Jammu

Jammu district derives its name from the city of Jammu which besides being the winter capital of the state, is known as the city of temples. It is believed that the city was originally founded by Raja Jamboo Lochan, which came to be known as "Jamboo" after his own name. With the passage of time and due to its frequent use the pronunciation of the name got slightly distorted and the city, came to be known as 'Jammu' as it is called now.

Jammu is a land of grand ancient temples, and beatiful palaces. All nestling in the foothills of the Himalayas, Jammu is justly famous for its temples. Infact it is known as the city of temples and the every fame of it tends to overshadow its palaces, forts, forests and powerful ziarats. Besides, Jammu is also a paradise to those who love - trekking, skiing, and Aero-sports.

Sightseeing at Jammu -
Mata Vaishno Devi Temple : The holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi here attracts more than 4.5 million pilgrims every year. Katra Town, lying in the foot of Trikuta Mountains, 48 kms. from Jammu, serves as the base camp for visiting the famous shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, which is accessible on foot along a 13 kms long well laid footpath. The cave shrine of Mata Vasihnodeviji or Trikuta Bhagwati at an altitude of 5,200 ft. holds great significance for the pilgrims.

Raghunath Temple : Situated in the heart of the city and surrounded by a group of other temples, this temple dedicated to Lord Rama is outstanding and unique in Northern India. Work on the temple was started by Maharaja Gulab Singh, founder of the Kingdom of Jammu and Kashmir in 1835 AD.

Ranbireshwar temple : Built by Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1883 AD, Ranbireshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is located on the Shalimar Road near the New Secretariat. It has one central 'Lingam' rising 7.5 ft.upwards.

Amarmahal : Amarmahal is a beautiful palace of red sand stone which stands amidst the most enchanting surroundings of Jammu. From here you will find a scenic view of the Shiwaliks at the north and the beautiful River Tawi, which flows down below.

Bahufort :About 5 kms from Jammu city, nestled on a rock face on the left bank of the river Tawi, this fort is perhaps the oldest fort and edifice in the city. It is said to have been constructed originally by Raja Bahulochan over 3,000 years ago.

Mansar Lake : A beautiful lake fringed by forest-covered hills. Boating facilities are also available here.

Best Season to Visit : Through out the Year.

Reaching Jammu -
Air : Jammu is well connected to the rest of India by air. Both Indian Airlines and Jet Airways operate daily flights to Jammu. The average flying time from New Delhi is about 80 minutes.
Rail : One can also reach Jammu by rail. Jammu is connected to other parts of country on broad gauge and numerous passenger trains ply from various parts of the country to Jammu.
Road : Jammu is well connected through road also to rest of India. National Highway No. 1A passes through Jammu towards Srinagar. Regular bus services from all major North Indian cities are available for Jammu as well as Katra. Many standard and deluxe buses of various State Road Transport Corporations as well as private operators connect Jammu with important cities and towns of North India.

ISD/STD Code for Jammu -
If dialing from within India -------++ 0191(number)
If dialing from outside India ------- ++ 91-191 (number)

Shopping in Jammu -
Everybody associates Kashmir with carpets and shawls, but there are other things besides. You can also shop for Papier mache, items like - variety of gifts and souvenirs that do not cost a fortune. Also get some Walnut Wood items like - salad bowls, nut bowls, photo frames, trays and furniture. If you are searching for Saris then you must know that, Kashmir has extensive mulberry cultivation. Silkworms feeding on this produce resilient silk, which are used to make saris. You can also buy some picnic hampers, lampshades, and glass holders for holding hot tea, packing cases, etc. The main centre of this craft is at Hazratbal in Srinagar. And, if you are mad of cricket then you can do some shopping here. Kashmir's willow is so highly prized, that most of the national team uses cricket bats from Kashmir.

Other products of Kashmir include saffron, grown in Pampore on the way to Pahalgam. Saffron is an excellent buy. Walnuts and almonds are available in the market throughout the year. Being substantially cheaper in Kashmir than elsewhere, they too make good gifts.