Shankaracharya Temple - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 8 km from Srinagar Bus Station, Shankaracharya Temple or Jyeshteshwara Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated in Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir. Perched on the top of Shankaracharya Hill, it is one of the popular Hindu twmples to visit in Kashmir, and among the must visit Srinagar tourist places.

Placed at a height of 1,000 feet, Shankaracharya Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest shrines in Kashmir. Also known as Jyeshteshwara Temple, the temple is named after the great philosopher Shankaracharya. It is believed to be the place where Adi Shankaracharya attained spiritual enlightenment. After this, he formed the four Hindu schools of Advaita or the philosophy of non-dualism. The Shivaling he worshipped is now placed inside the temple.

The Shankaracharya Temple dates back to 200 BC, but the present-day structure of the temple belongs to the 9th century AD. Many historians and scholars believe that earlier the temple was a Buddhist site of worship. The magnificent temple is also known as the Garden of King Solomon, and Persian inscriptions can also be found here inside the main temple. Shankaracharya visited this temple centuries ago and is also believed that he was responsible for changing this temple from a Buddhist monastery to a Hindu temple. The Shivaling that is found inside the temple was placed here in the 19th century during the Sikh period.

Built on an octagonal base on solid rock, the temple can be reached after climbing a flight of around 243 steps, which were built by Maharaja Gulab Singh. A 20 feet octagonal base supports a square building on top. Made of grey stone blocks, the interior is a small dark chamber, which is circular in the plan. It has a ceiling that is supported by octagonal columns and this surrounds a small basin that contains the Lingam which is encircled by a snake. The structure of the temple also includes two small buildings that have been built for the sadhus or saints who live here. Besides, the temple offers splendid views of the entire valley as well as the world-famous Dal Lake and is indeed a sight to behold.

Maha Shivaratri is the main festival celebrated in this temple that attracts a large number of tourists as well as Kashmiri Hindus. Devotees offer milk, fruits, and flowers to the lingam and they sing songs in praise of the lord. The temple is mostly visited by pilgrims and tourists on their way to Amarnath Yatra.

Timings: 7 AM - 8 PM

Entry: Free