Shankaracharya Temple in Kashmir - What to See, When to Go, How to Reach

The Shankaracharya temple in Kashmir is a visit you must make if you're going to Srinagar. Located on a hill, the old temple provides great scenery of the whole city and Dal Lake down below.

It takes a bit of climbing up some 200 steps to reach it, which can be tiring, but the views from the top make it well worth the effort. Locals refer to it as Takht-e-Sulaiman and have been doing so for centuries. What we like about this place is how peaceful it is once you reach the top.

If you're looking at places to visit in Kashmir, put this temple on your itinerary. The climb up is part of the package, and morning trips are great because it's cooler and it's not crowded.

We've made our Kashmir trip packages stop at such special spots because travellers always say it was a highlight of their holiday. It's not so much about the temple itself - it's about that incredible sensation you get being on top of the world and gazing out over one of the most stunning spots on earth.

Shankaracharya Temple History

Let’s talk a bit about the Shankaracharya temple history. This temple is believed to be more than 2,000 years old. Originally, the temple was dedicated to Jyeshteshwara, another form of Lord Shiva. Historians believe that over the centuries, different kings and rulers have rebuilt and repaired the temple many times.

The name “Shankaracharya” comes from the famous saint and philosopher Adi Shankaracharya, who visited the temple in the 8th century. According to local legends, he meditated here and blessed the temple, making it even more important. After his visit, people began calling it the Shankaracharya temple in Kashmir.

The simple stone structure of the temple tells its own story. The thick walls, small rooms, and old carvings make you feel like you are travelling back in time. The Shankaracharya temple history shows how this place has survived for centuries, even through wars and natural disasters.

Also Checkout: 6 Days Tour to the Jewels of Kashmir