Entrance closes at 4:30. Clean and well maintained. Welcomes people from all faiths. We went at 3:30pm and it was not at all crowded. Very serene and relaxing. No entry fee and no fees for keeping shoes. They are allowing mobiles now so we can take lovely photos. Steps up are clean and broad and not very steep. Only the last 12-15 steps which are the original stone steps are steep but we saw many old people who could manage it. Highly recommended for a view of both the Dal Lake side and the Jhelum side of Srinagar.

You cannot and should not miss going to Shankaracharya Temple when in Srinagar… this is divine and the location of this temple is icing on the cake. Once you reach here, you can just sit and enjoy the scenery the temple offers from the height… you can have Ariel view of entire Srinagar from this temple area. Only problem is the 240+ stairs which could be challenging for few travellers… but if you can take the stairs, then nothing should stop you from going here.

A very nice view of Dal lake and city from here. One can see both sides of the city. A must visit if you go to srinagar. Easy to climb good photo points enroute

Jagadguru Sri Adi Shankaracharya temple after 270 steps. Opening time at 7:30am when CRPF allows to enter and that 2 kms appx journey reaches starting climbing point. It was scenic view across of Srinagar.. must go and take blessings of Lord Shankar as well

Amazing old shiva temple with 360 view of Srinagar. These days due to rush, taxis are not allowed to go up unless u go very early in the day. The govt buses ply every 5 mins and charge Rs 35 pp for to and fro. The stairs are little far from the place buses stop so if u have old ppl with u, better to take rickshaw available there which charge Rs 100 for half km. (Yeah) Almost 200+ steps but it’s shaded due to tree is most part. Little tiring for parents but for young’s, it’s fun. View from top is beautiful.

The Adi Shankaracharya temple at Srinagar was definitely worth visiting. The drive to the Hilltop is scenic, and from the parking lot, the temple can be reached only via stairs (250 of them). The climb is not too strenuous and there are plenty of resting points on the way up. The entire area is secured by the Indian army, and hence feels safe. At the top, the views of Srinagar city and Dal lake are mesmerizing. The temple houses a large Shiva linga which is the presiding deity. There is a small cave for meditation too. The army canteen serves free food to the devotees as well. Overall, a visit to the temple takes about 3 hours, and is well worth it for fitness enthusiasts!

The Shankaracharya Hill Temple, perched atop the Shankaracharya Hill in Srinagar, is a spiritual and architectural marvel that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is renowned for its historical significance and panoramic views of the Dal Lake and the snow-capped Himalayas. There are around 250-280 steps, but with some stops in between you can climb it. Infact we met an 82 year old woman and a 5 year old girl who had also climbed ! The steps are well meaintained. The temple, believed to date back to 200 BC, exudes a profound sense of spirituality. The road leading to the temple opens at 7:30am and is manned by armed forces. Reach early as by 7:00am there is a line of tourist cars and buses waiting for road to open. Do carry water as there no shacks/ shops on the way up.

Must got o bow to the great sage Shankaracharya. Plus the beautiful views of the Srinagar city, Jhelum and Dal lake. It makes you realise the potential of the place if there would be a peaceful and liberal society

The holy temple at hill is great and fills with energy. There are 244 steep steps from CRPF check gate. The view of City from top is amazing. 1. The bus service from dal road is good. You can not take your own vehicle and has to go in public tpt only. This avoid jams. 2. After bus drop area at hill, there is 400mtr walk to temple gate from where steps start. 3. In the morning time one can hear aarti and puja mantras even in houseboat.

Nestled atop a hill that overlooks the serene city of Srinagar, the Shankaracharya Hill Temple stands as both a historical and spiritual monument. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is perched at an elevation of approximately 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) above sea level, offering a panoramic view of the beautiful Kashmir Valley. The journey to the temple itself is as captivating as the destination, combining a trek through lush landscapes with a profound sense of tranquility. Architectural and Historical Significance: The Shankaracharya Temple, also known as the Jyesteshwara Temple, is believed to have been constructed in the 9th century by King Sandhimati, though some historical accounts suggest that it may have been built as early as 200 BCE. The temple’s architecture reflects traditional Hindu temple design, with intricate stone carvings and a sturdy, elegant structure that has withstood the test of time. One of the temple’s most notable aspects is its association with Adi Shankaracharya, the revered Hindu philosopher and theologian who visited the site and rejuvenated the Shaivite tradition. It is said that Adi Shankaracharya's visit to this temple helped cement its importance as a significant place of worship and pilgrimage in the region. Spiritual and Cultural Importance: The Shankaracharya Hill Temple is not just a place of worship but a site of deep spiritual significance. The hill on which the temple is situated is considered sacred, and the temple is believed to be one of the principal sites for the worship of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims and tourists alike come to the temple to seek blessings, meditate, and immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance that the location so effortlessly provides. The temple also holds cultural importance as it is a symbol of Kashmir’s rich religious heritage. The view from the temple offers a breathtaking vista of Srinagar’s landscape, including the famous Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains, making the pilgrimage a feast for both the eyes and the soul. Challenges and Preservation: While the Shankaracharya Hill Temple is a cherished site, it does face challenges, particularly related to preservation and accessibility. The path to the temple involves a steep climb, which can be demanding for some visitors. Additionally, the temple’s ancient structure requires ongoing conservation efforts to protect it from the elements and ensure its longevity for future generations. Conclusion: In essence, the Shankaracharya Hill Temple is more than just a historical and religious landmark; it is a testament to Kashmir's spiritual depth and architectural prowess. Whether you are a devout pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or simply someone seeking serenity, this temple offers a unique experience. Its majestic setting, combined with its rich historical and spiritual context, makes it a must-visit destination in Kashmir. I hope this review captures the essence of the Shankaracharya Hill Temple and its significance!