10 Spiritual Places You Must Explore In Kashmir

Indian individuals exhibit a strong inclination towards spirituality, fostering a deep affinity for embarking on journeys to sacred sites worldwide. This inclination is attributed to India's vast array of customs. Remarkably, India boasts the highest count of pilgrimage sites, owing to its diverse cultural practices.

The region of Jammu and Kashmir stands out for its remarkable assortment of religious sites, drawing a significant number of devotees from various faiths across the nation. Often referred to as India's equivalent of Switzerland, Jammu and Kashmir's allure stems from its breathtaking vistas, enveloped by the Himalayas and the Pir Panjal range.

Beyond its innate scenic beauty, Kashmir serves as a place of spiritual significance for countless individuals. We have curated a list of the ten most prominent spiritual destinations in this captivating state that you simply cannot miss exploring during your sojourn here.

# The Kheer Bhawani Temple

The Kheer Bhawani Temple stands in close proximity to Tul Mul village and holds particular appeal for adherents of the Hindu faith. At this site, devotees present offerings of rice and milk pudding to Kheer Bhawani as emblematic acts of devotion and unwavering belief. This temple was constructed adjacent to a spring, housing a diminutive marble edifice within its confines. An annual festival is joyously observed here, falling on the eighth day of the full moon during the months of May or June. It is widely held that the hue of the spring's water undergoes transformations corresponding to the different manifestations of the Goddess.

# Shankaracharya Temple

Perched atop the Shankaracharya Hill on the Zabarwan Mountain in Kashmir, this temple is alternatively recognized as the Jyeshteshwara Temple. Its focus is on Lord Shiva, and it stands majestically at an elevation of 1000 feet above the surrounding terrain. Among the most ancient shrines in the Kashmir valley, its architectural intricacies are noteworthy, and they provide a vantage point to relish the breathtaking vista.

# Raghunath Temple

Positioned within the renowned Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, the Raghunath Temple holds global recognition. Paying homage to Lord Rama, this temple was initiated by Maharaja Gulab Singh and ultimately finalized under the guidance of Maharaja Ranbir Singh. The temple's inner sanctum exudes opulence with its gilded spires, intricate artworks, and depictions of deities such as Lord Rama and Krishna. The entranceway boasts an emblem of the Sun God, Surya, and further encompasses a library. Housing seven distinct Hindu shrines and adorned with seven resplendent spires (shikharas), this temple complex stands as a testament to its architectural marvel.

# Sharika Devi Temple

Located atop Hari Parbat in Srinagar, the Sharika Devi Temple is a place of devotion consecrated to the revered Goddess Jagadamba Sharika Bhagwati. The sacred image of the Goddess portrays her adorned with eighteen arms, seated upon the revered Shri Chakra. This temple holds profound significance for Kashmiri Pandits and carries great reverence among Hindu adherents. It draws substantial crowds of devotees, particularly on the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of Goddess Sharika Bhagwati.

# Jamia Masjid

The Jamia Masjid stands as a significant and expansive mosque within Srinagar. It ranks among the largest places of worship, characterized by an Indo-Saracenic architectural style and an impressive courtyard adorned with 370 intricately designed wooden pillars, contributing to its immense allure. On Fridays, the mosque bustles with gatherings of Muslims for prayers, and it equally captivates the attention of tourists, being a frequently visited site. The vast expanse of the Jama Masjid can comfortably accommodate around one hundred thousand worshippers at once. The tranquil ambiance that envelopes the mosque adds to its popularity, particularly resonating with the Muslim community.

# The Lord Surya or Martand Temple

Dating back to the 8th century, the Martand Sun Temple stands as a significant edifice, a veneration of Lord Surya within the context of Kashmiri Hinduism. This masterpiece was constructed under the patronage of Lalitaditya Muktapida, the illustrious ruler of the Karkota Dynasty. A remarkable feat of architectural prowess, the temple was supported by a framework of 84 columns, affording a stunning panorama of the Kashmir Valley. Regrettably, during the 15th century, the temple was subjected to destruction under the orders of a Muslim ruler. Notably, the Kashmiri architectural finesse showcased within this temple garnered considerable acclaim.

# Amarnath Cave

Amarnath stands as a prominent and revered destination within India for followers dedicated to Lord Shiva. Positioned approximately 141 kilometers away from Srinagar, it rests at an altitude of approximately 3,888 meters. The journey to this sacred site is made through the town of Pahalgam. The temple itself carries profound importance for the devotees of Lord Shiva. Enveloped by snow-clad peaks year-round, the Amarnath cave is accessible to pilgrims solely during the summer season. Each year, a multitude of Hindu devotees embark on this pilgrimage to pay their respects.

# Vaishno Devi

Situated within the state of Jammu and Kashmir, specifically in Katra, the Vaishno Devi Mandir is a significant Hindu temple. The temple holds the profound belief that the Goddess Vaishno grants the wishes of her devotees, particularly those concerning their children. This belief draws millions of adherents to this sanctified location. Notably, the temple remains accessible for Darshan, or divine viewing, around the clock and throughout the entire year. Devotees willingly endure long queues to catch a fleeting glimpse of Mata Rani. The ambiance within this revered site resounds with the chantings of "Mata ka jaikara" and melodious hymns in honor of Maa Vaishnavi. Every year, an extensive number of individuals undertake the approximately 13-kilometer uphill trek to the goddess's cave, culminating in millions of visits to this spiritual haven.

# Charar-e-Sharief

Positioned at a distance of 28 kilometers from Srinagar, Charar-e Sharief holds a preeminent status among the Muslim sacred sites in the Kashmir region. It is also acknowledged by the name "Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali." This revered shrine holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims who express their gratitude to the Sufi Saint Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani for the benevolence bestowed upon them. With an approximate age of 600 years, this shrine stands as one of the foremost and holiest sanctums for Muslims across India.

# Ziarat Dastgir Sahib

Situated at the center of Srinagar, the Ziarat Dastgir Sahib is a shrine with a history spanning approximately 200 years, its construction dating back to 1806. Subsequently, in 1877, Khwaja Sanaullah Shawl took upon himself the task of expanding and enhancing the shrine, imbuing it with greater fascination and splendor. This pilgrimage site draws a crowd on the birth anniversary of Abdul Qadir Gilani, with visitors coming to witness the ziyarat (religious visitation) and to offer prayers for a blessed life.