Jammu

About Jammu

Jammu is the Duggar land where the past still has a living presence. It is the land of grand ancient temples, and beautiful palaces all nestling in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is said that, on becoming King, the Suryavanshi Jammu Lochan went on a hunt and, crossing the Tawi, found a deer and a tiger drinking water from the same tank. His ministers explained that this meant that the soil of the place was so virtuous that no living creature bore enmity against another. Raja Jambu Lochan, who lived in the later Vedic period, decided to found his capital, Jambupura, on his soil, on the right bank of the Tawi, overlooking his brother king Bahu's fort. Today the temple of Maha Kali (better known as Bahu or Bawey Wali Mata), located in the Bahufort, is considered second only to Mata Vaishno Devi in terms of mystical power. The present temple was built shortly after the coronation of Maharaja Gulab Singh, in 1822. The existing fort, as well as the Manasabdar's palace inside it, was constructed in 1820.

Jammu is justly famous for its temples. In fact it is known as the city of temples and the every fame of its, tends to overshadow its palaces, forts, forests and powerful ziarats. If Bahu Mata is the presiding deity of Jammu, the Dargah of Peer Budhan Ali Shah is the other shrine that protects Jammuites. The other major tourist attraction is the Raghunath Temple Complex. Maharaja Gulab Singh began the construction of the Raghunath Mandir Complex in the crowded downtown Bazaar named after it, in 1851. It was left to his son, Ranbir Singh, to inaugurate it six years later perhaps the most popular temple north of Benares, it contains representations of almost entire Hindu pantheon, though the emphasis falls on the various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The complex houses a rich collection of ancient texts and manuscripts.

Bestowed with innumerable temples, this "City of Temples" has people of several races and mixed culture spreading from Chenab to Ravi. Situated at an altitude of 305 meters, surrounded by Pirpanjal and Sivalik mountains, Jammu, the capital of J&K, has climate similar to northern India. Popular as Dogras, Jammuites are friendly in nature and born warriors. For decades, they have paved the way for the tourists traveling into the state.

Rajdarshani ascribes the foundation of Jammu to about 3650 BC. Kingdom of solar race of Ayodahya spread over Shivalik hills to river Ravi & Chenab when Sudharshana the 20th descendant of Rama ruled Ayodhya. His younger son, Agnigir migrated to Shivalik hills and traveling through Nagrota, reached the banks of Ravi and ruled of Bupanagri, the present Kathua. Agnigir was succeeded by chiefships of many Rajas, one of whom was Agnigarbha who had 18 sons and was succeeded by his eldest son Bahu Lochan who founded Bahu Nagar (today Bahu Fort stands here). His brother Jambu Lochan, who ruled during 6th century in Kalyuga, i.e 2500 BC, expanded his dominion and desired to build his capital at an ideal place. One day while hunting, he saw a deer and a tiger drinking at the same pond. He was informed that the soil of the place excelled in virtues, so no living creature bore animosity against each other He founded a new town at this spot and called it Jambupura (today Purani Mandi stands here). Jambu Lochan was succeeded by his son Puran Karan who shifted capital from Bahu Nagar to newly founded Jammu. Down the line, successors ruled Jammu and extended the kingdom Banihal Kashmir. Thereafter, Jammu saw many rulers from dynasties of Dutts, Devs, Dhars and many more till Amir Timur occupied Delhi in 1398. He entered Shivaliks, Kangra and crossed Trikuta hills to conquer Jammu in 1399, marching from Mansar. Dogra Rajas again took over the charge of Jammu between 15th and 17th century.

In AD 1800 Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab took over Lahore and marched to Jammu.In AD 1812, Jammu assigned as Jagir to his elder son, Prince Kharak Singh. On realizing the spirit of Jamwals, Mian Mota of Jammu was made the Minister by Sikhs. Maharaja Ranjit Singh selected Gulab Singh and his brother Dhyan Singh to rule Jammu in AD 1813. Gulab Singh's grateful sovereign bestowed him Jammu as his Jagir and he became Maharaja in AD 1822. He appointed Zarawar Singh as Hakim of Kishtwar who further advanced to Ladakh, Baltistan and Tibet for expansion of the empire.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh entrusted Gulab Singh with administration of large territories and transferred the lease of Gujarat in AD 1830, which yielded huge revenue. After Maharaja Ranjit Singhs death, Gulab Singh succeeded in getting control,of Sialkot and appointed a governor in Peshawar He purchased Kashmir from the British against a sum of money, same cattle, gifts and a yearly tribute under the treaty of Amritsar in AD 1846. His forces joined the British troops and he got the title of Maharaja of Jammu, Kashmir. Thereafter Jammu.Kashmir and Ladakh became the empire of Dogras whose rule lasted upto 1947.

Getting There

By Road: National Highway 1A connects Jammu with rest of India. Most northern State Road Transport Corporations like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi have daily bus services to Jammu. J&KSRTC has daily bus service from Delhi to Jammu in A/C and non-A/C coaches. Luxury coaches of private transporters operate from various cities to Jammu. Buses start in the evening generally from Tees Hazari and Red Fort in old Delhi and Connaught Circus in New Delhi.The highway passes through villages fertile land of north India, Transport facility of all kinds is available at taxi stands at the Airport, Railway Station, TRC Jammu and other parts of the city.

Travel agents and local transporters arrange taxisightseeing and inter/outer state services. Ordinar luxury coaches ply on most of the destination routes, starting from - Bus Stand as well as from the highway.

Distances

Jammu City

An aura of blessings and flowers showered by the gods themselves - is the first feeling one gets while entering into the Jammu city. This low belt of plains exists due to deposition of silt and sand out of streams flowing from the foothills of Himalayas. With the culture more akin to that of northern India, a difference made by the Dogri language perhaps outshines Jammu from the states nearby. People of Jammu are born warriors with friendly nature; their sweet language compels one to extend a hand of friendships in the first instance.

The old city has some of the most captivating residential areas like Panjtirthi, Parade, Jama masjid, Jain bazaar Khati-ko-talab, where the lively bazaars and closely built houses make walk pleasant even in torrid summers.The modern areas of Ghandhi Nagar, Trikuta Nagar, newly se ttled Sidhra and multiplexes of Bahu area, compete with developed areas of metro cities of the country.

Bustled with the Kashmiri people during winters, Jammu could be mistaken for a city of Kashmir valley than of Jammu. Presence of a large number of Kashmiri Pundits has diversified the cultural richness of Jammu which itself speaks of the hospitality and co-existence quality of the Jammuites.

Places of Interest

-Raghunath Bazaar

One of the oldest temples, the Raghunath Temple houses deities representing the Hindu pantheon. Its construction was started by Maharaja Gulab Singh in 1851 and was inaugurated six years later by his son, Ranbir Singh. Raghunath Bazaar, the area surrounding the temple, is most crowded & a shopper's delight. The tourist and local's queue-up from early mornings to pay their obeisance to the holy deities.

-Ranbireshwar Temple (3 km)

Located on Shalimar Road, the temple was built by Maharaja Ranbir Singh in AD 1883 dedicated to Lord Shiva. It has one central lingam measuring seven-and-a-haIf feet in height, twelve Shiva lingams of crystal measuring from 15 inches to 38 inches. The marigold flower sellers outside the temple keep most attractive garlands which are offered at the sanctorum.

-Peer Khoh (3.5kms)

Peer Khoh is a cave shrine located on the Circular Road, which has a mysterious, naturally formed Shiva lingam.

-Mahamaya Temple (6km)

This temple is situated on the Bypass Road, behind Bahu Fort and overlooks River Tawi.A small garden surrounded by forests provides a spectacular view of the city.

-Peer Baba (7 km)

The dargah of Peer Budhan Ali Shah or Peer Baba, according to local belief, protects the people of this city from mishaps and evil spirits.

-Parmandal (40km)

Southwards on the Pathankot road, is the charismatic Parmandal Temple complex, situated on the banks of an underground river. The river is cloaked by sand, and one can feel the water oozing out by a mere touch of the feet. People dig in the sand beds and bathe by the water that comes out as the Dewak is believed to be part of Ganges. Devotees also take the sacred water with them for purification of the their homes. For this reason it is often referred to as Chota Kashi.

-Bahu Fort (4km)

(The majestic Bahu Fort, the oldest edifice extant in the region is situated an the banks of River Tawi. It is surrounded by a lush green terraced garden full of waterfalls and flowers, popular as Bagh-e-Bahu, a favourite picnic spot for the city folks.

-Mubarak Mandi and Dogra Art gallery

(5km) Built in AD 1824, the Mubarak mandi palace is full of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture with awesome designs on the walls. The illumination of the fort during festival season in Jammu brings back the charm of royalty to the palace. The museum complex adjacent to the palace has halls full of historical monuments and artifacts. The main hall displays an 11th century old sculpture of Bhairva from Parmandal, royal garments of Dogra regime, mineral stones o Kushan period and Mughal coins. Some of the oldest of sculptures are the human heads of red clay from 4th- 5th century AD from Akhnoor. The adjacent hall has world famous paintings of Krishna-Sudhama series from 18th century AD. The ground floor has a modem art gallery where Large sculpture of General Zorawar Singh is a main highlight. The gallery also displays paintings and miniatures of different periods from Basahli, Jammu one Kangra. The gallery also has Shahnama and Sikander-nama. handwritten manuscripts in Persian. The museum is open on working days from 8 am to 2 pm during summer and 10 am to 4pm during winter. Museum closed on Mondays and government holidays.

-Akhnoor

32 km tram Jammu on the banks of Chenab river is situated the famous town of Akhnoor, which is popular for its association with the folk romance of Sahni and Mahiwal. At Jeopitha temple on Chenab the first Dogra King of J & K, Maharja Gulab Singh was coronated in 1822. Akhnoor fort built in 19th century on me banks of Chenab offers a breathtaking view. The fort is said to be perched upon the ancient site dating back to Harrapan period, excavations have revealed the remains of monastery,terra cotta heads and pottery from century AD near Ambran. A two palace southern side is another interesting site to see. Shiv Gufa also known as Pandav Gufa on the banks Chenab is said to have been discovered by the Pandavas.

-Basohli

125 km south east of Jammu, Basohli is about 52 km from Pathankot near to the famous "Dalhousie"in Himachal Pradesh.Basohli miniature paintings based on the theme of Vaishnavism are of major interest in the region.

-Billawara and Sukrala Devi

A village near Basohli,the ruins of a temple in Billawar and the ruins of old wells known as baulis is worth seeing.Sukrala Devi temple having an eight armed stone sculpture of godess Dei situated at a hilltop is 10 km from Billawar.

-Sui & Burj

En route Jammu-Akhnoor road a ancient temples of Sui & Burj famous for metal idols and wall paintings influence of Mughal, Pahari and Basohli school of paintings. .

Where to Eat ?

Jammu for its mixed culture offers a variety of meals, many Vegetarian and Non-vegetarian restaurants are rights from the Jewel chowk upto Residency road.Jewels restaurant and Fast food in provides food in most hygienic environs,the revolving restaurant ontop of the K.C Hotel can be most romantic food station is also favorite joints for young couples.The Vaisno Bhojnalyas around Raghunath bazaar provide food with homely taste. The visitors can also have a quick meals at the restaurants and bhojnalias near railway station.

Art, Craft & Shopping in Jammu

Jammu is known for the cheapest textile products. Samba ,on the Jammu Pathankot road famous for block printing. Vegetable dyes are used for block printing on a variety of clothes and bed covers. Phoolkari embroidery is another craft originally from Punjab. This includes flower designs on items like handkerchiefs, table covers, and wall hangings. Paintings from Basohli, a village in Kathua, are based on themes like Vaisnavism, Ramayana and the Gita.The history and poetry is presented myriad colours of life and landscape of the region. Raghunath Bazaar and Hari Market are famous for traditional Dogri items and jewellery. Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits are also available here. Bargaining is a fun filled activity at some places.

Fairs and Festivals

-Lohri

(13 January) also known as Makar Sankranti, is celebrated to herald the onset of Spring. People from every religion join on this occasion to organise a bon-fire and distribute special sweets and nuts. Chajja, a local dance is usually a special feature during the festival.

-Baisakhi

(13 April),the harvest festival, is celebrated on the first day of Baisakh month of the Vikrarm calendar.

-Bahu Mela

(March April, September- October), this festival is held twice a year at Kali temple in Bahu Fort.

-Purmandal Mela

(February March), this festival is celebrated on Shivratri, when people celebrate the marriage of Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvati.

-Jhiri Mela

(October - November) is celebrated to commemorate the legend of Baba Jittu at a village called Jhiri, 14 km from Jammu.

-Mansar Mela

A 3 day festival is orgqaised every year by J&K Tourism during Baisakhi at Mansar Lake. The festival also provides a platform for promotion of local craftsmanship and cuisine.

Jammu Festival

Yet another festival in April, is celebrated to promote the regional culture, craft and cuisine during Baisakhi in Jammu city.

-Navratra Festival

Festival that showcases the religious and cultural heritage celebrated annually during September-October at Katra. The religious processions are organized in the evenings where the Jhankis of different gods and their disciples is taken out by the local people. A two day festival is full of cultural and musical programs.

-Colorful Dogra Dances

Dance is the oldest and full of life art of Jammu, performed by both men & women expressing their feelings in rhythm and body movements. The dogri dance expresses the vitality and gallantary of their heros. It is performed on special occasions like advent of spring, harvest time, wedding or the birth of a male child. Accompanied by music of flute, shenaee's, & drums, dogri folk dances are different like its region.

-Bhangra

Baisakhi the festival of harvest is celebrated with Bhangra dance. A clown and a made up women are important characters of the dance. The drum beater in the middle of dancers makes everyone do bhangra and shout in rhythm hoi, hoi and bale, bale.

-Rasilla

Rasilla represents Ras of Krishna and Gopis. The dancers have small sticks in hands, which are stroked with the tune of a flute.

-Kudd

Dance of higher regions mostly in Badherwah, Kishtwar and Ramnagar. The word Kudd means mela (festival), it is performed generally at night around the fire.

-Phumnian

It means blooming, dance is connected with male child birth which symbolises a bud. It is performed by the farmers before they eat new grain.

-Chajja

Performed an Lohri festival this dance is also called peacock dance as it also indicates the advent of the spring. Chajja is model of peacock surrounded by other dancers.

Getting to these Places

Daily bus service from Jammu to Batote or Baderwah starts from bus stand and nearby stops on highway.Tourist can hire a taxi from Jammu or railway station for the day or night trip to Patnitop.