Ambaran, Akhnoor

Located in the Akhnoor tehsil of Jammu district, Ambaran (also known as Pambaran) is a village with a rich cultural heritage. Founded by Amba Jagdev Pawar, a scion of the Pawar dynasty of Dhar Ujjain, the village was originally named Ambari after the family deity Amba, a name for goddess Durga. Over time, the name evolved into Ambaran.
Ambaran holds a significant place in history, being one of the eight sites worldwide where relics of Buddha have been discovered in a stupa. Historians believe that the village was an important center of Buddhism between the 1st and 7th centuries BC. Excavations have revealed a cultural sequence of four historical periods, making it the only early Buddhist site in the Jammu region.
Archaeological excavations have unearthed a treasure trove of artifacts, including terracotta figures, small sculptures, pottery, and burnt brick structures dating back to the pre-Kushan and post-Gupta periods. These discoveries have shed light on the village's significance in the region's cultural and religious landscape. Ambaran is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich history and cultural heritage of Jammu.