Doda district General information
Doda is a district of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is the third largest district in Jammu and Kashmir after Leh and Kargil. The majority of the district's population practise Islam.
The district has been divided into four Sub- Divisions viz Doda, Ramban, Bhaderwah and Kishtwar.It has seven tehsils viz Doda, Bhaderwah, Kishtwar, Ramban, Banihal, Thathri and Gandoh. The no.of Panchayats is 262.
The district derived its name from its district headquarter Doda. It is said that one of the ancient Rajas of Kishtwar whose dominion extended beyond Doda persuaded one utensil maker Deeda, a migrant from Multan (now in Pakistan), to settle permanently in this territory and set up an utensil factory there. Deeda is said to have settled in a village which later on came to be known after him. With the passage of time the name Deeda has changed into Doda, The present name of the town. Total area of Distt. Doda is 11691 Sq. Kms. Doda District has been carved out from the erstwhile District Udhampur in 1948
PLACES OF INTEREST
Kishtwar: The present name,related with 'KISHAT RISHI' who stayed here,is the modified version of earlier name of Kishaswar.Located about 232 kms.from Jammu at a height of 5,360 ft. The place has rich wild life like snow-deer,leopard,Neel gai and Muskdeer. There are high altitude mountains ranging between 20,000ft.to 21,000 ft. like Nun Kun,Burmah and Barnag. Important shrines are located in the area which are Ziarat Zain-Shah-Sahib, Farid-ud-Din sahib,Athra Buja Devi temple and Chandi Mata temple.
Bhaderwah: Popularly called Chota-Kashmir,has bewithcing natural beauty which enthralls any visitor. Bhaderwah valley is predominantly a mountainous torrid town situated 80 Kms.from Batote. The festive mood in the district begins with the melting of snow in April and the sprouting of greenery all round. Kailash Yatra is another famous pilgrimage of the area which is considered an important Hindu pilgrimage. Bhaderwah offers to the tourist a variety of beautiful landscape,colourful local fairs ,important festival mood and unique mosaic culture,extremely and pleasant summer temp.ranges from 18 degrees to 32 degrees.
Chinta Valley: Is a picturesque valley located at a height of 6,500 ft.has thick coniferous forest on all sides and Chinta river flowing through it. Many scenic spots are situated around this place.
Khani Top: Is situated 25 Kms from Bhaderwah.Trekkers find it a convenient launching site for expedition to Ashapati peak on the border with Himachal Pardesh.
Seoj Meadow :If Gulmarg and Pahalgam are jewels of "Paradise" on earth,Seoj Meadow is diamond in the crown of Bhaderwah,pride of Jammu region.
Patnitop: Is the most popular tourist spot of Jammu region.Patnitop is the highest point of Jammu-Srinagar National highway which resembles Gulmarg.Its lushgreen meadows and pine trees catch every one's attention.In winter it is covered with a white carpet of snow and its slopes have been successfully experimented for skiing.
Sanasar: Is another famous tourist resort of Jammu situated nearly 30 Kms.from Patnitop.Recently a golf course has been laid on its meadow.
Sarthal: Situated 18 Kms.from Kishtwar has a famous temple of Athara Bhuja in a cave. The fire dance or walking on fire which is held in July and August is unique in itself to witness.
Machail: Is a two-day journey from Atholi via Gulabgarh with a night halt at Chashoti. The famous Machail Yatra starts Bhaderwah and ends at Machail where the famous shrine of Chandi Mata is located. Trekkers can continue their journey ahead of Machail with a night halt at Rujwass for Zanskar, Paddam and Kargil.