About Jammu Tourist Places Or Places to visit in jammu
Jammu, the winter capital of the state sprawls on the banks of river Tawi with Trikuta mountain range in the backdrop. The antiquity of this city of ancient temples and magnificent palace is shrouded in myths and legends. It is said that Raja Jambu Lochan, a Rajput king of later Vedic period founded his capital here and named it as Jambupura.
Raghunath Temple
The magnificent temple completed set in the heart of the city is one of the most important and the largest shrines of northern India. Its construction was started in 1835, by Maharaja Gulab Singh, the founder of Jammu and Kashmir Kingdom and was completed by his son maharaja Rambir Singh in 1860. The completed consists of 17 temples and the main shrine is dedicated to Lord Raghunath (Rama).
Ranbireshwar Temple
This biggest Shiva temple in North India was built by Maharaja Ranbir Sigh in 1883. It enshrines a large number of Shivalingams. The central lingam in black stone is seven and a half feet high and the twelve crystal lingams measure from 15cm to 38 cm.
Peer Khoh
The ancient cave temple on the circular road has a naturally formed Shivalingam, which is highly revered by the devotees.
Bahu Fort
The ancient fort set majestically on a rock face, overlooks the gently flowing Taw River. It is well known for the temple of Goddess Maha kali, which is considered next only to the famous Mata Vaishno Devi Temple. The beautiful Baghi bahu garden is located at the base of the fort.
Amar Mahal Museum and Library
The magnificent red-brick palace is perched elegantly on a hill overlooking the Tawi River. It was built by Raja Amar Singh and now houses a museum exhibiting excellent miniature paintings from Kangra School, paintings of contemporary Indian artists and portraits etc. But, the highlight of the museum is the 120km, solid gold Dogra throne, which was used by the erstwhile Maharajas. The library at the palace has a collection of over 25000 books.
Mubarak Mandi Palace Complex
The palace complex is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles of architecture with influences of even Baroque European style. In affords a fine view of the Tawi River on one side and the city on the other and had served as the residence of erstwhile Dogra rulers. The Pink Hall no houses the famous Dogra Art Museum with a rich collection of rare paintings.
Jammu Tour Information
Patnitop (112km)
Panoramic Patnitop sprawls on a lush plateau, at an altitude of 2024 metres on the Jammu-Srinagar highway. The charming resort amidst thickly wooded forests is probably the best developed tourist centre of Jammu. It commands awe-inspiring views of the scenic surroundings and is dotted with a number of beautiful picnic sites. During winters Patnitop receives good snowfall and provides opportunities for various snow games like skiing.
Mansar Lake (60km)
This lovely lake amidst thickly wooded forest is a popular excursion point. Boating facilities are available here. A food and crafts festival is also organised here by j and K Tourism around the festival of Baisakhi.