Visit the Shankaracharya Temple, a special place in Srinagar that sits high on a hill. Climb 250 steps to reach the temple and admire its breathtaking beauty. The temple is very old, with a unique design and inscriptions on its walls. From the top, you can see amazing views of Dal Lake and the Jhelum Valley. Inside, there is a cave where Adi Shankara, a wise scholar, meditated. The temple has a rich history, and it is believed that it was repaired by King Gopadittya. Visiting here can provide you with a mix of adventure, history, and peaceful moments.
Get ready to set out on a journey to the Shankaracharya Temple, situated atop a hill called Takht-e-Suleiman in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Built during the reign of King Gopadatya in 371 BC, it is believed to be one of the oldest temples in India. You can soak in the peaceful ambience at this historic shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also known as Jyesteshwara Temple, it pays homage to the great philosopher Shankaracharya, who visited Srinagar around a thousand years ago.
The temple houses the revered Shiva Linga which was worshipped by Adi Shankaracharya himself. You can learn more about the legend here which states that Shankaracharya attained spiritual enlightenment at this sacred site. Experience the stunning beauty of the valley and the famous Dal Lake as you gaze from the circular chamber at the main shrine, forming a captivating view.
Visit this spiritual and historical landmark in Kashmir as it is also a remarkable piece of architecture that gives insight into ancient forms of art. Additionally, the stunning views from the temple allow you to marvel at the city and appreciate the natural beauty around it.
Highlights
• Climb 243 steps to reach the Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, and enjoy the stunning views of the Dal Lake from this sacred spot.
• Marvel at the breathtaking architecture of the Shankaracharya Temple, resting on a 20-foot-tall octagonal base.
• Explore the historical charm of the temple’s walls, adorned with inscriptions dating back to the time of Shah Jahan.
• Enjoy the mesmerizing panoramic views from the Shankaracharya hilltop, overlooking the Jhelum Valley and Dal Lake, especially at night, when it creates a magical sight to see.
• Visit the Shankaracharya Tapasya Cave, known as Adi Shankara’s Gufa, where the revered scholar practised deep meditation and felt the serene energy of the cave.
How To Reach
By Bus/Taxi:
Take one of the regular buses that operate throughout Srinagar to reach the Shankaracharya Temple. From the Srinagar bus stand it will take you about 31 minutes to cover the distance of approximately 11 km to the temple steps.
You can also opt for a taxi from the city centre for a more comfortable journey. From the city centre the temple is 9 km away, taking around 20-25 minutes to reach. Once you get off, you need to take a short walk to reach the temple entrance.
Best Time To Visit
Shankaracharya Temple is one of the most sacred and oldest temples in Srinagar that can be visited at any time of the year.
Best Season: The best time of the year to visit Shankaracharya Temple is from May to September during the late summer season. During this time, the weather is pleasant and perfect for you to have a delightful experience.
Best Day in Week: Visit during the weekdays as they tend to have fewer crowds as compared to weekends, offering a more peaceful and serene experience.
Best Time of Day: You can visit the temple during the morning or early afternoon hours. Daytime temperatures are mild and enjoyable, ensuring a comfortable and memorable excursion to the temple.
Other Essential Information
- Dress modestly to respect the cultural norms while visiting the temple.
- Leave electronic gadgets like DSLRs, mobile phones, and cameras outside, as they are not allowed inside.
- Since the temple lacks locker facilities, make arrangements to secure your belongings during the visit.
- Carry sufficient cash as there are no ATMs in the temple vicinity, and you can get souvenirs from the city.
- Be mindful of the temple's rules and regulations to ensure a smooth and respectful visit.
- The temple welcomes visitors until 8:00 pm, but car entry to the parking area is permitted only until 5:00 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Wear comfortable footwear and carry water for the ascent to Shankaracharya Temple as there are 243 steps to climb.
