The Maharani Temple, also called the Shiv Temple or Mohineshwar Shivalalaya, is a calm spiritual place situated on a hill in the centre of Gulmarg. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are worshipped in this temple. It was constructed in 1915 by Maharani Mohini Bai Sisodia, the wife of Maharaja Hari Singh. With Kashmir tour packages, you can see beautiful views of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows as you walk up to the temple.
This temple can be seen from anywhere in Gulmarg because of its vivid red roof, which contrasts with the surrounding greenery. You can see beautifully carved images of Shiva and Parvati inside, and you can also see traditional Hindu ceremonies being held here.
Feel the magic of the temple that Mumtaz and Rajesh Khanna sang about in their hit song "Jai Jai Shiv Shankar" all over again. A Muslim priest has been leading the daily prayers for years, which is interesting and shows how harmonious the region is.
1. Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 6 AM - 9 PM
2. Prime Day & Hours: Friday-Friday 06:00 AM - 10:00 AM
3. Suggested Duration: 1-2 Hours
4. Tickets: Free Entry
5. Nearest Railway Station: Baramulla Railway Station, about 31 kms away
6. Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, about 57 kms away
7. Nearest Bus Stop: Kunzar Bus stop, about 18 kilometres away
Why Visit The Maharani Temple?
- The temple was constructed as a private place of worship for the queen while she was in Gulmarg, after Maharani Mohini Bai Sisodia commissioned it in 1915.
- Also called Mohineshwar Shivalalaya, this is one of the places to visit near Gulmarg that contains the history of Kashmir's last ruling Dogra clan.
- This temple is unique in the area because it is devoted to Shiva and Parvati, whereas the majority of Kashmiri temples pray to Vaishnavite deities.
- After appearing in the Bollywood song "Jai Jai Shiv Shankar," the temple became one of the well-known places across the country.
- The temple was purposefully constructed on a small hillside so that it could be seen from everywhere in Gulmarg.
- Following the departure of Kashmiri Pandits, the temple's customs were carried on by Ghulam Mohammad Sheikh, a Kashmiri Muslim.
- The priest performs both Islamic Namaaz and Hindu prayers, which is a unique instance of spiritual cooperation.
Must-Try Experiences
1. Soak in the temple's exterior surroundings
Enjoy breathtaking views of Gulmarg's flowery meadows and snow-capped peaks from the hilltop. Witness the beautiful wood and stone construction of the temple’s pyramidal dome, which also features a vertical window. The temple is the ideal location for photography because of its elevated position, which provides a 360-degree vista.
2. Feel the Soulful Aarti Ceremony
Attend the Aarti every day to feel the spiritual aura of the temple. A mesmerizing atmosphere is created by the chanting of mantras, the ringing of bells, and the fluttering of oil lights. Travellers and devotees alike can find peace and cultural awareness at the evening prayers. After the prayers, you can also enjoy the prasad that the priest serves here.
3. Visit the Shiva Lingam to ask for blessings.
Visit the temple, one of the best places to visit near Srinagar, and pray to the holy statues of Shiva Lingam and the Goddess Parvati. The old practices here offer a divine vibe. Feel the temple's rich significance by lighting a diya and making a wish.
