Bike Rental in Jammu Scooty on Rent in Jammu for Temples & Palaces

The Raghunath Temple was begun by Maharaja Gulab Singh in 1835 and completed by his son Ranbir Singh in 1860. It is one of the largest temple complexes in north India, with shrines to many deities and gold-covered interiors. Security checks are strict, so leave bags and phones in the lockers outside. Inside, the main shrine holds an image of Rama, while the surrounding galleries are lined with lingams and smaller shrines. The temple's library is known for its collection of old Sanskrit manuscripts, which scholars still study today.

Bahu Fort stands on a hill on the left bank of the Tawi and is believed to be one of the oldest buildings in Jammu. Inside is the Bawe Wali Mata temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, which draws large crowds on Tuesdays and Sundays. The Bagh-e-Bahu gardens and aquarium are just below the fort. The walls of the fort are built from stone and the gateway leads into a courtyard filled with bells and devotees. Many visitors combine a visit to the temple with a walk in the gardens below and a view of the river from the ramparts.

Mubarak Mandi was the royal residence of the Dogra rulers from the 19th century, a mix of Rajasthani, Mughal and European architectural styles. Parts of the complex are being restored, and the Dogra Art Museum is located here. Check which sections are open before you visit. The palace stands on a high bank above the Tawi, and its old courtyards and arched windows give a sense of how the Dogra court once lived. Photographers love the faded facades in the soft evening light.

Amar Mahal was built in the late 19th century for Raja Amar Singh in a French château style. Today it is a museum displaying paintings, a golden throne and books from the Dogra royal family. The terrace overlooks the Tawi and the Shivalik hills, and the museum is closed on certain days. The museum is managed by a trust set up by Dr Karan Singh, son of Maharaja Hari Singh, and its collection includes Pahari miniature paintings from the hill courts. The gardens around the palace are calm and well kept.

The Tawi river divides Jammu into the old city and the newer areas, and its bridges offer wide views of the river and the hills beyond. Evenings are pleasant for a short ride along the river roads. In the cooler months, early mornings on the river bridges bring mist over the water, and the views of the Shivalik hills are at their best. On a Hire N Ride scooter you can stop at small viewpoints along the way.

Raghunath Bazaar and Hari Market are Jammu's busiest shopping streets, known for dry fruits, Kashmiri shawls, Dogra crafts and local sweets. Park on the edge of the bazaar and walk in, as the lanes are crowded. Prices in the bazaar can be negotiated, especially for dry fruits and shawls. Many shops close early on Sundays, so plan your shopping on a weekday.