Famous Tourist Places in Jammu

Today, in this article, we will talk about the top most famous Tourist Places in Jammu enriched with insider tips, cultural insights and practical advice to plan your visit to Jammu region. Jammu is commonly known as city of temples, but there is lot more to explore for tourists like beautiful diverse forests open valleys, blue sky, green meadows roaring pines, steep roads, lakes, rivers, friendly people and snow capped mountains. It is the most unexplored region of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu city is the winter capital of UT of Jammu and Kashmir and is properly connected by all weather roads and trains to the rest of India throughout the year. It has so many beautiful places to explore but still remains much underrated from tourist attraction point of view. Jammu has its own culture, Dogra culture which is very different from Kashmir. Now, we are going to explore the famous tourist places in Jammu that make it a must visit destination.

Famous Tourist Places in Jammu

The Jammu division is renowned for its breathtaking sightseeing spots, offering a perfect blend of spirituality, adventure and natural splendor. Some of the most beautiful and famous tourist places in Jammu are listed below:

1. Vaishno Devi

Vaishno Devi situated in the Trikuta Hills of Katra district, is undeniably one of the famous tourist places in Jammu and a sacred pilgrimage site in India is the most sacred shrine of India. It is situated at an altitude of 5,300 feet above sea level in Trikuta Hills of Katra district, is approximately 44 Kms from Jammu which takes near about 1 hour of ride. From Katra you have to travel on foot steps to reach the Bhawan. The distance from Katra to Bhawan is almost 14 kms. If you can’t travel by foot, Chopper service is also available, you also have the option of travel by horse. This revered shrine attracts millions, making it a cornerstone among the famous tourist places in Jammu.

Insider Tip: Plan your visit during the off season (February to April) to avoid crowds.

2. Raghunath Temple

Raghunath temple, situated in the heart of Jammu city is a prominent landmark among the famous tourist places in Jammu. It lies very close to Jammu Bus stand and considered to be the largest temple complex of North India. It took approximately 25 years to build this temple. This temple belongs to Lord Rama, whom people of Dogra community worship the most. Besides, this temple has statues of all other Gods as well. Many tourists and pilgrims came to visit this temple from far off places. It is famous for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings, makes it a must visit spot among the famous tourist places in Jammu.

Insider Tip: Advised to attend the evening aarti for a soulful experience and explore nearby Raghunath Bazaar for Dogra handicrafts.

3. Bahu Fort

Bahu Fort, most commonly known by the name Bagh-e- Bahu is a historic gem among the famous tourist places in Jammu. It is the largest garden of Jammu city, situated on the bank of river Tawi. Bahu fort is approximately 3000 years old founded by Raja Bahulochan. The architecture of Bahu fort is worth watching, but the most attractive thing here is the Bagh-e Bahu garden. This garden is a sight to behold combining the peaceful aura with sprawling lawns, grand fountains and a large aquarium. Besides, there also exists an ancient temple of Hindu Goddess Maa Kaali. It has everything which attracts locals and tourists for spending a peaceful and relaxing evening.

Insider Tip: Visit at sunset for stunning views of the Tawi River and try local rajma-chawal at nearby eateries.

4. Patnitop

Patnitop, a hill top destination which is approximately 100 kms from Jammu is a beloved destination among the famous tourist places in Jammu. It takes 2 and a half hour journey from Jammu by road. You can enjoy many adventurous activities at skyview Patnitop which is not only known for its gorgeous view but also some unique sports like longest zig zag ziplining through deodar and kail trees, tubing sledge, ride on India’s first magic carpet on a sloppy hill, Gandola ride (India’s highest ropeway). If you are snowfall lover, then you can enjoy heavy snowfall here in winter.

Insider Tip: Visit Patnitop during the Winter Festival (January) for cultural performances and local cuisine like kalaari cheese.

5. Sanasar

Sanasar, one among the famous tourist places in Jammu is approximately 20 Kms from Patnitop and it takes almost 1 hour journey to reach here from Patnitop. It’s a place where many tourists enjoy trekking, parasailing, horse riding and hiking like activities. It’s among one of the best places to visit in Jammu. In the centre of Pine trees and beautiful landscapes, sitting by the side of this lake makes your trip more memorable.

Insider Tip: Try paragliding for a bird’s eye view of the valley and pack a picnic with local kulcha from nearby stalls.

6. Mansar

Mansar is famous for beautiful lake and wildlife sanctuary.It is almost 45 kms from Jammu city and takes about 1 and a half hour ride. People take a holy dip in water of this beautiful lake on festive season. People can enjoy boating in this beautiful lake at a very reasonable rate. This lake is rich in aquatic flora and fauna. There are so many fishes, eels, swans and tortoises etc. People love feeding the aquatic life in this lake. Lord Sheshnaag temple is also situated on the banks of this lake. Mansar is a picnic spot for many schools. You will definitely spend some quality time sitting in the garden by the side of this beautiful lake and love the scenic beauty of this place. In wildlife sanctuary you can see peacocks, deers etc. Mansar with its beautiful garden and wildlife, is a favorite picnic spot among the famous tourist places in Jammu.

7. Sruinsar Lake

Sruinsar lake is one of the best tourist attraction spot in jammu division which is very well maintained. It is just 30 kms from Jammu city and take about 50 minutes of journey to reach here from Jammu city. Sruinsar lake is very beautiful with a small oval shaped island which is full of trees, fish eating birds and Bats. A park is also built near the lake which is full of paid kid’s ride where kids enjoy a lot. Its original name was Surang Sar which later became Sruinsar. Just like Mansar Lake, it is also surrounded by dense forest and beautiful mountains. Sruinsar lake is a wetland of International importance and declared as Ramsar site by Ramsar Convention on 8^th November, 2005. Sruinsar Lake Surrounded by dense forests and mountains is a must see among the famous tourist places in Jammu.

8. Krimchi temples

Krimchi temples, locally known as Pandava Temples, situated in the Udhampur district of Jammu region, is a complex of seven ancient Hindu temples located on bank of stream Birunala in village Krimachi which is approximately 12 kms from Udhampur. These temples are approximately 65 kms from Jammu city which takes 1 and a half hour ride. Krimchi temples reflecting the region’s rich heritage, making them one of the famous tourist places in Jammu for history enthusiasts.

Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a short hike to nearby Devika River and try local chole bhature in Udhampur.

9. Atal Setu

Atal Setu known as Basohli bridge, is the first cable stayed bridge of UT of J&K built on Ravi River, connecting Basohli of Jammu region with Punjab and Himachal. It lies in Kathua district of Jammu division and is approximately 140 kms from Jammu city and take almost 3 hours of ride to reach here from Jammu city. The bridge opened in 2019, boosted the regional connectivity and is a very popular spot for pre-wedding shoots due to its scenic backdrop. The bridge has a length of approximately 1.6 Kms.

Insider Tip: Visit at sunrise for stunning photos and explore Basohli’s handicraft markets for souvenirs.

10. Sarthal valley

Sarthal valley is situated near Bani valley of Kathua District and is approximately 230 Kms from Jammu city and is approximately 6 hours ride from Jammu city. Sarthal valley is all about beautiful meadow situated at a height of 7000 feet bounded by snow clad mountains, dense forests and a small river which attracts tourists from Chenab valley, Kathua, Pathankot and some areas of Himachal Pradesh every year. This valley receives so much snow that it remains covered under snow for six months. This valley is very often remarked as Pahalgam of Jammu. Sarthal is home to the nomadic Gujjar and Bakarwal communities, whose vibrant festivals add cultural charm.

Insider Tip: Visit during the Sarthal Mela (August) for folk dances and pack warm layers for chilly evenings.

11. Baderwah Valley

Baderwah valley is situated at a height of 65000 feet above sea level is a biodiversity hotspot among the famous tourist places in Jammu. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, natural beauty and is surrounded by towering mountains, gushing streams and dense forests. This valley is a must visit destination for the tourists who wants to experience the true essence of Jammu and Kashmir. Vasuki Nag temple, Sheshnag temple, Seoj Meadow trek are some of the sight-seeing destinations for tourists. Many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna like Himalayan Black Bear, the Musk Deer and Snow Leopard can be seen in this valley.

Insider Tip: Trek to Seoj Meadow for panoramic views and try local gucchi pulao (wild mushroom rice) at nearby eateries.

Conclusion

If your are fond of traveling, try these budget friendly famous Tourist Places in Jammu once in your life, the words can’t describe the beauty of these places, do visit and enjoy the feeling of being close to nature. These budget friendly destinations from sacred Vaishno Devi to the serene Sruinsar Lake and the adventurous Patnitop will capture the essence of Jammu’s charm.

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