The long walls of Bahu Fort on a wooded ridge in Jammu glowing at dusk

Heritage · Jammu

Bahu Fort

Jammu's oldest fort, on a rock face above the Tawi river, home to the temple of Bave Wali Mata and terraced gardens.

Distance
About 5 km from Jammu city centre
Best time
All year; Tuesdays and Sundays draw devotees

Bahu Fort stands on a rock face on the left bank of the Tawi river, about 5 km from Jammu city. It is thought to be the oldest fort in the city.

Inside the fort is a temple of Goddess Kali, popularly known as Bave Wali Mata, regarded as the presiding deity of Jammu. Devotees throng the temple especially on Tuesdays and Sundays. Below the fort, terraced gardens with fountains and big trees are a favourite picnic spot. Behind the fort, the Mahamaya Temple and city forest overlook the Tawi.

Timings, fares, rules and routes can change at short notice. Please confirm time-sensitive details with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board or the relevant authority before you travel. Page last reviewed: 4 October 2026.

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