WATERBODIES IN JAMMU

If Kashmir valley and Ladakh province are beautiful, Jammu is not an exception. The division is also a very beautiful place and receives a number of tourists each year. Like the other parts of the state of Jammu Kashmir, It too abounds in natural water bodies. There are a number of lakes and rivers inthe province. These rivers and lakes are beautiful and much of the division dwells on the banks of these rivers. The main river that flows in Jammu is the Chenab.

The main water bodies in Jammu province are:

RIVER CHENAB

Chenab river is formed by the confluence of two small rivers, Chandra and Bhaga gives rise to the mighty Chenab river. The river is fed by the waters originating from the melted snow of Bara Lacha Pass in Himachal Pradesh. The water that flows towards the north forms the Bhaga River and that flowing towards south forms the Chandra River. The rivers join at the village of Tandi to form Chandrabagha River. The river flows further to join the Marau River at Bhanderkot to form Chenab. It is situated 12 km away from Kishtawar. The river then flows into Pakistan and runs a long course of about 960km. It eventually joins with Ravi River and Jhelum River to form the Sutlej in Pakistan. The river has a tremendous historical significance as well. It is due to this river, that Jammu is also known as Chenab Valley.

TAWI

Tawi River flows through the city of Jammu and is considered a holy river. The river originates from Kali Kundi glacier towards southwest of Bhaderwah in Doda. Due to global warming the source glacier of River Tawi has been depleting impacting the water flow of this river in recent past. The river runs a course of about 141 km through steep hills. It is about 300m wide at the Tawi Bridge in region. The river traverses city and divides it into two parts – the old town and the new town. The old town is located on the hill and the new town is lies across the river. The river finally flows into Pakistan and then joins Chenab there. The river has a lot of religious significance.

MANSAR LAKE

Mansar Lake is located at a distance of about 51 km from Jammu. It lies nestled in the lower Shivalik Mountains. The lake is a treat to watch. This land is believed to have an underground link with Surinsar Lake and hence the two lakes are together known as Dwigrit, which means two pits. According to a legend, it is believed that Arjuna shot an arrow into the ground at Mansar, which pierced the earth and came out at Surinsar. Thus the two lakes got connected. You can enjoy the beauty of a lake in a boat as boat rides are available. You can view birds, tortoises and fish of different species in the lake from the projected view decks on the edges of the lake. There are many temples also located along the lake shore thronged by devotees.

SURINSAR LAKE

Surinsar Lake is another beautiful lake is located at a distance of about 42 km from Jammu and 9 km from Mansar. Surinsar is comparatively smaller lake than Mansar, but equally scenic. It has an island in the middle, which makes it more attractive. However, boating and swimming are not allowed in the lake due to religious restrictions. It is actually a wetland and a bird sanctuary with rich flora and fauna. Water birds of all kinds are found in this lake. The lake attracts bird watchers and it is a great site for bird watching.