jammu and kashmir tourism slogan

One Earth One Family One Nation

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi

Katra Bhawan

Hari Niwas palace

Gharana Wetlands

Cruise Boat

Mubarak Mandi

Padri (Bahderwah)

Patnitop Snow View

Sunrise Lake

Dal Lake View

Kashmiri Dance

Gulmarg Bowl

Ranjit Sagar Lake (Basholi)

Welcome to the Department of Tourism

The department of tourism, j&k is the main developmental, promotional and regulatory arm of the j&k government. tourism sector is the prime driver of the economy of jammu & kashmir. as such, the department of tourism has a significant role to prepare and project the ut of j&k as a preferred tourist destination in the country. the department has two provincial directorates one each at jammu and srinagar and tourist offices at all tourist resorts of the ut. in addition, there are 6 promotional offices outside the ut, one each at new delhi, mumbai, ahmadabad, hyderabad, chennai and kolkata.. besides there are 20 area specific tourism development authorities in ut each headed by a chief executive officer, actively involved in harnessing the tourism potential and creation of tourist infrastructure in the areas of their operation..

• Notifications
• Station leaving permission in favour of Mr Shamim Kraipak Deputy Manager SKICC
• Initiation of RDA Aganist Shri Muhammad Shafi Kakroo Then Dy Director tourism Kashmir (Registration Registration)
• Permission to avail Earned Leave (under LTC) in favour of Ms Heena Mumtaz Head Assistants Tourism Department
• Grant of Extension in Earned leave in favour of Shri Gh.Jeelani Zargar (JKAS) CEO Lolab Bangus Tourism Drangyari Development Authority
• Constitution of Committee for Solarisation of Government Buildings in the Department of Tourism
• Absorption of 145 Employees of Hotal Corporation of India Limited (HCIL) working at centaur Lake View Hotel Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation Ltd and Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre Srinagar
• Consttitution of UT-Level Committee For various competitions organized by the Ministry of Tourosm Government of India
• Transfer and Posting
• Purchase of 4 x4 Pick-up Van for sanitation at Sonamarg
• Grant of twenty-five (25) days earned leave in favour of Shri Gh. Jeelani Zargar, JKAS CEO Lolab Bangus Tourism Drangyari Development Authority
• Simplification of Registration under Tourist Trade Act 1978 1982 2011 Constitution of Committee thereof
• Nomination Change of nomination of Nodal Officer to function as Chief Data Office for the Administrative Department in the UT 0f J&K
• Permission to avail Earned leave ( Under LTC) in favour of Mr Fayaz Ahmad Sheen Assistant Accounts Officer
• Delegation of Drawing and Disbursing powers in favour Accounts Officer Kashmir golf Course Srinagar
• Engagement of PMU Unit in Tourism Department for Consultancy Services Advance drawal thereof
• Grant of Earned Leave in favour Shri Ghalib Mohi-Ud-Din ShahCEO Aharbal Tourism Development Authority
• Participation of J&K Tourism in OTM Mumbai on 8th February to 10th February 2024
• Nomination of Nodal Officer for the purpose of referral of vacancies to the Recruiting Agencias
• Grant of earned leave in fovour of Mr. Ahsan-ul-Haq Chisti, Deputy Director Tourism, Kashmir alongwith Station Permission.
• Minutes of the Senior Selection Committee (SSC) meeting of SKICC held under the chairmanship of Secretary Tourism on 02.11.2023
• Particpation of J&K Tourism in Bharat Parv-2024
• Committee for selection J&K Tourism s under Challenge based Destinations Developments sub scheme under Swadesh Darshan 2.0
• Assihnment of Additional Charge to Mr Reheel Ahmad Bhat Statistical Assistant Aharbal Tourism Development Authority
• (Corrigendum to Government order No 126-JK(TSM) of 2023) Participation of JK Tourism in 14th Coventions India Conclave CIC from 7th 9th December 2023 at Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition centre Gandhinagar Gujarat to Promote J&K as MICE destination
• Exchange of Huts at Pahalgam between Directorate of Tourism Kashmir and JK Tourism Development Corporation
• Committees for Selection J&KTourism s proposals under various schemes and competitions.
• (Corrigendum to Government order No 133-JK(TSM) of 2023) Constitution of project Evealuation committe for hiring project management Unit PMU for providing consultancy services to the Department of Tourism Jammu and Kashmir
• Release of funds as non- Recurring Share of JKUT to Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering & winter Sports JIM&WS Pahalgam J&K for the financial year 2022 23 & 2023 24 under Grant-in Aid
• Participation of J&K Tourism in Bharat Parv 2024
• Condemnation of Vehicle of J&K Tourism Development Corporation
• Grant of G P Fund withdrawal Non Refundable in favour of Bilal Khurshid Chief Exective Officer Yousmarg Dev Authority
• Travel for LIFE Case study Competition. Government Order
• Constitution of a Committee for verification of liabilities incurred by JKTDC.
• Accord of Administrative Approval
• Grant of G P Fund withdrawal Non-Refundable in favour of Mr Bakshi Javid Hamayun Director SkICC
• Construction of trachs leading to Shri Amarnathji cave-Advance Drawi Authorization release of funds under capex Budget 2023-24 thereof
• Participation of JK Tourism in 15th Annual Convention at Statue of Unity Gujarat from December 16th to 19th 2023
• Constitution of Committee for Development/updation of JK Tourism Website
• Assigning of additional charge of Legal matters of J&K Cable Car Corporation Ltd
• Participation of JK Tourism in 14th Coventions India Conclave CIC from 7th 9th December 2023 at Mahatma Mandir Convention & Exhibition centre, Gandhinagar,Gujarat to Promote J&K as MICE destination
• Kapil Dev Grant Thornton Invitational 2023
• Participation of Jk tourism in IITM Hyderabad Scheduled to be Held Ist to 3rd December 2023
• Deputation of Shri Javid Hamayun Bakshi, Director SKICC to Puri.
• Participation of JK Tourism in IITM pune is scheduled to be Held W e f 24th to 26 November 2023
• Participation of J&K Tourism in the International Film Festival of India being Held in Goa from 20th 24 Novembar 2023
• Repatriation of Ms Anjani Raina Head Assistant to Directorate of Tourism Jammu
• Grant of Earned leave in favour of Shri Romin Ahmad Sheikh JKAS CEO Verinag TDA
• Deputation of Civil Engineering staff to JK Cable Car Corporation Ltd.
• Assigning of the charge
• Amrit Kalash Yatra
• Nomination of Departmental Vigilance Officer DVO, in SKICC.
• Accord of Administrative Approval.
• Revised Accord of Administrative Approval for Development of Mansar circuit under Comprehensive Mansar Rejuvenation Development plan Phase-1.
• Assigning of DDO Powers.
• Participation of JK Tourism in IITM Mumbai w-e-f 12th - 14th October, 2023.
• Condemnation of Vehicles of JK Tourism Development Corporation.
• Release of funds under Capex Budget for the year 2021-22
• Construction of SkL Lift at Sonamarg-advance withdrawal thereof.
• Installation of Drag Lifts of Gulmarg near Kongdoori.
• 17/12/2021 - OWP No. 555/2017 titled Gh. Hussain Wani Vs State of J&k and Ors - Constitution of Fact Finding Committee
• 13/12/2021 - Adjustment of Civil Engineers
• 10/12/2021 - Sanction of Advance drawal
• 09/12/2021 - Construction of Yatri Niwas of Chanderkote District Ramban by Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board - Authorization / release of funds under CAPEX 2021-22
• 08/12/2021 - Assignment of Additional Charges
• 03/12/2021 - Assignment of Additional Charges to Junior Engineers (Civil)
• 03.01.2024 - Following of procedure laid down in Secretariat Manual Regarding Creation of Files
• 24/03/2022 - Implementation of Business and citizen Reform Action Pan in Jammu and kashmir UT under Mandatyes of Ease of Doing Business and Ease of Living
• 15/12/2021 - Fixation of tariffs for various services/facilites provided by the registered Tourist traders to the tourists for the year 2021-2022 & 2022-2023
• Description of News 1 goes here - DD-MM-YYYY

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This World Tourism Day, Jammu and Kashmir beyond the hotspots

The offbeat, unexplored and unheard places of the valley are the sites that can mesmerise anyone. there are places in the north of the capital like the gurez valley, the bangus valley, the river kishanganga.

“In a world of constant change and streaming technology, I find solace in the forest where a tree remains a tree.”

— Angie Weiland-Crosby

The journey from ‘One State, Many Worlds’ to ‘Chalo Kashmir’ is adventurous and engaging. The first tourism slogan belongs to Karnataka and the second to Jammu and Kashmir. World Tourism Day, celebrated every year on September 27, reminds me that there is so much to observe and experience in this world. In essence, human life is a tour. The word “tourism” signifies a break from the mundane, a holiday to de-stress, a time set to rejuvenate.

Mountain dwellers go to beaches, people living in tropical areas want to be in the snow-clad Himalayas, some enjoy boating on a quiet lake, and some go river rafting. The beauty of different tourist sites pulls people in for different reasons. The motive is to unwind and experience some excitement away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The Kashmir Valley and the mighty Himalayas see millions of tourists throng through the seasons. In the last four years, there have been ups and downs in many sectors due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Despite hurdles, the tourism sector has seen steady growth. The tourist footfall for the year 2021-22 was the highest in 75 years at 1.88 crore. There was also a 59 per cent increase in foreign tourists this year. The successful G20 working group meeting in Srinagar gave impetus to foreign tourism. This tremendous transformation reflects that the union territory has adopted a constructive approach and taken up initiatives to boost tourism in the Valley. There has been significant effort invested in building infrastructure and connectivity and the result is visible. The government has fostered much-needed tourist village networks and has started promoting adventure tourism along with sightseeing. Today, tourists want to make the most of their visit by enjoying the local Kashmiri cuisine and appreciating their culture and traditions. Spiritual tourism has pulled devotees from far across the country on a regular basis. Be it the Vaishno Devi darshan, the uphill Amarnath Yatra or the annual urs at the sufi shrines of the Valley, the connection is deeper here, the paradise on earth.

The soothing snowfall of winter, the colourful spring, and the sunshine and warmth of summer have their respective subscribers. Destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Srinagar are popular and tourists buzz around these places throughout the year. The real beauty of Kashmir remains silent in the midst of the noise at the popular destinations. The offbeat, unexplored and unheard places of the Valley are the sites that can mesmerise anyone. There are places in the north of the capital like the Gurez Valley, the Bangus Valley, the river Kishanganga, the Neelam Valley in Kupwara and the new pickup Border Tourism in Keran and Teetwal — they have attracted niche tourists. One can see people across borders, all along the riverfront, and children playing with their sheep and flock in the green meadows on either side.

The places to the south of the capital have their own charm. The meadows of Chiranbal and Badi Bahek, the glacial lakes of Kausar Nag, the cascading waterfall at Aharbal of Kulgam, Peer Ki Gali along Mughal road in Shopian, Sangerwani in Pulwama or Drang waterfall in Anantnag are unfamiliar places with tremendous hidden beauty. The meandering rivers, the high-altitude lakes, and the mountain peaks along Pir Panjal have no name and no fame. Unfortunately, the tourist footfall at these places is insignificant. Overcrowding in spots like Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg deprives one of calm as these destinations lose their charm over time. We need a cluster-based approach, development partners, private players, and community help, to make a roadmap for tourism promotion in the Union Territory.

In fact, in recent times, the administration has made huge efforts to put these places on the map. Fairs, festivals, heritage walks, nature walks, trekking expeditions, rock climbing, cycling, ice hockey, and winter sports were administrative initiatives to engage the youth and the locals in tourism promotion activities.

Lt Governor of J&K Manoj Sinha focussed on 75 off-beat destinations, 75 sufi or religious sites, 75 new cultural or heritage sites, and 75 new tracks in the Union Territory. The Tourist Village Development Programme (TVDP) has been initiated for the promotion of homestays in picturesque rural areas to upgrade the infrastructural facilities catering to the increasing number of tourists at these sites. Panchari, a village in Udhampur is a witness to this change and is the first tourist village with a homestay facility.

Residents close to tourist sites can offer rental stays at their homes to tourists. This warm hospitality is inherent to the Kashmiri culture. Biassed notions about the Valley can be easily overridden by its rich culture. Once the homestays are operational, tourists can book them at reasonable rates prior to their visits. This will also stabilise the lodging and boarding charges of the hotels in the capital.

Tourists from across the country are in a dual fix — a time constraint and a lack of knowledge about the unexplored places of Kashmir. That’s where travel agents, tourist guides, tour operators, hoteliers, and adventure groups all have a major role to play.

This World Tourism Day, I have a sincere reminder for tourists and tour providers: Don’t miss out on the off-beat destinations of the Valley.

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Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is the host country for the UN World Tourism Day celebrations for 2023 with Tourism and Green Investment as its motto. This international forum reverberates the same theme of making tourism an adventurous and enjoyable activity. It is noteworthy to mention this motto’s relevance for a fragile Himalayan ecosystem here. The frequent earthquakes, landslides, avalanches and blockades due to snowfall are a major hurdle in tourism promotion. In nascent stages, tourism primarily demands infrastructure support — roads, resorts, entertainment parks, connectivity, etc. But for an ecologically sensitive zone, it is imperative to make green investments in order to preserve and protect the local community and the landscape. J&K will be gearing for rapid infrastructural growth in most tourist destinations to cater for the demand of the ever-increasing flow of tourists. Green investment is essential to create pollution-free, environmentally sustainable projects. For this, we need a more region-specific, customised strategy. Along with tourist footfall comes the carbon footprint that needs to be checked by demarcating green zones, reducing vehicular traffic at tourist sites and involving the local community in decision-making.

We must also emphasise tourist health and hygiene, follow eco-friendly guidelines and create environmental awareness. The Department of Tourism makes year-round efforts to promote district tourism along with popular destinations and sites. This must encourage the government, the administration, the stakeholders, and the locals to develop, preserve and promote tourist sites, create jobs, engage the youth, and reap the fruits of tourism economically in a sustainable and prosperous manner without disturbing the ecology and environment.

The writer is a Karnataka-origin officer based in Kashmir

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• Jammu and Kashmir: Tourism triumphs in 2023

In 2023, Jammu and Kashmir became a global tourism hub, welcoming 2.02 crore tourists and over 50 thousand foreign visits. Focus was on various tourism offerings including MICE tourism with U/T hosting key events like the G20 Tourism Working Group meeting. Reminiscing the year that was for J&K Tourism, Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary Tourism & Culture, Govt of J&K, shares the key highlights with ETTravelWorld.

• Syed Abid Rasheed Shah ,
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Cruise, offbeat and rural tourism to be integral part of MP Tourism’s 2024 roadmap

As per the department’s update, tourism in Madhya Pradesh bounced back in 2023, backed by the state government efforts. Introduction of new circuits, festivals and setting of tent cities at offbeat destinations, providing rural experiences were some of the hallmarks of 2023. Looking ahead, MPTB plans to make tourism more holistic, sustainable, eco-friendly and adventure packed with intra-state cruises, wellness retreats, reintroduction of small aircrafts and more in the pipeline.

• By Syed Abid Rasheed Shah ,
• Published On Jan 2, 2024 at 12:21 PM IST

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Directorate of Tourism Jammu

Government of jammu & kashmir.

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Explore Jammu Province

Jammu district.

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Jammu at a Glance

"city of temples".

The winter capital of Jammu & Kashmir is bluffed on the Shivalik Range, overlooking the northern plains. The city was originally founded by Raja Jamboo Lochan who lived in 14th century BC. According to legend, during one of his hunting campaigns, Raja Jamboo Lochan reached the Tawi River where he saw a goat and a lion drinking water at the same place. Having satisfied their thirst, the animals went their own ways. The Raja was amazed, abandoned the idea of hunting and returned to his companions. His ministers explained that this meant that the soil of the place was so virtuous that no living creature bore enmity against another. He was so struck by this unusual sight that he decided to build a capital city on this land, 'Jambupura', on the right bank of the River Tawi, overlooking his brother king Bahu's fort. This city became known as Jambu-Nagar, which later changed into Jammu. Jammu has historically been the capital of Jammu Province and the winter capital of the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir princely state (1846–1952). The city name figures in the ancient book Mahabharata. Excavation near Akhnoor, 32 kilometres from Jammu city, provides evidence that Jammu was once part of the Harappan civilization. Remains from the Maurya, Kushan and Gupta periods have also been found in Jammu. Little is known of Jammu’s subsequent history until, in 1730 AD, it came under the rule of the Dogra king, Raja Dhruv Deva. The Dogra rulers moved their capital to the present site and Jammu became an important centre of art and culture, especially the Pahari school of paintings. Today, as if in testimony to Raja Jambu Lochan’s vision innumerable temples and shrines, with glittering ‘shikhars’ soaring into the sky, dot the city’s skyline, creating the ambience of a holy and peaceful city. The city of Jammu has come to be known as the ‘City Of Temples’ . Temple of Maha Kali ( better known as Bahu or Bawey Wali Mata), located in the Bahu fort, and considered second only to Mata Vaishno Devi in terms of mystical power was built shortly after the coronation of Maharaja Gulab singh, in 1822. The existing fort, as well as the Manasabdar's palace inside it, was constructed in 1820.

City Information

How to reach jammu city.

Jammu is the winter capital of Jammu & Kashmir and is well connected by all three modes of transport i.e. air, rail and road. By Air: The city has an airport and regular flights run between Jammu and several other cities of the country. All Airlines operate regular daily flights to Jammu connecting different cities. By Rail: Jammu Tawi is an important rail head of the state of J & K and is connected with important towns and cities of the country by express and super fast trains. Jammu Tawi to Kanyakumari is the second longest rail route of India that touches some of the important cities of the country. By Road: one can also reach the city by road. National Highway 1A runs through Jammu district connecting rest of the state including the summer capital Srinagar. Daily bus service is available from Jammu to almost all towns of north India.

Getting There

Where to Stay:-

A number of hotels are available in Jammu suiting every pocket. Jammu city lies at uneven ridges of low heights at the Shivalik hills. It is surrounded by Shivalik range to the north, east and southeast while the Trikuta Range surrounds it in the north-west. The city spreads around the Tawi river with the old city overlooking it from the north (right bank) while the new neighborhoods spread around the southern side (left bank) of river. There are five bridges on the river. The city is built on a series of ridges   List of Hotels .

• Jammu Shrines
• Jammu Heritage
• Excursion & Nearby Places

The Jammu City abounds in a large number of shrines which testify to the deep devotional spirit of the people. An increasing stream of pilgrims from all over the country and even abroad visit these shrines every year. While Jammu is famous as the City of Temples on account of numerous temples - old and new - which dot the landscape, the City however also has a fair number of shrines of other faiths. The shrines of Jammu City make it a glowing example of secularism and inter-religious harmony.

Shri Raghunathji Temple

Raghunath Mandir is perhaps the most famous of the Jammu Temples. It is the largest temple complex in Northern India. Situated in the heart of the city in the Raghunath Bazar, the temple was built in 1857 by Maharaja Ranbir Singh. The main temple has the idols of Lord Rama, Mata Sita and Shri Lakshman ji placed on a raised platform. The inner walls of the main temple are covered with gold sheets on three sides. There are many galleries with lakhs of saligrams. The numerous other temples in the complex are dedicated to various Gods and Goddesses of the Hindu Pantheon. The Temple also houses a Sanskrit Library containing rare Sanskrit manuscripts.

Shri Ranbireshwar Temple

The Temple is named after its founder Maharaja Ranbir Singh. The construction of the temple was started in 1863 A.D and was completed in 1878 A.D. It is the biggest Shiva temple in North India. The temple houses a huge sphatic shivlingam measuring seven and a half feet in height surrounded by ten 2 feet high billaur (crystals) lingas and galleries with 1, 25,000 tiny Shivlings brought here from the river Narmada. The Temple is located on the Shalamar Road about a kilometer from the Raghunath Bazaar.

Panchvaktar Temple

The temple was constructed by Raja Guje Singh of Jammu (1687-1703) and is considered one of the oldest in Jammu. It is linked to the visit of Shankaracharya in the ninth century A.D. The temple, constructed much later, is considered sacred because of the self- originated Shivalinga ( Svayambhuva Shiva linga). One of the most revered Shiva Shrines in the city, the Lord is worshipped here in the Swachananda form having five faces representing the totality of Shiva in His most abstract form. Hence it is known as Panchvaktar. The temple is also popularly known as ‘ Rupay wala mandir’ as coins have been embedded in the floor slabs. It seems that there were also inscriptions in Dogri script on the exterior of the surrounding walls. The Temple is situated in a lane off the Residency Road barely a kilometer from the Raghunath Bazar.

Peer Kho Temple

During the reign of Raja Biram Dev of Jammu (1454 – 95) a famous mendicant Jogi Guru Garib Nath belonging to the Guru Gorakh Nath order came to Jammu and resided at Peer Kho. Kho means cave in the local dialect. He came to be known as Peer-i-Kho and thus with the passage of time the cave got its name. The cave is also known as the Jamwant Gufa (cave) as the bear hero of Ramayana is believed to have meditated here. A Shivlinga is established inside the cave. Devotees throng the cave on Puranmashi, Amavasya and Ekadashi and during Shivratri. The temple is situated on the Circular Road, 2 kms from Raghunath Bazar.

Rani Kalhuri Devi Temple

The temple was constructed probably in 1889-90 AD by Rani Shuba Devi of Kalhur state wife of Maharaja Ranbir Singh and hence is known as Rani Kalhuri Devi Temple. The temple houses the idols for Lord Rama and Sita on one side and Shiv Parvati Idols on the other side. The temple is situated on the Circular Road about half a kilometer from the Peer Kho temple.

Ram Talai Temple

Situated on the Circular Road and in the vicinity of Rani Kalhuri Devi temple, this temple houses the images of Lord Krishna and Radha. The temple has beautiful pond and garden in its surroundings.

Radha Krishan Rukmani Temple

The temple houses the idols of Lord Krishna, Radha and Rukmani. The temple is situated on the Circular Road just half a km from the Ram Talai Temple Jammu.

Panjthirthi

The Panjthirthi locality is situated towards the northern extremity of the Jammu City. This is the oldest part of the City and has a cluster of old temples which are over a hundred years old. Five Temples in close proximity of each other are considered by the people of Jammu as equivalent to the Panch Tiraths and thus the name Panjtirthi.

Sardaran Temple

This temple is situated just opposite the Radio station, panjthirthi. It was constructed by Sardar Attar Singh during 1856-85 AD. It is also known as Sardaran-Ka-Mandir.The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshman Ji and Lord Shiva.

Radhey- Shayam Temple( Billo mandir)

This is one of the oldest temples of the city situated in Panjthirthi. The temple was constructed in 1839 AD by Bahi Charan Dass. The temple has beautiful idols of Radha Ji and Lord Krishna. It is also known as Billo temple after the name of the priest who took care of the temple for many years.

Shri Satya Naryan Temple

The temple is located near the Billu temple and on the second floor of the temple complex. It houses the idols of Shri Satya Narayan Ji and Mata Lakshami Ji. A small adjoining temple has a magnificent idol of Garud DevJi. The temple was built during the reign of Maharaja Partap Singh Ji.

Shri Banwari Dass Temple

The temple is located at the entrance of Chaugan Salathia outside Mubarak Mandi . The unique feature of this old temple is that it has the statues of Lord Rama, Mata Sita , Lakshman Ji and his wife Urmilla.

Shri Shiv Nabh Temple

This temple was constructed during 18th century and located inside the Mubarak Mandi complex. Devoted to Lord Shiva, the Shivling in the shrine appears to be emerging from the navel (Nabhi) of Lord Vishnu. The cupola over the Shivling is gilded completely with gold. The temple also houses two very old paintings depicting the city of Janakpuri from where Mata Sita hailed.

Gaddadhar Temple

The temple is situated just outside the Mubarak Mandi complex. It houses two life size statues of Shri Gaddadhar ji and Devi Lakshmi. The Temple was built by the Dogra Rajas during 18th century.

Maha Lakshmi Temple

The ancient Devi Maha Lakshmi Temple is situated at Pacca danga. The temple was built by Maharaja Ranbir Singh and houses a beautiful marble idol of Maha Lakshmi. The temple witnesses great festivity on the eve of Diwali.

Diwan Temple

The temple is located in Kacchi Chawni in the centre of Jammu City. It is dedicated to Mata Lakshmi and Bagwan Narayan Ji. The temple was built by Diwan Jawala Sahai the Prime Minister of both Maharajas Gulab Singh and Ranbir Singh. The temple is a huge structure built in about 1860 AD. It is popularly known as Diwan-e-da-Mandir. The temple is also embilshed with frescoes and murals.

Har-Ki-Temple Complex

The temple complex is situated on the banks of river Tawi. The complex consists of many temples and gigantic images of the Hindu deities.

Bawey Wali Mata

This is one of the most important Shakti shrines of Jammu region. The temple is situated inside the Bahu Fort and was built shortly after the coronation of Maharaja Gulab Singh in 1822. It is also known as the Mahakali Temple, the reigning deity of the City of Jammu. The Shrine is considered second only to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. An annual nine day Navrata fair is held during the Navratras. On Tuesday and Sunday, a large number of devotees pay their obeisance to Devi.

Maha Maya Temple

Located on the ridge facing the Bahu Fort in the midst of the City Forest on the bye Pass road is the Mahamaya Temple. The temple houses the manifestation of the Mata in the form of a pindi. The temple provides a panoramic view of the magnificent city forests and the Jammu City. It is said to have been constructed by Maharaja Ranbir Singh of Jammu (1857-1885).

Lakshmi Naryan Temple

This is an old temple of Jammu located in Gandhinagar. The temple houses the idols of Mata Lakhami and Bagwan Narayan Ji.

Panch Mandir, Gandhi Nagar

The temple is situated in Gandhinagar, Jammu. The temple complex has five temples and thus it is also known as Panch Mandir.

Doodha Dhari Temple

The temple is situated in Shastri Nagar locality in Jammu city. The temple is named after the priest who lived here and it is believed that he survived only on milk. Hence the temple is named as Doodha Dhari temple.

Ancient Shiv Temple Sunjawan

The temple is situated in Sunjama Village near the bank of an ancient pond. The temple houses a redstone Shivlingam. The temple complex has a chatuburji idol of Lord Ganesha. The temple was built in 1861 by Mahatma Kunju during the reign of Maharaja Ranbir Singh.

Aap Shambhu Temple

The temple is situated at Sathrian in Roopnagar area of Jammu city. The temple has self-made stone Lingam. According to a legend, in the times immemorial this entire place was an uninhabited jungle, the milky cows and buffaloes used to come to the Lingam after grazing and shed entire milk on the Lingam. Heavy rush of devotees is witnessed on the occasion of Mahashivratri.

Bhagwan Gopinath ji Ashram

Bhagwan Gopinath Ji Ashram is located at a distance of 5 Kms from Jammu Bus Stand near Udhaywala Bohri. The Ashram houses the marble statue of Bhagwan Gopinathji, who is the most venerated Kashmiri pandit saint. It also has a large library having collection of books of spiritual and academic interest. A heritage gallery showcases the life and teachings of ( Bhagwanji) in the form of relics, models and pictures.

The tomb of Pir Mitha is situated in the old Jammu city in the locality bearing the same name. In the mid of 15th century A.D., a Sayid named Qutul Alam came to Jammu from Sawazwar and made hindus and muslims his followers. He was contemporary of Raja Ajaib Dev, who ruled Jammu from 1423A.D to 1454 A.D. As sugar and sweets were his favourite so most of his followers brought him gifts of milk, sugar and sugar cane. He was also sweet spoken to people as hence was popularly known as Pir Mitha.

Peer Budhan Ali Shah Sahib

The shrine of Peer Budan Ali Shah situated at Satwari near the Jammu Airport is also popularly known as Peer Baba. Peer Budan Ali Shah was a close friend of Shri Guru Nanak Dev ji. Peer sahib was born at Talwandi in 15th century A.D and was a bachelor throughout his life and a vegetarian, who according to his followers, subsisted on milk. Another shrine of the Peer is said to be at Anandpur Sahib in Punjab. A large number of devotees of all faiths throng the shrine on every Thursday.

Jama Masjid

It is the oldest and the biggest Masjid of Jammu located in Talab Khatikan, a kilometer away from Raghunth Bazar. Heavy rush of devotees is witnessed on the eve of Id-ul-Milad and Fridays.

Peer Roshan Shah Wali

It is one of the prominent Muslim Shrines located at Gumat in the heart of Jammu city near Shri Raghunathji temple. It is the (makbara) mausoleum of Peer Roshan Shah Wali. He is believed to have come from Arabia in 648 samvat and took his abode near Gumat which was then a jungle. After the death of the sage a mausoleum was built at the spot where he resided. This mausoleum has since continued to be the residence of Peers and pious men. The original structure made of stones and clay was rebuilt by Maharaja Ranbir Singh. Pir Roshan Shah was a very tall person and so came to be known also as Pir Nau Gazia ( the nine foot tall Pir).

Gurudwara Sunder Singh

This is a historical Gurudwara of Jammu located just in the vicinity of Raghunath Bazar. The Gurudwara was built about 166 years back by S. Sunder Singh Khurana Ji who lived in Amritsar. The Gurdwara has beautiful interiors with colourful floral motifs adorning the walls.

Kalgidhar Gurudwara, Rehari

The Gurudwara is located at Rehari Chowk just 2 Kms from Jammu bus stand on the National Highway.

Gurudwara ,Nanak Nagar

This is one of the biggest Gurdwaras in Jammu and is located in Nanak Nagar locality of the City.

Gurudwara Sh.Guru Nanak Devji

Also known as the Panchyati Gurudwara. It is situtated in upper bazar near Mubarak Mandi complex. It is venerated by both Sikhs and Hindus. The unique feature of this Gurudwara is that it has a 3ft tall white marble statue of Guru Nank Devji. Maharja Partap Singh is said to have installed the statue.

Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanak Ji, Chand Nagar

This Gurudwara is situated in the heart of the city at Chand Nagar near Jewel Chowk. Heavy rush of devotees is witnessed here on Gurupurabs.

Sant Rocha Singh Ashram (Digana Ashram)

This Gurudwara is situated on the national highway at Digana. The Gurudwara has a very beautiful building. The ashram provides free education to orphan children. Heavy rush of devotees is witnessed here during gurupurabs and Sundays.

St. Paul’s Church

St. Paul’s Church on Wazarat Road is the oldest Church. On 11th April, 1928, Miss Isabella Plumb laid the foundation stone of this church.

St. Cathedral Garrison Church (Catholic)

St. Cathedral Garrison Church (Catholic) on the national highway, was built in 1986 and is dedicated to Rt. Rev. Dr. Hippolytus Kunnunkal, then Bishop of J&K. Other churches are Roman Catholic Church near BC Road, St.Peter’s Church, Christian Colony, and Indian National Evangelical Church, Near Ustad Mohalla, Jammu.

Shri Jain Shwetambar Temple, Jammu

The temple is situated at Patel Chowk in the heart of the old city. This is a beautiful small marble temple having images of Lord Mahavira and the other Tirthankaras. All the images are of marble. The image of Lord Mahavira has been brought from Cambay near Ahmedabad and is believed to have been discovered 1100 years ago.

The built heritage of Jammu dates back to the 2nd century AD. Evidences of these are the Buddhist Stupa at Ambaran near Akhnoor, ninth to tenth century AD Temples at Krimchi, Babor and ancient Forts, Palaces and temples built in the middle ages. The important historical and heritage sites of Jammu are :

Amar Mahal Palace

Amar Mahal Palace is the architectural gem located on the National Highway towards Srinagar. Built like a French Chateau on a hill overlooking the river Tawi, is a beautiful palace of red sand stone which stands amidst most picturesque horizons of Jammu. Once the residential palace of Raja Amar Singh, the palace has been converted into a museum and is looked after by Hari-Tara Charitable Trust. The museum has the golden throne on which Maharaja used to sit, which is made up of 120 kg pure gold. The museum has a gallery of paintings and a library in which about 25,000 books on various subjects and disciplines have been presented.

Mubarak Mandi

Mubarak Mandi also called the Royal Dogra palaces have a history of more than 150 years. A very beautiful architecture, blended with Baroque, Mugal, Rajasthani and European styles, attracts the tourists in large number to this spot. The most striking sections of the complex are Sheesh Mahal, Rani Charak Mahal, the old Army Head Quarter, the Foreign Office and the Grey Hall where the Maharaja used to hold his Darbar. The Mubarak Mandi Complex includes the famous Dogra Art Gallery situated in the erstwhile Pink Hall. The museum is a treasure house of miniature paintings from the traditional Hill Schools of art especially the Jammu School of Art, Kangra School of Art and Basohli School of Art. The collection includes hundreds of rare pictures, a gold bow and arrow of the Mughal king Shah Jehan and also hand written Persian manuscripts of Shahnama and Sikandernama. This complex surrounds a beautiful courtyard and a fabulous garden.

The ancient Bahu Fort in Jammu is believed to be originally built by Raja Bahu Lochan about 3,000 years ago. It was refurbished by the Dogra rulers in the 19th century. The fort is a religious place and within its precincts is a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali, the presiding deity of Jammu. The temple is known locally as the "Bawey Wali Mata temple”. Just beneath the fort is the terraced Bagh-e-Bahu Garden laid in the style of Mughal gardens which affords panoramic view of the Jammu city and underground fish aquarium.

Akhnoor Fort

The Fort was built during the early 19th century and commands a towering view along the right bank of the Chenab. The present fort was probably started in 1762 AD at the behest of Raja Tegh Singh, as an autonomous principle state. A devastating famine is said to have broken in the country during this time. In order to provide work to his famishing people Raj Tegh Singh started the construction of Akhnoor Fort and Palace on banks of the Chenab River. He supplied food to the workers for 2 years and thus saved the principality His son Alam Singh completed the Akhnoor fort in 1802. On the eastern side, there are steps leading down to the River Chenab. Though constructed in the 18th century, most of the steps are in a good state of preservation. The ghat served as the important spot for performance of religious sites by the people of the region. The turrets or Burj are still intact is called the Kishore Singh Burj after Maharaja Gulab Singh's father who was a close associate of Guru Gobind Singh the 10th Sikh Guru. There are traces of paintings on the walls of the rooms of the fort.

Ambaran ,also locally known as Pambaran, is a village of Akhnoor tehsil in Jammu district and is said to have been founded by Amba Jagdev Pawar . A scion of Pawar dynasty of Dhar Ujjain which seems to have been the original capital of Akhnoor. It was named Ambari after the family diety Amba, one of the names of goddess Durga. The name got changed gradually into Ambaran. Ambaran is the eighth place in the world, where relics of Buddha have been found in a stupa. Historians are of the opinion that the place might have been an important centre of Buddhism between the 1st and 7th century B.C. A cultural sequence of four historical periods has already been unraveled at Ambaran. It is believed to be the only early Buddhist site in Jammu region. Excavations have unearthed terracotta figures, small sculptures, pottery and brunt brick structures dating back to pre Kushan and post Gupta period.

Purmandal and Uttarbehni

Located at a distance of 40 Kms from Jammu off the Jammu – Pathankot highway. Purmandal is one of the most visited pilgrim spots in Jammu. Also called “Chhota Kashi” – Mini Varanasi, the main temple complex here is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the aspect of Umapati. There are other temples too dedicated to Radha-Krishana and Raghumnath Ji. It is located on the banks of the sacred Devika river which is mostly flowing underground and is thus also called Gupt Ganga. The temple complex was built by Maharaja Gulab Singh in 1843 though it is believed that the earliest temple here dates back to sometime in the 6th – 8th century AD having been built by King Veeni Dutta of Avantipur, Kashmir. A major festival is held here on Shivratri. About 3 Kms from Purmandal is Uttarbehni (North Flowing) another important temple complex of the region. As the name would suggest, the river Devika here takes a turn and flows northwards which is rare for rivers in the world. The Gadadhar temple here was built by Maharaja Gulab Singh in 1850. The other temples dedicated to Lord shiva were built by his successors. The Shivling in the Abhibhakteshwar temple is claimed to be the biggest in India. Devotees from all over the region congregate here on Shivratri, Chaturthi and amavas.

Jhiri is located about 20 kms from Jammu, off the Jammu-Akhnoor highway. The Centuries old famous Jhiri Mela is held every year during the Karthik Purnima (late autumn full moon) falling in the last week of October and early November. Lacs of devotees throng the village to commemorate the martyrdom of Baba Jittoo, a farmer who gave up his life in protest against the oppressive demands of the zamindar about 500 years ago.

Jhajjar Kotli

Further ahead, 35 Kms short of Jammu on the National Highway is Jhajjar Kotli, Tourist Complex, built on the banks of the Jhajjar Rivulet. The crystal clear, cool waters of Jhajjar attract picnickers in large number especially during summers. A Tourist Cafeteria, a Bar and a small Tourist Bunglow are provided here by JKTDC. Moving further towards Jammu, one can also stop at the ancient Rani ka Talab.

Jammu Tawi Golf Course, Sidhra

Another landmark of Jammu is the Jammu Tawi Golf Course located in Sidhra on the outskirts of the city. Situated on the bank of river Tawi and the foothills of the Shivaliks, it is a fascinating recreation of nature. This wonderful 18 hole eco-friendly splendor is spread on 1385 kanals of lush green land. With the imposing backdrop of the Trikuta mountains, Jammu Tawi Golf Course opens to a breathtaking panorama of clean waters of serpentine River Tawi and affords the charming view of the distant Amar Mahal Palace, Hari Niwas Palace and Mubarak Mandi Complex on one side and the Bahu Fort and Mahamaya Temple on the other. It is perfect example of amalgamation of modernity with heritage. A 2 km long promenade bordering the Golf Course along River Tawi is the most salubrious facility for joggers and a scenic attraction for tourists. In the times to come, this golf course will prove to be a great Golfing Destination for both domestic and international golfers.

Balidan Stambh

The sacred soil of Jammu & Kashmir has been the battleground for several wars and the state has given some of the finest soldiers to the armed forces of the nation. To show eternal gratitude to the martyrs of various wars fought in J&K since independence, the Indian Army conceived a unique war memorial at Bahu Wali Rakh near the historic Bahu Fort and named it ‘Balidan Stambh’(the monument of sacrifice) in Jammu. Balidan in Hindi means "Sacrifice" and Stambh means a "Pillar". It has a Memorial Pillar constructed in memory of the martyr soldiers. Balidan Stambh is a perfect historical and emotional rendezvous for the people of Jammu region. This Balidan Stambh also epitomizes a vibrant linkage of rest of the country with Jammu & Kashmir. It is here that the soul of our fallen heroes will rests in peace. It is located on the way to Bahu fort.

Gharana Wet land

This place is about 3.5 kms from RS Pura and has a very good potential to attract tourists. It is a low lying wetland area having water 4-5 feet spread over an area of approx. 1.5 sq.km. A number of migratory bird species from Siberia and other countries nests here between November to April every year and is a perfect place for bird watchers and ornithologists. During these months the peaceful atmosphere of this village is jostled by the chirping of variety of beautiful birds which flock to this place from different arctic and Scandanavian countries. The wetland is close to Indo-Pak Border (appx. 20 Kms. From Jammu) and has been notified as a protected water body and declared as important Bird Area (IBA).

Border Tourism, Suchetgarh

Historically, R.S Pura being as an important railway station of undivided India in pre British times. It is 28 kms from Jammu and the border between India and Pakistan lies 9 kms from R.S Pura and is known as Suchetgarh border. This border town is on Westside of J&K state. The forest Octori Post for the state was at Suchetgarh and hence has a great historical importance.

Other interesting places to visit

This is one of the oldest church and is located just in the vicinity of Tourist Reception Centre, Residency Road, Jammu. Rev. A.G Cowie, the founding pioneer of Alexander Memorial School was granted permission by Sir Partap Singh, Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir in 1911.

Gurudwara Chatti Padshahi Tahli Sahib

The Gurudawara Sahib was made by Baba Bhagat Singh Ji and his wife Mata Tej Kour ji in 1947. Baba Bhagat Singh Ji was the follower of Baba Alibegh Ji. The Gurudwara is popularly known as Gurudwara Chatti Padshahi Tali Sahib Ji .This is an ancient and revered Gurudawara located at Talab Tillo.

Panch Peer (Five Holy Men)

This dargah is situated at a little distance from the Maharaja's palace on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. The place is known because five peers (Holymen) lived here and dedicated themselves to meditation. It is probable that the peers came and settled here during the time of Maharaja Gulab Singh.

Baba Rah is well known shrine in Jammu located at Gandhinagar area. Rah became popular because of his humanitarian activities during the time of Maharaja Pratap Singh of Jammu( 1885-1925A.D) and came from Nur Jamol , a village now in Pakistan.

Bandrali Rani temple

The temple is located at Purani Mandi in the heart of Jammu city. It was built by Rani Bandrali Devi wife of Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1890-91. The temple houses the images of Lord Rama and Mata Sita. The entrance door has the images of Mata Ganga and Jamuna.The temple complex has small temple of Lakshmi Narayan Ji and Mata Durga.

The temple was constructed during the reign of Maharaja Gulab Singh and is located on the slope to river Tawi from Panjtirthi on the Circular Road. The temple is dedicated to Lord Balram Ji , the elder brother of Lord Krishna & is named so as Lord Krishna used to address his elder brother as ‘ Dau’.

Raghunath Temple Dhakki Parmeshwari

This temple was built by the Dogra family to which Maharaja Gulab Singh belonged, probably in 1820. Later on Maharaja Ranbir Singh( 1857 – 1885 AD) also built temples in the vicinity of this shrine. The temple is dedicated to Raghunath ji and located on the lower end of the Dhakki Parmeshwari near the bank of Tawi, east of the city.

When one travels, he/she will get to know places and meet many different cultures. Jammu is a vibrant place of interest where tourists visit typically to quench their thirst for pilgrimage, leisure, VFR, natural and built beauty and heritage. Besides being the start point of Mata Vaishno Devi & Shri Amarnath Pilgrimage, the Jammu has peculiar things to offer which are unparalleled to contemporary tourist destinations. The uniqueness ranges from impeccable Basmati Rice & exotic Dogra cuisine to Suchetgarh International border outpost, from Gharana wetlands to Shikara, Pahari, old nagra style temples and so on. Moreover, the hosts are courteous & extremely hospital and geographic location of the town is its main USP.

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Govt will do everything to brand J&K as international tourist destination: Union tourism minister

Union minister for tourism and culture g kishan reddy discussed various avenues pertinent to tourism in the region of jammu and kashmir and highlighted the importance of promotion and campaigning of the union territory as a tourism destination in india and across the globe..

Union Minister for Tourism and Culture G Kishan Reddy on Thursday said the government will do everything to brand Jammu and Kashmir as an international tourist destination.

Interacting with tourism stakeholders at the SKICC here as part of the Centre's outreach programme, Reddy reaffirmed the commitment of the Union government towards the promotion of Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage worldwide.

"The central government will do everything in their domain to brand the region as an international tourist destination," he said during the interaction.

Reddy discussed various avenues pertinent to tourism in the region of Jammu and Kashmir and highlighted the importance of promotion and campaigning of the Union Territory as a tourism destination in India and across the globe.

The stakeholders, including tourist trade and travel, houseboat associations, shikarawalas, hoteliers among others, put forth their demands and issues being faced by them before the minister, an official spokesperson said.

The stakeholders sought direct flights from different cities of the country, including Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Chennai, to Srinagar, the spokesperson said.

He said they also demanded insurance cover in case of losses, development of new and virgin tourist destinations, better mobile connectivity at tourism places, renovation of old hotels at tourism destinations like Pahalgam, and Gulmarg among others.

The minister assured them that all genuine issues would be taken up at the central government level for early resolution, the spokesperson said.

Reddy said Jammu and Kashmir being a tourism destination remains top priority for Prime Minister Narendra Modi who always pushes his Cabinet for the development of the Union Territory, the spokesperson said. 

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Transforming J&K: Govt initiates major interventions to promote tourism in J&K

Budget allocation for upliftment of tourism sector almost tripled, Rs.786 crore allocated for year

 2021-22 which is Rs.509 crore more than previous year's budget allocation

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Greater Kashmir

Encourage EcoTourism in J&K

Blessed with natural scenic beauty, jammu and kashmir has emerged as one of the major tourist places. pre-1947, j&k was the favorite haunt of rulers….

ARIF SHAFI WANI

Blessed with natural scenic beauty, Jammu and Kashmir has emerged as one of the major tourist places.

Pre-1947, J&K was the favorite haunt of rulers including Mughals, Maharajas and even British who used to spend their holidays in its breathtaking destinations. Visitors from Europe were spellbound by Kashmir’s natural beauty.

They were instrumental in developing houseboats and adventure sports on professional lines. The Emporium building along The Bund was originally a British Residency.

The stretch from The Bund to Shivpora was known as European Quarters as it used to bustle with the British. It is said that a British Colonel living in a houseboat near the Bund introduced water sports in the river.

Decades passed and gradually J&K made its place on the global tourism map. Visitors were impressed by the natural beauty and importantly hospitality of people of J&K.

Hill stations like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Yousmarg, in Kashmir became world famous for snow-capped mountains, lush meadows and gushing streams.

Tourist places like Mughal Gardens, Tulip Garden, Dal Lake, Doodhpathri, Achabal, Sanasar, Mansar and Patnitop also are in the must-see itinerary of visitors. Official date states that 1.88 crore visitors including pilgrims came to J&K in 2022. Of this 26.73 lakh tourists visited Kashmir which is more than double the previous highest of 12.99 lakh in the year 2016.

Union Minister for Tourism G Kishan Reddy recently said that it is expected that there will be 20 million tourist arrivals including foreigners to J&K this year. 

In view of increasing rush of tourists, there is a need to promote lesser known tourist destinations in J&K. It is a welcome step that the Government has started the process to promote 75 off-beat tourist destinations. This will lessen the burden on most frequently visited tourism destinations in the union territory.

J&K is dotted with religious, heritage and cultural sites and these should be included in the tourist itinerary. Improving facilities for tourists is important to make their stay comfortable. But care has to be taken not to disturb environs of these offbeat eco-fragile tourist destinations. There is a need to promote sustainable tourism.

We have an example of the famous ski-resort Gulmarg in north Kashmir, which is witnessing a huge rush of tourists far above its carrying capacity. This can have serious ramifications on wildlife including bears and snow leopards besides hundreds of plant species and avifauna in the ski-resort.

We have seen the ski-restore has been witnessing frequent avalanches for the last several years. Experts blame increased footfall of tourists exceeding carrying capacity for affecting snow cover, triggering rise in temperature which results in avalanches.

Environmentalists warn that if the carrying capacity of eco-fragile areas is disturbed, damage will be irreparable. Subsequently it results in disasters like flash floods, water shortage and massive waste generation. Eco-tourism has emerged as one of the most important sectors of the international tourism industry.

This form of sustainable tourism has assumed importance as it encourages people to learn and conserve diverse landscapes, wildlife and cultures. Many places in the world are thriving due to the promotion of Eco-tourism. Dotted with rainforests, beaches, volcanoes and mountains, Costa Rica is one of the preferred eco-tourism destinations.

Kenya is billed as one of the best eco-tourism sites in Africa. Authorities created an organisation called ‘Ecotourism Kenya’. Their work involves promoting sustainable tourism that will conserve Kenya’s natural environment and improve the livelihoods of local communities.

Home to 54 national parks, over one million tourists every year visit Kenya. This has led the government to stop illegal poaching, ban single-use plastics and plastic bags while promoting sustainable tourism.

Being an eco-tourist destination for the past 33 years, Bhutan has been charging visitors a daily Sustainable Development Fee. Originally $65/day, the fee has now jumped to $200/day.

The money is used on eco-projects including offsetting Bhutan’s carbon footprint from tourism, supporting community education, organic farming and upskilling workers in the tourism industry. In 2017, Bhutan became the first carbon-negative country.

Having unique landscape, cultural diversity and heritage value, J&K can become one of the leaders of Eco-Tourism. It has natural places, lush green forests, springs, rivers, lakes, wetlands, pleasant weather, and diversity of culture. Kashmir has immense potential for golf and adventure tourism.

The sprawling Royal Springs Golf Course (RSGC) on the banks of Dal Lake has won praise world over for its unique topography. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr, a well-known American golf course designer, in 2001.

G20 delegates from various countries were left spellbound recently by the 300-acre RSGC comprising greens, rolling hills, forest, ponds, wilderness and marsh amid backdrop of Zabarwan mountain draped by thick conifer cover.

Health and wellness tourism can also be started in J&K. We can also promote trekking on an international scale but in a regulated manner. But visit near glaciers must be restricted.

The Government has selected 300 destinations for promoting film tourism in J&K this year. Bollywood is resuming its date with the natural beauty of Kashmir. Songs in the backdrop of the waters of Dal lake, scenic landscapes of Pahalgam and Gulmarg have been appreciated.

Secretary Tourism, Syed Abid Rasheed, who is spearheading J&K’s tourism promotion, believes that there are many destinations much better than European destinations in the UT. “Film tourism will be promoted in a major way so that many untouched destinations are explored.”

People are fascinated to see scenic places of J&K,that is why filmmakers are fascinated to make its forests, lakes and landscapes part of their film. The Gurez area in Bandipora district is fast emerging as a tourist destination. Government must ensure to promote Gurez and other similar far-off places as eco-tourism destinations.

Instead of concrete structures, tented tourist villages can be set-up. Existing traditional houses can be converted into homestays for tourists in picturesque Gurez of Bangus valleys. This way, tourists can enjoy scenic beauty of these offbeat destinations but also experience rich culture and heritage.

Tourists, especially foreigners, love to stay close to nature. Lieutenant Governor of J&K Manoj Sinha has been making all efforts to promote the Union Territory as a preferred eco tourist destination. Home-stays and tented accommodations are becoming popular among domestic and foreign tourists as well as backpackers. “J&K UT government is making efforts to promote tent stay at scenic locations that will deliver rapid growth to the tourism industry,” the LG had stated.

The LG last year launched 75 Home-Stays in Rural areas to commemorate ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ in partnership with JLRLM and OYO Group under project ‘Crown of Incredible India’.

“The launch of Tourist Village Network, in which Mission Youth has selected 75 such villages under both the Jammu, and Kashmir divisions, known for their unique landscape, cultural diversity and heritage value will go a long way in expanding the tourism ecosystem to rural areas of UT,” the LG had stated.

Tourism sector is one of the main drivers of the economy of J&K. We have to understand that tourism will sustain only if nature sustains. Eco-tourism can facilitate tourists to experience nature as well as culture prevailing in natural areas without damaging the environment.

J&K Government and stakeholders need to encourage Eco-tourism activities as the UT is one of the environmentally fragile zones prone to natural disasters. Sustainable tourism will empower us economically and ecologically.

Author is Executive Editor, Greater Kashmir

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this article are the personal opinions of the author.

The facts, analysis, assumptions and perspective appearing in the article do not reflect the views of GK.

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National Tourism Day 2020: Slogans used by Indian states to promote tourism

The national tourism day is celebrated on january 25 every year to raise influences, awareness within the international community and to demonstrate how it affects social, cultural, political and economic values worldwide. .

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India is one of the oldest known to humanity. It is an ancient land of rich culture, heritage, geographical, historical and religious influences. To raise influences, awareness within the international community and to demonstrate how it affects social, cultural, political and economic values worldwide National Tourism Day is celebrated. The National Tourism Day is celebrated on January 25 every year. It was established by the Indian government to raise awareness of the importance of tourism for the country's economy.

Indian states

India is divided into different states and all of the states are endowed with ancient cultural heritage and natural beauty that has always been an attractive tourist destination. Thus India has great potential to become one of the leading tourism destinations in the world.

National Tourism Day 2020: Indian states and tOURISM SLOGAN

World tourism day.

Tourism nowadays has become continuously growing and developing economic sectors because of the occurrence of various attractive and new destinations for tourists. It has become the main source of income for developing countries. Hence, World Tourism Day is celebrated every year on September 27th each year aiming to aware the people about the importance of tourism.

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Indian Union Territories With Their Tourism Taglines

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India is one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a kaleidoscopic variety and rich cultural heritage. It has achieved all-around socio-economic progress since Independence.

As the 7th largest country in the world, India stands apart from the rest of Asia, marked off as it is by mountains and the sea, which give the country a distinct geographical entity.

Bounded by the Great Himalayas in the north, it stretches southwards and at the Tropic of Cancer, tapers off into the Indian Ocean between the Bay of Bengal on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west.

India comprises 8 Union Territories . They are Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, National Capital Territory of Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Lakshadweep, Ladakh, and Puducherry.

Here are the Indian Union Territories With Their Tourism Taglines:

Also Check out Indian States With Their Tourism Taglines  

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Jammu and Kashmir Witnesses Record-Breaking Tourism Surge in 2023

In a historic turn of events, Jammu and Kashmir, the crown jewel of India’s tourism landscape, experienced an unprecedented influx of visitors in 2023. Surpassing all previous records since independence, more than 2.11 crore tourists flocked to the region, marking a significant milestone in its tourism trajectory.

The surge in tourist arrivals has been attributed to a confluence of factors, chief among them being the abrogation of Article 370. This bold move has not only instilled a sense of security and stability but has also opened doors for the region to showcase its breathtaking beauty and cultural richness to the world.

One pivotal catalyst in this tourism boom has been the hosting of G-20 meetings on Indian soil. These global gatherings not only bolstered India’s stature on the world stage but also served as a catalyst for tourism promotion. The G-20 Tourism Working Group meeting, held in the picturesque city of Srinagar in May, garnered special recognition for its role in attracting a substantial number of foreign tourists to the Kashmir valley.

The statistics speak volumes about the burgeoning tourism sector in India, with a remarkable 155% increase in overall tourist arrivals in 2023 compared to the preceding years of 2021 and 2022. This exponential growth underscores the immense potential and allure of the Indian subcontinent as a prime tourist destination.

Strategic initiatives implemented by tourism officials in Jammu and Kashmir have played a pivotal role in harnessing this newfound momentum. From exploring offbeat destinations to reviving film and border tourism, and promoting homestays, these efforts have added a layer of depth and diversity to the tourist experience in the region.

Religious pilgrimages have also contributed significantly to the tourism surge, with the holy cave shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi witnessing the arrival of at least 95 lakh pilgrims this year, the highest in the past decade. Similarly, the annual Amarnath Yatra concluded with around 4.5 lakh devotees offering prayers at the cave shrine in the South Kashmir Himalayas, further underscoring the region’s spiritual significance and appeal.

As Jammu and Kashmir continues to bask in the glow of this tourism renaissance, there is a palpable sense of optimism and anticipation for the future. With concerted efforts towards infrastructure development, cultural preservation, and sustainable tourism practices, the region is poised to emerge as a premier tourist destination on the global stage, beckoning travelers from far and wide to discover its myriad wonders and treasures.

(Author is PhD in Public Administration and Columnist)

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