Right in the heart of Srinagar lies Hari Parbat Fort, a monument to Kashmir’s invigorated, richly diverse cultural and historical past. It is an ancient fort that could not turn a blind eye to its majestic presence, with quite a fascinating past associated with it, thus attracting scores of visitors who come here to admire its grandeur and learn about its importance.
About Hari Parbat Fort
Image Credit: Taha Mirani 11 for Wikimedia Commons
Hari Parbat Fort, also known as Koh-i-Maran, is a historical marvel that dates back to the Mughal era. The fort sits atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding city and the serene Dal Lake.
Initially constructed by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century, the fort has undergone several modifications and enhancements by subsequent rulers, making it a fusion of diverse architectural styles.
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Location, Timings And Entry Fee Of Hari Parbat Fort
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On the western side of Dal Lake, Srinagar, is Hari Parbat Fort. The fort is about 5 kilometres from the city centre and can easily be accessed by tourists and locals. Nohata, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190003, India.
The fort is open to visitors from 19:30 to 17:30 on Mondays to Saturdays, and on Sundays, it is closed. This provides an adequate period for its huge area and historical ambience to be soaked. Entry to Hari Parbat Fort is INR 50, allowing everyone to delve into its historical depths without any cost barrier.
Historical Significance Of Hari Parbat Fort
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This fort has immense historical significance, serving many rulers and dynasties. Akbar initiated the construction of this fort to define a new capital, Nagar Nagor. That project remained incomplete and was later expanded by the succeeding Mughal rulers to fortify it. Afghan governor of Kashmir, Atta Mohammed Khan, during the 18th century AD, also played an important role in fortifying Hari Parbat.
Hari Parbat is more than just a military fortification; it is a spiritually significant place. This fort complex has different shrines dedicated to various gods and goddesses, hence its spiritual importance. This blend of historical and religious significance makes this Hari Parbat Fort quite interesting and a lucrative spot for history buffs and spiritually-minded visitors.
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Architectural Marvel Of Hari Parbat Fort
Image Credit: Taha Mirani 11 for Wikimedia Commons
The Hari Parbat Fort depicts varied cultures that occupied this building during different centuries. The fort’s facade, constructed from limestone and brick, is an excellent specimen of Mughal military architecture. Several bastions and battlements are part of the same structure, against which invaders could strategically start an attack.
Within the fort, one can see a hodgepodge of rooms and corridors that show precisely how the fort was used. The ruggedness of the fort’s walls is complemented by rich greenery of well-maintained gardens in the middle courtyard. Gateways, especially the Kathi Darwaza and the Sangin Darwaza, exhibit excellent carvings with inscriptions typical of that period.
Nearby Attractions
There are many places of interest around Hari Parbat Fort, giving the visitor a wide variety of experiences. Gardens, temples, museums, and lakes—each has its share of the attractions located around this majestic fort.
1. Mughal Gardens
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Among the many Mughal Gardens that Srinagar boasts, beautiful Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi are some of them. Symmetry, terraced lawns, cascading fountains, and beds of flowers in vibrant colours reflect the true essence of Persian-style landscaping. The fort has a majestic view from the front and provides a peaceful aura in and around the premises.
Location: Chinar Chowk, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 191121
Timings: 09:30 – 18:30
Distance: 10 kilometres from Hari Parbat Fort
Entry Fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children
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2. Dal Lake
Image Credit: Suhail Skindar Sofi for Wikipedia Commons
The single most extraordinary charm of Srinagar has to be the Dal Lake, known for its picturesque scenes and lively shikara rides. One can explore the floating gardens, stay in a houseboat, and observe the life of locals who live and work on the lake. Besides that, there is the beauty of the roses of Dal and the mountains, which are visible particularly early in the morning and late in the evening. Of course, the lake cannot be regarded as a sightseeing place only but as a source of life that offers a picturesque view.
Location: Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 6:00 to 18:00
Distance: 5.8 kilometres from Hari Parbat Fort
Entry Fee: N.A.
3. Shankaracharya Temple
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Shankaracharya Temple, also called the Sounds Temple, is located at the Shankaracharya Hill, giving a spiritual high and a bird’s eye view of the fascinating city of Srinagar and sparkling Dal Lake. It is a temple that existed in the mediaeval period; it is a place of worship because the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva; in addition, it has historical significance; therefore, people interested in cultural sites, especially religious pilgrims, are encouraged to visit Agonda fort.
Location: Durian, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001, India
Timings: 07:30 – 17:00
Distance: 11 kilometres from Hari Parbat Fort
Entry Fee: N.A.
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4. Pari Mahal
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Pari Mahal is another magnificent place to look at and another perfect piece of architecture that stands majestically on the terraced garden. Located in the region of Lahore, it was built as a Buddhist monastery in the beginning, which was later converted into a school of astrology by Dara Shikoh. The places they could view and loom from there are places with immense historical value, and along with that, the scenic beauty of Dal Lake and the mountains enhances the view.
Location: near Pari Mahal Parking, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001, India
Timings: 09:30 – 19:30
Distance: 13 kilometres from Hari Parbat Fort
Entry Fee: INR 10 per person
5. Hazratbal Shrine
Image Credit: Basharat Shah for Wikimedia Commons
Stated to have come into existence in the early part of the sixteenth century, on the northern side of the Dal, Hazratbal is one of the most sacred Muslim shrines of the Valley. This house has a bone believed to be the hair of Prophet Mohammad; as such, it is a shrine to many people. This is why people think of this place as a pilgrimage and prayer; the marvellous white marble buildings of shrines enhance the beauty of nature.
Location: Dargah Hazratbal Mosque, University Main Road, Hazratbal, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006
Timings: 09:30 – 17:30
Distance: 5.1 kilometres from Hari Parbat Fort
Entry Fee: N.A.
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How To Reach Hari Parbat Fort
One can quite easily reach the Hari Parbat Fort. One may hire a taxi or board public transport from the city centre. If someone wants to take the more visually enriching route, he can opt for the shikaris from the Dal Lake and get an exciting insight into the place or approach to the fort.
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A visit to Hari Parbat Fort is more of a time-travel journey where one experiences insight into Srinagar’s rich history and multifaceted culture. Whether a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or someone just searching for serenity, it has much to offer. So, itinerant a plan for this beautiful fort and places of interest nearby to make a lifelong experience. Book a trip to Srinagar and get enchanted by Kashmir’s eternal beauty and rich history.
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Cover Image Credit: Mohamad Talib Bhat for Wikipedia
Frequently Asked Questions About Hari Parbat Fort
What is unusual in the Hari Parbat Fort, differing from other forts?
The Hari Parbat Fort is unique because it combines military exigencies with spiritual considerations. Inside the fort lies the Sharika Devi temple, thus making it not a mere fort but a noble place of pilgrimage. The fort further adumbrated panoramic views of Dal Lake and surrounding beautiful mountains, which seem missing in other forts.
What annual festivals or events are held at the Hari Parbat Fort?
Yes, the Navreh festival is carried out with full energy as it marks the Kashmiri New Year up at Hari Parbat Fort. This is the time when devotees visit Sharika Devi Temple for blessings. The whole area of the fort will be decorated with embellishments and flashy lights to bring out the ambience.
Is any guided tour available to visitors at Hari Parbat Fort?
There are no guided tours provided officially by the management of the fort. Several local tour operators provide guided tours of Hari Parbat Fort; in all likelihood, the information and stories about the fort would be sure to make the visitor's experience the most.
Is there any activity that the guests are allowed to carry out on the fort premises?
The view from the fort is perfect for photography since it is raised, and the area in the vicinity exposes beautiful landscapes. The open space around the fort is perfect for bird watching as the different species of birds occupy the environment. The environment, apart from featuring spectacular views, is nice for picnics and quiet walks.
What should people be careful of or take precautions for when visiting Hari Parbat Fort?
Visitors need to be careful about other conditions, such as that for the sake of preservation, some parts of the fort are not available for visiting. The need to be properly dressed is vital when visiting Sharika Devi Temple within the fort. Also, food and drinks are generally not allowed past the fort's gates to upkeep cleanliness and the sanctity of the fort.
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