Jammu is one of the 3 administrative divisions within Jammu & Kashmir. Most of the land at this place is hilly or mountains. Jammu Tawi is the official name of Jammu city. Other name of this city is City of Temples. In Northern India, it is the largest city. Pir Panjal Range separates Himalayas and Kashmir valley. This is acting as gateway to one of the popular pilgrimage Vaishno Devi temple. It is believed that, Raja Jambu has founded this city in 14th century BC. At that time this place was known as Jambu Nagar. For the shopping lovers also this is the best place. Worth buying things of this place is garments, electronics, footwear, dry fruits, handlooms, handicrafts etc. Major festivals of this place are Lohri, Baisakhi, Bahu Mela.
What to see in Jammu:
Bahu Fort: over 3000 years ago, this was built by Raja Bahulochan. Dogra rulers restored this fort in 19th century. Other attractions of this fort are Bahi Temple, Bhave Ki Bahu Garden, 8 octagonal towers. It was constructed with thick sandstone.
Amar Mahal Museum: Earlier this place was acted as residence place of Dogra dynasty. During 1890, this was built by King Raja Amar with Red Sand stone. Greek Structural style can be seen here. Major attractions are throne of Maharaja Hari Singh, Pahari Paintings, art galleries etc.
Mubark Mandi Complex: This is 150years old complex. It is the royal residence of Dogra rulers.
Bagh-e-Bahu: This is most beautiful garden and looks like Mughal garden. Acres of woods are surrounded this garden.
Dogra Art Museum: This museum is famous for 800 rare paintings and articles.
Shiv Khori: This cave is famous for 4 feet natural Shivalingam. Several Hindu deities and natural impressions can also be seen here.
Raghunath Mandir: In 1835, this was built by Maharaja Gulab Singh. This was dedicated to Lord Rama. It is famous for ancient books and manuscripts.
Bahu Temple: It is one of the ancient temples of this place. This was built by Raja Bahulochan about 3000 years ago.
Other attractions of Jammu: Other attractions of Jammu are Mansar Lake, Ranbireshwar Temple, Rani Charak Mahal, Mahamaya Temple, Dargah Garib Shah, Ziarat Baba Buddhan Shah, Poonch Fort, Peer Kho Cave Temple, Gadhadharji Temple, Aap Sambhu Temple.
What to see around Jammu:
Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary: It is located 28kms away from Jammu. It was established in thick forests area. Major attractions of this place are Chakor, Indian Peafowl, Blue Rock Pigeon, Cheer Pheasants, Red Jungle fowl, Indian Mynah etc.
Surinsar Lake: It is located 24kms away from Jammu. This is situated in the midst of thick forests with hilly terrains in the backdrop. Major attractions of this lake are lotus flower blossoms.
Akhnoor Fort: It is located 32kms away from Jammu. This is the ancient temple situated on the banks of Chenad River built in 19th century. It belongs to Harappan Civilisation. Along with this fort other attraction of this place is two storeyed Palace.
Getting to Jammu: Jammu is well connected with road, railways and airways. From Amritsar, Leh, Srinagar, Delhi etc buses are come to this place. Jammu Tawi railway station is well connected with Jhansi, Gwalior, Agra, Kochi, Indore, Bhatinda, Varanasi, Delhi, Mumbai etc. Jammu airport is well connected with airways also. It is located 7kms away from the city. Airways are well connected with Srinagar, Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai etc.
Getting around Jammu: Minibuses are available to visit the places of Jammu. Autos and cycle rickshaws are also available to visit the places of Jammu. Buses and Taxis are available to visit the surrounding places of Jammu.
Best time to visit Jammu: Best time to visit Jammu is between March to October.
Where to stay in Jammu: Plenty of accommodations are available in Jammu including luxury hotels. Best Mid range holes are available at Residency Road.
Where to eat in Jammu: Plenty of restaurants are available to eat in Jammu. Continental, Indian and Kashmiri cuisines are available here.