10

Places to Visit Near Vaishno Devi

Opening Hours: Monday: Sunday (06:00 AM - 08:00 PM)Prime Day & Hours: Mondays, especially during morning and evening aartiSuggested Duration: 1 hourTickets: Free EntryNearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station, 5.5 km awayNearest Airport: Jammu Airport (Satwari Airport), 7.6 km awayNearest Bus Stop: Jammu Bus Stand, 500 metersRanbireshwar Temple is one of the most significant Shiva temples in Jammu. Built in 1883 by Maharaja Ranbir Singh and dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a key spiritual site included in many Kashmir Tour Packages. The temple is renowned for its massive 8-foot-tall Shiva Lingam, which is made of black stone. Additionally, it houses 12 crystal Shiva Lingams, each measuring between 15 cm and 38 cm, placed in two parallel rows inside the complex. The temple’s sanctum and surrounding halls are adorned with numerous smaller Shiva Lingams, enhancing its spiritual aura.Located on Shalimar Road, the temple offers a serene atmosphere for devotees and visitors. It is a major pilgrimage site, especially during Mahashivaratri, when devotees gather to offer prayers. With its traditional architecture and deep religious significance, Ranbireshwar Temple stands out among the top places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir.Must-Try Experiences:1. Offer Prayers to the 8-Foot Shiva Lingam: The temple’s main highlight is its massive 8-foot Shiva Lingam, where devotees perform rituals like Abhishekam (holy bathing) with milk, water, and honey. This sacred offering is believed to bring blessings, peace, and prosperity. The spiritual energy surrounding the Lingam makes it a must-see attraction for visitors.2. Witness the Unique Crystal Lingams: The temple houses 12 crystal (Sphatik) Shiva Lingams, which are rare and considered highly sacred in Hinduism. Arranged in two parallel rows, these Lingams radiate a divine glow when sunlight filters through the temple, creating a mesmerizing experience. Many believe that meditating near these crystal Lingams enhances spiritual well-being.3. Attend the Grand Mahashivaratri Celebrations: If you visit during Mahashivaratri, you can witness the temple’s most vibrant festival, attracting thousands of devotees. The temple is beautifully decorated, and special prayers, bhajans (devotional songs), and rituals take place throughout the day and night. Being part of this celebration is one of the most enriching things to do in Jammu, offering a deep insight into the region’s religious4. Explore the Intricate Architecture and Ancient Sculptures: The temple’s architecture reflects the grandeur of Dogra rule with its traditional design and intricate carvings. Exploring the temple’s walls, sculptures, and deity idols gives a glimpse into the rich history and devotion behind its construction. Observing the details of the temple adds a cultural and historical dimension to your visit.

Opening Hours: Open daily 6 AM-8 PMPrime Day & Hours: Monday to Friday 8 AM - 11 AMSuggested Duration: 2-3 hoursTickets: OfflineNearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station, approx 4 kms away.Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (IXJ), approx. 10 km away. Nearest Bus Stop: Jammu General Bus stand, approx 5 km away.Jammu's Bagh-e-Bahu is a magnificent tiered garden that is located near the historic Bahu Fort and overlooks the Tawi River. Known for its colourful flowerbeds, well-kept lawns, and serene ambience, it is a popular destination for tourists looking for leisure and scenic beauty.You can see the numerous fountains spread across the garden’s levels, which look captivating when illuminated at night for the light and sound show. As part of the Kashmir tour packages, you can witness India's biggest underground aquarium in the park, which is shaped like a fish. Within its 24 tank caves, you can spot more than 400 species, such as Piranhas, Cyprinus carpio, Neon jewel, Red shiner, and Shark Catfish.Witness a main water canal that resembles a tumbling waterfall running through the garden. You can also view stone carvings and striking paths that add to the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, you can discover a charming artificial lake bordered by vibrant flowers and stone walkways on the topmost terrace. Must-Try ExperiencesStroll Through the Terraced GardensYou can stroll along beautifully designed pathways of the terraced gardens that are bordered by lush greenery and colorful flowers. Enjoy the peaceful environment of this well-kept garden while unwinding by the fountains and admiring the stone statues. With the layered layout and breathtaking views of the Tawi River, every corner offers picture-perfect scenery in this garden. Visit the Underground AquariumStep inside India's largest underground aquarium, a gigantic water cave aquarium shaped like a fish. Discovering its 24 aquarium chambers filled with popular freshwater and marine creatures is one of the unmissable things to do in Kashmir. Watch vibrant species like shark catfish, piranhas, and bubble eyes swim in well-lit tanks, providing you with a unique and informative experience.Catch a musical fountain show at nightYou can see the illuminated fountain water move to the beat of the music in the evening, all coming together to create a captivating show. Enjoy a leisurely evening with loved ones or friends in this serene yet vibrant setting while enjoying the mountain breeze.Capture Scenic Views from the HilltopYou can admire sweeping views of Jammu City and the Tawi River from the garden's highest point. This location is ideal for taking pictures or just taking in the breathtaking scenery because of its historic architecture, natural beauty, and quiet setting.

Opening Hours: 09:00 AM - 08:00 PMPrime Day & Hours: Monday-Sunday, 06:00 AM - 08:00 PMSuggested Duration: 2-3 HoursTickets: Online and OfflineNearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station, 4 km awayNearest Airport: Jammu Airport, 8 km awayNearest Bus Stop: Jammu Bus Stand, 3 km awayPerched atop a hill overlooking the Tawi River, Bahu Fort stands as a symbol of Jammu’s royal heritage spanning over three millennia. Originally built by Raja Bahulochan, the fort was later strengthened by the Dogra rulers, preserving its historical significance. This majestic fort is not only a relic of the past but also a spiritual sanctuary for thousands of devotees. Inside the fort lies the revered Bawe Wali Mata Temple, making Bahu Fort a vital pilgrimage site in Jammu. Surrounding the fort, the lush Bagh-e-Bahu garden offers stunning views and peaceful retreats for visitors—an ideal stop for couples exploring the region through Kashmir honeymoon packages.Travelers often include Bahu Fort in their Kashmir tour packages for a wholesome experience of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty. The fort’s divine aura and stunning views make it a must-visit. It beautifully blends ancient legends, architectural grandeur, and natural charm, offering a timeless experience in the heart of Jammu.