Jasrota

Jasrota was a historical town and fort located in the Kathua district of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It served as the capital of the Jasrotia Rajput princely state for several centuries.

History: The Jasrotia state was founded in the 11th century AD by Jas Dev, a Rajput chieftain. The fort at Jasrota, strategically situated on a hill overlooking the Ravi River, was crucial for controlling the region. The state remained relatively independent until it came under the influence, and later the suzerainty, of the Sikh Empire in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Subsequently, with the rise of the Dogra dynasty, Jasrota became part of the larger princely state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Significance: Jasrota holds historical and cultural significance as the former seat of power of the Jasrotia Rajputs. The ruins of the fort and surrounding structures provide insights into the architecture and lifestyle of the ruling class. The region also features temples and other religious sites, reflecting the diverse religious landscape of the area.

Present Day: Today, Jasrota is a small town. The fort, though largely in ruins, remains a tourist attraction, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Efforts are being made to preserve the historical and cultural heritage of the site. The town is also known for the Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna.