Home::Jammu::Places of Interest
Places of Interest:
Amar Mahal Palace:
The Amar Mahal Palace, a sight to behold, is on an eyrie overlooking the Tawi
river. This grand palace, with sloping roofs and tall towers, so characteristic
of continental castles, reminds one of France. The palace has been converted into
a museum which also houses the city’s finest library of antique books and
paintings. An entire series of miniatures on the epic Nal-Damayanti can be seen
in the museum.
Peer Khoh:
This cave shrine is located 3.5 kms from the town of Jammu. This shrine is dedicated
to Shiva and a naturally formed Shivaling is worshipped here. The antiquity of
this lingam is not known. It is said that this cave gives way to other underground
caves and shrines, some of which are even located outside India.
Ranbireshwar Temple:
This temple was built by Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1883 A.D., and is dedicated
to Lord Shiva. The main Shivalingam in the temple is seven and half feet in height
surrounded by many small crystal Shivalings.
Raghunath Temple:
This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. The inner walls of the temple are covered
with gold sheets on three sides. The surrounding areas of the temple are dedicated
to other Gods and Goddess from the epic Ramayana. The temple is located in the
heart of Jammu. Mahraja Gulab Singh, founder of the state of Jammu, began construction
of the temple in 1835, but was unable to complete it. His son, Maharaja Ranbir
Singh completed construction in 1860.
Ranbir Canal:
These gardens are located on banks of a canal which branches from River Chenab.
The gardens provide excellent walkways and an exquisite view of the surrounding
areas. Even in summers, water in the canal remains ice cold. The Ranbir Canal
is a popular picnic spot.
Bahu Fort:
The original fort was built by Raja Bahulochan about 300 years ago, and was later
modified and improved by Dogra rulers. This fort is perhaps the oldest edifice
in Jammu. The fort is built on rocks facing the Tawi river. A temple dedicated
to Goddess Kali is also inside Bahu Fort. Close to Bahu fort are exquisitely laid
gardens, which a provide a spectacular view of Jammu. Behind the fort is a forest,
which surrounds the Maha Maya temple.
Peer Baba:
Jammu is home to the famous dargah of the Muslim saint, Peer Budhan Ali Shah.
On Thursdays apart from Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs also come in large numbers to
pay their respects to the Saint. Peer Mitha is another famous Muslim shrine in
Jammu. Peer Mitha was a contemporary of Ajaib Dev and Ghareeb Nath - both saints
were famous for their prophecies and miracles.
"Mitha" means "the sweet one", for the Peer would accept nothing
more than a pinch of sugar in offering from his devotees.
Mubarak Mandi Palace:
The architecture of this palace is a unique blend of Rajasthani, Mughal and Gothic
styles. The palace complex dates back to 1824 A.D. The Sheesh Mahal segment in
the palace is most famous. The pink hall has now been converted into the Dogra
art museum, which is a treasure house of miniature paintings from the various
hill schools.
Surinsar Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary
The Surinsar Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary is surrounded by the rivers Surinsar
and Mansar on its two sides. Named after the two lakes, the sanctuary spreads
over an area of 98 sq km. The rich wildlife of the sanctuary consists of 8 species
of mammals and 15 species of birds
Rani Charak Mahal
The Rani Charak Mahal is situated by a riverside and is connected with Toshakhana
on one side.
