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Some of the must-visit temples in Jammu and Kashmir include the sacred Vaishno Devi Mandir and Amarnath Cave, Srinagar’s ancient Kheer Bhawani Temple, and Jammu’s iconic Raghunath Temple. These sites hold immense religious significance and attract countless pilgrims annually, making them essential for those seeking spiritual experiences in the region. This guide covers the most famous temples in Jammu and Kashmir you shouldn’t miss.
- Temples in Jammu: Vaishno Devi Mandir, Raghunath Temple, Ranbireshwar Temple, and Peer Kho Cave Temple.
- Temples in Kashmir: Amarnath Cave Temple, Kheer Bhawani Temple, Shankaracharya Temple, and Avantipur Temple.
Famous Temples in Jammu and Kashmir: Wondering to explore the religious side of Jammu and Kashmir? Jammu and Kashmir is known for its mountains and spectacular valleys, but it is also home to some of the most holy shrines in India. While the region’s scenery attracts visitors from every corner of the globe, the temples reflect a long history of devotion, heritage, and culture.
Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveller exploring the spiritual India, the famous temples of Jammu and Kashmir are sure to take you on a journey both memorable and rewarding.
Also Check Out: Jammu And Kashmir Tour Packages
Let’s explore some of the most notable names in this list of temples in Jammu and Kashmir that you must add to your visit.
10 Famous Temples in Jammu and Kashmir
1. Vaishno Devi Temple – Katra
The Vaishno Devi Temple, also considered one of the Shakti Peethas, is located on the Trikuta Hills near Katra. It is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi, one of the most famous gods in Jammu and Kashmir. What makes this shrine truly special is not just the darshan but the 12 km uphill trek through the scenic Trikuta Hills near Katra. Pilgrims walk together, chanting, resting at pit stops, and soaking in panoramic mountain views. By the time you reach the sacred cave, it feels like a spiritual and adventurous journey rolled into one, making it an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Best Time to Visit – March to November
How to Reach- The nearest town is Katra, connected by road.
2. Raghunath Mandir – Jammu
If you are in Jammu city, you cannot miss the iconic Raghunath Temple. Built in the 19th century by Maharaja Ranbir Singh, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama but also houses shrines for several other deities. With gold-plated walls and intricate carvings, it feels more like a spiritual palace than just a temple. Walking through its many galleries gives you a glimpse into both its devotional atmosphere and architectural artistry, making it one of the biggest and most famous temples in Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time to Visit – April to June
How to Reach – Easily accessible by road within Jammu city.
Also Read: Places To Visit In Jammu And Kashmir
3. Amarnath Cave Temple – Pahalgam
One of the most famous temples in Jammu and Kashmir, Amarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its naturally formed ice lingam. Located at an altitude of 3,888 metres, the Amarnath Yatra is not just a pilgrimage but also an adventure through breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Trekkers pass snow-capped peaks, flowing streams, and high-altitude passes to reach the cave. Standing inside, with the glowing ice lingam before you, is one of the most powerful and spiritual experiences in Jammu and Kashmir.
Best Time to Visit – July to August
How to Reach – Accessible via Srinagar or Pahalgam, followed by a trek.
Book Now: Amarnath Yatra Packages
4. Sharika Devi Temple – Srinagar
Perched on the Hari Parbat Hill, the Sharika Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Jagadamba Sharika Bhagwati. To reach the shrine, travelers often hike up the hill, and once at the top, they are rewarded with sweeping views of Srinagar and Dal Lake. It’s not just a spiritual stop but also a perfect viewpoint, where devotion meets natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit- April to October
How to Reach- Situated on Hari Parbat Hill, reachable via local taxis or shared cabs from Srinagar city.
Also Read: Things To Do In Jammu And Kashmir
5. Martand Sun Temple – Mattan
The Martand Sun Temple near Anantnag is one of the most remarkable temples in Jammu and Kashmir. Dedicated to the Sun God and built in the 8th century, it now lies in ruins but still reflects the grandeur of ancient Kashmiri architecture. Standing amidst the massive stone walls with mountains as the backdrop, it feels like walking into an open-air museum. For history lovers and spiritual seekers alike, this temple is an unforgettable stop.
Best Time to Visit- April to June
How to Reach- About 8 km from Anantnag town, easily reached by road from Srinagar or Jammu.
6. Shankaracharya Temple – Srinagar
Perched atop Shankaracharya Hill, this temple offers panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Shankaracharya temple is not just a spiritual destination but it is also one of the oldest temples in Kashmir and an archaeological gem.Visitors often climb a series of steps to reach the shrine, rewarded with both blessings and breathtaking scenery.
Best Time to Visit- May to September
How to Reach- Located in Srinagar, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw, followed by a climb of around 200 steps.
Also Checkout: Kashmir Tour Package
7. Ranbireshwar Temple – Jammu
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Ranbireshwar Temple is one of the most famous Shiva temple in Jammu. Apart from its peaceful ambiance, the temple is known for its massive Shiva lingam and rows of small lingams spread across the hall. For travelers, it’s not just about worship, it’s about pausing for a while, soaking in the quiet atmosphere, and experiencing the deep spiritual connection that locals have cherished for centuries.
Best Time to Visit- April to September
How to Reach- In the heart of Jammu city on Shalimar Road, easily accessible by auto or taxi.
8. Peer Kho Cave Temple – Jammu
One of the oldest temples in Jammu, Peer Kho Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is famous for its natural cave, it is believed to be the place where Jamvantji from the Ramayana meditated. Situated along the banks of the Tawi River, the temple is especially lively during Shivratri when it sees a large influx of devotees.
Best Time to Visit- April to August
How to Reach- Located on Circular Road in Jammu, well-connected by road and close to Jammu Railway Station.
9. Avantipur Temple – Awantipora
The Avantipur Temple, built by King Avantivarman in the 9th century, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its architecture shows a blend of Kashmiri and Greek influences, making it an important historical site. Although in ruins, the temple continues to be a popular attraction for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.
Best Time to Visit- April to September
How to Reach- Situated 29 km from Srinagar on the Srinagar-Anantnag road, easily accessible by car or bus.
10. Kheer Bhawani Temple – Tulmulla
The Kheer Bhawani Temple in Srinagar is one of the most revered shrines in Kashmir, dedicated to Goddess Ragyanya Devi. Surrounded by chinar trees, it sits beside a sacred spring whose waters are said to change color as a divine sign. Devotees offer kheer at the shrine, which is how it got its name. For travellers, the temple offers a peaceful escape, with the combination of devotion and the natural beauty of Srinagar’s landscape.
Best Time to Visit- May to June
How to Reach- Around 27 km from Srinagar, accessible by road via taxis or buses.
Why Visit the Temples in Jammu and Kashmir?
The temples in Jammu and Kashmir are not just places of worship; they are living monuments of history, culture, and faith. From the sacred Vaishno Devi Temple in Katra to the ancient Martand Sun Temple in Mattan, each shrine tells a story of devotion and resilience. Jammu, often called the “City of Temples,” alone houses dozens of shrines, reflecting the region’s rich spiritual fabric. Visiting these temples allows you to witness centuries-old traditions, intricate architecture, and the deep-rooted faith of the people.
FAQs :
- Which is the biggest temple in Jammu and Kashmir?
Raghunath Temple in Jammu is the largest temple complex in Northern India, featuring multiple shrines dedicated to various deities and rich cultural heritage.
- Which is the oldest temple in Jammu and Kashmir?
The Martand Sun Temple in Mattan is the oldest temple in Jammu and Kashmir. Built in the 8th century by King Lalitaditya, it offers one of the most fascinating glimpses into ancient Kashmiri architecture.
- Why is Jammu called the City of Temples?
Jammu is called the City of Temples because it is the home to countless shrines dedicated to different deities, making it a hub of religious and spiritual life.
- When is the best time to visit temples in Jammu and Kashmir?
March to November is ideal for most temples, though specific shrines like Amarnath Cave Temple are open only during certain months.
- Are there any restrictions on photography inside temples?
Yes, some temples restrict photography, so it’s best to check with temple authorities before clicking pictures.
- What is the famous temple of Jammu and Kashmir?
The most famous temples in Jammu and Kashmir are Vaishno Devi Mandir and Amarnath Cave, both attracting millions of pilgrims every year.
- Which god is famous in Jammu and Kashmir?
The most worshipped deities here are Goddess Mahalakshmi at Vaishno Devi and Lord Shiva at Amarnath, Ranbireshwar, and several other temples.
- What are the top five temples in Jammu and Kashmir?
Vaishno Devi Mandir, Amarnath Cave, Raghunath Temple, Kheer Bhawani Temple, and Martand Sun Temple are considered the top five religious and cultural sites.