4-Day Itinerary for Jammu
Day 1: Arrival in Jammu & Local Sightseeing
- Arrival: Reach Jammu (train, flight, or road). Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
- Local Sightseeing:
- Raghunath Temple: One of the largest temple complexes in North India, dedicated to Lord Rama.
- Ranbireshwar Temple: Famous for its large lingam and other Shiva idols.
- Amar Mahal Palace: Explore this palace-turned-museum showcasing Dogra heritage and beautiful art collections.
- Bahu Fort and Gardens: Visit this historic fort and the lush Bagh-e-Bahu gardens for a view of Jammu city.
- Evening: Stroll through Raghunath Bazaar for shopping and enjoy local delicacies like rajma chawal and kaladi kulcha.
- Stay: Overnight in Jammu.
Day 2: Excursion to Vaishno Devi
- Morning: Start early for Katra (around 1.5 hours by road). Begin the trek or take a helicopter ride to the sacred shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi (14 km trek).
- Afternoon: Spend time at the shrine, offering prayers and experiencing the spiritual ambiance.
- Evening: Return to Katra for some rest.
- Stay: Overnight in Katra.
Day 3: Patnitop Excursion
- Morning: Drive to Patnitop (about 3 hours from Katra), a serene hill station.
- Activities:
- Nag Temple: Visit this small but significant temple dedicated to snakes.
- Skyview Patnitop: Enjoy cable car rides and adventure activities like ziplining and tubing.
- Picnic at Nathatop: Take in the breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks.
- Evening: Relax in the cool breeze, surrounded by lush pine forests.
- Stay: Overnight at Patnitop.
Day 4: Departure
- Morning: Drive back to Jammu.
- Optional Visit:
- Peer Kho Cave Temple: A sacred and ancient cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Mubarak Mandi Palace: Glimpse the royal Dogra heritage.
- Shopping: Buy dry fruits, handicrafts, and Pashmina shawls.
- Departure: Head to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.