Baba Dhansar In Jammu
India is a country of religions, mythologies, historical events, miracles, Gods, Saints, and many other godly beliefs. Many saints and Gods have been worshipped throughout India for centuries. Their stories of existence and miraculous acts to protect humanity intrigue people while making them create temples, shrines, and other religious places. Jammu and Kashmir is one more state of India, which is at the foothills of the majestic Himalayan Mountains and is believed to be the home of many Hindu Deities, including Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to people, many places are Jagrit Devta ( Awakened Gods), who are present in invisible forms and fulfil the wishes of devotees who come to the temples with pure intentions. Baba Dhansar Jammu is also said to be one of the Jagrit Devsthans (Awakened God's temple), which many devotees have visited after visiting Mata Vaishno Devi Dham, Shiv Khori and other nearby temples.
Baba Dhansar Jammu is one of the oldest and most naturally made caves in scenic locations near Karua Lake at Karua Village. Karua Village is situated in Reasi District, 17 kilometres from Reasi Village in Katra, Jammu, and Kashmir's direction. Just 200 meters off the road, Baba Dhansar cave and Lord Shiva Temple lie near the marvellous waterfall Karua Jheel, which falls from hills and flows through the dense forests.
History/Legends of Baba Dhansar
Just like every other holy place in India, Baba Dhansar has its legends. According to Local Legends, once Lord Shiva went to Amarnath to meet his beloved Parvati to inform her about his Immortality, he left his king of Serpents, Sheshnaag, at Village Anantnag, where he came as a human named Vasudev. Out of many children of Vasudev, Dhansar later became a saintly person because of his good deeds. The tale goes as, in ancient times, a demon living near Karua Jheel used to torment people with his outrageous activities. When villagers from Karua pleaded with Baba Dhansar to get rid of that Demon, Baba Dhansar prayed to Lord Shiva. After hearing the prayers of Baba Dhansar, Lord Shiva came and killed that demon while freeing the Villagers from his troubles.
Baba Dhansar and Lord Shiva's temples were built by villagers near Karua Jheel. The Karua Jheel is sacred; no one can swim in the pond. However, people can float downstream, created due to the waters flowing from Sacred Karua Jheel. Many small waterfalls are scattered across the walk from the road to Baba Dhansar Cave, later submerged in the Banganga River.
Every year Fair (Mela) is organized at Baba Dhansar Jammu on the auspicious day of Mahashivratri, inviting devotees worldwide. One of the best picnic spots for local people and tourists, Baba Dhansar, is also said to be the place where your wishes are fulfilled if prayed wholeheartedly.
Timings To Visit Baba Dhansar:
Timings to visit Baba Dhansar in Jammu and Kashmir are from 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM. The Shrine is open daily and usually takes one to two hours to explore.
Best Season To Visit Baba Dhansar:
The pilgrimage of Baba Dhansar in Jammu and Kashmir can be visited throughout the year. But the best season to visit Baba Dhansar in Jammu is October to May to enjoy the most relaxed and pleasant weather.
Though the summers are sweltering around Jammu, the Baba Dhansar Shrine premises are more relaxed due to the waterfalls and forests.
During Monsoons, from July to September, Jammu receives heavy precipitation, causing travelling issues; therefore, it is advised to check weather conditions before leaving for Jammu.
How To Reach Baba Dhansar In Jammu :
Baba Dhansar is situated in Karua village, 17 kilometres from Reasi village of Reasi District, which lies on the Jammu Katra Highway near Katra side. The best way to reach Baba Dhansar is by National Highway 144 and national highway 44 from Katra and Jammu.
The best way to reach Jammu is to travel by Road, Air or railway. The closest airport is Jammu Domestic Airport, which connects to other major cities in India via frequent flights. Jammu Tawi and Katra railway stations are the nearest to Baba Dhansar Shrine. Taxes can reach Baba Dhansar from Airport or railway station via buses.
National Highway 1A connects Jammu to other states in India, and it is easy to travel this scenic route by governmental or private buses, cars, or cabs.
Places To Visit Near Baba Dhansar :
Shivkhori:
Approximately 80 kilometres from Baba Dhansar, Shivkhori is a famous cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The cave is adorned with natural stalagmite formations resembling the Shiva Lingam. The pilgrimage to Shivkhori involves a trek through picturesque landscapes, making it a spiritually fulfilling and visually captivating experience.
Patnitop:
Situated around 90 kilometres from Baba Dhansar, Patnitop is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped peaks, Patnitop offers panoramic views and opportunities for activities like trekking, paragliding, and skiing during winter. Enjoy a stroll along the meandering trails or indulge in the local cuisine at the charming eateries.
Bagh-e-Bahu:
In the heart of Jammu city, Bagh-e-Bahu is a beautiful garden complex adjacent to the Bahu Fort. With its well-manicured lawns, vibrant flowers, and cascading fountains, the garden provides a peaceful oasis for relaxation and leisurely walks. Enjoy the panoramic views of the Tawi River and the surrounding landscapes from the garden.
Amar Mahal Palace:
Situated near Bagh-e-Bahu, Amar Mahal Palace is a stunning architectural marvel now serving as a museum and art gallery. Explore the exquisite collection of artefacts, paintings, and sculptures depicting Jammu and Kashmir's rich cultural heritage. The palace offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of the Dogra kings.
Raghunath Temple:
Located in the heart of Jammu city, Raghunath Temple is one of the most revered Hindu temples in the region. The temple complex houses a cluster of different shrines dedicated to various deities. Admire the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the temple walls, and participate in religious ceremonies yearly.
Mansar Lake:
Approximately 60 kilometres from Baba Dhansar, Mansar Lake is a beautiful natural lake surrounded by hills and forests. The lake is considered sacred and is associated with various legends. Enjoy boating on the lake's tranquil waters, explore the surrounding nature trails, and visit the ancient temples on its banks.
Surinsar Lake:
Adjacent to Mansar Lake, Surinsar Lake is another picturesque water body known for its scenic beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery and hills, the lake offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation and boating. The lake is also associated with folklore and legends, adding to its mystique.
Vaishno Devi Shrine:
Although far from Baba Dhansar, the Vaishno Devi Shrine in Katra is a highly revered pilgrimage site. It attracts millions of devotees each year who undertake the arduous trek to seek blessings from the goddess Vaishno Devi. The journey to the Shrine is spiritually fulfilling and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Nearby Places
FAQ
Q1. How to reach Baba Dhansar Jammu and Kashmir?
Ans To reach Baba Dhansar Jammu and Kashmir, you can take Flights, trains or road transports from any other states in India. Baba Dhansar is situated in Karua village of Reasi District, which is nearest to Katra. NH144, NH44 are the roads that connect Baba Dhansar to Jammu and Katra.
Q2. Where is Baba Dhansar situated in Jammu and Kashmir?
Ans Baba Dhansar is situated near Karua Lake in Karua village. Karua village is 17 kilometers away from Reasi Village of Reasi District, which lies on Jammu Katra Road. The Shrine is 200 meters off-road and can be walked after getting down from the vehicle.
Q3. What is the best season to visit Baba Dhansar in Jammu?
Ans The best season to visit Baba Dhansar is from October to May. In February- March, on the occasion of Mahashivratri, there is a huge festival that takes place for three days, and many devotees pour in to take blessings at Baba Dhansar.
Q4. What are the timings to visit Baba Dhansar in Jammu?
Ans The timings to visit Baba Dhansar in Jammu and Kashmir are from 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM every day.