Shankaracharya Temple

• Prime Day and Hours: Monday; Early Morning or Late Evening
• Suggested Duration: One to two hours
• Tickets: Free entry
• Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi, 247 kilometres away
• Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport, 13 kilometres away
• Nearest Bus Stop: Srinagar Bus Stand, 15 kilometres away

Discover the unparalleled spiritual charm of Kashmir’s oldest Hindu shrine as you visit the iconic Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar. One of the top places to visit with Kashmir tour packages, the temple is a popular stopover for many devotees on the Amarnath trek. This Lord Shiva temple lies in the heart of Srinagar city at a height of 1,100 feet on Gopadri Hill.

The temple is believed to date to the Mauryan period when it was constructed by Emperor Ashoka’s son. What makes the temple special is that this is where the famous Hindu philosopher Adi Shankaracharya meditated for several days. He is also credited with the construction of the current temple structure in the 9th century CE.

After the short trek, one of the top things to do in Srinagar is to admire the incredible ancient architecture and stunning panoramic views. Explore the beautiful premises or meditate away from the city’s bustle at Kashmir’s most revered Hindu pilgrimage shrine.

• Climb 243 stairs as you trek up an 1100-foot-high hill in the heart of Srinagar to reach the iconic temple.
• Witness mesmerising architectural details ranging from intricate shikhara carvings to ancient inscriptions dating to different eras of Kashmir’s history here.
• Offer prayers at the revered Shivalinga in the temple and spend time meditating in the calming ambience of Shankaracharya Temple.
• Seek blessings at Kashmir’s oldest Hindu pilgrimage site as you visit the Shankaracharya Temple, one of the best places to visit in Srinagar.
• Admire stunning panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake as you stand in the temple premises atop Gopadri Hill.