Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Srīnagar, India
1. Hazratbal Mosque
A significant Islamic shrine housing a relic of Prophet Muhammad, known for its intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance.
- Relic of Prophet Muhammad: Only a few places in the world have relics of the Prophet
- Architectural Marvel: A perfect blend of Mughal and Chinar tree architecture
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a serene environment for reflection and prayer
2. Shankaracharya Temple
An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of Srinagar.
- Panoramic Views: Provides breathtaking vistas of the city and Dal Lake
- Ancient History: Dates back to the 200 BCE - 200 CE period
- Unique Location: One of the few temples located at a hilltop in Srinagar
3. Jama Masjid Srinagar
One of the oldest mosques in Srinagar, known for its beautiful architecture and bustling bazaars.
- Oldest Mosque: Built by Sultan Sikandar Butshikan in 1400 AD
- Bustling Bazaars: Surrounding markets offer traditional Kashmiri crafts and cuisine
- Grand Architecture: Features intricate woodwork, calligraphy, and Persian architecture
4. Takhia Mata Temple
A unique Hindu temple dedicated to the local deity Takhia Mata, located on a lake and accessible only by boat.
- Accessible by Boat: Isolated location adds to its mystique
- Local Deity Worship: Honored as the protector of local fishermen and boatmen
- Fishing Rituals: Involves unique fishing rituals associated with the deity
5. Charar-i-Sharif
A revered Islamic shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Sheikh Nooruddin Wali, known for its tranquil surroundings and annual fair.
- Annual Fair: Attracts large crowds during the annual Urs festival
- Tranquil Surroundings: Set amidst lush green valley and surrounded by streams
- Sufi Saint Wali: An important figure in Kashmir's Islamic history
6. Amarnath Cave
A Hindu pilgrimage site located approximately 140 km from Srinagar, famous for the naturally formed ice lingam.
- Naturally Formed Ice Lingam: Considered a manifestation of Lord Shiva
- High Altitude Trek: Pilgrimage involves a challenging trek to the cave
- Massive Gathering: Millions of pilgrims visit during the annual yatra (pilgrimage)
7. Kheer Bhawani Temple
A unique Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, famous for the annual celebration of the Kheer-trh (rice pudding festival).
- Rice Pudding Festival: Celebrated with traditional dance, music and feasting
- Unique Architecture: A blend of Kashmiri and Mughal architectural styles
- Goddess Ragnya Devi: Known as the protector of the Tunganagra Valley
8. Akhnoor Mahadev Temple
An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its intricate architecture and annual fair.
- Annual Fair: Attracts large crowds during the annual Basant Mela (Spring Festival)
- Intricate Architecture: Features intricate woodwork and Persian architecture
- Ancient History: Dates back to the 10th century AD
9. Shankaracharya Math
A Hindu monastery dedicated to Lord Shiva, located atop a hill offering panoramic views of Srinagar.
- Panoramic Views: Provides breathtaking vistas of the city and Dal Lake
- Ancient History: Dates back to the 200 BCE - 200 CE period
- Unique Location: One of the few temples located at a hilltop in Srinagar
10. Parimahal
A Buddhist monastery and temple complex housing various statues of Buddha, located on the bank of Dal Lake.
- Dal Lake Location: Offers a picturesque view of the lake
- Buddhist Iconography: Features various Buddha statues and symbols
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a tranquil environment for reflection and meditation
11. Gad Sansar Temple
A Shikh temple located on the Gadsar Lake, known for its unique architecture and annual fair.
- Annual Fair: Attracts large crowds during the annual Gad Sansar Mela
- Unique Architecture: Features intricate woodwork and Chinar tree architecture
- Lake Location: Isolated location adds to its mystique
12. Martand Sun Temple
A unique Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun God, known for its Indo-Greco architectural style.
- Indo-Greco Architecture: Blends Indian and Greek architectural elements
- Sun God Temple: One of the few Sun temples in India
- Well-Preserved Structure: Remarkably well-preserved considering its age and historical significance
13. Baba Dede Shah Shrine
A dargah (tomb) dedicated to Baba Dede Shah, a Muslim saint known for his teachings of love and peace.
- Teachings of Love and Peace: Baba Dede Shah's message is still relevant today
- Historical Significance: Plays a significant role in the region's Islamic history
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Offers a peaceful environment for reflection and contemplation
14. Rishi Gufa (Sage's Cave)
A cave located on the banks of Wullar Lake, believed to have been inhabited by several ancient sages and rishis.
- Historical Significance: Associated with several ancient sages and rishis
- Lake Location: Located on the picturesque Wullar Lake
- Meditation Center: Offers a serene environment for meditation and introspection
15. Khanqah-e-Moula
A Sufi shrine dedicated to Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jeelani, known for its tranquil surroundings and annual fair.
- Annual Fair: Attracts large crowds during the annual Urs festival
- Tranquil Surroundings: Set amidst lush green valley and surrounded by streams
- Sufi Saint Jeelani: An important figure in Kashmir's Islamic history