Rs 3.29 crore invested in this initiative to enhance both tourism and education
Vikram Sharma
JAMMU: This year, pilgrims visiting Shri Baba Amarnath will have an added cultural experience as they get the chance to explore the Dogra heritage at Mubarak Mandi in Jammu.
As part of a broader revitalization effort, Jammu Smart City Limited is set to inaugurate a state-of-the-art library and cafeteria within the historic Mubarak Mandi complex in June.
The launch is expected to be graced by the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister, signifying its importance in the region’s cultural and tourism development.
The entire project is being executed under the supervision of the Mubarak Mandi Jammu Heritage Society, ensuring the site’s historical value remains preserved. The plan is to eventually hand over the day-to-day running of the cafeteria-cum-library to a private agency.
The tendering process for this has already been initiated and is scheduled to conclude on June 5, after which a suitable company will take over operations. The facility is expected to open to the public in the first fortnight of June.
Set within the grand Mubarak Mandi Palace, the newly developed cafeteria will offer visitors a unique royal ambiance. With civil and electrical works already completed, the final touches are now being added in the form of antique and aesthetically rich furniture, which will be installed within a week.
The experience is designed to immerse tourists in the regal atmosphere of the Dogra rulers, with luxurious indoor and outdoor seating that caters to all weather conditions through central air conditioning.
The library within the complex will be dedicated solely to the history of Jammu and Kashmir. Visitors can read about the formation of the region, its ancient and modern rulers, their legacies, and other significant historical milestones, all while enjoying tea or coffee in an opulent setting. Approximately Rs 3.29 crore has been invested in this initiative to enhance both tourism and education in the region.
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo recently reviewed the progress at the complex, directing the Mubarak Mandi Heritage Society to ensure that work is completed promptly and professionally.
The larger restoration of Mubarak Mandi is part of an Rs 144.15 crore master plan that aims to transform the palace complex into a premier cultural and tourist landmark. Key elements of this plan include the restoration and adaptive reuse of historic sections like the Rani Charak Mahal and Pink Hall.
The Pink Hall already houses the renowned Dogra Art Museum, which contains over 7,200 rare artifacts, including 18th-century miniature paintings and Mughal-era antiques.
The successful integration of such historical exhibits with modern amenities like the new cafeteria and library is expected to elevate Mubarak Mandi’s status as a vibrant heritage destination.
Once fully completed over the next two years, the restored complex will stand as a symbol of Jammu’s rich cultural legacy and offer visitors a deeply engaging historical experience.
