Jammu

Jammu is the winter capital of the region and the natural gateway to the pilgrim heartland, best known as the base city for Katra and Mata Vaishno Devi. Set on the banks of the Tawi river in the lower foothills, this bustling temple town welcomes you with grand shrines, busy bazaars, and a warm north Indian rhythm. Most travellers pass through Jammu to reach Katra, roughly 45 to 50 km away, before beginning the climb to the Vaishno Devi cave shrine. With good rail and air links, Jammu is where many Kashmir journeys comfortably begin.

Things to do

• Seek blessings at the Raghunath Temple complex, one of the largest temple clusters in north India
• Visit the Bahu Fort and the Bawe Wali Mata temple overlooking the Tawi river
• Explore the Amar Mahal Palace museum with its river and hill views
• Take a short trip to Katra, the launch point for the Vaishno Devi trek
• Walk the lively markets for dry fruits, rajma, and local handicrafts
• Stop at the peaceful Peer Kho and Ranbireshwar temples in the old city

Best time to visit: October to March is the most pleasant window, with cool, comfortable days ideal for temple visits and onward pilgrimage. Summer from April to June turns hot in the plains, while the July to September monsoon brings occasional heavy showers. Winters stay mild compared to the Kashmir Valley, so Jammu remains an easy year-round hub.

How to reach: Jammu is well connected by air to major Indian cities via Jammu airport, and by rail through the busy Jammu Tawi station. From here Katra lies about 45 to 50 km away, roughly a 1.5 to 2 hour drive by taxi or bus. Srinagar is around 260 km by road on the national highway, usually a full day's journey depending on conditions.