Jia Pota Ghat

Jia Pota Ghat

The enchanting Jia Pota Ghat is located along the banks of the Chenab River in Jammu. This picturesque location is significant in regional history, having served as a cultural and social hub for centuries. It is believed that the place got its name from Jia Pota tree whose botanical name is Putranjiva roxburghii of Euphorbiaceae. It is also said that the original Jia Pota tree was uprooted and eventually washed away by the Chenab River's floods in 1957. What makes this historically important is that the coronation ceremony of Maharaja Gulab Singh was held at this place on 17th June, 1822 with the hope that his Kingdom would grow like the roots of the Jia Pota Tree. This Ghat continued to be a popular destination for pilgrims. It features a Devsthan of Baba Kahi, where holy Sounglas—symbolic chains of the Kahi Devta are kept on a platform. A legend states that one of Vasuki Nag's most famous sons, Kahi Devta, brought the waters of the Chandrabhaga (Chenab) River to the uncultivated land of Akhnoor, making it cultivable. It is now a popular pilgrimage site for travellers. In the month of Magh, devotees bathe in the sacred waters of Jia Pota Ghat in the Chenab River, washing away their sins. Aside from its historical significance, Jia Pota Ghat provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The gentle flow of the Chenab River, surrounded by lush greenery, creates a tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation and introspection. Visitors to Jia Pota Ghat can also participate in a variety of recreational activities. The ghat is also a popular gathering place for locals during festivals and religious ceremonies, which contributes to its lively atmosphere.