Sher Garhi Palace is a former Palace located on the banks of the Jhelum River in Srinagar. The Palace is a testament to Kashmir’s rich culture and heritage. The Palace once served as a royal residence of the Afghan rulers and later for the Dogra Maharajas of Jammu and Kashmir. The Sher Garhi name means “tiger fortress”. It is also known as the Old Secretariat because, at a particular time in history, the Palace was used by British officials to rejuvenate themselves in tranquillity. The Sher Garhi Palace attracts hundreds of tourists from around the world not because of its historical significance but also because of the stunning architecture of the Old Secretariat in Srinagar.
History Of Sher Garhi Palace
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Sher Garhi Palace, also known as the “Old Secretariat,” has a rich history that dates back to the 18th Century, when Kashmir was under the influence of Timur Shah Durrani, the ruler of the Durrani Empire. The Palace has experienced critical historical events in Kashmir.
The Palace played a strategic role during Afghan and Dogra rule, serving as a hub for administrative and political discussions. When the Sikhs were defeated in 1846 during the First Anglo-Sikh War, the Palace was a royal residence for Maharaja Gulab Singh, the ruler of the Dogra Dynasty. After Indian Independence in 1947, the Sher Garhi Palace housed the administrative department of the government of Jammu and Kashmir.
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Sher Garhi Palace: Architecture
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Besides its historical significance, Sher Garhi Palace attracts numerous visitors because of its architecture, which is a blend of Kashmiri and European styles. Strategically, the Palace was built on the left bank of the Jhelum River to keep a watch on the enemies.
In the 19th Century, during the rule of Maharaja Pratap Singh of the Dogra Dynasty, new additions to the Palace were made, including a Rang Mahal and the Baradari. The Palace also has a Temple known as the Maharaj-Ke-Mandir, covered with a domed roof embellished with thin gold plates, making it an eye-catching feature for visitors.
Top 4 Tourist Attractions Near Sher Garhi Palace
After exploring the Sher Garhi Palace or the “Old Secretariat”, there are numerous tourist attractions in Srinagar that you can consider visiting during your Srinagar trip.
1. Badamwari Park
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Sprawling on the foothills of Hari Parbat is a famous tourist attraction in Srinagar. The Badamwari Park is known for the early blossoms of beautiful Almond trees. The 300 Kanals Garden is filled with various flowers and cascades, creating a soul-refreshing tourist atmosphere. The Garden features a unique dome structure at the garden’s centre named after the Afghan Ruler, Waris Khan. The Garden has been open to the public since 2008 after JK Bank renovated the garden. Badamwari Park is the perfect place to seek solitude during your Srinagar trip.
Distance from Sher Garhi Palace: 6.2 Kilometers
Timings: Everyday: 9:00 A.M.-7:00 P.M.
Entry Fees: Adults: INR 24; Child: INR 12
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2. Hari Parbat Fort
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Located west of Dal Lake in Srinagar, in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Hari Parbat Fort has been a famous tourist destination in Srinagar since 2014. The Hari Parbat Fort has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. Initially, the Fort was started by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 1500s, but only a long wall was built. Later in the 18th Century, the Afghan Governor Atta Mohammad Khan built the remaining Fort. Surrounded by Sharika Devi Temple on the west and the Muslim Shrine of Makhdoom Sahib and Akhund Mullah Shah on the southern side, the Fort offers a splendid view of the Dal Lake.
Distance from Sher Garhi Palace: 6.2 Kilometers
Timings: Everyday: 9:30 A.M.-5:30 P.M.
Entry Fees: Free
3. Nigeen Lake
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Located at the foothills of the Zabarwan mountain Range, Nigeen Lake is known for its pristine water interconnected with the Dal Lake. The Lake got its name from the word “Naagena”, which means “the jewel in the ring”. Surrounded by verdant landscapes and willow trees, the Nigeen Lake provides a serene atmosphere to the visitors. Tourists can also try swimming in the lake as it is less crowded than the Dal Lake. The Nigeen Club is located on the banks of the lake and is a major attraction for tourists because it provides ample facilities for tourists, such as a coffee shop, saunas, and a gym.
Distance from Sher Garhi Palace: 8.2 Kilometers
Timings: 24/7
Entry Fees: Free
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4. Hazratbal Shrine
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The Hazratbal Shrine is a famous shrine in Srinagar that attracts tourists because of the relic preserved there, known as “Moi-e-Muqaddas”, a hair strand of Prophet Muhammad. The Shrine was previously known as Ishrat Mahal or the “pleasure house” and was built by Saqiq Khan, subedar of Mughal Emperor Shahjahan. Upon Shahjahan’s arrival in 1634, the Mughal emperor ordered the conversion of the place into a prayer hall. The Silvery White mosque on the banks of Dal Lake is a place of tranquillity that provides a picturesque view of Dal Lake. The mosque displays the relic to the general public on significant occasions, such as Prophet Muhammad’s birthday.
Distance from Sher Garhi Palace: 9.7 Kilometers
Timings: No specific timings
Entry Fees: Free
Hotels Near Sher Garhi Palace
Here is the curated list of the best hotels near Sher Garhi Palace, which offer the utmost comfort and to enjoy the surreal views of Kashmir.
1. Ennco Resorts
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This is one of the finest hotels in Srinagar. Located on the banks of the Jhelum River, Ennco Resorts promises their guests to provide the best leisure stays during their Srinagar trip. The hotel has 33 deluxe rooms, 3 royal suites, and 2 presidential suites with all the modern amenities, including LED TV, Mini Bar, Centralised heating, tea/coffee maker, and electronic locks. The hotel is near famous tourist attractions such as Dal Lake (1.5 kilometers); and Dal Lake (1.0 kilometers).
Address: Near Town Square Mall, Wazir Bagh, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190010
Check-In: 2:00 P.M.
Tariff: INR 4975
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2. Hotel Midtown Green
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This hotel in Srinagar offers guests a blend of luxury and relaxation. Located in the heart of Kashmir, the hotel Midtown Green is the ideal stay for tourists looking for comfort, convenience, and warm hospitality. Hotel Midtown Green is known for providing the best service to its guests. Being situated in a prime location in Srinagar, the hotel is close to a few tourist attractions including Dal Lake, Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, and Shankar Acharya Temple.
Address: Gogji Bagh, Jawahar Nagar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190008
Check-In: 2:00 P.M.
Tariff: INR 5500
3. Welcome Hotel Dal Lake
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Located on the banks of the pristine Dal Lake, Welcome Hotel is one of the best hotels in Srinagar. The spacious rooms of the Welcome Hotel provide a serene view of the Dal Lake and the Mountains. The Hotel is just 12 kilometres from Srinagar International Airport. Some tourist attractions are located at a convenient distance from the hotel including Dal Lake (200 meters), Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden (5 kilometres), and Shankaracharya Temple (6.3 kilometres).
Address: Boulevard Road, Shikara Gate No. 7, Dal Gate, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Check-In: 2:00 P.M.
Tariff: INR 5865
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If you plan a trip to Srinagar, Sher Garhi Palace, located on the banks of the Jhelum River, is a must-visit on your itinerary. Also known as the “Old Secretariat”, the palace preserves Kashmir’s history and cultural heritage. A visit to the Palace allows tourists to travel back in time and experience the chronicle of this Palace.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sher Garhi Palace
What are the timings for Sher Garhi Palace?
The Sher Garhi Palace timings are from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. The Old Secretariat is open to the Public except on Fridays.
What are the entrance fees for Sher Garhi Palace?
The Sher Garhi Palace entrance fees are priced at INR 50 for Adults and INR 25 for children
What is the best time to visit Sher Garhi Palace?
The period during the Spring and Summer season is considered the best time to visit Sher Garhi Palace, also April to October is an ideal time to visit as the Srinagar weather is quite pleasant.
Is photography allowed inside the Sher Garhi Palace?
Yes, photography is allowed inside the Sher Garhi Palace, there are no restrictions regarding Photography, but it is still advisable to check with the authorities on site.
Are guided tours available at Sher Garhi Palace?
Yes, Guided tours are available at Sher Garhi Palace for tourists. Tourists can book their guided tours at the entrance of the Palace
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