Why is the Shankaracharya Temple famous?

The Shankaracharya Temple is among the most revered holy places to visit in Gulmarg and attracts hundreds of devotees. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya, one of the greatest philosophers in Hinduism, meditated atop this hill. Today, the temple attracts visitors who wish to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and meditate in this sacred space.

How old is Shankaracharya Temple?

Believed to have been constructed in 200 BCE, the Shankaracharya Temple is famous as the oldest Hindu pilgrimage site in Kashmir. The current structure is said to have been built in the 9th century CE by Adi Shankaracharya.

Who repaired the Shankaracharya Temple?

The ancient Shankaracharya Temple was first restored by King Godapatta in the 1st century CE. Later rulers like King Gopaditya, King Lalitaditya, Maharaja Gulab Singh of the Dogra dynasty, and the King of Mysore added, repaired, and reconstructed the temple. It is said that the King of Mysore introduced electric fittings on the temple premises.

How many steps are there in the Shankaracharya Temple?

There are 243 steps that lead you up to the sanctum sanctorum of Srinagar’s Shankaracharya Temple. The temple lies atop the 1100-feet-high Gopadri Hill and you can reach it by climbing the ancient stone stairs.

How much time does it take to climb the Shankaracharya Temple?

It can take around one to two hours to climb the Shankaracharya Temple and explore its ancient premises. You will need to climb 243 steps, after which you can admire its stunning architecture and the panoramic views of Srinagar.

Kashmir

Shankaracharya Temple, Kashmir

About 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.

Day Wise Timings

Burj Khalifa opening hours through the week.

Open 7 days a week

Free entry

Monday07:00 – 20:00

Tuesday07:00 – 20:00

Wednesday07:00 – 20:00

Thursday07:00 – 20:00

Friday07:00 – 20:00

Saturday07:00 – 20:00

Sunday07:00 – 20:00

Hours are seasonal — confirm your date at checkout. Special events may extend closing time.

Shankaracharya Temple Highlights

• 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.

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Point of Interest for Shankaracharya Temple

Trek up the Gopadri Hill

Embark on an easy-to-moderate trek suitable for visitors of all ages in the heart of Srinagar city to visit the temple. Climbing around 240 steep stairs amidst stunning views is a unique experience when it comes to trekking in Kashmir

Seek Blessings at Kashmir’s most revered Hindu temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Shankaracharya Temple is the most ancient Hindu temple in Kashmir with centuries of history. Offer your prayers at this holy shrine where devotees travelling to Amarnath seek blessings before going on the challenging trek.

Admire Panoramic Views of Srinagar

Witness some of the best panoramic views of Srinagar, the Jhelum Valley, Dal Lake, and the surrounding mountains from the temple premises. This is one of the best places to include in a Srinagar honeymoon package to witness the city’s beauty during the sunset hours.

Shankaracharya Temple FAQs

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