Dr Manmeet Motan
Nestled in the lap of the Shivalik range, blessed with scenic beauty, rich history, and spiritual significance, Udhampur, a district in Jammu and Kashmir, is slowly emerging as a promising contender on India’s tourism map. Often overshadowed by the better-known destinations of Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Jammu, Udhampur offers a compelling blend of nature, mythology, heritage, and adventure-just waiting to be discovered.But can Udhampur become the next big tourist destination in India? The answer lies in the treasure trove of experiences it offers to every kind of traveller.
Udhampur is a cultural mosaic of Dogra, Kashmiri, and tribal traditions. The Dogri language, folk dances like Kud and Geetru, and local festivals such as Lohri, Baisakhi, and Navratri Melas offer a colorful experience. Don’t miss tasting local delicacies like kalari (hill cheese), khatta meat, and ambal, which are unique to the region.As home to Northern Command Headquarters of the Indian Army, Udhampur also has the potential for developing military tourism. With proper collaboration, museums and guided tours about India’s defense forces could become a major attraction, especially for youth and history enthusiasts. Udhampur is not just a stopover on the way to Vaishno Devi or Kashmir-it is a destination in itself. With its mystic rivers, ancient temples, untouched hills, and warm-hearted people, it has all the ingredients to become India’s next major tourist hub.Udhampur offers opportunities for activities like trekking, camping, and exploring the mountains. Efforts are underway to improve road connectivity, develop homestay facilities, and promote the area’s tourist attractions. The district is blessed with scenic landscapes, including the popular hill station of Patnitop, and is surrounded by forests of pine, fir, and spruce. Udhampur offers opportunities for activities like trekking, camping, and exploring the mountains. From ancient temples and royal forts to snow-fed rivers, eco-trails, local cheeses, and organic farming, Udhampur offers a 360-degree travel experience. Whether you are a pilgrim, a trekker, a history lover, or a foodie, Udhampur’s diversity is its biggest strength.
In a world where travel is now more about experience than luxury, Udhampur offers something that is real, rooted, and refreshing.
A Land Steeped in Mythology and History
Udhampur boasts of deep connections with Indian mythology and ancient history. It is believed to be named after Raja Udham Singh, a Dogra ruler, and has long served as an important military cantonment. Its serene temples, historical monuments, and sacred caves speak volumes of its past.
Key Historical & Mythological Attractions:
* Krimchi Temples (Pandava Temples): Reputed to be one of the oldest temple complexes in Jammu and Kashmir, dating back to the 11th century. These temples, believed to be linked with the Mahabharata era, exhibit rare stone architecture similar to Greek styles, reflecting Indo-Greek cultural fusion.Krimchi temple complex comprises 7 temples built between the 8th-11th centuries.
* Devika River: Referred to in scriptures as the sister of the Ganges, this sacred river flows through Udhampur and is considered extremely holy by locals. A dip in its waters is believed to absolve sins.
*Ramnagar Fort: Built in the 18th century by Raja Suchet Singh, this well-maintained Dogra fort is surrounded by lush fields. Intricate carvings, wall paintings, and a durbar hall that speaks volumes about Dogra royal life.
* Sheesh Mahal Ramnagar: The ‘Palace of Mirrors’: Famous for its glasswork murals, floral patterns, and royal designs unique in the region. Adjacent to Ramnagar Fort, ideal for history lovers and architectural photographers.
Spiritual and Pilgrimage Tourism
For the spiritually inclined, Udhampur offers a sacred circuit that rivals better-known pilgrimage spots.
* Mantalai Temple and Ashram: Believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati, Mantalai is surrounded by pine forests and apple orchards, making it a serene place for both devotion and rejuvenation.
*Sudh Mahadev Temple: Around 42 km from Udhampur, this ancient Shiva temple attracts thousands of devotees. The nearby Gauri Kund and the mystical Pap Nashini Baoli add to the spiritual allure.
Aparneshwar Temple in Pancheri: Located amidst scenic beauty, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva remains less commercialized and untouched, ideal for peaceful seekers.
Narsingh Temple Ramnagar: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha (an avatar of Vishnu), this temple comes alive during Narsingh Mela held annually.
Gateway to Adventure and Eco-Tourism
Nature lovers and adventure seekers will find Udhampur irresistible. From unexplored trekking routes to serene hill stations, Udhampur is a paradise waiting to be explored.
* Pancheri: A hidden hill retreat with panoramic views, dense forests, and fresh mountain air. Perfect for eco-tourism and offbeat travel.
* Latti and Dudu-Basantgarh: These picturesque areas in higher altitudes are ideal for hiking, camping, bird watching, and even snow-based activities in winters.
* Sanasar (nearby): Just a few hours’ drive from Udhampur, this bowl-shaped meadow offers paragliding, camping, and mountain views that rival those of Himachal or Uttarakhand.
The Taste of Udhampur – Kaladi Cheese
No journey to Udhampur is complete without tasting its iconic ‘Kaladi’, a traditional Dogra cheese made from cow milk. Kaladi is fermented, sun-dried, and later sautéed in ghee before servinga local delicacy with protein-rich benefits. Available fresh in roadside dhabas, especially in Chenani, Kud, and Udhampur town.Local chefs are experimenting with Kaladi burgers, pizzas, and stuffed kulchasmaking it appealing for modern palettes.
Why Udhampur Deserves Your Attention
It is located just 65 km from Jammu city, Udhampur is connected by road, rail, and air (via Jammu Airport). The railway station is a major stop for trains heading to Kashmir.With a significant army presence and a peace-loving population, Udhampur is one of the safest places for tourists in J&K. Unlike overcrowded tourist hubs, Udhampur offers a peaceful and pollution-free experience, perfect for post-pandemic travellers looking for serenity and substance.To make Udhampur a mainstream tourist destination, strategic steps must be taken like:
* Eco-sensitive infrastructure: Build homestays, eco-resorts, and rural tourism hubs.
* Marketing and Branding: Promote Udhampur in tourism fairs, digital platforms, and media.
* Heritage Conservation: Restore and preserve temples, forts, and archaeological sites.
* Local Employment: Train youth as tour guides, nature guides, and hospitality managers.
So, the next time you plan a holiday, skip the beaten path and head to Udhampuryou may just discover the soul of Jammu hidden in its valleys and temples.
(The author is SDM Dudu, Udhampur)
Follow our WhatsApp channel
