The Hazratbal Masjid is located on the bank of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir. This beautiful white marble edifice attracts visitors and devotees every year. “Hazratbal” is a Persian word meaning “the precincts of the reverend,” indicating paramount status for respect, not just in Kashmir but worldwide. The following blog shall talk about the historical background, architectural beauty, cultural significance, and other such essential visitor information that Hazratbal Masjid has been dealing with and why it continues to be one of the most important landmarks here, catering to those interested in exploring the spiritual aspects of Kashmir.
About Hazratbal Masjid
Image Credit: Adam Jones for Wikipedia
Hazratbal Masjid was built in the 17th century during Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin’s reign. It is a symbol of Kashmir’s rich heritage and culture. The mosque was built to house a relic—a strand of the Prophet Muhammad’s hair—which is displayed to the public on special occasions. The “hair of the Prophet” relic boosts the mosque’s spiritual value and attracts pilgrims from around the world. Despite past unrest, Hazratbal Masjid is a symbol of peace for Kashmiris.
Hazratbal Masjid is famous for its stunning architecture. It blends traditional Kashmiri and Islamic styles. The mosque is constructed entirely of white marble and boasts a pristine and elegant appearance. Its large central dome, small domes, and carved wooden pillars are striking. The vast courtyard can hold many worshippers during Friday prayers and significant events. Inside, the mosque is equally magnificent. Its exquisite calligraphy and decorations reflect the region’s rich heritage. Hazratbal Masjid is a unique architectural and religious landmark in Kashmir. It’s harmonious design and spiritual ambience make it so.
Location: Hazratbal, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Timings: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Also Read: Things To Do In Kashmir
Nearby Attractions Of Hazratbal Masjid
Here are the top attractions that one shouldn’t miss on a trip to Kashmir to explore its scenic beauty.
1. Dal Lake
Image Credit: Suhail Skindar Sofi for Wikimedia Commons
Dal Lake is the iconic land of Srinagar, lying as a peaceful expanse of water amidst the Zabarwan Mountains. Picturesque, this lake—famously called the “Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir”—is famous for its floating gardens, vibrant houseboats, and serene shikara rides. One can see the maze of the canals within the lake and see how locals lead their lives on the banks. The impressive variety of flora and fauna makes it a nature lover’s paradise. During sunset, the lake assumes hues in the sky and creates an unforgettable view, alluring many tourists.
Location: Hazratbal, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Timing: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Distance from the City Centre: Approximately 10 kilometres from Lal Chowk, Srinagar.
2. Nishat Bagh
Image Credit: Nishkamrazdan for Wikimedia Commons
Nishat Bagh, or the “Garden of Pleasure,” is the most beautiful instance of Mughal landscape architecture. Located on the eastern bank of the famous Dal Lake, this terraced garden commands a brilliant view of the Zabarwan Mountains. It was designed by Asif Khan, Emperor Jahangir’s brother-in-law, in 1633, and it has twelve levels representing the zodiac signs. Each level is planted with brilliant flowerbeds, sprouting fountains, and majestic chinar trees. Through the midst runs a central canal lined with flowers, giving an effect of serenity. Stroll along the pathways, and you feel that blend of natural beauty and artistic design at its best, making it paradise.
Location: Eastern side of the Dal Lake, with the Zabarwan Mountains, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Timing: Open daily from sunrise to sunset, which essentially is from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹20 for foreigners
Distance from city centre: About 11 km from the city centre of Srinagar
Related Post: Places To Visit In Srinagar In 1 Day
3. Shankaracharya Temple
Image Credit: Divya Gupta for Wikimedia Commons
This ancient Shankaracharya Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located atop Shankaracharya Hill, offering both a spiritual experience and panoramic views of Srinagar. From 200 BC onwards, the temple received the visit of Adi Shankara and was renovated again in the 9th century AD. The structure represents very unusual architecture that borrows elements from Buddhists and Hindus. This gigantic structure has a round chamber surrounded by stone steps, enclosing the main shrine. The strenuous climb to the temple—243 steps—is offset by the views from the top: one can see the view of the city, Dal Lake, and the mountains around. Not exclusively a religious place, this shrine has been treated by one and all as synonymous with the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir.
Located: Durgjan, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006, India
Timing: Daily: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm
Entry Fee: Free of cost, but parking at the base may have a minor fee.
Distance from city centre: Approximately 7 km from Srinagar city centre
4. Mughal Gardens
Image Credit: Vinayaraj for Wikimedia Commons
The Mughal Gardens of Srinagar are praiseworthy Persian-style landscaping. This includes Shalimar Bagh and Chashme Shahi. The most extensive garden, Shalimar Bagh, was laid out by Emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife, Nur Jahan. It contains four terraces with fountains, tanks, and flowerbeds. Chashme Shahi is the smallest of all the gardens and has gained much fame due to its freshwater spring. All these gardens reflect a great love by the Mughals in symmetry and beauty in laying out well-maintained lawns with colourful flower beds and water features. One can also take a walk amidst these living art pieces and feel the serenity that is part of the atmosphere, and then admire the architectural feats achieved by the Mughals.
Location: Shalimar Town, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 191121, India
Timing: 9 am to 7 pm, April–October; 10 am to 5 pm, November–March
Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹20 for foreigners
Distance from city centre: Approximately 15 km from the city centre of Srinagar
Related Post: Things To Do In Srinagar
5. Pari Mahal
Image Credit: Basharat Alam Shah for Wikimedia Commons
Pari Mahal, or Fairies Abode, lies overlooking the city of Srinagar from the mountain range of Zabarwan and is a terraced garden. It was built by Shah Jahan’s eldest son, Dara Shikoh, as a library and residence for his Sufi teacher in this seven-terraced garden during the mid-1600s. Pari Mahal follows the pattern of the Islamic and Mughal styles, characterised by arch recesses, fountains, and water channels. This is an important tourist attraction and one of Kashmir’s leading examples of Islamic architecture. Laid out with flowerbeds and fruit trees, the gardens further give this place an air of serenity.
Location: Zabarwan Range, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006
Timing: Inaugurated every day from sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: Some nominal entrance fees might be charged.
Distance from city centre: About 4-5 km away from Srinagar
How To Reach Hazratbal Masjid
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By Air: The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport, approximately 25 kilometres away.
By Road: Taxis and local buses are available from Srinagar city centre, about 10 kilometres away.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, about 300 kilometres away. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to Srinagar.
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Hazratbal Masjid is a place that represents religious belief, peace, spirituality, and cultural heritage in Kashmir. The captivating architecture, tranquil surroundings, and deep-rooted significance make this masjid an absolute must-visit place for every Srinagar-bound tourist. Be it the spiritual solace one is looking for, or just the joy of viewing the beauty of the mosque and its surroundings, Hazratbal Masjid is sure to leave any visitor mesmerised by its experience. Take a trip to Kashmir and learn about the rich cultural heritage surrounding you. Feel the serenity with the spiritual aura across this iconic mosque.
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Cover Image Credit: Hardikmodi for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Hazratbal Masjid
What is the importance of Hazratbal Masjid?
One of Hazratbal Masjid's fantastic tourist attractions is keeping a relic believed to be a hair strand from Prophet Muhammad. This masjid has been one of the pilgrimage places frequented by devotees of the Muslim faith.
How to reach Hazratbal Masjid?
This masjid can easily be reached from Srinagar by taxi or local bus and is approximately 5 km from the city centre.
What is the best time of the year to visit Hazratbal Masjid?
Spring and summer, from March to August, are the best seasons as the weather remains congenial.
Is there a strict dress code to enter Hazratbal Masjid?
Yes, one needs to put up a decent dress. Women must wear long skirts or dresses and a head cover. Shorts are not allowed for men.
What are all the places one can visit near Hazratbal Masjid?
Places like Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, Shankaracharya Temple, Mughal Gardens, etc., surround this place.
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