Top places to visit

Top places to visit

Kathua, often referred to as the "Gateway to Jammu & Kashmir," is a land of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. From ancient temples and majestic forts to serene rivers and wildlife sanctuaries, here are the best places to visit in Kathua.

 1. Basohli – The Land of Miniature Paintings & Ranjit Sagar Dam

 Why Visit?

• Famous for Basohli paintings, an intricate Pahari miniature art form.
• Visit the Ranjit Sagar Dam, one of India’s largest hydroelectric projects.
• Enjoy boating, photography, and scenic landscapes.

 Distance from Kathua: 72 km
 Best Time to Visit: March–October
 How to Reach? Drive via Kathua-Basohli Road.

 2. Mata Bala Sundari Temple – A Revered Shakti Shrine

 Why Visit?

• One of the most sacred temples in Kathua, dedicated to Goddess Bala Sundari (a form of Vaishno Devi).
• The temple hosts a grand annual fair, attracting thousands of devotees.

 Location: Billawar (65 km from Kathua)
 Best Time to Visit: Year-round
 How to Reach? Drive via NH44 & Billawar Road.

 3. Ujh Barrage – A Perfect Picnic & Birdwatching Spot

 Why Visit?

• A beautiful dam on the Ujh River, ideal for boating & fishing.
• A paradise for birdwatchers, with many migratory birds visiting the area.
• A serene place for photography & nature lovers.

 Distance from Kathua: 20 km
 Best Time to Visit: October–March
 How to Reach? Short drive via Kathua-Ujh Road.

 4. Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary – Home to Leopards & Deer

 Why Visit?

• A dense forest reserve rich in flora and fauna.
• Home to leopards, barking deer, wild boars, and various bird species.
• Ideal for wildlife photography, trekking & nature walks.

 Distance from Kathua: 20 km
 Best Time to Visit: October–April
 How to Reach? Drive via Jasrota Road.

 5. Jasrota Fort – A Blend of History & Scenic Views

 Why Visit?

• A 17th-century fort built by Raja Jas Dev of the Jasrotia dynasty.
• Overlooks the Ravi River & Shivalik Hills.
• Perfect for history lovers & photographers.

 Distance from Kathua: 15 km
 Best Time to Visit: Year-round
 How to Reach? Short drive from Kathua town.

 6. Sukrala Mata Temple – A Spiritual Hilltop Retreat

 Why Visit?

• A famous hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.
• Offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• A popular pilgrimage site for spiritual seekers.

 Distance from Kathua: 70 km
 Best Time to Visit: Year-round
 How to Reach? Drive via Billawar Road.

 7. Atal Setu (Basohli Bridge) – A Marvel of Engineering

 Why Visit?

• One of India’s longest cable-stayed bridges, connecting J&K with Punjab.
• Offers stunning views of the Ravi River & surrounding mountains.
• Perfect for photography & road trips.

 Distance from Kathua: 65 km
 Best Time to Visit: Year-round
 How to Reach? Drive via Basohli Road.

 8. Dream Recreation Park – A Fun Family Outing

 Why Visit?

• A beautiful amusement park with rides, gardens & boating.
• Ideal for families and kids.

 Location: Kathua town
 Best Time to Visit: Year-round

 9. Pandori Mata Temple – A Sacred Pilgrimage Site

 Why Visit?

• A famous local temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.
• Known for spiritual healing & peaceful surroundings.

 Location: Near Kathua town
 Best Time to Visit: Year-round

 10. Dhar Mahanpur – An Offbeat Nature Escape

 Why Visit?

• A hidden hill station near Kathua, known for meadows & pine forests.
• Perfect for trekking, camping & photography.
• A less crowded alternative to Patnitop.

 Distance from Kathua: 60 km
 Best Time to Visit: April–October
 How to Reach? Drive via Billawar Road.

 Best Day Trips from Kathua (Quick Getaways)

Kathua is a hidden gem in Jammu & Kashmir, offering a mix of adventure, history, and spirituality. Whether you’re exploring the Basohli paintings, enjoying the serene views of Ujh Barrage, or trekking through Dhar Mahanpur, there’s something for every traveler.

 Best Time to Visit: March–October (for sightseeing), October–February (for wildlife & festivals).
 Recommended Itinerary: Kathua → Basohli → Jasrota Fort → Ujh Barrage → Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary.