Known for its rich history and culture, the city of Jammu from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir holds many marvelous tales within its citadels, castles, and temples. Jammu is positioned on the shores of the river Tawi and is encircled by majestic mountains and great green forests, which can’t be seen anywhere else on the planet as there are many places to visit, so there are many things to do in Jammu.
Here in this guide we will focus on a list of the top 5 best things you must do in Jammu for an unforgettable experience. There are not only five activities, but we have handpicked these five so that you can have most of the Jammu trip experience in these five adventures. If you have extra time in your hand, you should consider additional places and activities on your Jammu vacation.
1. Trek To Vaishno Devi Temple
If you would like to have a perfect start to your Kashmir tour with the blessings of Goddess Vaishno Devi, then Vaishno Devi should be your priority. Vaishno Devi is considered one of the holiest pilgrim spots in India, and a designated trek to reach the sacred shrine is among the top things to do in the Katra region of Jammu.
Thousands of pilgrims embark on an exciting journey to pay references and take blessings at this holy temple every year. Those who cannot ascend the steep inclines can either make the tour on horseback or hire a helicopter for a ride from Jammu to Vaishno Devi Temple in their Kashmir packages by thrillophilia.
Places you can visit near Mata Vaishno Devi temple are Baba Dhansar, Patnitop, Dalhousie, Mcleodganj, Pahalgam, Chandanwari, Tullian Lake, Srinagar, Ladakh. If you have time bandwidth, you can consider these places as well.
2. Visit Mubarak Mandi Palace
Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s launched art museum is situated in the Mubarak Mandi Palace. This is an important landmark of the city, and was launched in the year 1954.
The museum has an extraordinary collection of manuscripts, unique artefacts, royal ornaments, and historically significant items. If you are an art lover and would like to explore the hidden history behind the Jammu and nearby area, then you should visit this place for sure.
3. Ski In Patnitop
Patnitop is a typical Indian hill station, which is situated in a district of J&K, which is known as Udhampur. Skiing is the best and amazing activity to get indulged in the Patnitop area of Jammu region.
Patnitop is frequented by thousands of skiers all around the year. This mesmerizing hill station offers its guests charming views of the picturesque landscape, excellent trekking paths and unique skiing locations. Access to Patnitop is also easy.
You can book a bus or a private cab at nominal costs and embark on an unforgettable journey. Some of the most admired places that you can visit near Patnitop are Nathatop, Sanasar Lake, Naag Mandir, PatniTop Circular Road, Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, Sudh Mahadev, and Baglihar Dam.
Patnitop Location: Udhampur District, Jammu & Kashmir
Distance of Patnitop from Main Jammu: 110 KM (68 miles)
4. Savour Jammu Cuisine
Jammu is just a sight to behold; it is also a heaven for absolute foodies. One of the most exciting things to do in Jammu and Kashmir enjoys the delicious flavors of North Indian food.
A paradise for gourmets, Jammu is appreciated all across the nation for Rajma Chawal, Patisa, Aloo Dum, Dogra Dishes (including Ambal, Kulthi Ki Dal, Phirni, Khatta Meat, Maa Da Madra) and other traditional dishes like Palov, Morel, Madra, Maani, Oria, Khameera, and Sasha. Jammu provides a wide range of Pahari treats that reflect upon the uniqueness of the North Indian culture.
Best places for foodies in Jammu: Hotel Taj Restaurant, Falak Revolving Restaurant, Bansi Ki Hatti, Pavilion, The Imperial Grill Restaurant and Bar. If you have any additional suggestions, be sure to share them in the comments!
5. Go Boating In Mansar Lake
One of the most picturesque locations of Jammu is Mansar Lake. Mansar Lake is the best lake here and should be in your top list of places to see and activities to do in Jammu. A visit to this lake can be considered as a whole day undertaking.
Traveling from Jammu to Mansar Lake is nearly 2 hours, and takes less than 3 hours to explore this beautiful and nature-friendly area of Mansar Lake. Don’t forget to enjoy the boat ride at the lake, which will take you through different scenic areas and also other activities like fishing, which should not to be missed on your visit to Mansar Lake.
Additional Recommendations
That is not all, of course. If you want to explore more, you can also visit Bahu Fort, seek blessings at Raghunath Temple, explore Peer Kho Cave, Manda Zoo, Amar Mahal Palace, and celebrate Spituk Gustor Zanskar. Plus, if you have even more time in your hand, you can visit some famous locations of Kashmir and Ladakh as well. 😉