Jammu and Kashmir
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Jammu and Kashmir.
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3 Days in Jammu for a Food Trip
Jammu is a hidden gem for food lovers, with its rich flavors and unique Dogra cuisine. Over three days, you'll taste everything from street-side snacks to hearty traditional meals. The city's food scene is a mix of spicy, sweet, and savory, with plenty of local favorites you won't find anywhere else. I've spent years exploring Jammu's eateries, and this itinerary covers the best spots.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Jammu
Kick off your Jammu food and culture tour with the city's most iconic attractions and flavors, from historic temples to legendary street food.
Activities
Morning at Raghunath Temple
Start your day with a visit to the grand Raghunath Temple, Jammu's most sacred site. The complex houses multiple shrines adorned with gold-plated interiors and ancient idols. The morning aarti (prayer ceremony) is especially serene, with the scent of incense filling the air. Don't miss the intricate carvings on the temple walls that tell stories from Hindu scriptures.
- Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees)
- Remove shoes before entering
Breakfast at Purani Mandi
Just a 10-minute walk from the temple, dive into Jammu's breakfast culture at Purani Mandi. This bustling lane comes alive with sizzling griddles serving kaladi kulcha (Jammu's famous cheese-stuffed bread) and sweet-savory patisa (a flaky pastry). Try the local-style chai served in small kulhads (clay cups) for the full experience.
- Look for stalls with the longest queues
- Try the mint chutney with kaladi kulcha
Explore Bahu Fort & Gardens
After breakfast, take a short auto-rickshaw ride to the 18th-century Bahu Fort overlooking the Tawi River. The terraced Bagh-e-Bahu gardens below offer stunning city views. Watch locals feeding fish in the pond and enjoy the cool breeze. The adjacent Bawey Wali Mata Temple is considered the presiding deity of Jammu.
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing steps
- Carry water as it gets sunny
Must Try Foods
Transportation
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Day 2
Day 2 in Jammu
Dive deeper into Jammu's culture with a mix of history, spirituality, and mouthwatering local flavors.
Activities
Visit Mubarak Mandi Palace
Start your day at this stunning royal palace complex, a blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, and European architecture. The pink façade and intricate details make it a photographer’s delight. Don’t miss the Dogra Art Museum inside, showcasing rare Pahari paintings and royal artifacts.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the palace has uneven pathways.
- Hire a guide for ₹200-300 to understand the historical significance.
Lunch at Shree Ram Vaishno Dhaba
A legendary spot for authentic Dogra cuisine. Try their signature Rajma Chawal (kidney beans with rice) or the rich, buttery Dal Baati Churma. The no-frills setting lets the food shine, and locals swear by their kadhi (yogurt-based curry).
- Ask for extra ghee on the side—it elevates the flavors.
- Their lassi (yogurt drink) is a perfect post-meal cooler.
Evening at Peer Kho Cave Temple
A lesser-known but fascinating cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, nestled on the banks of the Tawi River. The climb is short but steep, offering panoramic views of Jammu at sunset. Locals believe the cave has a hidden tunnel to the Bahu Fort—ask a priest for the story!
- Remove shoes before entering the cave—it’s a religious site.
- Carry water; the climb can be dehydrating.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Jammu
A relaxed day exploring hidden gems, local markets, and savoring authentic Dogra flavors.
Activities
Morning at Amar Mahal Museum
Start your day at the Amar Mahal Museum, a stunning red sandstone palace turned museum. It houses rare Pahari paintings, royal artifacts, and offers panoramic views of the Tawi River. The quiet morning light makes it perfect for photography.
- Don’t miss the library with rare books.
- The garden outside is ideal for a short stroll.
Explore Raghunath Bazaar
Head to Raghunath Bazaar, a bustling market known for its Dogra jewelry, traditional pashminas, and local handicrafts. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs like copperware or phirans (Kashmiri cloaks). The narrow lanes are packed with character and local chatter.
- Bargain politely—it’s part of the experience.
- Try the street-side kahwa (Kashmiri tea) from small stalls.
Lunch at Shiv Shankar Dhaba
For a true local experience, grab lunch at Shiv Shankar Dhaba, famous for its rajma-chawal (kidney beans with rice) and creamy kadhi. The no-frills setting lets the food shine, and it’s a favorite among Jammu residents.
- Arrive early—it gets crowded during lunch.
- Pair your meal with their thick lassi.