3N/4DKashmirShankaracharya Temple, Srinagar
An old Shiva temple on a hill above the city
- Type
- Temple
- Location
- Srinagar, Kashmir
- Time needed
- 1 to 2 hours
- Best time to visit
- Morning, all year. Clear days after rain give the best views.
About Shankaracharya Temple
The Shankaracharya Temple stands on a hill on the south-eastern side of Srinagar, above Dal Lake and the Boulevard. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in Kashmir. It is named after Adi Shankaracharya, who is believed to have visited the hill.
A road winds up the hill to a parking area. From there a flight of stone steps leads to the temple, which is built of grey stone on a raised platform. Inside is a Shiva lingam. The terrace around the temple gives a wide view of Dal Lake, the city and the mountains around the valley.
Security is strict on the hill. Visitors usually have to leave phones and cameras in their vehicle, and bags are checked. The climb is steady but manageable for most people. Take it slowly if you have knee trouble. The temple is especially busy during Mahashivratri and in the Amarnath Yatra season, when many pilgrims visit.
Things to do at Shankaracharya Temple
- Climb the stone steps to the temple
- Offer prayers at the Shiva lingam
- Look out over Dal Lake and Srinagar from the hilltop
How to reach Shankaracharya Temple
- The road up the hill starts near Boulevard Road, a few kilometres from Dal Gate, about 20 to 30 minutes by car to the parking area.
Tips before you go
- Leave your phone and camera in the car. They are usually not allowed at the temple.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the steps.
- Check that the road up the hill is open, as access can be restricted at times.
Packages with a stay or visit in Srinagar
3N/4DKashmir
4N/5DKashmirKashmir Valley Highlights
3N Srinagar · 1N Pahalgam- Hotels
- Meals
- Transfers
- Sightseeing
Starts from
₹15,900
per person
5N/6DKashmirClassic Kashmir Tour with Houseboat
2N Srinagar (houseboat) · 1N Gulmarg · 2N Pahalgam- Hotels
- Meals
- Transfers
- Sightseeing
Starts from
₹19,900
per person
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How many steps are there to the Shankaracharya Temple?
There is one long flight of a few hundred stone steps from the parking area. Most people take 10 to 20 minutes.
Are mobile phones allowed at Shankaracharya Temple?
Usually not. Visitors are asked to leave phones and cameras in their vehicle before the climb.