Situated in India’s northern region, Jammu is the second most populous union territory and the winter capital of the Jammu and Kashmir state. There are many places to visit in Jammu including temples, palaces, and lakes. Jammu is one of the popular holiday destinations in India famously called “The City of Temples” because it has intricately designed temples and holy shrines of Hindus. However, the city has shrines of other faiths as well, making it an example of secularism and inter-religious harmony.

From breathtaking vistas of Himalayan ranges to the intricate designs of ancient temples, Jammu has plenty of options for sightseeing and exploration. People from all over India and even other countries visit this beautiful city in India. It is popularly known for Shri Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra. Besides, visiting the historical palaces, glistering lakes, and bustling bazaars are the top things to do in Jammu. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, an adventure enthusiast, or a history buff, Jammu has something special for every type of tourist. Here is your detailed Jammu travel guide to know the best attractions in Jammu, the top things to do, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences of Jammu.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions to Visit in Jammu

Besides being one of the famous pilgrimage destinations in India, Jammu is one of the best holiday destinations for families and friends with so many attractions to explore. Not only temples but the list of Jammu sightseeing locations lets you know the other options you must add to your Jammu tour bucket list. Here are the top destinations you must visit during your trip to Jammu:

Vaishno Devi Temple

One of the popular tourist attractions in Jammu is Vaishno Devi Temple. It is a revered Hindu temple located in the Katra, Jammu on the Trikuta mountain. Millions of devotees from all over the world visit this shrine every year. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi, Maha Kali, and Maha Saraswati in the form of Pindis (natural rock). Devotees trek to ascent this temple parched on the Trikuta Parvat (mountain) at 5000 feet. People who cannot trek, opt for ponies or helicopters. Mata Vaishno Devi darshan is considered incomplete without having the darshan of Bhairav Nath Temple, located 1.5 km above the Vaishno Devi Temple. Trek to Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the best things to do when you are on a trip to Jammu with your family.

Raghunath Temple

Another gem in our list of the top places to visit in Jammu is Raghunath Temple. It is one of the largest temple complexes in Northern India with seven Hindu shrines. These seven shrines have their own Shikharas identical to each other. This temple was built in the nineteenth century by Maharaja Gulab Singh and his son Maharaja Ranbir Singh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Many idols of Hindu deities are inside the complex adorned with intricate designs. Raghunath Temple is the famous pilgrimage destination in Jammu for the devotees of Lord Rama.

Bahu Fort and Gardens

Bahu Fort is a historic place in Jammu. The fort was built by the Maharaja of Parmar of Rajputs but was repaired by Bahu Lochan, the brother of Jambu Lochan—founder of Jammu. This fort is a religious place and it has a temple dedicated to goddess Kali. The temple is called “Bawe Wali Mata Mandir”. Bahu Fort and Gardens is located just 5 km from the city center on the banks of the River Tawi. You must include Bahu Fort Gardens in your Jammu tour itinerary to experience the lavishness of the Dogra Kings and the royal family.

Peer Kho Cave

The next highlight of our list of the best tourist places in Jammu is Peer Kho Cave Temple. This is the oldest temple in the region built in the fifteenth century according to the archaeological records. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. A Shiva Lingam is situated inside a moderate-sized cave making it a peaceful place. People come from different regions and states to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The massive courtyard of the temple draws everyone’s attention, especially during festivals like Diwali. Devotees throng during major festivals like Shivaratri, Raksha Bandhan, Purnima, etc.

Bhimgarh Fort

Situated approx. 72 km from Jammu, Bhimgarh Fort is a historical fort in Jammu. This fort is also called Reasi Fort and is one of the famous heritage places to visit in Jammu Kashmir and also the best place to visit near Mata Vaishno Devi Temple. The royal family used this fort to take shelter during emergencies. This fort was reconstructed and renovated several times by the then-kings. A new entry gate and wall were built around the fort to make it less vulnerable to attack. Parched on atop of 150 km hillock, this beautiful fort is standing sturdy, despite the earthquakes and lack of maintenance. Bhimgarh Fort is a famous landmark in Jammu.

Amar Mahal Palace

Visiting the Amar Mahal Palace is one of the top things to do in Jammu. It is one of the prominent historical monuments in Jammu that tourists marvel at. The beautiful architecture of the palace is something that every tourist admires. This dates back to the 19^th century when a French architect built it under the commission of Raja Amar Singh, a Dogra ruler. Today, this has turned into a museum which is one of the must-see sites in Jammu. The location is beautiful and serene as it is situated beside the River Tawi. Right from the palace’s façade to the interior and even the area is a treat to eyes. If you want to explore a stunning place in Jammu then do not forget to add Amar Mahal Palace to your Jammu tour itinerary. Inside the palace, you will see some major attractions like Pink Palace, Gol Ghar Complex, Rani Charak Palace and Nawa Mahal.

Mubarak Mandi Palace

Mubarak Mandi Palace is a heritage place in Jammu situated just 6 km from the railway station. This was the royal residence of the rulers of the Dogra dynasty. This grand palace can be spotted from a distance. The oldest structure of the complex dates to 1824. The other structures were added gradually and the kings resided here till 1925. This palace glorifies the blend of Mughal, Rajasthani, and European styles of architecture. Today, Mubarak Mandi Palace is one of the famous tourist attractions in Jammu.

Manda Zoo

When planning your Jammu tours in winter, Manda Zoo is one of the best places to visit with your family and kids. This is a perfect family vacation destination in Jammu in winter. Despite being spread over a small area, the zoo houses a long list of faunas like Hog deer, porcupine, leopard, barn owl, sambhar, python, and black partridge. If you are a wildlife enthusiast or nature lover, visiting Manda Zoo will make your trip more adventurous and pleasing.

Ranbireshwar Temple

Ranbireshwar Temple is one of the most famous temples in Jammu. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees throng here to worship Lord Shiva, especially in festivals. This is one of the historic temples in Jammu built in the year 1883. An 8-ft-long Shiva Lingam is worshipped here. In addition, idols and images of Lord Shiva’s family including Mata Parvati, Ganesh, Kartikeya, and Nandi Bull (Lord Shiva’s Vahana) are found here.

Dogra Art Museum

Another popular tourist spot that you must add to your Jammu tour bucket list is Dogra Art Museum. This is located in the famous Pink Hall in the Mubarak Mandi Palace and was formerly known as Dogra Art Gallery. It stands as a guardian to the rich history of the region. It is a treasure trove of Dogra history and artistry that showcases the opulence of the bygone era. This place is a paradise for history and art lovers. You find a collection of more than seven thousand objects here with historical importance.

Top Things to Do in Jammu

Whether you are on a trip with your family, partner, or a friend group, there are a lot of things to do and enjoy in Jammu. Apart from exploring the top scenic places in Jammu, indulge yourself in the most enthralling experiences waiting to be discovered.

Soak In the Serenity of Mansar Lake

Mansar Lake is one of the most picturesque locations to visit in Jammu. This mesmerizing lake is surrounded by lush green forests and hilltops. The serene surrounding of the lake makes it a perfect location to spend quality time with your beloved. Also, it is a perfect picnic, boating, and birdwatching spot in Jammu. This should be on your list of the top things to do in Jammu.

Helicopter Ride from Jammu to Poonch

One of the most exciting and thrilling things to do in Jammu is take a helicopter ride from Jammu to Poonch. Poonch is a picturesque town located at a comfortable driving distance from Jammu. Still, a helicopter ride to this quintessential town is a treat to the eyes.

Embark on a Jeep or Camel Safari

You must be surprised to hear this, isn’t it? Well, it is true, you can embark on a camel safari in Jammu. This journey lets you enjoy the gorgeous landscapes of the town as well as learn about the culture and traditions here. However, a Jeep safari will make the journey on the rocky terrains easy and comfortable for you. Either of the choices, you get to indulge yourself in the colors of Jammu and Kashmir by exploring the valleys and villages.

Stroll at Bagh-e-Bahu Garden

Jammu is famous for its scenic vistas and Bagh-e-Bahu is perhaps one of the most beautiful spots in Jammu. Strolling in this garden is one of the top things to do in Jammu which lets you experience the beauty and serenity of the region. It has a lush green topography with beautiful fountains, flowers, and ponds. There you will see an artificial lake that is also surrounded by a bed of flowers. Besides it has walkways for easy access to the well-located viewpoints that are built for tourists to enjoy sunsets and cityscapes in Jammu.

Trek to Vaishno Devi Temple

One of the top things to do in Jammu is to trek to the revered Vaishno Devi Temple in the Trikuta Hills. A large number of devotees throng in Jammu only to visit Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple. It is the abode of Mata Vaishno where she is worshipped in the form of Goddess Maha Lakshmi, Maha Saraswati, and Maha Kali. The town of Katra serves as the base of the 14 km trek of Vaishno Devi in the Trikuta Hills. Jammu tour is considered incomplete without a darshan or paying a visit to Mata Vaishno Devi.

Shop for Souvenir at Raghunath Bazaar

One of the popular things to do in Jammu is to visit the vibrant Raghunath Bazaar—a popular market in Jammu. Indulge yourself in a shopping spree at this market, where you get an array of handicrafts, embroidered textiles, pashmina shawls, traditional carpets, and other exquisite souvenirs. Use your bargaining skills to get the best deal from the shopkeepers.

Jammu—A Historical City of Divinity and Beauty

Jammu is one of the famous tourist destinations in India, lies in the southern part of Jammu and Kashmir along the Tawi River. This is the winter capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and the gateway to the revered Vaishno Devi Temple. This is called “The City of Temple” which is surrounded by the Shivalik range and the Trikuta range. From majestic snow-capped mountains to lush greenery, Jammu offers a diverse experience to its visitors. Here are the top reasons why Jammu is one of the best places to visit in India.

Splendour of nature

Jammu is one of the most beautiful cities you will ever visit in India. The breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped mountains and the Tawi River winding the city, make it even more mesmerizing for the tourists. The place is completely adorned with lush green, lakes, and mountain peaks, providing many serene spots to unwind. Therefore, Jammu is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in India.

Holy places to visit

The revered Hindu pilgrimage—Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is located in Jammu. Millions of people visit this shrine every day. It is one of the most visited shrines in India. Apart from this, several other religious places are scattered across the city. The ancient Raghunath Temple is one of the top pilgrimage sites in Jammu. Similarly, Shankaracharya Temple, Shri Ranbireshwar Temple, Panchvaktar Temple, Rani Kalhuri Devi Temple, Bawey Wali Mata Temple, Peer Baba Dargah, and Peer Kho Cave Temple are the famous religious places to visit in Jammu.

Wildlife in their natural habitat

Jammu never disappoints its visitors in terms of wildlife. There are several wildlife sanctuaries around Jammu, where you can find some of the rarest flora and fauna in the world. During your Jammu tour with family, visit Ramnagar Wildlife Sanctuary which is home to diverse and rare species like Barking Deer, Rhesus Monkey, Neel Gai, Indian Mynah, Blue Rock Pigeon, and Wild Boar. 

Shoppers’ paradise

Apart from being one of the most beautiful destinations in India, Jammu is a paradise for people who love shopping. One can get exquisite souvenirs of wooden items. From spices to dry fruits and traditional attires, Jammu offers a wide array of things to buy. The city is also famous for Pashmina shawls, apparel, rugs & carpets, and many other handicrafts. The vibrant markets of Jammu like Vir Marg, Raghunath Bazaar, Gole Market, and Hari Market will leave you astounded with amazing handcrafted and hand-woven items that are perfect as souvenirs for your friends and family.

How to Reach Jammu

Jammu is located in the northernmost state of Jammu Kashmir and is well-connected by Air, Road, and Rail. This offers plenty of travel options for travelers to reach Jammu from near and far. While taking a flight could be the fastest way to reach here, rail and road transport is a seamless travel experience allowing you to indulge in the beauty of the state.

By Air: The nearest airport to Jammu is Satwari Airport located just 14 km from the city. This domestic airport has regular flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. You can reach here via flight and then by hiring a taxi, you will reach the city center.

By Road: If you want to reach Jammu by enjoying the scenic landscapes, then take the road route. Jammu is well connected to nearby cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Haridwar, Ludhiana, Dehradun, and more. Travelers can opt for private and state-run buses to reach Jammu. They can also book a private cab or taxi to reach Jammu by road. 

By Train: Jammu Tawi Railway Station is well-connected to the major Indian cities. You get regular and direct trains from Delhi, Gurgaon, Kolkata, Mumbai, etc. You get plenty of options from luxury trains to express trains and superfast trains.

The Best Time to Visit Jammu

It is crucial to choose the best time to visit Jammu to experience diverse landscapes and cultural festivities. Jammu is a popular summer holiday destination in India because of its pleasant weather during summer. This is why April to September is the best time to explore Jammu. This is a perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring more attractions.

The duration from September to April is also the best time for Jammu tours because you get to experience the cultural festivities celebrated here with great enthusiasm.

The winter season from December to February offers plenty of opportunities to experience snowfall, skiing, and snowboarding. However, December to February are the coldest months when temperatures significantly fall. Hence, you should come here well prepared.

By embarking on the journey to the heart of Jammu city, you will be enchanted by natural beauty, wildlife, culture, history, and artistic crafts. No matter what the purpose of your trip, whether you are visiting the ancient temples, bustling bazaars, or just soaking in the serenity of the landscapes, Jammu will leave you spellbound with its unique charms.

If our Jammu travel guide has excited you to plan a trip to Jammu then do not forget to book a popular Jammu tour package from a verified tour operator. Also, do not forget to add the top things to do and Jammu must-visit places to add to your tour itinerary. This will make your tour more exciting and memorable.