Doda, historically a key territory within the ancient Kishtwar and Bhaderwah hill principalities, is a rugged, mountainous district in the eastern part of the Jammu division. Carved out by the roaring Chenab River, Doda has historically served as a critical cultural and geographic bridge connecting the Kashmir Valley, the Jammu hills, and the Chamba region of Himachal Pradesh.
​The historical context of Doda is defined by independent mountain kingdoms, its integration into the Dogra Empire, and a deeply rooted syncretic spiritual heritage.