Places of Tourist's interest near Shiv Khori Cave Shrine in Reasi District of Jammu
Area near Shiv Khori is endowed with many other religious places and tourist's interest, some of which are yet not explored. Apart from the pilgrimage of Goddess Mata Vaishno Deviji Shrine, some famous shrines and tourist places are:
Baba Dhansar - The Holy place of Baba Dhansar is located at Karua Jheel near village Karua, 15 km from Reasi towards Katra. As per locals, in ancient times, there was a demon who lived near Karua Jheel and commited atrocities on the people of village. The villagers sought the help of Baba Dhansar who happened to be the son of Vasudev (human form of Sheshnag). It is believed that Baba Dhansar prayed to Lord Shiva for help and Lord Shiva appeared and helped in killing the demon.
Ziarat Baji Ismail Sahib - Ziarat of Baji Mian Mohammed Ismail Sahib is situated at Jandi Morh near Bharakh village in District Reasi. It is a place of great faith and worship among all sections of society, irrespective of religion. Thousands of devotees visits the Ziarat through out the year and also participated in the annual Urs to receive blessing of Baji Mian Ismail Sahib.
Dera Baba Banda Bhadhur -Dera Baba Banda Bhadhur is another place of religious importance. Baba Banda Bhadhur was a famous saint soldier of Guru Gobind Singh. A gurudwara was also build on the bank of river Chenab in his memory. The place is considered as a major pilgrimage centre for Hindus and Sikhs situated in Reasi. People from other parts of the state and country also come to this place for pilgrimage particularly on Baisakhi festival.
Baba Jitto Temple - It is situated in Aghar Jitto village at a distance of approx. 5 km from Katra . Aghar Jitto is named after Baba Jitto the legendary farmer who laid his life to fight oppression by landlords. He was a great devotee of Maa Vaishno and a temple is built here dedicated to him. A three day Aghar Jitto festival is the prime attraction of this place.
Siarh Baba - Famous for its magnificent waterfall, Siarh Baba is situated about 10kms from Reasi, in village Talwara.The main attraction is nearly 400 ft. high cascading waterfall and an ancient Pragan Nag temple.
Salal Shiv Cave - The cave is situated in the Thampal area of Salal in Reasi district. The area is tough terrain and nearly 2 hours on foot journey. The cave has a Shiv Lingam similar to Shiv Khori, stone idols of Shiva family, a statue of saint and hanuman. The cave appears to be almost equal to Shiv Khori.
Nau Pindian - It is another pilgrim stop situated on the Reasi Katra road about 8 km from Katra and 17 km from Reasi. The Shrine has naturally formed nine Pindies symbolizing nine avtars of Maha Shakti.
Kalka Mata Temple - Kalka Mandir temple of Mata kali is located on the hill top close to Bus Stand in Reasi town. One has to traverse 200 meters distance on foot to reach the temple.
Salal Power Project - Salal Power Project is also a source of attraction for visitors. It is 20 km away from Reasi surrounded by mountains. It is constructed on river Chenab. The project has a capacity of 690MW.
Bhim Garh Fort - This is a historical fort commanded by General Zorawar Singh, the famous Dogra General who repelled Chinese from Ladakh. The fort is build on the banks of river Anji at a hillock.
Tatta Pani at Sangaldhan is another attraction of tourists visiting this place for taking a bath at this natural spring of hot water (Tatta Pani) due to which all skin ailments and joint pains are believed to be cured. A number of people from Jammu Kashmir and also from neighbouring states visit this spring for Holy Bath.
