Discovering Jammu in June 2023

1. Day 1: Bahu Fort and Garden
   15 minutes (4.6 km) from Jammu Tawi Railway Station

   Start your day with a visit to the Bahu Fort and Garden, located on the left bank of the Tawi River. The fort dates back to 18th century and houses a temple of Hindu goddess Kali. Take a stroll in the beautiful garden surrounding the fort, and enjoy the scenic views of the river and the city from the top.

2. Day 2: Raghunath Bazaar
   10 minutes (2.4 km) from Bahu Fort and Garden

   In the morning, explore the bustling Raghunath Bazaar, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Jammu. Wander around the narrow alleys filled with shops selling everything from traditional handicrafts to modern clothing. Taste some local delicacies and grab a cup of refreshing Kashmiri Kahwa tea.

3. Day 3: Vaishno Devi Mandir
   2 hours and 15 minutes (64.6 km) from Raghunath Bazaar

   Take a day trip to the holy Vaishno Devi Mandir, one of the most revered shrines in India. The temple is situated on top of a mountain and requires a trek of around 12 km from the base camp. The scenic trek takes around 4-5 hours, and is a must-do for the spiritual and adventure seekers alike.

4. Day 4: Mansar Lake
   2 hours and 20 minutes (62.5 km) from Vaishno Devi Mandir

   Visit the picturesque Mansar Lake, a popular picnic spot surrounded by lush green forests and hills. Take a boat ride in the clear waters of the lake, or just sit back and enjoy the serene surroundings. The lake is also considered sacred by the locals, and has several temples around its banks.

5. Day 5: Amar Mahal Palace Museum
   1 hour (7.3 km) from Mansar Lake

   End your trip with a visit to the Amar Mahal Palace Museum, a grand palace turned museum showcasing the rich heritage and culture of Jammu and Kashmir. The museum has a vast collection of paintings, artifacts, and sculptures, and its architecture is a fine blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the ancient city of Udhampur, located around 40 km from Jammu, famous for its historical and religious significance. You can also take a side trip to the scenic Patni Top hill station, located around 100 km from Jammu, and enjoy activities like trekking, skiing, and paragliding. To maximize your fun, try some of the local food delicacies like Kaladi Cheese, Ambal, and Rajma Chawal, and shop for souvenirs like Pashmina Shawls, Kashmiri Saffron, and Walnut Wood Carvings.

For hotel and flight bookings, check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.