Tawi is a river that flows through the city of Jammu. Tawi river is also considered sacred and holy, as is generally the case with most rivers in India.

Origin of tawi

Tawi river originates from the lapse of Kali Kundi glacier and adjoining area southwest of Bhadarwah in Doda District. Its catchment is delineated by latitude 32°35'-33°5'N and longitude 74°35'-75°45'E. The catchment area of the river up to Indian border (Jammu) is 2168 km² and falls in the districts of Jammu, Udhampur and a small part of Doda. Elevation in the catchment varies between 400 and 4000 m.

The flow of water in the river has been decreasing in recent years as the source glacier (Kali Kundi glacier) has been retreating.

Mythological views of tawi

It is a belief of the Hindus Of Jammu City that the River was brought to Jammu by 'Raja Pehar Devta' to cure his father & was given the throne of Jammu City & was declared as 'Raja' i.e. KING of JAMMU with the blessings of 'BAWE WALI SHRI MATA KALI JI'. Most Hindus of Jammu city at present perform 'MUNDAN' ceremony of their children at DEV STHAN of 'PEHAR DEVTA JI' also called with love as 'BAWA PEHAR' having HIS sthans (places) at various places in Jammu Region but main place at near village KATAL BATAL near Nagrota.Vineypuri 10:33, 4 September 2012 

Passage from Jammu city

Tawi river transverses through and divides Jammu city in two parts. The old Jammu town is located on the hill overlooking river Tawi. The new town is across the river. Tawi river is a major source of drinking water for the old city. Untreated sewage in Jammu pollutes Tawi river as it passes through the city.

Two bridges have been built over Tawi river in Jammu city: one joins Gumat with Vikram Chowk and the other connects Gujjar Nagar with Bahu fort area. A third bridge has been built on the river on the city bypass near Nagrota.