Khanqah Of Shah Hamdan - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 4 km from Srinagar Bus Station, Shah-e-Hamadan Masjid and Khanqah is a renowned Sufi shrine located in the Old City of Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir, India. Also known as Khanqah-e-Moula, it is one of the oldest Islamic sites in Srinagar.

Situated on the right bank of the river Jhelum between the Fateh Kadal and Zaina Kadal bridges, Khanqah of Shah Hamdan is the first mosque in Jammu & Kashmir. The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Sikandar Butshikan in 1395 CE in memory of the Islamic preacher Mir Sayyid Ali Hamdani, the central figure involved in the widespread conversion to Islam in Kashmir. The shrine was destroyed by a fire in the year 1480 AD. The then ruler, Sultan Hassan Shah, expanded its premises and rebuilt it. In 1731 CE, the Khanqah was again destroyed by fire and then rebuilt by Abdul Barkat Khan.

The mosque is an excellent example of wood architecture that draws inspiration from Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic styles. Standing on a square platform, the two-tiered structure is erected on an irregular walled base made of materials from ancient temples. The first tier features double-arcaded verandahs that run continuously around the building, and the second tier is in the form of an arcaded balcony protruding on all four sides of the main building. The roof of the second tier is further crowned by a pyramidal spire. Exquisite chandeliers and hanging bells with impressive carvings beautify the interiors of this shrine.

The death anniversary of Mir Syed Ali Hamdani is the major event celebrated here on the sixth day of Dul-Haj, the last month of the Islamic Lunar calendar that draws a large number of devotees to offer their prayers. It is to be noted that Khanqah of Shah Hamdan is open only to Muslims. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter this mosque but they can enjoy viewing it from the outside.

Timings: 6 AM - 7 PM

Entry: Free