Raghunath Temple

Raghunath Temple

The Raghunath Temple, located in the heart of Jammu, stands tall as a symbol of the region's rich cultural heritage. This iconic temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, serves as a living symbol of devotion and history. With its towering spires and intricate architecture, the Raghunath Temple is a sight to see. The construction of the temple was initiated in 1835 AD by Maharaja Gulab Singh and was later continued by his son Maharaja Ranbir Singh. It consists of a series of shrines dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses. The interior walls of the shrine are wrapped with gold sheets on three sides. The massive Raghunath temple has seven lofty 'shikharas', with each shrine having its own shikhar. A portrait of Maharaja Ranbir Singh and an image of Lord Hanuman adorn the temple's main entrance. The central shrine is dedicated to the commanding deity, Lord Ram / Raghunath. Aside from the main shrine, the other shrines represent various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Another remarkable shrine dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God) houses various forms of the Lord. The temple has the distinction to be an abode of 33 crore devi devtas. One finds rows of lingams symbolsing Lord Shiva with a saligrams over them. However, the Raghunath Temple is more than just a place of worship; it also serves as a cultural and religious hub. Throughout the year, the temple hosts a variety of festivals and rituals that attract devotees from all over. One of the most intriguing aspects of the temple is its connection to the epic Ramayana.