Navratri, celebrated over nine nights, is one of the most sacred festivals dedicated to Goddess Durga and her divine incarnations. In Jammu, the festival takes on a vibrant form, with temples illuminated by lights, adorned with flowers, and echoing with devotional chants. Thousands of devotees flock to these shrines to pay homage and seek blessings, making the city a hub of spirituality during this auspicious period.

If you are planning to celebrate Navratri in Jammu, here are five famous temples you must visit to experience the festive spirit, devotion, and cultural heritage.

1. Bawe Wali Mata Temple – A Sacred Beacon of Faith

The Bawe Wali Mata Temple is among the most revered shrines in Jammu. Although devotees visit it throughout the year, Navratri adds a special charm to the temple.

• The shrine is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights during the nine days of Navratri.
• Special prayers and rituals are conducted, attracting devotees from across the region.
• The divine atmosphere combined with the vibrant decorations creates an unforgettable spiritual experience.

Visiting Bawe Wali Mata during Navratri is believed to hold special significance, making it one of the must-visit temples in Jammu.

2. Chichi Mata Temple – The Gateway to Vaishno Devi

Located in the Samba region of Jammu and Kashmir, the Chichi Mata Temple is considered the “first darshan” on the pilgrimage route to Vaishno Devi.

• The temple is an integral part of the Vaishno Devi Yatra, and many devotees believe the journey remains incomplete without visiting Chichi Mata.
• Situated along the highway, the temple offers a peaceful environment, making it perfect for both worship and a weekend drive.
• During Navratri, the temple witnesses an influx of pilgrims who stop here before heading toward Katra.

For locals and visitors alike, Chichi Mata provides both spiritual fulfillment and the joy of a short excursion.

Read also: Navratri Rituals and Traditions In Dogra Community

3. Kol Kandoli Mata Temple – The Starting Point of Vaishno Devi Yatra

The Kol Kandoli Mata Temple in Nagrota, about 18 km from Jammu, is closely linked to the journey to Vaishno Devi.

• The temple is believed to be the place where Mata Vaishno Devi meditated before residing in the Trikuta Hills.
• During Navratri, devotees gather here in large numbers, and the temple glows with lights and vibrant decorations.
• On a clear night, you can even view the illuminated path leading up to Vaishno Devi from here.

The temple’s proximity to Jammu and its spiritual importance make it a must-visit destination during the festive season.

4. Mahamaya Mata Temple – Divine Blessings with Scenic Views

Perched on the outskirts of Jammu, the Mahamaya Mata Temple combines spirituality with natural beauty.

• Dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya, the temple is highly revered by the people of Jammu.
• From the temple, one can enjoy panoramic views of Jammu city, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Many locals visit Mahamaya Mata not just for worship but also for family outings and picnics, adding a festive feel to Navratri celebrations.

With its pleasant surroundings and deep religious significance, Mahamaya Mata Temple offers both peace and joy to devotees.

5. Vaishno Devi Temple – The Crown Jewel of Pilgrimages

No list of temples in Jammu is complete without the Vaishno Devi Shrine in Katra, one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India.

• Nestled in the Trikuta Mountains, the shrine attracts over 10 million devotees annually.
• Pilgrims undertake a 12 km trek from Katra to the sacred cave, where naturally formed rock structures known as pindies represent Goddess Mahakali, Mahasaraswati, and Mahalakshmi.
• The journey itself is filled with chants of “Jai Mata Di,” creating a spiritually uplifting environment.
• During Navratri, the atmosphere is even more charged with divine energy, making the experience unforgettable.

The Vaishno Devi Yatra is not just a pilgrimage but also a test of faith and devotion, offering spiritual satisfaction and breathtaking mountain views.

Why Visit Temples in Jammu During Navratri?

Navratri in Jammu is more than just a festival—it’s a divine celebration that brings together faith, devotion, and cultural heritage. Each of these five temples holds unique significance:

• Bawe Wali Mata – Spiritual grandeur with festive rituals.
• Chichi Mata – Gateway to Vaishno Devi and first darshan.
• Kol Kandoli Mata – The starting point of the sacred Yatra.
• Mahamaya Mata – Divine blessings with scenic landscapes.
• Vaishno Devi – The ultimate pilgrimage of faith.

Whether you are seeking divine blessings, exploring Jammu’s spiritual heritage, or immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere, visiting these temples during Navratri will enrich your journey with devotion and joy.

Jammu transforms into a spiritual hub during Navratri, with its temples radiating divine energy and cultural vibrancy. Visiting these five revered temples offers not just blessings but also a deeper connection with Goddess Durga and her incarnations.

This Navratri, plan your visit to these sacred sites and let the divine grace of Maa Durga illuminate your life with peace, prosperity, and happiness.