Reasi
Shiv Khori
A sacred cave shrine with a naturally formed lingam and a memorable forest approach.
Location
Ransoo, Pouni, Reasi District
Altitude
Approximately 1,500 metres
Ideal duration
1 day
Overview
The sacred cave of Lord Shiva
In Reasi's hills near Ransoo village, Shiv Khori is a revered Lord Shiva cave shrine with a naturally formed Shivling and divine rock formations. Its name means “Abode of Lord Shiva,” and the cave extends deep into the mountain.
Thousands visit year-round, especially at Maha Shivratri. Forest, hills, villages, and the spiritual trek make it a meaningful combination of faith, adventure, and Jammu scenery, often combined with Vaishno Devi.
History & faith
Hindu belief associates this ancient cave with Shiva's meditation and several divine stories. The naturally formed Shivling is the centre of devotion and the cave is held to reveal Shiva's presence.
The annual pilgrimage has grown with improved pilgrim facilities, establishing Shiv Khori as one of Jammu & Kashmir's most visited religious sites.
Suggested route
Jammu → Katra → Reasi → Pouni → Ransoo → Cave
Jammu: 140 km · Katra: 80 km · Reasi: 45 km. Jammu–Katra passes foothills, villages, forest, and Trikuta views. Katra–Reasi brings Chenab, hills, valleys, and villages. Ransoo is the base, followed by a scenic 3.5 km trek with rest areas, shops, and pilgrim facilities.
Top highlights
Holy Cave · natural Shivling · divine rock formations · Shiva pilgrimage · Himalayan views · Ransoo · Shivratri · mountain trek
Things to do
Seek blessings · darshan of the Shivling · join Shivratri · trek Ransoo route · enjoy mountains · visit nearby religious/natural sights · experience village culture.
Best time to visit
March–June: pleasant and good for trekking. July–September: green, occasional rain. October–November: cool, comfortable pilgrimage. December–February: cold but suitable with preparation.
By air
Jammu Airport, approximately 140 km; taxis available.
By train
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra station, about 80 km; Jammu Tawi is an alternative.
By road
Buses, taxis, tourist and personal vehicles via Jammu–Katra–Reasi–Pouni–Ransoo.
Entry fee
Temple entry is free; registration may be needed in special pilgrimage periods.
Timings
Generally open year-round, recommended 6:00 AM–8:00 PM; times can change for festivals/weather.
Facilities & services
Water, shelters, food stalls, special-occasion langar, medical/security support, rest areas, parking, possible pony/palanquin, and souvenir shops. Services: Jammu Airport/Rail, Katra, Vaishno Devi, Shiv Khori, Reasi, Bhairav Ghati, Patnitop, and custom pilgrimage packages.
Trek support
Pony, palki, local guide, and senior-citizen assistance are available subject to provider and route charges.
Nearby attractions
Vaishno Devi, Katra · Bhim Garh/Reasi Fort · Salal Dam · Chenab River · Baba Dhansar · Jhajjar Kotli · Nau Devi Temple
Food & photography
Rajma Chawal · Kaladi Kulcha · Dogra Thali · Patisa · Khatta Meat · Lassi · sweets. Cave photography may be restricted; photograph mountains, trek, Ransoo, villages, and viewpoints early or at golden hour.
Frequently asked questions
What is Shiv Khori famous for?
Natural Shivling and sacred Lord Shiva cave.
How long is the trek?
Approximately 3.5 km from Ransoo.
Suitable for seniors?
Yes, with pony/palki where available, though health and fitness matter.
Can it be combined with Vaishno Devi?
Yes, many pilgrims combine both.
Quick facts: Ransoo, Reasi · 1,500 metres · 140 km from Jammu · 80 km from Katra · natural Shivling/Cave · best March–June & September–November · 1 day · Jammu Airport and Katra station.
Why visit Shiv Khori?
Shiv Khori is more than pilgrimage: sacred cave, rock formations, hill trail, and peaceful mountains create a memorable journey for Shiva devotees and anyone exploring Jammu's spiritual heritage.