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Harwan Monastery is a spiritual sanctuary for all Buddhists with a historical legacy. The monastery is in Kashmir valley and is covered on all sides by beautiful landscapes. This is a perfect weekend destination spot for pilgrims and tourists alike. This monastery holds a special place for all Buddhists, where history, spirituality, and natural beauty are amalgamated into one destination. For anyone exploring north India, this monastery is a must-visit spot; after all, it is one of the best monasteries in Kashmir.
How To Reach Harwan Monastery, Kashmir
Photo: Owais khursheed / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are multiple ways to reach Harwan Monastery. The place is connected with Srinagar in multiple ways. Below are the three ways you can reach this monastery.
By Air: The nearest airport is Srinagar if you want to reach this monastery. The distance between the monastery and the airport is not more than 25 kms. Once you land at the airport, you will get lots of options to travel by taxi and private cars to this monastery.
By Train: To reach this monastery by train, Srinagar railway station is the nearest. The railway station is approximately 30 kms away from the monastery. However, one can get lots of private cars and cabs outside the station to drop you at this monastery.
By Road: Srinagar, the capital city, is connected with all major cities in the state. Many local transport buses, cars, and cabs can take you to this monastery.
Places To Visit Near Harwan Monastery
There are also many spots near this monastery where you and your family and friends can visit, relax, and make good memories, such as:
1. Shalimar Bagh
Photo: Deepank Ranka / Wikimedia Commons
Shalimar Bagh is an age-old Mughal garden famous for its beautiful arrangements of flowers. Jahangir, the great emperor, built this garden for his wife, Nur Jahan, to showcase his love. Even though it was built many years ago, it is considered a masterpiece of Mughal horticulture. It offers a perfect relaxing ambience retreat with its lawns, fountains, and beautiful flowerbeds.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹24 per person
2. Dal Lake
Photo: Tauseef Khaliq / Pexels
A visit to Dal Lake is a must when visiting Kashmir. It is just 10 kms away from Harwan Monastery. This world-famous lake is known for its houseboats and shikaras (the traditional Kashmiri wooden boat and house). One can stay overnight on these shikaras for a premium charge as well. The view of the surrounding mountains and hills from the middle of the lake is amazing.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Nil
3. Nishat Bagh
Photo: McKay Savage / Wikimedia Commons
Nishat Bagh is another beautiful Mughal garden near this monastery in Kashmir. It is also known as the “Garden of Joy”. One can view the snow-covered hills of the Pir Panjal mountain range. In recent times, this Mughal garden has attracted the attention of lots of picnic lovers, who come to enjoy the beautiful scenery and relaxing ambience.
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 per person
4. Tulip Garden
Photo: Aman Sachan / Wikimedia Commons
Generally, all those who visit this monastery also visit the famous Tulip Garden, situated at a distance of only 8 kms from here. It houses over a million tulips in various colours, shapes and sizes that are a sight to behold. Various types of photography training sessions are also conducted to capture the beauty of this tulip garden.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹75 for Adults, ₹30 for Children
5. Shankaracharya Temple
Photo: Sanu N / Wikimedia Commons
The Shankaracharya Temple is a famous and holy Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located at a very close distance of 12 kilometres from the monastery. This place offers beautiful panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Dal Lake. The best part is that you get to trek to this temple and enjoy the panoramic views whilst doing so.
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: No fee
Where To Stay Near Harwan Monastery
Photo: peterweideman / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
There are many places to stay near this monastery in Srinagar like the luxurious hotel Vivanta Dal View that is located on Kral Sangri Hill. It offers beautiful views of Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains. Also, the Lalit Grand Palace, Srinagar has been converted into a five-star hotel. You can also stay at the Fortune Resort Heevan, Srinagar, the Hotel Dar-Es-Salam, Srinagar or the Houseboat New Jacqueline, Srinagar.
Where To Eat
Photo: Miansari66 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are several restaurants and eateries near this monastery where you and loved ones can enjoy some fine Kashmiri cuisine. This includes Aroma Cafe & Fine Dine, Stream Restaurant, Kake Di Hatti, Thalban, and Mahnoor Dine Inn.
Harwan Monastery in the valley of Kashmir is a hidden treasure that offers visitors a chance to connect with nature. The environment makes them spiritually inclined. Irrespective of the fact that you like natural beauty or an adventurous outing, a visit to this peaceful area will satisfy both. Get ready for your next holiday and mark your calendar to witness the natural beauty of this monastery.
Cover Photo: Parasmani Pradhan / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
