Shri Shankaracharya Temple: The Oldest Temple in Kashmir

Ever thought about visiting a temple that’s been around for over 2,000 years? If you want to experience something truly special, then Shri Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar is perfect for you. This amazing temple sits high up on a hill and gives you the most beautiful views of Kashmir valley. This temple is the oldest one in Kashmir, making it a must-visit spot for anyone who loves history and spirituality. Whether you’re religious or just curious about old places, this temple will surely leave you amazed. This TripzyGo guide will tell you everything you need to know about visiting this incredible place.

The Story Behind Shri Shankaracharya Temple

The history of Shankaracharya Temple Srinagar is really fascinating, the King Gopaditya built this temple around 371 BC, which means it’s been standing here for more than 2,000 years. The temple has had many names throughout history, people also called it Jyesteshwara Temple. The name “Shankaracharya” came later when the great spiritual teacher Adi Shankaracharya visited this place.

He was so inspired by this spot that he wrote a famous spiritual text called Saundarya Lahiri right here on this hill. What’s really interesting is that this temple wasn’t always a Hindu temple. Originally, this was a Buddhist temple, showing how this sacred place has been important to different religions over time. This shows how special and peaceful this place has always been.

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What Makes Shri Shankaracharya Temple So Special?

The journey to Shri Shankaracharya Temple is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You have to climb 243 stone steps to reach this spiritual temple which is situated at the height of 1100 feet above Srinagar city. The temple is also famous for its unique octagonal base design. The whole structure is made of grey stone blocks, and inside, there’s a small, dark, circular room where people pray. This design showcases how temples were built in Kashmir hundreds of years ago.

When you go inside the temple, you’ll find the main deity – a Shivaling which was placed there in the 19th century during the Sikh period. The small prayer room creates a very peaceful atmosphere where you can sit quietly and feel a deep connection with something greater than yourself.

Best Time to Visit and Temple Timings

Before planning your visit, make sure you know all about the timing of the temple. The Shankaracharya Temple in Kashmir opens from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to visit. But car entries stop at 5.00 pm, so if you’re travelling in a car come earlier.

May to September is the best time to visit the Shri Shankaracharya Temple. As in these months, the weather is beautiful and cool. You will get to see many greenery and flowers around you on your visit. The whole place feels alive and vibrant during this time. The temple becomes extra special during festivals, especially during Maha Shivaratri. During these times, many devotees come to pray, and the whole temple area fills with a spiritual energy that’s really amazing to experience.

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How to Reach Shri Shankaracharya Temple

Getting to Shri Shankaracharya Temple is pretty easy from anywhere in Srinagar. The temple is accessible via a road that emerges off Boulevard Road near Gagribal. Here are your options:

By Air: The nearest airport is Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport, which is 19 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the temple area.

By Road: Regular buses operate in Srinagar that can take you to the temple. But for a more comfortable trip, taking a taxi is a good idea.

Once you reach the bottom of the hill, you’ll need to climb those 243 steps to reach the Shri Shankaracharya Temple. The total distance if you walk from the very bottom is 7 km, which takes about 2 hours. But don’t worry, cars can take you quite close to the temple, so you’ll only need to climb the steps at the end.

Some Tips For Your Shri Shankaracharya Temple Visit

Here, we have listed some helpful tips to make your Shankaracharya in Kashmir visit more comfortable:

1. Wear good shoes: You will have to climb 243 steps to reach the temple, so wear shoes that are comfy and have a good grip.
2. Security concerns: On your visit, you will go through various security checkpoints at the temple, so leave your mobile phones, cameras, and other electronic devices at designated areas or in your hotel. 
3. Don’t rush: The climb to the temple is long and exhausting. It can be tiring, so take breaks in between and keep a water bottle with you. 
4. Dress properly: Like any religious place, dress modestly and respectfully. Take off your shoes before entering the main prayer area.
5. Check the weather: Kashmir’s weather can change quickly, so bring a light jacket even in summer. In winter, the steps can be icy and dangerous, so be extra careful.

Why is the Shri Shankaracharya Temple so Important?

Shri Shankaracharya Temple is incredibly important to people, not just in Kashmir but all over India. This hill is also great for meditation because it’s so peaceful and quiet up there. The high location and calm environment make it perfect for thinking deeply and feeling spiritual. The temple has been mentioned in old books and historical records. It’s mentioned prominently by Kalhana in his notes on Rajtarangni, which shows how important this place has been in Kashmir’s history and culture.

For many visitors, climbing those 243 steps becomes more than just physical exercise – it becomes a spiritual journey. Each step takes you higher, not just physically but also mentally and spiritually. Many people say they feel different after reaching the top, more peaceful and connected to something bigger than themselves.

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Plan Your Shri Shankaracharya Temple Visit With TripzyGo

Visiting Shri Shankaracharya Temple is much more than just seeing an old building. It’s a journey through time, a chance to feel spiritually connected, and an opportunity to see some of the most beautiful views in all of Kashmir. This ancient temple has been standing strong for over 2,000 years, welcoming people from all walks of life. Despite all the changes Kashmir has seen over the centuries, this temple continues to be a place of peace and spiritual energy. Remember to respect this sacred place, follow all the rules, and take with you not just photos and memories, but also the peace and spiritual energy that this amazing temple offers to everyone who visits with an open heart.

Ready to experience the spiritual magic of Shankaracharya Temple and explore Kashmir’s breathtaking beauty? TripzyGo offers carefully crafted Kashmir tour packages that include visits to this ancient temple along with other amazing destinations in the valley.