Jammu, often referred to as the “City of Temples,” is a gateway to the northernmost state of India, Jammu & Kashmir. Known for its spiritual heritage, scenic landscapes, and historical significance, here are some of the most famous tourist places in Jammu:

1. Vaishno Devi Temple

• One of the holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi, located in the Trikuta Hills.
• Famous For: Pilgrimage site, attracting millions of devotees each year who undertake a 12 km trek to the shrine.

2. Raghunath Temple

• A historic temple complex dedicated to Lord Rama, in the heart of Jammu city.
• Famous For: The grand architecture, intricate gold-plated interiors, and being one of the largest temple complexes in Northern India.

3. Mubarak Mandi Palace

• A historical palace that once served as the residence of the Dogra kings of Jammu.
• Famous For: Its blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, and European architecture, and its collection of ancient manuscripts and artifacts in the Dogra Art Museum.

4. Amar Mahal Palace

• A beautiful red sandstone palace overlooking the Tawi River, now converted into a museum.
• Famous For: Its French architecture and the museum housing a collection of paintings, books, and royal artifacts.

5. Bahu Fort and Bagh-e-Bahu

• A historic fort built by Raja Bahulochan, overlooking the Tawi River.
• Famous For: The Mahakali Temple within the fort and the adjacent Bagh-e-Bahu, a terraced garden offering panoramic views of Jammu.

6. Peer Kho Cave Temple

• An ancient cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Famous For: Its spiritual significance and the natural cave setting along the banks of the Tawi River.

7. Mansar Lake

• A beautiful and serene lake surrounded by forests and hills, about 62 km from Jammu.
• Famous For: Boating, bird watching, and its proximity to the Surinsar-Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary.

8. Surinsar Lake

• A tranquil lake near Mansar Lake, known for its natural beauty.
• Famous For: A peaceful retreat and a great spot for nature lovers and photographers.

9. Nathatop

• A scenic hill station near Patnitop, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas.
• Famous For: Paragliding, trekking, and skiing during the winter months.

10. Patnitop

• A picturesque hill station located on the Jammu-Srinagar Highway.
• Famous For: Its pleasant weather, adventure activities like trekking and paragliding, and views of the Shivalik range.

11. Shiv Khori

• A famous cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located about 140 km from Jammu.
• Famous For: The naturally formed Shiva lingam inside the cave and the annual Shivratri festival.

12. Akhnoor Fort

• A fort on the banks of the Chenab River, dating back to the Dogra period.
• Famous For: Its historical significance and views of the Chenab River.

13. Ranbireshwar Temple

• A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built by Maharaja Ranbir Singh.
• Famous For: The huge Shiva lingam and several small lingams within the temple premises.

14. Mahamaya Temple

• A temple dedicated to the local goddess Mahamaya, located on a ridge overlooking the Tawi River.
• Famous For: The temple’s peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of Jammu city.

15. Ramnagar Wildlife Sanctuary

• A sanctuary located just outside Jammu, home to a variety of wildlife species.
• Famous For: Wildlife spotting, especially for species like deer, wild boars, and peacocks.

16. Dargah of Peer Budhan Ali Shah

• A famous Muslim shrine located near the Jammu Airport.
• Famous For: Attracting devotees of all faiths for its spiritual significance and the belief in the saint’s blessings for protection and harmony.

17. Manda Zoo

• A small zoo located near the Amar Mahal Palace.
• Famous For: Hosting local wildlife species like leopards, deer, and peacocks, making it a popular spot for families and children.

18. Jhajjar Kotli

• A popular picnic spot on the banks of the Jhajjar stream, about 35 km from Jammu.
• Famous For: Its scenic beauty and crystal-clear stream waters.

19. Kud

• A small hill station en route to Patnitop, known for its scenic beauty.
• Famous For: Being a popular stopover for tourists heading to Patnitop and famous for its local sweets.

20. Dhar Udhampur

• A serene destination near Udhampur, known for its natural beauty and proximity to tourist attractions like Shiv Khori.
• Famous For: A peaceful retreat for nature lovers and explorers.

These tourist destinations in Jammu reflect the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, coupled with natural beauty and adventure spots, offering a diverse experience to travelers.

Kashmir

Kashmir, often called “Paradise on Earth,” is renowned for its stunning landscapes, snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and serene lakes. Here’s a list of the most famous tourist places in Kashmir:

1. Srinagar

• The summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, known for its lakes, gardens, and houseboats.
• Famous For:
  • Dal Lake: Famous for houseboats, Shikara rides, and floating gardens.
  • Nigeen Lake: A quieter lake, ideal for a peaceful houseboat stay.
  • Mughal Gardens: Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, known for their Persian-style terraced layouts.
  • Hazratbal Shrine: A revered Muslim shrine on the banks of Dal Lake.
  • Shankaracharya Temple: Located on a hill, offering panoramic views of Srinagar.

2. Gulmarg

• A famous hill station and skiing destination.
• Famous For:
  • Gulmarg Gondola: One of the highest cable cars in the world, offering stunning views of the snow-clad peaks.
  • Skiing: A premier skiing destination during the winter months.
  • Golf Course: One of the highest golf courses in the world.
  • Alpine Meadows: Ideal for trekking and photography during summer.

3. Pahalgam

• A picturesque valley known for its pristine beauty and as a base for the Amarnath Yatra.
• Famous For:
  • Betaab Valley: Named after the Bollywood movie Betaab, this valley is known for its lush meadows and crystal-clear streams.
  • Aru Valley: A beautiful village offering trekking and camping opportunities.
  • Lidder River: Popular for trout fishing, rafting, and scenic views.

4. Sonamarg

• A hill station known as the “Meadow of Gold.”
• Famous For:
  • Thajiwas Glacier: A popular trekking destination offering beautiful views of snow-covered peaks.
  • Zoji La Pass: One of the highest passes in India, connecting Kashmir to Ladakh.
  • Nilagrad River: Known for its reddish waters believed to have medicinal properties.
  • Baltal: The base camp for the Amarnath Yatra.

5. Yusmarg

• A lesser-known hill station, often compared to Switzerland.
• Famous For:
  • Rolling green meadows surrounded by pine trees and mountains.
  • Trekking, pony rides, and nature walks.

6. Dachigam National Park

• A wildlife sanctuary near Srinagar.
• Famous For: Home to the endangered Kashmir stag (Hangul), Himalayan black bears, and a variety of birds.

7. Pulwama

• Known as the “Rice Bowl of Kashmir.”
• Famous For:
  • Saffron fields, apple orchards, and scenic waterfalls like Aharbal.
  • Aharbal Waterfall: Known as the “Niagara of Kashmir,” offering beautiful views and opportunities for trekking and photography.

8. Kupwara

• A scenic district in north Kashmir, known for its dense forests and meadows.
• Famous For: Bungus Valley, Lolab Valley, and lush landscapes perfect for trekking, camping, and nature lovers.

9. Baramulla

• A gateway to the Gulmarg region.
• Famous For: Wular Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, offering boating and bird watching.

10. Wular Lake

• One of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia.
• Famous For: Boating, bird watching, and the scenic beauty surrounding the lake.

11. Manasbal Lake

• A lesser-known, serene lake in the Ganderbal district.
• Famous For: Its lotus gardens and tranquil surroundings, making it ideal for picnics and boating.

12. Verinag

• The origin of the Jhelum River.
• Famous For: Its natural spring, Mughal gardens, and historical significance as the water source of the river Jhelum.

13. Aru Valley

• A picturesque valley near Pahalgam.
• Famous For: Its lush meadows, dense forests, and adventure activities like trekking and horse riding.

14. Amarnath Cave

• A sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus.
• Famous For: The natural ice Shiva Lingam, attracting devotees during the annual Amarnath Yatra.

15. Charar-e-Sharief

• A town famous for its Sufi shrine dedicated to Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani.
• Famous For: The shrine’s historical and religious significance in Kashmiri Sufism.

16. Doodhpathri

• A lesser-known meadow located about 42 km from Srinagar.
• Famous For: Its unspoiled natural beauty, flowing streams, and the peaceful atmosphere.

17. Aharbal Waterfall

• Located in Pulwama, it is often called the “Niagara of Kashmir.”
• Famous For: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forests, ideal for trekking and photography.

18. Shupiyan (Shopian)

• Known as the “Apple Town” of Kashmir.
• Famous For: Apple orchards, scenic beauty, and waterfalls like Aharbal.

19. Gurez Valley

• A remote valley located near the Line of Control (LOC).
• Famous For: Its untouched beauty, scenic views, and being a less-explored destination.

20. Tarsar and Marsar Lakes

• Two stunning alpine lakes located near Aru Valley.
• Famous For: Their pristine beauty and being part of a famous trekking route.

21. Kheer Bhawani Temple

• A revered Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Ragnya Devi.
• Famous For: The sacred spring whose water is said to change colors based on the events happening in the region.

22. Kokernag

• Famous for its freshwater springs and botanical garden.
• Famous For: Its trout fishery, picturesque gardens, and being a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

These places represent Kashmir’s incredible diversity, from religious and historical sites to scenic natural beauty, adventure opportunities, and vibrant culture. Kashmir remains one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in India.