Jhajjar Kotli

Jhajjar Kotli is a complex situated about 15 km from Katra. A popular picnic spot on the banks of Rivulet Jujjar, the focal point of this place is the refreshing water of Jujja and the scenic beauty of the area along with tourist bungalows.

Jhajjar Kotli

Bahu Fort

The Bahu Fort, built by Raja Bahulochan, is 3,000 years old and lies on the banks of the River Tawi. It is a grand structure that offers picturesque views of the surrounding areas. Lying 5 km from the city centre, it has a shrine devoted to Goddess Kali. The fort was renovated by the Dogra rulers in the 19th century when a terraced garden called Bagh-e - Bahu was added to it.

Bahu Fort

Amar Mahal Palace

A grand palace that has now been transformed into a museum, Amal Mahal Palace is a must visit in Jammu. It was made for Raja Amar Singh, the king of Mewar, in the 19th century and has some of the most magnificent royal artefacts displayed. These include a 120-kg gold throne, Kangra miniature paintings, along with a library with 25,000 historic books and a large collection of precious art. The palace is made of red sandstone and its architecture resembles the grand chateaus of France.

Amar Mahal Palace

Kud

Kud is located about 103 km from Jammu and is a popular resort situated at an elevation of 1,738 m. Its scenic beauty makes it an ideal spot to recline in natural beauty. Thus, many come here to enjoy day picnics. Adventure-lovers are also drawn to this place and there are a wide range of trekking and camping options available. The speciality of this place is a local sweet known as patisa, which is a must-buy if you are visiting here.

Kud

Mubarak Mandi Palace

Once a royal residence of Dogra kings, Mubarak Mandi Palace is one of the most attractive tourist sites in Jammu. Having a history of more than 150 years, the complex has numerous palaces, buildings and courtyards. It was a prime place of the kingdom until 1925, when Raja Hari Singh shifted to Hari Niwas Palace in Jammu. Gol Ghar, a part of this building is now in a state of ruins but still retains its former grandeur. One can also visit the Pink Hall that has been transformed into a museum, housing miniature paintings and a gold-plated bow and arrow of Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan. The architecture is captivating and a blend of Rajasthani, Mughal and European styles.

Mubarak Mandi Palace

Sunrisar Lake

About 42 km away from Jammu lies Sunrisar Lake, which is not only naturally beautiful but has mythological importance as well. Sunrisar and Mansar lakes are considered to be twin lakes. Sunrisar Lake is surrounded by mangroves and tall pines. It is believed that Arjuna shot an arrow in Mansar and a spring gushed out of the earth, which is now known as Sunrisar.

Sunrisar Lake

Mansar Lake

An ideal spot for boating and adventure sports, Mansar Lake invites tourists from all over the country. It is a beautiful site fringed by dense forests, low-lying hills, small parks and temples. Both a picnic and a pilgrimage spot, it is situated about 62 km from Jammu and is over a mile in length and half a mile in width. In close proximity to the lake, lie two temples of Umapati Mahadev and Narasimha each, along with a temple of Goddess Durga, which is visited by devotees regularly.

Many newlyweds believe that performing circumambulations (parikarma) around the lake is auspicious. The lake is also teeming with flora and fauna and one can spot various fish, tortoise and seasonal birds here. Moreover, one can find around 207 species of algae, 15 species of waterfowl in its depth. The Food and Crafts Festival is a major attraction here. Certain communities also perform the 'mundan' ceremony (first haircut) of their male children here.

Mansar Lake

Ranbir Canal

About 2 km away from Jammu is a popular picnic site called the Ranbir Canal, which is around 60 km long with its distribution systems about 400 km. The vibrant gardens and the lush green area make it one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city. The canal takes off from the left of the Chenab river and passes through four taluka of the Jammu district. On the right bank of the canal lies a powerhouse and colourful gardens that add to its intrigue. Interestingly, even in summer, its waters remain ice cold. The canal was completed in 1905, and remodelled between 1968 and 1975.

Ranbir Canal