Shankaracharya Temple, Srinagar | Timings, Architecture

Shankaracharya Temple, Srinagar Overview

The Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar, located on top of the Shankaracharya Hill, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest shrines in Kashmir. Also known as Jyesteshwara Temple, the temple is named after the great philosopher Shankaracharya who is believed to have visited Srinagar about ten centuries ago. The Shiva Linga he worshipped is located in the temple.

It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya attained spiritual enlightenment at this place and it was after this enlightenment that he went out and formed the four Hindu schools of Advaita, or the philosophy of non-dualism. The Shankaracharya temple sits on a solid rock and is constructed on a high octagonal platform that is approachable by a flight of around 243 steps. The top of the temple affords a sweeping view of the valley below.

The Shankaracharya Temple is mostly visited by pilgrims and tourists on their way to Amarnath Yatra.

History of Shankaracharya 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 the temple was a Buddhist site of worship during the Buddhist era. 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 since then it is associated with him. It is also believed that he was responsible for changing this temple from a Buddhist religious place to a Hindu site of worship.

The Shiva ling that is found inside the temple was placed here in the 19th century during the Sikh period. Other historians, however, are of the belief that the Shankaracharya Temple was originally built by the Hindu king Sandiman, who reigned in Kashmir from 2629 BC to 2564 BC. Repairs were later made by numerous prominent kings over a period of years.

Architecture of Shankaracharya Temple

The Shankaracharya Temple is located on a raised octagonal platform and needs to be accessed via a flight of about 243 steps, and then another 8 to 10 steps from there to the temple. The fencing walls of these steps have certain inscriptions on them.

Other such inscriptions can be found inside the temple too, and date back to the period of Shah Jahan. The circular chamber shaped the main shrine provides a breathtaking view of the entire valley as well as the world-famous Dal Lake and is indeed a sight to behold. The steps made up of stone that lead to the main shrine of the temple were built by Maharaja Gulab Singh. The structure of the temple also includes two small buildings that have been built for the sadhus or saints who live here.

How to Reach Shankaracharya Temple

The Shankaracharya Temple is easily accessible from all parts of the city by the regular buses that operate in Srinagar. However, in order to ensure a comfortable journey, it is also a good idea to opt for taxis. Taxis are also readily available throughout the city. However, to reach the entrance of the temple, you will have to make a short walk.

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Shankaracharya Temple Reviews

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Paneendra Kumar

on Shankaracharya Temple 6 years ago

Time has come to seek divine intervention for the Kashmir problem. Let’s pray for Peaceful Kashmir and One India Strong India on April 30 2017 Shankarajayanti at Shankaracharya hill Srinagar. The bes (Read More)t way to remember and follow teachings of Adi guru Shankaracharya is to pray for Kashmir on Shankarajayanti. Many sages came to Kashmir in search of knowledge .As we know Kashmir the land of sages and Saints got its name from Kashyapa muni. Saint Abhinav gupta was from here. Adi guru Shankaracharya meditated here. The land of knowledge and spiritualisms is disturbed today due to ignorance. Let’s restore Kashmir to its ancient glory. Let’s us all pray together to god to send a saint again who will restore Peace, Knowledge and Spiritualism back in Kashmir. #PeacefullKashmir #OneIndiaStrongIndia