Location: Southern Jammu, located on the banks of the Ravi River, approximately 85 km from Jammu
Significance: Kathua is an important town in the Jammu region, known for its cultural heritage, agricultural importance, and proximity to the border regions.
Tourist Attractions
Mansar Lake: A scenic lake surrounded by hills, about 60 km from Kathua, known for boating and picnic spots
Ranjit Sagar Dam: Located on the Ravi River, this large dam offers beautiful views and is a popular spot for nature lovers
Shiv Khori: A famous cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracting thousands of pilgrims annually
Baba Sidh Goria Shrine: A religious site dedicated to a local saint, popular among devotees
Dunali: A village known for its beautiful river views and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers
Nagri Dhanori Temples: Historic temples dedicated to various Hindu deities
Economy
Agriculture: Kathua is primarily an agricultural region, with crops like wheat, rice, maize, and fruits such as apples, peaches, and plums being cultivated
Horticulture: The region is known for its rich fruit orchards and vegetable farming
Industrial Development: Kathua also has an industrial presence, particularly in cement production, handicrafts, and textile manufacturing
Connectivity
By Air: The nearest airport is Jammu Airport (Satwari), around 85 km away, with regular flights to other major cities
By Rail: Kathua Railway Station provides connections to Jammu, Srinagar, and other parts of Jammu & Kashmir
By Road: Well-connected to Jammu, Pathankot, and Amritsar through National Highways
Climate
Type: Subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters
Summer: Hot temperatures, ranging from 30°C to 40°C, making the months of April to June quite warm
Winter: Temperatures can drop to around 5–15°C, with occasional snow in higher altitudes during winter
Best Time to Visit: March to October for pleasant weather and outdoor activities
Festivals
Diwali, Navratri, Holi, Baisakhi, and Eid – Celebrated with fervor by the local Hindu and Muslim communities
Shivaratri – A major festival for Hindu devotees, especially in temples and shrines around Kathua