Location: Takht-e-Suleiman Hill, Srinagar, Shankarcharya lies in Srinagar District across the Nehru Park.
Dedicated To: Lord Shiva
Constructed By: Raja Gopadatya
Year of Construction: 371 BC
Major Tourist Activity:Hiking and trekking
How to Reach?
Shankarcharya lies in Srinagar District across the Nehru Park: a beautiful island within the Dal Lake one can either trek to Shankaracharya Temple from the Durganag Temple lying in civil lines area or alternatively can take an automobile upto the footsteps from the Boulevard road. The climb is approx. 7 Kms and then there is a flight of 100 odd steps up. The road passes through jungle and offers beautiful views all-round .National Highway NH1A connects the Kashmir valley with India. Every sort of transport to suit every budget from Buses to Taxis ply on this Highway. It takes around 10 to 12 hours to cross this mountainous road which crosses some beautiful spots and the famous Jawahar Tunnel linking KashmirValley with India.
Place Description
The ancient Sankaracharya Temple, also known as the Jyesteswara Temple, is found on top of the hill Takht-i-Sulaiman or "Throne of Solomon", at the hight of 350m. Overlooking the lake, Adi Shankaracharya (788-820AC) lived, meditated and did Tapas (penance) here to review Hinduism which had been eclipsed by Buddhism. He worshipped the Shiva Lingam, which is still found in the Sanctum Sanctorum. Information bords on the spot tells, that Adi Shankaracharya "attained spiritual knowledge" at this particular place and after that went out and formed the four Hindu schools of Advaita, the philosophy of non-dualism.
Special Attributes
Oldest Hindu shrine in the area
Nuisance
The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.
Dressing restrictions
Conservative but comfortable
Connectivity
Taxis, buses and walking
Enjoyed by
Religious and general interest.
Exposure
Mild exposure to sun when outdoors. It is pleasant for the better part of the year.
Avoidable Season
Open through the year
Facilities
Basic, plan accordingly
Things Not Allowed
No shoes, weapons of any description, cameras and cell phones. Cameras and cell phones have to be deposited. No intoxicants (including cigarettes).
Tip
Apart from the religious significance, the place offers a majestic view.
Near By Air Ports
the nearest Airport is approx. 25 Kms away in Badgam Distt.This Airport is connected with major cities of India. The nearest Rail Head is at Jammu which is 300 Kms away.
Best to Visit during: The best time to visit the Shankaracharya Temple is between May and September when the weather is pleasant. It snows in the winter months in and around Srinagar and winters are very severe.
Timing
The temple is open from 7:00 am till 8:00 pm