Jammu, the winter capital of the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, serves as the gateway to two distinct and significant destinations: the revered Vaishno Devi cave temple and the breathtaking, yet historically complex, Kashmir Valley. Perched on the slopes of the Shivalik range, nestled alongside the Tawi River, this region’s name is attributed to Raja Jambu Lochan, a 14th-century ruler widely recognized as the city’s founder. While Jammu’s origins trace back to Vedic times, its architectural grandeur predominantly dates back to the 2nd century, earning it the well-deserved moniker "The City of Temples."
Jammu held the esteemed position as the seat of the Dogra dynasty, the architects of the unified Jammu and Kashmir state. This dynasty’s reign continued until Maharaja Hari Singh’s accession to the Union of India following the country’s partition in 1947. If you’re contemplating a visit to this historically rich and culturally vibrant city, here’s a curated list of the top things to do in Jammu.
1. Visit the Bahu Fort
Dominating the skyline and overlooking the old city of Jammu, the Bahu Fort stands as a testament to the region’s rich heritage. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the city’s presiding deity, the fort is steeped in history and spiritual significance. Although the Bahu Fort itself, frequently renovated and originally constructed by Raja Bahu Lochan, is generally not open to public access due to security considerations, a visit to the adjacent temple is a rewarding experience. Crafted from pristine white marble, the compact temple, dating back to the 8th or 9th century, attracts large crowds of devotees seeking blessings and solace. The Bahu Fort, with its commanding presence, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Jammu’s regal past.
- Address: Bahu Fort, Gorkha Nagar, Jammu, 180006
- Phone: +91 1800 11 1363
2. Take a Stroll in the Bagh-e-Bahu Garden
Adjacent to the historical Bahu Fort lies Bagh-e-Bahu, a meticulously landscaped terrace garden that offers respite and recreation. This verdant oasis features cascading water features, a dedicated children’s park, a captivating underground aquarium showcasing a diverse array of aquatic life, and tiered floral gardens bursting with vibrant colors. Strategically positioned viewpoints provide visitors with stunning panoramic vistas of Jammu’s cityscape and the mesmerizing sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and gold. A leisurely stroll through Bagh-e-Bahu is an ideal way to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty that complements the historical grandeur of the nearby fort.
- Address: Bagh-e-bahu, Bahu Fort, near Hanuman Mandir, Gorkha Nagar, Jammu, 180006
3. Taste Jammu Cuisine in Gandhi Nagar
No visit to Jammu is complete without indulging in the region’s authentic culinary offerings. Head to Gandhi Nagar, a bustling locality, and explore the vibrant street food scene. Here, you’ll find numerous bamboo carts brimming with freshly prepared and affordable local delicacies. These bustling outlets are a favorite among locals of all ages, particularly during the evening hours. Be sure to sample the Jammu Rajma, a unique variety of red kidney bean known for its deep red color and distinctive flavor. This culinary gem is best enjoyed with steaming hot basmati rice, creating a satisfying and unforgettable culinary experience. Exploring local food is one of the most interesting things to do in Jammu.
- Address: Gandhi Nagar, Jammu 180004
4. Step Back in Time at the Mubarak Mandi
The Mubarak Mandi stands as a majestic reminder of Jammu’s royal past. This sprawling palace complex served as the royal residence of the Dogra kings until 1925, when Maharaja Hari Singh relocated to the Hari Niwas palace. While the foundation stone was laid by Raja Dhru Dev in 1710, the complex has undergone numerous expansions and renovations over the centuries, incorporating diverse architectural styles, including Rajasthani, Mughal, and Baroque elements. Despite suffering damage from fires and earthquakes, the Mubarak Mandi remains a "work in progress" heritage complex. Within the Mubarak Mandi, the Pink Hall has been transformed into a museum, housing a remarkable collection of Pahari miniature paintings and historical artifacts, including the bow and arrow of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.
- Address: Mubarak Mandi, Panjtirthi, Jammu, 180001
5. Admire the Architecture of Amar Mahal Palace
Perched atop Manda hill, overlooking the picturesque Tawi River valley, stands the Amar Mahal Palace, a 19th-century architectural marvel. This erstwhile residence of Jammu’s rulers showcases a distinctive design reminiscent of a French chateau. The Amar Mahal Palace has been converted into a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s royal heritage. Inside, you can explore a captivating collection of royal art, rare books, and exquisite Dogra-Pahari paintings. Fascinating exhibits include a golden sofa weighing an impressive 265 lbs and Victorian-style elevators, adding to the palace’s unique charm.
- Address: PVXC+3WM, Palace Rd, Karan Nagar, Jammu, 180001
6. See a Temple Built by a King
Located in the heart of Jammu city, the Raghunath Mandir is a prominent Hindu temple complex built in 1835 by Maharaja Gulab Singh. Dedicated to Lord Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu, one of the principal deities in the Hindu pantheon, the temple holds immense religious significance for devotees. The complex houses seven individual shrines dedicated to various gods and goddesses, each adorned with gold-plated spires. The temple’s library boasts a rich collection of over 6,000 manuscripts in Sanskrit and other ancient Indian languages, making it a treasure trove of knowledge and spirituality.
- Address: JWV6+GF3, Bari Brahmana, Jammu, 181133
7. Sample Jammu’s Local Cheese
Kalahri, a unique indigenous cheese, is a culinary specialty of Jammu and Kashmir. Its texture bears a resemblance to mozzarella cheese, but its flavor is distinct and unforgettable. Often, Kalahri is stuffed inside a pair of buns, toasted on a pan, and served hot, accompanied by flavorful chutney and tomato sauce. Pandit Kalahri Hut on Moti Bazaar Road is renowned as one of the most authentic places to savor this local delicacy. Sampling this local cheese is one of the most interesting things to do in Jammu.
- Address: Moti Bazar Road, Jammu 180001
8. Browse Through Raghunath Bazaar
Adjacent to the Raghunath Mandir lies Raghunath Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace brimming with a diverse array of goods. Visitors can browse through shops selling carpets, Pashmina shawls, local delicacies like chocolate burfi, and a variety of souvenirs. The shops extend to Hari Market, surrounding the temple, and are frequented by locals seeking handmade goods, spices, and sweets. Saffron, a highly prized spice in the Jammu region, is a must-buy item in this bustling bazaar.
- Address: Raghunath Bazar, Jammu 180001
9. Soak in Nature’s Beauty at Ramsar Sites
Located in the lower reaches of the Shivalik range, approximately 43 miles from Jammu city, are the twin lakes of Mansar and Surinsar. These lakes hold significant historical importance, dating back to the Mahabharata era. Designated as Ramsar sites, wetlands of international importance, these serene lakes offer visitors the opportunity to visit temples, enjoy boating, take leisurely strolls, or picnic in the picturesque gardens. The Convention on Wetlands, known as the Ramsar Convention, is an intergovernmental environmental treaty established in 1971 by UNESCO.
- Address: Surinsar Lake, 180017
10. Bird Watch at the Indo-Pak Border
The Gharana Wetland Conservation Reserve, situated along the India-Pakistan border, is a haven for bird enthusiasts. This 200-acre marshy land serves as a sanctuary for approximately 25,000 birds of various species, predominantly migratory and endangered. These wetlands are protected as conservation reserves under the Jammu and Kashmir Wildlife Protection Act of 1978. Gharana has received international recognition as one of the world’s Important Bird Areas (IBAs), declared by BirdLife International (UK) and the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). Nearby is the Suchetgarh border post, from where Sialkot, Pakistan, is only 7 miles away.
- Address: GMRR+QWG, Unnamed Road, Bhadyal Qazian, 181111
11. Enjoy Adventure Sports at Patnitop
Patnitop, a hill station located about 70 miles from Jammu, offers a refreshing escape into nature. Surrounded by dense pine forests, it provides breathtaking views of the lower Himalayas, excellent picnic spots, trekking routes, and a front-row seat to the stunning Chenab basin landscape. In winter, the abundant snowfall makes it an ideal location for skiing and other winter sports.
12. Take in the Tulips in Sanasar
Sanasar, comprised of the adjoining villages of Sana and Sar, lies west of Patnitop in the Ramban district. Dotted with picturesque hamlets, serene lakes, and welcoming homestays, Sanasar is home to the largest tulip garden in the Jammu region, second only to the larger tulip garden in Srinagar. It’s a perfect place to wander amidst the vibrant colors and inviting fragrances of the tulips.
13. Visit a Bygone Era at Akhnoor
Akhnoor, a town steeped in history and mythology, is worth exploring. According to legend, the Pandava brothers from the Hindu epic "Mahabharata" sought refuge in a cave near the Akhnoor Fort during their exile. The majestic Akhnoor Fort, situated on the banks of the Chenab River, is a significant historical landmark. Construction commenced in 1762 under Mian Tej Singh and was completed in 1802 by Raja Alum Singh. Excavations around the fort have unearthed relics from the 5,000-year-old Harappan and pre-Harappan civilizations.
14. Picnic at Basohli
Nestled amidst verdant mountains, Basohli is a historical town that was once a prosperous kingdom renowned for its Sanskrit scholars, Pashmina silk weavers, and Ayurveda practitioners. Today, it retains a rich legacy of miniature paintings and performing arts. The town offers magnificent views of the Shivalik and snow-clad Pir Panjal ranges, as well as the hill station of Dalhousie. Don’t miss Purthu beach, often referred to as Mini-Goa, and be sure to stroll across Atal Setu, North India’s first cable-stayed bridge. You can also enjoy boating in the turquoise waters of the Ranjit Sagar Lake, visit the centuries-old temples of Chamunda Devi and Chanchlo Devi, and explore the ruins of the Basohli Fort.
15. Trek Across the Trikuta Hills
Located in the lower Himalayas, amidst the snow-capped Trikuta Hills, lies the abode of Vaishno Devi, a revered Hindu goddess, and the most visited cave temple in India. Katra serves as the base for the 7-mile trek that devotees undertake to reach this legendary cave temple. A trip to Jammu is considered incomplete without paying homage to Vaishno Devi.
The top 15 things to do in Jammu are diverse and cater to various interests, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveler.
