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The Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar is an architectural wonder and an adventurous destination. The temple is located atop the Shankaracharya Hill, also known as Takht-e-Suleiman, of Zabarwan Range in Jammu and Kashmir. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple offers an expansive view of the city of Srinagar. The view of Srinagar city and the Jhelum River passing by from the top of the hill is a sight to behold. Also known by the name of Jyeshteshwara Temple, the place is most visited during the Amarnath Yatra season.
Quick Details About Shankaracharya Temple
Location: Durgjan, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Elevation: 1100 ft above the Srinagar city surface level
Nearest Airport: Sheikhul Aalam International Airport, Srinagar
Nearest Railway Station: Nowgam Railway Station, Srinagar
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year, preferably from May to September
About Its History And Architecture
Photo: Sanu N / Wikimedia Commons
Raja Gopadatya originally built the temple in the 9th Century AD in dedication to Lord Shiva. It is popularly believed that the sacred site was then visited by the great theologist and philosopher Adi Shankaracharya during his journey through India. The place is also said to be infused by his divine presence. Shankaracharya Temple’s address is really easy to locate.
Overlooking the beautiful Dal Lake, the temple has a majestic 20-foot-tall octagonal base supporting the main square building. There is a small dark circular cabin inside the temple with a ceiling supported by four octagonal pillars. As per the historians, this temple is the oldest temple of Kashmir both historically as well as traditionally.
Suggested Read: Srinagar Temples
How To Reach Shankaracharya Temple
Photo: Sahil Dhiman / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
After arriving at the nearest airport or railway station, the temple is easily accessible by road. There are buses, private taxis and cabs that can be taken to reach the temple base. After reaching, one has to climb over 250 steps to reach the main complex. On foot, it is a 7 km exciting hike from Srinagar. You can plan your trip according to the Shankaracharya Temple timings which are from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Places To Visit Around The Temple
After visiting the temple premises, there are several other places in the vicinity that one can explore.
1. Dal Lake
Photo: Kundra95 / Wikimedia Commons
One of the prime tourist draws of Srinagar, Dal Lake has a panoramic view of beautiful clear waters amidst the mighty Himalayan range. One can float around on a Shikara ride for a complete Kashmir experience. There is the added attraction of a floating market where local vendors sell snacks and other regional items on the river.
Timing: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: May to November
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Srinagar
2. Shalimar Bagh
Photo: Ansar Ahmad / Wikimedia Commons
Built-in the year 1619 by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, Shalimar Bagh is one of the earliest parts of the beautiful Mughal Imperial Gardens. The place is also popularly known as Faiz Baksh and Farah Baksh. It is considered to be one of the high points of Mughal Horticulture and is today known as the “Crown of Srinagar”.
Timing: 9 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee/Per Person: ₹10
Best Time To Visit: February to April & September to October
3. Pari Mahal
Photo: Subhashis Pattadar / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in the lap of the beautiful Zabarwan Range, Pari Mahal or Peer Mahal is the former residence of the eldest son of Emperor Shah Jahan, Dara Shikoh. The place is a true reflection of the Mughal era architecture and grandeur with a seven-terraced garden overlooking the Dal Lake, a library and an astronomy observatory.
Timing: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee/Per Person: ₹10
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Suggested Read: Forts in Jammu
Where To Stay
Photo: Anu007bora / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
From royal residences to almond orchards, there are numerous options to choose from for your stay in Srinagar. One can also plan a stay in an idyllic homestay or a houseboat for a more budget-friendly option. There are Vivanta Dal View, the Lalit Grand Palace, Rah Bagh, Four Points, Karan Mahal and several others for a luxurious stay.
For pocket-friendly options, one can choose Hotel Kashmir Inn, Bella Vista Homestay, Hotel New Green View Srinagar and many more. It is best to book rooms in advance in this popular destination to avoid any last-minute hassle.
Where To Eat
Photo: Vikramdewangan22889 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The temple is located near Srinagar city and has some top-class restaurants and eateries located within its premises. To taste the traditional Kashmiri fare, one can choose from several options like Mughal Darbar, Ahdoos, Chinar Garden and many more. For those looking for other regular options, there is the Tall Tree restaurant, Cafe De Polo, Hashim Restaurant, Papparoti and several others.
Suggested Read: Best Food in Kashmir
A visit to the Shankaracharya Temple of Srinagar city offers a glimpse into the spiritual heritage and rich Kashmiri history. Besides that, it also gives the opportunity to immerse in the natural beauty and experience the serenity and tranquillity of the Himalayan landscape. Plan your trip to Srinagar today with TripXL and add this beautiful temple to your itinerary!
Cover Photo: Anurag Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
