When one hears the mention of Kashmir, one can’t help but think about the snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, and serene valleys. However, beyond the beauty of this place known as the ‘Heaven on Earth’, lies a rich spiritual and cultural heritage. For centuries now, the temples and shrines of Kashmir have attracted devotees, curious travelers, and history enthusiasts from across the world. In a nutshell, whether one is seeking some inner peace, blessings from the divine, or a complete travel experience, Kashmir has you covered. And if you’re someone planning to go on such a journey to Kashmir, this blog is just for you! 

Why Visit Temples and Shrines in Kashmir?  

Kashmir is more than just another destination. A trip to the place is akin to a journey of the soul, too. Kashmir is home to famous temples that showcase architectural brilliance and the deep-rooted mythology of the region, while shrines and mosques serve as a testament to the place’s Sufi traditions.  

When you visit Kashmir with the intent of exploring its shrines and temples, you get a glimpse into Kashmir’s syncretic spiritual identity. Furthermore, you get to marvel at the age-old architecture while being able to take in breathtaking views as nature and divinity come together. 

Now, let’s list some of the major temples and shrines of Kashmir that you must include in your travel itinerary. 

Top Temples and Shrines to Visit in Kashmir 

1. Shri Shankaracharya Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is situated on top of Srinagar’s Shankaracharya Hill. This temple dates back to the 9th century AD and is associated with Adi Shankaracharya. The Indian philosopher is said to have meditated at the temple during his visit to Kashmir. 

Location and How to Reach 

At just 11 km from the city center of Srinagar, this temple is accessible through a winding road, which is followed by a flight of steps. 

What makes the temple a must-visit? 

• This temple offers panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake. 

• It is among the oldest surviving temples in Kashmir.

2. Hazratbal Shrine

Located in the Hazratbal locality of Srinagar, this white marble mosque is widely revered as it houses the Moi-e-Muqaddas, which is a relic that is believed to be the hair of the Prophet Muhammad.   

Location and How to Reach 

It is located in Srinagar and is easily accessible via public transport. 

What makes the shrine a must-visit? 

• This shrine’s architecture is a combination of Persian, Iranian, Mughal, and Kashmiri styles. 

• With a backdrop of mountains and the lake, this shrine offers breathtaking views. 

3. Amarnath Cave Temple

This temple is among the holiest shrines in Hinduism, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It houses the famous naturally formed Ice Shivling, which is widely believed to wax and wane with the moon. 

Location and How to Reach 

It is situated in the Anantnag district, and it is accessible via a 3-5 day trek from Pahalgam (36-48 km) and a 1-2 day trek from Baltal (15 km). One can also take a cab from either of these locations, and helicopter services are also available.  

What makes the temple a must-visit?

• It is part of the annual Amarnath Yatra that attracts lakhs of devotees every year. 

• It is inside this cave that Lord Shiva is believed to have revealed the secret of immortality to Goddess Parvati. 

If you’re planning to visit, our guide for Amarnath Temple can help you with details on the routes, best time, and travel tips. Devotees can also explore how to book Amarnath Yatra tickets online, including helicopter services for a more convenient journey

4. Makhdoom Shrine 

Among the major spiritual centers for Kashmiri Muslims, this shrine is dedicated to the revered Sufi saint Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom. It is nestled in a beautiful location on a hilltop. 

Location and how to reach 

It is around just 4.3 km from the Srinagar city center, and it will not take more than 15 minutes to reach via the Barbar Shah – Babdemb Road. 

What makes the shrine a must-visit? 

• Offers a serene space to visitors for prayer and reflection. 

• It boasts a Mughal-style multi-arched structure.  

• The Makhdoom Sahib ropeway to the shrine from Hazratbal offers a view-filled and convenient route to this spot, as one doesn’t have to take the stairs. 

5. Kheer Bhawani Temple

Named after the kheer (rice pudding) offered to the deity here, this temple is named after the Goddess Ragnya Devi and is sacred to Kashmiri Pundits.  

Location and how to reach 

At a slightly longer distance of 27 km from Srinagar, it is situated in the Tulla Mulla Village near Ganderbal. Visitors can take a taxi from Srinagar to the Kheer Bhawani Temple (the journey usually takes around 30 minutes). 

What makes the temple a must-visit? 

• The unique thing about this temple is that it is built over a sacred spring that mysteriously changes colors. 

• Being surrounded by tall Chinar trees it offers a peaceful and serene experience to visitors. 

• During the Jyeshta Ashtami festival, this temple attracts thousands of visitors. 

6. Jamia Masjid

A marvel of Indo-Saracenic architecture, this mosque was built in 1402 by Sultan Sikandar and was later expanded by Zain-ul-Abidin, his son. This mosque also features a square garden with a fountain. 

Location and how to reach 

This mosque is located in Srinagar’s bustling old city of Nowhatta, only 3 km from the city center. 

What makes this mosque a must-visit? 

• The fact that sets it apart is that the mosque is entirely constructed from 370 wooden pillars. 

• It is a tranquil and peaceful oasis amidst the bustling old city of Nowhatta. 

• Unlike other mosques, this one features spires instead of domes and minarets. 

7. Vaishno Devi Temple

Although located in the Jammu region, no list of temples to visit on a Kashmir trip can be completed without mention of the Vaishno Devi Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Vaishnavi. It is one of the most visited religious sites in North India. 

Location and how to reach 

It is situated near Katra in Jammu, and the temple is accessible via a 13km trek from Katra. 

What makes this temple a must-visit?  

• It is famous for three rock formations known as Pindis, which represent the various aspects of the goddess. 

• It welcomes millions of visitors annually, coming from across the world. 

• Devotees widely believe that the deity here fulfills whatever the believers wish for. 

8. Khanqah-e-Moula

Among the oldest shrines in Kashmir, the Khanqah-e-Moula is dedicated to Mir Syed Ali Hamadani, a Sufi saint widely revered and credited with spreading Islam in Kashmir. 

Location and how to reach 

Situated near Zaina Kadal in the old city of Srinagar, it is on the banks of the Jhelum River. Thanks to its location in the old city, it is easily accessible.  

What makes this shrine a must-visit?  

• This mosque features a Kashmiri wooden architecture with intricate carvings and papier-mache interiors.  

• From interior and architecture to its history, this shrine is a symbol of Kashmir’s artistic and cultural heritage. 

Ready for the Trip to Kashmir?

As soon as one sets foot in Kashmir, spirituality is, quite literally, in the air. So, are you ready for a trip down spirituality lane with these temples and shrines in Kashmir? We hope that this guide will help you plan your itinerary. 

And guess what? This list given by us is only the tip of the iceberg. There’s a whole range of other spiritual spots in Kashmir that you can visit on your trip. Some of them that we would like to mention include the Zeshta Mata Temple, Martand Temple, Sarika Devi Temple, Naraang Devi Temple, and Gurudwara Chatti Padshahi.  

In other words, wherever you go, the paradise-like beauty of Kashmir awaits you!