3-Day Nature Itinerary in Jammu

  1. Day 1: Katra and Vaishno Devi Temple
    44 minutes (30.9 km) from Jammu city center

    Begin your trip to Jammu with a visit to Katra and the Vaishno Devi Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines in India. The trek from the base camp to the temple is a beautiful nature walk through forests and hills. The round trip can take up to six hours, but the views of the surrounding mountains make it worthwhile.

  2. Day 2: Patnitop Hill Station
    2 hours 14 minutes (107 km) from Katra

    Escape the city and head to the beautiful hill station of Patnitop, known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and serene natural surroundings. Take a leisurely walk through the pine forests, visit the Naag Temple, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. For thrill-seekers, try zip-lining or paragliding from Natha Top.

  3. Day 3: Mansar Lake and Surinsar Lake
    1 hour 54 minutes (62.2 km) from Patnitop

    Spend your last day in Jammu exploring two serene lakes, Mansar Lake and Surinsar Lake. These twin lakes are surrounded by lush forests and are perfect for bird-watching. You can also visit the temples and shrines surrounding the lakes. Take a boat ride or go on a nature walk to explore the area further.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Vaishno Devi Temple (6 hours, free)
  • Patnitop Hill Station (6 hours, free)
  • Mansar Lake and Surinsar Lake (5 hours, boat ride: INR 200)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 200

Useful tips

If you have more time, include a visit to the Bahu Fort and Bagh-e-Bahu gardens. For those interested in history, look into visiting the Amar Mahal Palace Museum or Raghunath Temple. If you have less time, skip Surinsar Lake and spend more time at Katra and Patnitop. Make sure to bring proper walking gear for any nature walks or treks.

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