Why travel to Bhaderwah

Located in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir, Bhaderwah owes its abundant beauty to a few hundred unknown rivers clinging to the mountains, alpine valleys dotted with age-old temples and tea shops, and snow-capped peaks that are completely devoid of any worldly trappings.

Bhaderwah

Experience the breathtaking journey from Jammu to Bhaderwah along a 200-km road through some of India’s most stunning terrain. Forested slopes and dilapidated shops blur into an ivy green haze, while the serene Neeru River glistens in the distance. After a five-hour and 40-minute drive, the picturesque, bowl-shaped valley of Bhaderwah emerges, rewarding travelers with its mesmerizing beauty. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this scenic route promises an unforgettable travel experience in Jammu and Kashmir.

Nestled in the foothills of the central Himalayas, Chota Kashmir, also known as Mini Kashmir, sits at an altitude of 5,295 feet. The town’s deep pine forests and fuchsia rhododendron meadows create a serene atmosphere, while its rich history is filled with local legends and political fervor. The snow-clad mountains, perpetually gleaming in the winter sun, captivate visitors instantly, drawing travelers from around the globe. This enchanting destination offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, making it a must-visit in Jammu and Kashmir.

Chinta Valley

Perched at an altitude of 6,500 feet, this forest valley is a haven of coniferous trees and serene beauty. Enjoy horse riding from Baggan to Thuba, and visit the ancient Shiva temple nearby. The Bhaderwah-Chinta Road marks the starting point for the exhilarating trek to Subarnag Peak. The valley also offers ample opportunities for skiing, making it a perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Discover the tranquility and excitement this high-altitude gem has to offer in Jammu and Kashmir.

Seoj Meadow

Seoj Dhar, a peaceful canvas of meadows surrounded by rolling mountains, hosts the sacred peak of Kailash Kund to the south and a small river to the west. This serene meadow serves as a camping ground for Kailash Yatra pilgrims. Adventure enthusiasts can book a thrilling paragliding trip over Bhaderwah’s breathtaking landscapes, creating unforgettable memories.

Pathri

Reaching an altitude of 10,500 feet, Padri is the highest point on the Bhaderwah-Chamba road. This picturesque location, adorned with wildflowers and grass, becomes a bustling hub for pilgrims in July, marking the beginning of the Mani-Mahesh Yatra. Pack a picnic lunch and board one of the interstate buses to experience the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Padri. This charming spot offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sartingal Road

On the southern edge of Bhaderwah lies the heavenly village of Sartingal. Surrounded by lush deodar forests and framed by the majestic Kailash and Ashapati hills, Sartingal offers serene beauty and tranquility. The village is dotted with uncrowded rivers and charming kahwa shops, providing a perfect escape into nature’s embrace. It’s an idyllic spot for relaxation, exploration, and experiencing the authentic charm of Jammu and Kashmir.

Cuisine on offer – Bhaderwahi Rajma

Indulge in Bhaderwah’s culinary delights, featuring favorites like the aromatic rogan josh and perhaps the world’s finest rajma rice. Savor the soothing kahwa and discover heavenly dishes like yakhni (lamb curry with yogurt), mawal flower and mint, matschagand (fiery meatball curry), and modur pulao (rice with saffron, cinnamon, and milk). Don’t miss the street eateries and restaurants for traditional dishes such as goshtaba, aab gosht, muji gad, and dum olav. Bhaderwah’s cuisine promises a rich and unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Vasuki Nag Temple, Bhaderwah

A paragon of architecture, this ancient temple near Bhaderwah’s city centre houses twin idols of Raja Jamute Vahan and Naagraj Vasuki, carved from a single stone and dating back to the 11th century. The time-worn statues, inclined at 87 degrees, draw pilgrims year-round, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. This sacred site, just three kilometres away, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.

When to go

October ushers in the winter season in Bhaderwah, making it a spectacular time to visit until February. This period offers ideal conditions for sightseeing tours and adventure sports. In December, temperatures can drop to as low as 4ºC, so pack plenty of woollens for your trip. The winter landscape transforms Bhaderwah into a picturesque destination, perfect for those seeking both adventure and tranquility in the serene beauty of Jammu and Kashmir.

Bhaderwah is conveniently accessible from Jammu, which is 200 kilometers away. The road journey can be divided into four segments:

1. Jammu to Udhampur: 65 km via NH-1A
2. Udhampur to Batote: 55 km via NH-1A
3. Batote to Pul Doda: 50 km via NH-1B
4. Pul Doda to Bhaderwah: 30 km

This route offers a scenic drive through diverse landscapes, making the journey to Bhaderwah an enjoyable experience. Safe travels!

Reaching Jammu

By Air: Jammu Airport connects to major cities such as Srinagar, Delhi, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. This makes reaching Bhaderwah convenient, offering multiple flight options to plan your journey with ease. Enjoy a seamless travel experience to this enchanting destination.

By train: Jammu is well-connected with several major routes. Some of the key trains operating to and from Jammu include:

• Jammu Mail
• Jammu Express
• Malwa Express
• Shalimar Express
• Sealdah Express
• Jhelum Express
• Himgiri Express
• Himsagar Express
• Lohit Express

These trains ensure convenient access to and from Jammu, making your journey to Bhaderwah smooth and hassle-free. Enjoy the scenic train ride through picturesque landscapes!