DUDHADHARI MANDIR

There are several places to visit from Dudhadhari Temple in Jammu that is famous for their special attraction of their own. The nearby places are- Dogra Art Museum, Poonch Fort, Baba Dhansar, Ranbireshwar Temple, Akhnoor Fort, and several other attractions that are visited by ample of travelers every year.

Entry Fee- None

Timings- From 5 am to 6 pm

Famous for- The whole temple is made up of white marble.

Address- Shastri Nagar, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, 180004

Peer Kho Cave

 PEER KHO CAVE- the oldest one

(Peer Kho Cave Temple)(source- Google)

The Peer Kho Cave is a temple that is raised as the highlight in the tourist places list of Jammu and Kashmir. As per the archaeological records, the Peer Kho Cave Temple was established in the fifteenth century when Raja Ajaib Dev was under rule. Peer Kho Cave temple is one of the other well-known Shiva temples in the Jammu region. Acacia forests and igneous rocks set out as the backdrop to this cave temple. These trees make the environment more acceptable for God’s worship. Even though various famous legends are connected to the Peer Kho Cave Temple. The antiquity of the temple cannot yet be dated with confidence. Some people considered that this is one of the oldest historic places in the Shiwalik Region. The story of the temple goes that the Jamvant who is the bear God who played a key role in helping Lord Rama in conquering the Demon Ravana in the populous epic Ramayana had cogitated in the Peer Kho Cave temple for a long duration. That is why this temple is also called the Jamvant Cave. It is widely believed that the Shiva Lingam was established naturally in the cave of Peer Kho Temple and the people of the Jammu region began worshipping it conscientiously with a lot of respect.

Peer Kho Cave is situated around 3.5 kilometers away from Jammu City. This cave temple is located on the busy circular road but this temple is easily attainable from different corners of Jammu City.

Inside the temple, there are two natural caves each of the caves is having a depth of about 20 to 30 feet. Peer Kho Cave temple experiences the huge inundation of devotees which grows during the celebration of Shivratri and other Hindu Festivals. The Aap Shambu Temple, The Ranbireshwar Temple, and The Panjbakhtar Temple are the other temples that are situated in proximity to the Peer Kho Cave Temple.

Entry fees- None

Timings- From 5 am to 7 pm

Famous for- The splendid sight of spirituality where sadhus are totally in their zone and being the oldest temple in the Jammu city.

(Peer Kho Cave)(source- Google)

Vaishno Devi Temple

 VAISHNO DEVI TEMPLE- A Popular Site

(Vaishno Devi Temple)(source- Google)

The crusade Holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji is observed to be one of the holiest crusades of earlier times. Vaishno Devi temple is popular in the World as ‘ Moonh Maangi Muradein Poori Karne Wali Mata’ which means the mother who attains whatever her children wish for. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji lives in a Holy Cave which is situated in the folds of the three-peaked mountain named Trikuta which is also known as Trikoot. The Holy cave fascinates millions of devotees every year. But now the number of yatris who visit this Holy Shrine annually exceeds one crore. This is due to the determined faith of the devotees who assemblage the shrine from all parts of India and Abroad.

Since the year 1986, when the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board was established, the management of the shrine and adjustment of the Yatra has been endowed in the Board. The Board has tackled the number of developmental activities aimed at making the Yatra comfortable and satisfying for the Yatris. The Board resumes reinvesting the offerings and donations received in carrying out refinements in various kinds of Yatri facilities. 

The Call of Mata

The trip to the Holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji begins with the Call of Mata. It is not only the faith but also a strong experience of one and all that the Divine Mother dispatches a call to her children. Once a person receives a message of the Mother wherever he is, bound to visit the temple of the Mother to receives her unlimited love and blessings. A popular slogan beautifully expresses it- ‘Maan  Aap Bulandi’ which means that The Mother Calls Herself. It is the best experience of all the people who visit the holy shrine upon the Call of Mata. If a person needs to take just a step towards her and leave the rest to her so the journey of those people gets completed with the divine blessings of the Mother.

Simultaneously, it is also believed that the Call or Bulawa does not receive by the Mother no one can visit the temple or have her blessings.

Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the most visited Hindu Temples in the whole world. The Vaishno Devi Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Mahalakshmi. The belief over the Mother of millions of people is real. They all know that whatever you want or wish for here gets granted. The cave-styled temple is situated at an altitude of about 5200 ft above sea level. So the people have an opportunity to trek to the top from a point. For the route of climbing, there are few options other than walking are helicopter services, palanquin, or pony ride to reach the Vaishno Devi Temple.

Entry fee: None

Timing: from 5 pm to 12 pm, from 4 pm to 9 pm

Famous for- Being the most important religious site in the Indian Union Territory Jammu and Kashmir.

Phone number- 01991234053

Address- Bhavan, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir 182301

Best places in Jammu

 27 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN JAMMU

Jammu is called the ‘City of Temples’ has one of the most beautiful destination places for tourists because it has most of the unbelievable attractive places to explore. Jammu is known as an ‘all seasons’ holiday destination. The hill stations in Jammu are to be considered as an incredible paradise of the Earth. A vacation to Jammu is what you need and deserve for once in your life. Jammu is a place where you experience spirituality, thrill, and calmness in one place.

These 27 places are situated in the Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir State of India. Jammu region is familiar for its captivating mountains. Jammu region is initially known for its most famous temple that is Vaishno Devi Temple which grasps the very important religious significance for Hindus. But that is not enough at all in terms of attractions. This list of best places to visit in the Jammu Region will let you know that you have a couple of options to visit in this region and must be on your bucket list if you are scheduling for a break out to this part of Heaven on Earth.

So, here is the list of some best places to visit in the Jammu region that will make sure that you have a complete vacation package to this most attractive city. So, we are giving you a heads up on your trip expectations while a visit to the Jammu region.

1- Vaishno Devi Temple- A Popular Site

2- Bahu Fort- The Walls That Have Survived

3- Raghunath Temple- A Major Hindu Shrine

4- Baag-e-Bahu- Stroll around Nature

5- Sidhra Golf Course- A Scenic Getaway

6- Peer Kho Cave- The Oldest One

7- Dogra Art Museum- Witness Some Fine Art

8- Bhimgarh Fort- Travel back in time

9- Mubarak Mandi Palace- Place of Royals

10- Manda Zoo- Perfect for Family Vacations

11- Ranbireshwar Temple- Welcome Spiritual Powers

12- Amar Mahal Palace- Where Legend Lies

13- Rajender Park- A Natural Beauty

14- Surinsar Lake- For the Natural Splendour

15- Shiv Khori- Witness God’s Miracle

16- Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary- A Perfect Natural Abode

17- Dudhadhari Mandir- The Highest in the City

18- Baba Dhansar- A Holy Place

19- Balidan Stambh- Pay Homage to Soldiers

20- Akhnoor Fort- Witness Historical Times

21- Raghunath Bazaar- Find Local Items

22- Purmandal- For Life in a Village

23- Sheesh Mahal- A Royal Heritage

24- Dargah Garib Shah- A Symbol of Harmony

25- Bhairo Baba Temple- Hear the Amazing Story

26- Mahamaya Temple- For Gallantry Tales

27- Poonch Fort- With Glorious Past

These places of Jammu will give you the best experience of life to visit on Earth. The natural beauty of these places is a treat to the eyes. The tourists who wish to experience the natural scenic beauty and teeth-chattering temperatures can visit here. They leave long-lasting snow-capped memories imprinted in the mind of the visitors. The natural beauty of these places makes it a heavenly abode on Earth.

RAJOURI DISTRICT

 RAJOURI DISTRICT

(Rajouri District Map)(Picture source Google)

Rajouri or Rajauri District is a district of the Jammu region which was earlier known as the land of kings. Rajouri District covered with Poonch to its North, the Line of Control to its West, the Reasi District to its East, and the Jammu District to its South. Rajouri District is situated about 155 kilometers from Srinagar and about 150 kilometers from Jammu City on the Poonch Highway. Rajouri District is the birthplace of the Sikh General Banda Singh Bahadur. Kalaadi is the famous sweet of Rajouri District which is made from milk. The land of the Rajouri District is mostly fertile and mountainous. The main crops that are grown in the Rajouri district are maize, wheat, and rice. Tawi River is the main source of irrigation that originates from the mountains of Pir Panjal.

In historical times, the Rajouri area has great importance. In Mahabharat, there was a kingdom that was called Panchal Desa. Panchal Naresh was the king of that state whose daughter Draupadi was married to Pandavas. So the historians identified the state Panchal Desa as the Panchal Range of mountains. Rajouri District was also part of the kingdom of Panchal Naresh.

The climatic conditions of the Rajouri District are somewhat cooler than the other surrounding plains. Summers are short and salubrious and winters are cool and frosty with rainfall due to western disturbances. Snowfall is meager but may occur in cold months around December. 29 degrees Celsius is the average temperature of summers and 16 degrees Celsius is the average temperature of winters.

Rajouri District is a district that has a good number of attractive tourists spots. Places that are seeing near Rajouri Town or Rajouri fort are Gurudwara Chhati Patshahi, Balidan Bhavan, Rama Temple, Jama Masjid, and Shiv Mandir. The other famous and important places of tourist attraction and several hotels or lodges in Rajouri District are as follows: Shahdara Sharief shrine, Doodadhari Temple, Dhanidhar Fort, Kotranka Budhal, Mangla Mata Temple, The Manma Mata, Ziarat Sain Ganji Sahib, Peer Badesar, Mangal Dei Fort, Chingus Fort, Hall of Fame, Thanamandi Sarai, Lah Wali Bawli, Darhal, and Tatapani.

 Folk art of Rajouri District contains folk dances and folk songs which explain the culture of the Indian union territory Jammu and Kashmir. Rajouri is one of the lands of unimaginable and matchless beauty in the form of ancient mountains, rich flora and fauna, towering snow-clad mountains, exotic landscapes, verdant meadows, rich heritage, vivid cultural life, and marvelous folk dances and folk songs. 

The famous folk songs of Rajouri District which are renowned amongst the people are Dhindi, Kenchi, Cuckoo, Sopahiya, Mehndi, Baisakh, Dholan, Chann, Laari, and Bar-Shams. Some dance forms are very heart-touching and unforgettable that express the innermost joy and happiness. Dances are always connected with festivals, fairs, or worship of God and Goddess. The famous dances of Rajouri District are Gogri dance, Dogri Bhangra, Letri Naach, Chowki Naach, Jattar, Jagarana, Keekli, and Roff, etc. These are the dances that are performed at the festivals and fairs.

Ramban District

 RAMBAN DISTRICT

(Ramban District Map)

(Source- Google)

Ramban district is one of the districts of the Indian Union Territory Jammu and Kashmir. Ramban district is situated in the lap of the Pir Panjal mountain range. Ramban district is the district headquarters. The Ramban district is situated midway between the Jammu and Srinagar along with the Chenab River in Chenab valley on National Highway-44. Ramban district is around 1,156 meters above sea level. The boundary lines of Ramban district enclose hill station Patnitop as its southernmost point, Gool to the west, Assar on its eastern edge, and Banihal to the north. The terrain of the Ramban district is hilly and tough. Ramban district shares its border with Doda, Kulgam, Reasi, Anantnag, and Udhampur. The climatic conditions of the Ramban district vary according to the altitude. The working season of the Ramban district is about eight months due to the typical weather conditions of the Ramban district.

Ranbir Singh the son of Gulab Singh after his death became the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir in 1858 AD. Once when he was stumbling at Nashbad while going to Kashmir then he changed the name of Nashbad to Ramban. After this, Ramban received the status of stumbling station for the royal caravans. The most widely spoken languages of the Ramban district are Kashmiri and its dialects (Poguli and Sirazi). Urdu, Gojri, Punjabi, and Dogri are the other languages that are spoken in Ramban District. Ramban district has a majority of the Muslim population. In the Ramban district, 70% of the population is Muslim and 28% of the population is Hindu and the rest are other.

Sanasar Lake is one of the most famous lakes in the Ramban district for tourists. Sanasar Lake includes various tourist activities like- trekking, rock climbing, camping, paragliding, hot air ballooning, golf, and abseiling.

(Sanasar Lake of Ramban District)

(Source- Google)

Ramban District is the newly carved out district of Jammu and Kashmir state which came into force on 1st April 2007after the former Doda District which was further split into three districts of Ramban, Kishtwar, and Doda. The best season of the Ramban district is in March to May and October. The most favorite and popular dish of the Ramban District which is famous throughout the country that is Rajma with Chawal and with Desi Ghee and Anardana Chatni at the place Peerah on the National Highway.

Ramban district has many tourist places which provide special tourist attention towards the Ramban district. The list of the tourist potential places of Ramban district are- Banihal, Nilpal Lamber, Thandi Chhah, Neel Top, Zabban, Pogal Paristan, Gogli Dhar (Sunsaree), Kharwan, Maho Mangat, Gool. And the other tourist spots of Ramban District are- Bhatni Village, Ladha Dhar. These areas provide opportunities for orchards, cultural, agro, and adventure tourism potential. These areas have various scenic spots and vast lush green meadows.

In the Ramban district, there is the most important fort which is known as Gajpat Fort that is on the top of the mountain. Everyone said about this fort is, once Sheikh Abdullah was kept imprisoned in Gajpat fort for few days. In 1825, Raja Sultan Khan of Bimber was also imprisoned by Gulab Singh in this fort, and Raja Sultan Khan has died in this fort.

JAMMU DISTRICT

The District of Jammu

Jammu is one of the most crowded districts of the Jammu Division in India. Jammu is the winter capital of Indian Union Territory Jammu and Kashmir is bluffed on the Shivalik Range, dominating the northern plains. Jammu District obtains its name from the city of Jammu. Jammu is also called the city of temples. It is believed that Raja Jamboo Lochan was the founder of Jammu. One day the Raja Jamboo Lochan had gone out hunting when he happened to onlooker a tiger and a goat drinking water from the same pond. This astonishing occurrence set him thinking and decided to establish a city at this site so that the weak person and the strong person could live together in calm and patience. Ultimately, he established a city which is called ‘Jamboo’ after his name. Due to frequent pronunciation of the name got slightly changed and it is come to be known as ‘Jammu’ which is the called nowadays.  

Jammu is situated at 32.73 degrees North 74.87 degrees East. Jammu District covers an area of about 240 square kilometers. Jammu District advances around the Tawi River with the old city dominating it from the North while the new district advances around the Southern side of the river. There is a total of five bridges on the river. Jammu has a sub-tropical climate with warm summer and cold and foggy winter. The main crops grown in Jammu are Barley, Millet, Jowar, Pulses, Paddy, Bajra, Maize, and Wheat. But the major crops are grown in Jammu are Maize and wheat. The official languages that are spoken in Jammu are Hindi, Dogri, Urdu, and English.

Jammu District consists of various tourist places to visit which attracts the tourist and maintains its scenic beauty in the eyes of sightseers. The list of top attractions in Jammu City is- Vaishno Devi Mandir, Bagh-e-Bahu, Raghunath Temple, Surinsar Lake, Amar Mahal Palace Museum, Wave Mall Jammu, Bawey Wali Mata Temple, Leh-Manali Highway, Peer Kho Cave Temple, Ranbireshwar Temple, Mantalai Temple, Raghunath Bazaar.

The famous cuisine of the Jammu district is sund panjeeri, patisa, rajma with rice, and kalaadi cheese. Some other cuisines which are famous in Jammu are chaats, gol gappas, kachalu, chole bhature, gulgule, rajma kulche, dahi palla, etc.

(Kalaadi Cuisine) (Source- Wikipedia)

Due to its rich history and culture, the Jammu city holds various marvelous tales within its forts, temples, and palaces. Jammu city is covered by the glorious mountains and lush green forests, the love for these cannot be found anywhere on the planet. The list of things that you can do in Jammu is quite substantial but we have listed some of them are- trekking to Vaishno Devi Temple, Visit Mubarak Mandi Palace, Skiing in Patnitop, Savor Jammu Cuisine, Stroll in Bagh-e-Bahu, Enjoy a Helicopter ride to Poonch, Explore Bhimgarh Fort, Go Boating in Mansar Lake, Pray at Bahu Fort, Ride a Jeep or a Camel, Seek blessings at Raghunath Temple, Explore Peer Kho Cave, Drop by Manda Zoo, Marvel at Amar Mahal Palace, Celebrate Spituk Gustor Zanskar.

Resai District of Jammu

Reasi District is one of the eighth recently generated districts of Jammu which came in the existence from 1st April 2007. The essential occupation of the people is Agriculture and federated activities. Reasi District is economically an underdeveloped District. The main crops that are grown in Reasi District are Maize and Wheat, but now farmers have started to medley in Horticulture and vegetable crops. The Reasi District is enclosed by Udhampur District and Ramban District in the East, Jammu District in the South, Rajouri District in the West, and by Kulgam District in the North.

(Reasi District Map)

(Picture from Google)

Reasi District is situated at a distance of 64 kilometers from Jammu. Reasi District is predominately a hill district that revels inconsistent climatic conditions that range from sub-tropical to semi-temperate. The summers are substantially warm and the winters are cold with snowfall on the high ridges. One most attractive thing about Reasi District is that in summers, the temperature will be less than the temperature of other districts of Jammu and in winters, the temperature will be higher than the temperature of other districts of Jammu. So, this thing makes Reasi the most favorable district for all kinds of people who visit there. 

Reasi District is precious with numerous tourism hotspots. There are various places that you can visit in this district. The Reasi district has numerous pilgrimage places, waterfalls, caves, etc. While, the major Hindu crusade sites like-Gulab Garh, Dhagantop, Rama Kunda, Bhimgarh Fort, Shivkhori, Vaishno Devi Temple, Kalika Temple, Baba Dhansar, Dhyangarh, Baba Bidda, Siyad Baba Waterfall, Sula Park, Dera Baba, Thanpal, Dewel Marg are situated in Reasi District. Mainly in summers, due to these sites, Reasi District perceives great in-rush of people from all over the world. Reasi District is a great place for adventure fanatics. River rafting is a very famous adventurous sport in this district. You can opt for river rafting in Chenab River, 35 kilometers long extend. And you can also do river rafting on the way to Shiv Khori near Siyad Baba.

After this, this district had also the highest Railway Bridge in the world with a height of 1315 meters. This bridge is constructed on the Chenab River, which ultimately joins the Reasi-Banihal railway connection constructed by Konkan Railways. Salal Dam Power Project is also in the Reasi District. The Hydro Power Plant irradiates the whole of Northern India. This dam provides electricity to Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi.

(The highest railway bridge in Reasi District)

(Picture from Google)

(Salal Dam in Reasi)(Picture from Google)

Reasi District is one of the most charming and gorgeous places that nobody wants to leave. The Chenab River flows through and the view of mountains softens your heart and this feels that you are in the lap of nature. The wind, climate, and trees make you feel that you are in another world. The extensive view of this district will carve in your mind forever. Most of the area of Reasi District is surrounded by dense forest. In those dense forests, there are an array of plants and animals. Hence, the Reasi District is liberal in flora and fauna.

Districts of Jammu

 List of districts of Jammu

Jammu Region consists of 10 districts:-

1. Kathua

2. Jammu

3. Samba

4. Udhampur

5. Reasi

6. Rajouri

7. Poonch

8. Doda

9. Ramban

10. Kishtwar

Samba District of Jammu

 SAMBA DISTRICT

Now let us know about another district of Jammu that is the Samba District.

(Map of Samba District)(Source- Wikipedia)

Samba District was founded in 2006, Samba District is a district of Indian Union Territory, Jammu, and Kashmir. Samba district is also called the ‘City of Sheets’. Before the formation of the Samba District, this sector was part of the Jammu District and the Kathua District. Samba Town is located on the foothills of Shivalik Hills by the side of the National Highway at 384 meters above sea level, on the river Basantar that is at a distance of 40 kilometers from the Jammu City. Samba District is surrounded by the Udhampur District in the North, Kathua District in the East, Tehsil Jammu and Bishnath of District Jammu in the West, while in the Southern side of Samba District it has a 55.5 kilometers long International Border with Pakistan. Around two-third part of the Samba District is Rain Fed. Samba District comprises four blocks- Samba, Vijay Pur, Purmandal, Ghagwal.

Rath Kharda  Mela is the most popular fair in Samba District. An eight-day fair is arranged in Narsingh and Annapurna Temple in Ghagwal of Samba district of Jammu division. This fair requires taking out the procession of creator on a Chariot. Hence, this fair was named Rath Kharda Mela. Thousands of devotees are extracted from neighboring states of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, and also the other areas of the Jammu region. People of other hilly areas of Jammu like- Doda, Kishtwar, Basohli, Bani, Dudu Basantgarh set their stalls in this fair and sell the handicrafts and woolen items like- Blankets, Pattus, and Shawls.

During this fair, the temple is ornamented with lights and flowers. Devotees look up the temple and pay adoration to the main deity, Bhagwan Narsimha. A Bhandara is also arranged for devotees. 

The climatic condition of the Samba District is sub-tropical. Samba district is warm and dry in summers and cold in winters. As Samba is in the hillocks of the mountains so the nights of the Samba district are moderately cooler than those in the neighboring places of Punjab. The languages which are spoken in the Samba district are Dogri, Hindi, Urdu, Kashmiri, and English.

One of the famous landmarks of the Samba district is Mansar Lake which is located on the Samba-Udhampur road about 22 kilometers from Samba. The lake is covered with hills with different Hindu temples and enchants a large number of tourists, religious pilgrims, in the area. Purmandal is a village which is situated 39 kilometers away from Jammu. Purmandal is attached to Samba via the Purmandal-Utterbani-Vijaypur Road. Purmandal is commonly called ‘Chotta Kashi’ and has old Shiva Temples, which have pious importance, covered with the Shivalik hills. The temple Aap Shambhu Mandir is discovered in Jammu. Chichi Mata Mandir is a temple that is discovered in Samba is one of the shaktipeeths where the little finger of Goddess Sati fell. Samba District is also famous for its Traditional Calico Printing where wooden blocks and local dyes are used for block printing of weaved cotton fabrics.

(The road from Samba to Mansar Lake)

(Source- Wikipedia)

Udhampur District

 UDHAMPUR DISTRICT

(Udhampur District)

(Picture from Google)

Udhampur district is a district of Jammu which covers an area of 4,550 square kilometers in the Himalayan Mountains. After being given the name by Raja Udham Singh, Udhampur district assists as the district capital and the Northern Command headquarters of the Indian Army. A Forward Base Support Unit (FBSU) of the Indian Air Force is also established here. Udhampur is used by the Armed Forces as a shipment point between Jammu and Srinagar when traveling by road on National Highway 1A.

At an advancement of 2,024 meters the mountain resort of Patnitop and the temple at Sudh Mahadev trusted to be over 2800 years ago, are the other famous tourists of attractions of the Udhampur district. The major languages which are spoken in the Udhampur district are Dogri, Hindi, Urdu, Gojri, and English. The Udhampur District is rich in minerals like Coal, Bauxite, Gypsum, and Limestone.

Udhampur district consists of various tourist of attractions like Mansar Lake, Surinsar Lake, Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel, Sudh Mahadev, Krimchi Temples, Latti, Mantalai Temple, and Gauri Kund. Owing to an abundance of shrines and temples, Udhampur district is also called ‘Devika Nagari’ which means the ‘City of Goddess’. The places of worship that are discovered in the Udhampur district include Kansar Devta’s Shrine, Babore Temple, Shaankari Devta Mandir, Shiv Khori Cave Temple, Bhairav Ghati, Shiv Parvathi Cave Shrine, Cairhai, Mutal Pingla Devi Shrine, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, Deva Mayi Maa Temple, Sheshnag Shrine.

If you are naturally enthusiastic it is mainly to visit the Udhampur District of the Jammu Region. The attractive City Udhampur in Jammu is located at an altitude of about 755 meters above sea level that is covered with the impenetrable forests of eucalyptus trees in the Shivalik Range of the Himalayas. Udhampur District is a must-visit for its unreal beauty and fascinating attractions. Udhampur District is famous for its adventurous activities. The things that people can do in Udhampur District are-Skiing and Sledging, Walking Trails, Bird Watching, Temple Tours, etc.

The foremost attractions in Udhampur are the 12th Century krimchi Temples that are also called ‘Pandava Temples, with amazing historical and mythological significance. A set of seven temples, formed over a stone complex with tiny streams flowing close by the Krimchi Temples exhibit conceptual and entangled architecture that recommend a strong Greek influence. The temple houses sculptures of numerous Hindu Gods like Shiva, Ganesha, and Parvati, and it is trusted that the Pandavas had rested here for some time during their exile.

(Krimchi Temples)(source- Wikipedia)

Sheesh Mahal of Ramnagar is a historic royal residence of Jammu. Sheesh Mahal is situated just next to Ramnagar Fort in Ramnagar of Udhampur District. Sheesh Mahal was constructed by the king, Raja Ram Singh in 1885. The mansion got its name Sheesh Mahal from its embellished mirror work. Sheesh Mahal is also called as ‘Place of Mirror’. The walls of this elegant mansion are embellished with beautiful murals and paintings which portray the stories of Indian epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata.

(Sheesh Mahal Ramnagar, Udhampur)

(Source- Wikipedia)

JAMMU-The city of Temples (part-1)

 JAMMU-The City of Temples

Jammu is known as the winter capital of the Indian Union Territory ‘Jammu and Kashmir’. Jammu is situated on the bank of the river ‘Tawi’. Jammu is one of the second most populous cities of the union territory. Jammu covers an area of 240 sq. km. Jammu is covered with the northern plains in the North and the Himalayas in the South. Jammu is one of the most likely and most visited places in Jammu and Kashmir. Samba district is one of the neighboring districts from which Jammu city shares its borders.

             (River Tawi) (source- Wikipedia)

Raja Jambulochan is the founder of Jammu who decided to rule that area in the 9th Century. The Jammu Division is one of the revenue and administrative division of Jammu and Kashmir. In ancient times, Jammu was known as ‘Jamboo’ on the name of its founder, Raja Jambulochan, but now Jamboo is known as Jammu. Jammu consists of 10 districts these are Jammu, Doda, Kathua, Ramban, Reasi, Kishtwar, Poonch, Rajouri, Udhampur, and Samba. Mostly the land of Jammu is hilly and mountainous including the Pir Panjal Range which divides Jammu from Kashmir Valley and the part of Great Himalayas of Doda and Kishtwar. The principal river of Jammu is ‘Chenab’.

             (River Chenab) (source-wikipedia)

Jammu City is also called the ‘City of Temples’ as Jammu has many shrines and temples with glittering shikhars soaring into the sky, which dot the skyline of the city and creating the ambiance of a peaceful and holy city. Jammu is such a major pilgrimage Islamic for Hindus as Jammu is home to some of the most respected Hindu shrines like ‘Vaishno Devi Temple’. The majority of the population of Jammu practices Hinduism while Sikhism and Islam take pleasure in a strong cultural heritage in the Jammu region.

Jammu is popular for its ancient temples, landscapes, Hindu shrines, Mubarak Mandi Palace, Amar Mahal Palace (Now a Museum), forts, and gardens. Hindu holy shrines of Vaishno Devi and Amarnath attract many Hindu devotees every year. The historic monuments of Jammu characterize a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture styles. The natural landscape of Jammu has made Jammu the most favored or popular destination for Adventure Tourism in South Asia.

The list of some tourism places or we can say that the places of interest in Jammu are Purmandal, Vaishno Devi Shrine, Mansar Lake, Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary, Raghunath Temple, Peer Kho Cave, Bahu Fort, Shivkhori, Machail Mata, City centers, and attractions.

The cuisines which are famous in Jammu are Patisa, Chocolate Barfi, Sund Panjeeri, and its exotic local food. The specialty dishes of Jammu are Rajma with Rice and another one is kalaadi. The Dogri food includes Khatta Meat, Maa Da Madra, Kulthein Di Dal, Ambal, Rajma, and Auriya. Typical pickles of Jammu are made of Kasrod, Zimikand, Girgle, Mango with Saunf, Dal Patt, Tyaoo, Potatoes, and Seyoo.

The list of festivals that are celebrated with full of joy and happiness are- Uttarain or Maghi Sangrand (Makar Sankranti), Bhugga (Sankashti Chaturthi), Kan Chauth (Gauri Chaturthi), Ram Naumi (Rama Navami), Basoa (Vishuva) or Baisakhi (Mesha Sankranti), Bahu Mela ( March-April and September- October), Basant Panchmi, Chaitre Chaudash( March- April), Purmandal Mela (February- March), Dhamdeh (Dharma Dhihada- Aashada Sankranti) and Nirjala Ekadashi, Rutt Raahde and Sakolade (Shravana Sankranti), Holi, Thongren Da Vrat (Krishna Janmashtami), Bacch Dua (Vatsa Dwadashi) and Drubadi (Durvashtami), Singh Sankrant (Simha Sankranti), Lohri, Tulsi Puja and Panj Bhikham (Bhishma Panchak), Jhiri Mela (October- November), Navratri Festival (September- October), Rath Kharda Mela, Shivratri (Herath).

JAMMU- The city of Temples (part-2)

 The official languages of Jammu are Kashmiri, Dogri, Urdu, Hindi, and English. But the languages which are spoken in Jammu are Dogri, Kashmiri, Pahari- Pothwari, Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu. The Pin code of Jammu is ‘180001’. Jammu is vested at 32.73 degrees North 74.87 degrees East. Jammu is covered by the Shivalik Range to the East, North, and Southeast while the Trikuta Range covers Jammu in the Northwest. The total population of the Jammu region is around 5,350,811. Jammu city is the largest city of the union territory Jammu and Kashmir.

The climatic conditions of the Jammu region change with altitude. In and around Jammu city, the climate is homogeneous to the nearby Punjab region with the rainy monsoon, warm summers, and mildly cold and gloomy winters while Jammu city does not sophisticate any snowfall itself, the higher hills and mountains are elevated during the winters. Tourists from all over India come to the Patnitop mountain resort to view and enjoy the winter snow. In winter, the Vaishno Devi shrine is covered with snow and also looks exquisite. Most people love to visit the Vaishno Devi shrine in winter to look at the beauty of that shrine. The place is a wonderful idea to visit especially for travelers who wish to experience the natural scenic beauty and teeth-chattering temperatures.

Jammu covers Kashmir valley to the North, Ladakh to the East, and Punjab and Himachal Pradesh to the South, and the line of control divides Jammu from Pakistan administered Kashmir to the West. Jammu region has earthly 8 sub-regions:- Chenab valley, Ravi-Tawi Kandi Plains, Shiwaliks Pir Panjal Belt, Bhaderwah Valley, Paddar Valley, Gandoh Valley and Warwan-Marwah Valley.

The handicrafts work of Jammu is prominent. Jammu is undoubtedly a heaven for shopaholics on Earth. With such unblemished things to buy from stunning places, shopping in Jammu is certainly an experience you would not miss. From the outstanding fabric to the exquisite charm in every item, anything that you may buy from Jammu city will have a sterling vibe to it. The list of 10 most famous handicrafts work of Jammu are- Kashmiri Carpets, Crewel, Carving, Chain Stitch, Papier Machie, Namdha, Phool Kari, Kashmiri Shawls, Painting, Calico Painting. Now here are the 10 best places for shopping in Jammu for a unique experience to buy these handicrafts are:- Raghunath Bazaar, City Square Mall, JDA Complex, Vermani World, Wave Mall, Hari Market, Poshish, Kashmir Government Arts Emporium, Gole Market, Bahu Plaza. These are the places where you can buy famous handicrafts at a feasible price.

              (Jammu Division) (source- Wikipedia)

Kathua District

 KATHUA DISTRICT

Let’s know about the first district of Jammu that is the Kathua District.

(Kathua District)

(Picture from Google)

Jammu consists of 10 districts in which Kathua district is one of the 10 administrative districts of Jammu. Kathua district is covered with Jammu to the Northwest, the Doda and Udhampur districts to the North, the state of Himachal Pradesh to the East, Punjab to the south, and Pakistan’s working boundary to the West. The homestead of Kathua is diverse, that consists of rich agricultural areas along the Punjab/Kashmir border. Kathua district is separated into 8 blocks- Bani, Barnoti, Basohli, Billawar, Duggan, Ghagwal, Hiranagar, Kathua, and Lohai Malhar. The traditional language which is mainly spoken in the Kathua district is Dogri. Pahari languages are operable in the mountainous area of the East. English, Hindi, and Urdu are the principal languages of Kathua. The total population of the Kathua District is around 59,866.

Kathua is situated at a distance of about 88 km from Jammu. About 2000 years ago, a popular Rajput King, Jodh Singh of the Andotra Dynasty was settled here with his three sons, those three sons founded their own small towns namely, Taraf Tajwal, Taraf Manjali, and Taraf Bhajwal. These three towns were together called Kathai by the local people. Ultimately, Kathai became Kathua.

(Night view of Kathua district)

(Source- Wikipedia)

The climatic conditions of Kathua are sub-tropical which is similar to the rest of the places of Jammu. Kathua endures cold winters and warm summers. Summer seasons are quite salubrious here and most of the tourists love to visit this city during summers. The summer season commences from April and continues till June. During summers travelers can delight in all the outdoor activities such as sightseeing and trekking.

Kathua district has beautiful gardens and parks, of which one is Dr. K. K. Birla Garden. Kathua city has a garden along with the tributary of Ravi river which is famous for its beauty throughout the Jammu Region. 

(Dr. K.K Birla Garden)(source- Wikipedia)

(Dream park)(source- Wikipedia)

(Atal Setu Bridge on Ravi River)

(Source- Wikipedia)

Tourists are attracted to the various tourist places where they can relish and make their journey unforgettable. So, the following are the list of the comprehensive famous tourist of attraction in Kathua District-

 1- Bani

2- The Dream

3- Chandel

4- Mata Sundrikote

5- Mata Bala Sundri

6- Airwan Temple

7- Peer Chattershah

8- Gurudwara Singh Sabha

9- Panyalag

10- Sarthal

11- Jodia Di Mata Temple

12- Sukrala Mata Temple

13- Mahabilvakeshwar Temple

14- Chamunda Devi Temple

15- Sanan Ghat

16- Hiranagar

17- Narsingh Ji Temple

18- Shree Anand Ashram

19- Jasrota

20- Asha Purani Mandir

21- Sapt Sarober Mandir

22- Dhoula Vali Mata

23- Billawar

24- Machhedi

25- Bhaddu

26- Mankote

27- Shiv Temple

28- Dhar Mahanpur 

29- Basohli

Basohli is a town of Kathua District which is majorly known for its paintings, memorialized by their artistic eminences and their connoisseur patrons, today Basohli is a metaphor town which is a vigorous, bold, and imaginative artistic style, stylish rich, and unconventional. The painting style is characterized by the vigorous use of primary colors a peculiar facial formula that persists in the seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries in the foothills of the Western Himalayas in the Jammu and Punjab states.

(Famous painting of Basohli)

(Picture from Google)