Reasi A Charming Getaway From Katra In Jammu

Home to the world&rsquos highest railway bridge, Reasi district in Jammu province of Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory, is known for its natural and historical attractions. Tucked inside the Trikuta Hills and located on the banks of the Chenab River, the district is also emerging as an adventure sports destination. The eponymous headquarters of the district, the town is said to have been part of the former Bhimgarh state founded in the 8th century. Reasi town, about 30km from the popular town of Katra from where travellers begin their pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi, can be the gateway for exploring the many splendours of the district. Some of the places are nearer Katra (which is also part of the Reasi district) than Reasi town. So plan accordingly.

Things to see and do

Shiv Khori
Next in importance to the district&rsquos most famous temple of Vaishno Devi is the famous cave shrine of Shiv Khori. Those travelling to Shiv Khori from Jammu, may visit some of the popular attractions en route , such as Aghar Jitto, Baba Dansar, Nau Deviyan, Baradari, Dera Baba Banda Bahadur, Danwa and Dogra Haat.

As the name indicates, Shiv Khori is dedicated to a Swayambhu Lingam about four feet in height. Natural impressions in the cave have been associated with many of the Hindu divinities. During Mahashivratri, pilgrims make a bee-line for the cave. The cave can be reached by a short trek of about four km from Ransoo village, which is about 50km away by road from Reasi.
Those fond of adventure, may go camping and paragliding in Danwa near Ransoo.

Aghar Jitto
Located on the Katra-Reasi Road, the place memorialises a local farmer who laid down his life rather than succumb to the unjust demands of a landlord. There is a statue of the farmer and an annual pilgrimage and fair usually takes place in June.

Dera Baba Banda Bahadur
The Gurudwara here is the resting place of Guru Govind Singh&rsquos disciple Banda Singh Bahadur who fought against the Mughals. After many battles, he was finally captured and tortured to death. During Baisakhi (in April), pilgrims arrive from all over to pay their respect to him.

Nau Devi Mata Temple
Pilgrims from Katra mostly visit this old cave temple in a natural setting. Nine natural rock formations are regarded as symbols of Goddess Shakti. One has to descend a flight of nearly 100 steps to reach the cave temple. Beware of pesky monkeys.

Devi Pindi
Nearer to Katra (about 9km away) than to Reasi (about 35km away), Devi Pindi temple near Panthal village is situated at the end of a 13km long trek of medium difficulty. This is an off-beat destination and there are not many habitations on this route it is advisable to take help of local people as guides as the route lies through forests. There is no accommodation here but you may camp near the temple.

Siyad Baba
This magnificent waterfall is about 40km from Reasi. Perched at a height of about 5,000 feet, it drops for almost 100 feet across the hill side. The best time to visit this waterfall is between August and October, when the waterfall is at its strongest, thundering down the hill side.

Baradari
About 8km from Reasi, located on the bank of the Chenab River, this is a must visit for those keen to undertake mountain river rafting. There are travel operators in Baradari and Reasi who can help travellers but it is advisable to go with government approved operators only.

Getting there The nearest airport is situated at Jammu (72kms away by road). Katra is the nearest railway station and road transport hub. The best time to visit is between October and April however, winters can be cold with snow in the upper reaches. So plan accordingly.