Akhnoor Fort and Chenab River

AKHNOOR The Ancient Gateway to Jammu

Where History Meets the Chenab - 5000 Years of Heritage

"आँखों का नूर" - Light of the Eyes
As named by Emperor Jahangir

The Light of the Eyes

Discover the ancient town that has witnessed 5000 years of civilization

Akhnoor, meaning 'Light of the Eyes' as christened by Mughal Emperor Jahangir, is a historic town situated 28 kilometers from Jammu city along the picturesque banks of the Chenab River. This ancient settlement stands as the northernmost point of the Harappan civilization and serves as a testament to over 5000 years of continuous human habitation.

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Years of History
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KM from Jammu
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Coronation Year
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Cultural Periods

Heritage Sites

Explore the magnificent monuments that tell stories of ancient civilizations

Akhnoor Fort

Akhnoor Fort

Majestic 18th-century fort overlooking the Chenab River

Fortress
Jia Pota Ghat

Jia Pota Ghat

Sacred coronation site of Maharaja Gulab Singh

Historical
Ambaran Buddhist Stupa

Ambaran Buddhist Stupa

Earliest Buddhist site in Jammu region

Buddhist
Pandav Caves

Pandav Gufa

Mythical caves associated with the Pandavas

Religious

Cultural Heritage

Three great civilizations converged at this sacred confluence

Harappan Civilization

2500-1500 BCE

Akhnoor represents the northernmost extent of the Indus Valley Civilization. Archaeological excavations at Manda site have revealed Harappan pottery, copper pins, bone arrowheads, and terracotta cakes with Harappan graffiti, providing evidence of a thriving settlement over 4000 years ago.

Buddhist Period

1st Century BCE - 7th Century CE

During the Kushana period, Akhnoor flourished as a major Buddhist center. The Ambaran monastery served as an important link in spreading Buddhism from Pataliputra to Taxila and further to Central Asia through Kashmir.

Dogra Dynasty

1822 - Present

The town gained prominence during the Dogra period when it became the site of Maharaja Gulab Singh's coronation, marking the beginning of the modern state of Jammu and Kashmir. The fort and surrounding structures reflect the architectural grandeur of the Dogra dynasty.

Did You Know?

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Akhnoor is the only place where all three major periods of ancient Indian history (Harappan, Buddhist, and Medieval) can be witnessed at one location

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The Chenab River at Akhnoor is considered as sacred as the Ganges by local devotees

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Emperor Jahangir named this place 'Aankhon ka Noor' meaning 'Light of the Eyes' after being mesmerized by the beauty of Chenab waters

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Ambaran is one of only eight places in the world where authentic Buddha relics have been discovered

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know for an unforgettable journey

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How to Reach

By Air: Jammu Airport (33 km) - Regular flights from major cities
By Train: Jammu Tawi Station (31 km) - Well connected nationwide
By Road: 28 km from Jammu city via NH-44 (45 minutes)
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Best Time to Visit

October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing
April to June: Warm but suitable for visits
Avoid: July-September due to heavy monsoon
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Key Attractions

• Akhnoor Fort and Palace
• Jia Pota Ghat and Park
• Ambaran Buddhist Stupa
• Pandav Gufa caves
• Chenab River boating
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Travel Tips

• Visit early morning or evening for best photography
• Carry water and sun protection
• Respect religious sentiments at sacred sites
• Hire local guides for detailed insights

Contact & Information

Get in touch for more details about visiting Akhnoor

Tourism Office

Jammu Tourism Development Corporation

📞 +91-191-2547373

✉️ info@jammutourism.gov.in

Emergency Contacts

Police: 100

Tourist Helpline: 1363

Medical Emergency: 108

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