Mubarak Mandi Heritage Cafeteria-cum-Library inaugurated; Public Opening Expected by New Year!

Malu Sharma

The historic Mubarak Mandi complex in Jammu is poised to transform into a significant cultural hub for tourists, presenting a distinctive chance to delve into Dogra heritage. In a notable achievement for the area’s cultural and tourism growth, the Heritage Cafeteria and Library will formally welcome visitors on New Year’s Day.

This modern facility has come about due to an extensive renovation initiative spearheaded by Jammu Smart City Limited, carried out under the meticulous oversight of the Mubarak Mandi Jammu Heritage Society to guarantee the historical significance of the site remains intact. The initiative, with an investment of around Rs 3.29 crore, was launched by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on November 30, 2025.
After the construction, the cafeteria and library operations were transferred to a private vendor through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, established by a Memorandum of Understanding between Jammu Smart City and the Mubarak Mandi Heritage Society. Located in the magnificent Mubarak Mandi Palace, the newly created area provides a distinctly unique royal atmosphere. The cafeteria offers an elegant dining atmosphere with lavish seating options both indoors and outdoors, enhanced by central air conditioning for comfort throughout the year, and showcases vintage and visually appealing furniture.
The library in the complex focuses exclusively on the history of Jammu and Kashmir. Guests can engage with the area’s history, discovering its development, historical and contemporary leaders, their impacts, and key events, all while savoring drinks in a lavish atmosphere. Additionally, the infrastructure surrounding the location is being enhanced with the construction of a multi-level parking structure, for which the Chief Secretary also performed the groundbreaking.
This parking facility will utilize ramp-based technology and feature Dogra heritage architecture, accommodating 200 cars and 50 two-wheelers to support the new facility and upcoming projects in the area.
The launch of the Heritage Cafeteria-cum-Library on New Year’s Day is expected to be a major boost for tourism, integrating the journey of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrims with a rich cultural experience at this historic Dogra landmark.