Famous Temples in Kashmir 2026: Locations, Timings & Complete Pilgrimage Guide

Kashmir is known throughout the world for its snow-covered mountains, beautiful valleys, Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens and breathtaking landscapes. But beyond its natural beauty, Kashmir also has an incredibly rich Hindu religious, spiritual and architectural heritage dating back centuries.

The valley has historically been an important centre of Shaivism, Shaktism, Sanskrit learning and Hindu philosophy. Ancient temples, sacred springs and pilgrimage sites located across Kashmir continue to hold immense religious and cultural importance, particularly for the Kashmiri Pandit community.

From the famous Shankaracharya Temple overlooking Srinagar and the sacred Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple at Tulmulla to the magnificent ruins of the Martand Sun Temple, ancient temples of Awantipora, Mamleshwar Temple in Pahalgam, and the spiritual legacy of Sharda Peeth, Kashmir offers much more than conventional sightseeing.

In this complete Kashmir Temple Guide 2026, iC Kashmir explains the major Hindu temples and sacred sites you can visit, their locations, approximate timings, how much time to keep and, most importantly, how to incorporate them efficiently into your Kashmir itinerary.

🕉️ 1. Shankaracharya Temple – Srinagar

The Iconic Shiva Temple Overlooking Dal Lake

The Shankaracharya Temple, also known as Jyeshteshwara Temple, is one of the most famous and important Hindu temples in Srinagar.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple stands on top of Shankaracharya Hill, approximately 1,000 feet above the surrounding Srinagar city.

The elevated location offers spectacular panoramic views of Dal Lake, Srinagar city and the surrounding mountains.

The temple also has an important association with Adi Shankaracharya, making it a significant spiritual destination for Hindu pilgrims.

For most Hindu travellers visiting Kashmir for the first time, Shankaracharya Temple should be among the first temples included in the itinerary.

📍 Location

Shankaracharya Hill, Srinagar

The approach road begins from the Boulevard/Dal Lake side of Srinagar.

🕐 Visiting Time

The temple is generally accessible during daytime hours from morning until evening, subject to seasonal and security arrangements.

We recommend visiting during the morning hours whenever possible.

⏱️ Time Required

Keep approximately 1–1.5 hours for the complete visit.

🚶 How Many Steps Are There at Shankaracharya Temple?

Vehicles can travel up Shankaracharya Hill to the designated upper parking/entry area.

From there, visitors have to climb approximately 250+ steps to reach the main temple.

The steps are properly constructed, but senior citizens and travellers with knee or mobility problems should take their time.

There is no need to rush.

⚠️ Security at Shankaracharya Temple

Shankaracharya Temple is a security-sensitive religious site.

Visitors should expect security checking before proceeding towards the temple.

Restrictions can apply to:

• Mobile phones
• Cameras
• Electronic devices
• Bags and other belongings

It is generally better to leave unnecessary items safely in your vehicle and follow the latest instructions given by security personnel.

Security regulations can change, so always follow the instructions displayed at the site.

🌳 2. Zeashta Devi Temple – Srinagar

The Zeashta Devi Temple, also known as Zeashteshwari Mata Asthapan or Zeathyar, is another important Hindu shrine in Srinagar.

Dedicated to Goddess Zeashta/Jyeshta Devi, the temple holds considerable religious importance for the Kashmiri Pandit community.

Situated near the foothills of the Zabarwan range, the temple offers a much quieter and more peaceful atmosphere compared with Srinagar's busy tourist attractions.

📍 Location

Zeathyar, Raj Bhawan Marg, Srinagar

The location makes it relatively easy to combine with Srinagar local sightseeing.

🕐 Visiting Time

The temple is generally accessible during daytime temple hours.

Morning is normally a convenient time to visit.

Schedules may change during festivals and special religious occasions.

⏱️ Time Required

Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Why Visit Zeashta Devi Temple?

Zeashta Devi Temple is particularly important for travellers interested in understanding the religious heritage of Kashmiri Pandits.

It is also easier to access than Shankaracharya Temple for senior citizens who may have difficulty climbing hundreds of steps.

🐘 3. Ganpatyar Temple – Srinagar

Ganpatyar Temple is an important Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

The temple has historically held considerable significance for the Kashmiri Pandit community and is located in Srinagar's historic city area.

Ganpatyar is situated close to the River Jhelum, traditionally known as Vitasta, adding to its historical and religious importance.

📍 Location

Ganpatyar / Ganesh Vihar, Habba Kadal, Srinagar

🕐 Visiting Time

The temple is generally accessible during regular morning and evening/daytime worship hours.

Because schedules can vary, travellers specifically planning a puja should reconfirm the latest timings locally.

⏱️ Time Required

Approximately 30–45 minutes.

Keep additional travel time because traffic through the older parts of Srinagar can occasionally be slow.

🌸 4. Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple – Tulmulla

The Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple is one of the most revered Hindu shrines in the Kashmir Valley.

Dedicated to Mata Ragnya Devi, the temple holds immense spiritual significance, particularly for Kashmiri Pandits.

The shrine is built around a sacred natural spring and is surrounded by magnificent old Chinar trees.

The combination of spirituality, natural beauty and peaceful surroundings makes Kheer Bhawani one of the most memorable religious sites in Kashmir.

📍 Location

Tulmulla, Ganderbal District, Jammu & Kashmir

The temple is approximately 20–25 km from Srinagar, depending upon your starting point.

🚗 Travel Time from Srinagar

Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending upon traffic and road conditions.

🕐 Visiting Time

The temple is generally accessible to devotees during daytime hours.

Morning or the first half of the day is normally convenient for tourists.

⏱️ Time Required

Keep approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour at the temple, excluding travel time.

🌸 Mela Kheer Bhawani

One of the most important religious occasions here is the annual Mela Kheer Bhawani, observed around Jyeshtha Ashtami, generally falling around May–June depending upon the Hindu calendar.

Large numbers of devotees, particularly Kashmiri Pandits, visit the temple during this period.

Expect larger crowds, additional traffic and security arrangements during the festival.

⭐ iC Kashmir Route Tip

If your Kashmir itinerary includes Sonmarg, you may not need a completely separate journey from Srinagar just for Kheer Bhawani.

Depending upon your route, it can conveniently be incorporated as:

Srinagar → Kheer Bhawani → Sonmarg

or

Sonmarg → Kheer Bhawani → Srinagar

This avoids unnecessary backtracking.

☀️ 5. Martand Sun Temple – Mattan, Anantnag

The magnificent Martand Sun Temple is one of Kashmir's most important ancient Hindu archaeological and architectural sites.

Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, the temple is associated with King Lalitaditya Muktapida of the Karkota Dynastyand dates to approximately the 8th century.

Although the ancient temple now stands in ruins, its massive stone structures and extraordinary location make it one of the most impressive historical sites in Kashmir.

The temple complex overlooks the surrounding Kashmir landscape and provides an insight into the architectural and cultural achievements of ancient Kashmir.

📍 Location

Mattan, Anantnag District, Jammu & Kashmir

Approximately 60–65 km from Srinagar, depending upon your starting point and route.

🚗 Travel Time

Approximately 1.5–2 hours from Srinagar, depending upon traffic.

🕐 Visiting Time

The archaeological site is generally visited during daylight hours.

Morning and late afternoon can be particularly pleasant for sightseeing and photography.

⏱️ Time Required

Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

History and photography enthusiasts may want to spend longer.

🚗 Best Way to Visit Martand Sun Temple

The smartest way to include Martand Sun Temple is while travelling between Srinagar and Pahalgam.

For example:

Srinagar → Pampore → Martand Sun Temple → Pahalgam

or

Pahalgam → Martand Sun Temple → Srinagar

Depending upon your available time, this route can also include:

• Pampore saffron fields/market
• Kashmir cricket bat factories
• Awantipora temple ruins

This makes for an excellent combination of Kashmir sightseeing, history and religious heritage.

🕉️ 6. Mamleshwar Temple – Pahalgam

Travellers staying in Pahalgam should consider visiting the ancient Mamleshwar Temple, also known as Mamal Temple.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this historic temple is situated close to Pahalgam town and provides a peaceful religious experience away from the main tourist crowds.

📍 Location

Mamal, Pahalgam, Anantnag District

🕐 Visiting Time

Generally accessible during daytime/regular temple hours.

Morning is a good time to visit.

⏱️ Time Required

Approximately 30–45 minutes.

⭐ iC Kashmir Tip

If you have a two-night stay in Pahalgam, Mamleshwar Temple can easily be included during your leisure time.

You don't need to sacrifice your ABC Valley sightseeing of Aru, Betaab and Chandanwari to visit Mamleshwar.

🏛️ 7. Awantipora Ancient Temples – Pulwama

Travellers driving between Srinagar and Pahalgam pass through Awantipora, which is home to important ancient Hindu temple ruins.

The temples are associated with King Avantivarman of the Utpala Dynasty, who ruled Kashmir during the 9th century.

The archaeological remains include important temples historically associated with Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.

Today, the ruins provide an excellent glimpse into Kashmir's ancient architecture and Hindu heritage.

📍 Location

Awantipora, Pulwama District, Jammu & Kashmir

The site lies conveniently along the Srinagar–Anantnag/Pahalgam route.

⏱️ Time Required

Approximately 30–45 minutes for a normal visit.

Why Visit Awantipora?

Awantipora is particularly interesting for travellers interested in:

• Ancient Kashmir history
• Hindu temple architecture
• Archaeology
• Photography
• Kashmiri cultural heritage

⭐ iC Kashmir Tip

There is generally no need to plan a separate day.

Simply add Awantipora as an en-route sightseeing stop between Srinagar and Pahalgam.

🕉️ 8. Mata Ragnya Bhagwati Temple – Manzgam, Kulgam

The Mata Ragnya Bhagwati Temple at Manzgam is another important religious site associated with Kashmiri Hindu traditions.

Located in Kulgam district in South Kashmir, the shrine holds considerable significance for the Kashmiri Pandit community.

The temple's peaceful surroundings also make the journey particularly beautiful.

📍 Location

Manzgam, Kulgam District, Jammu & Kashmir

🕐 Visiting Time

Generally during daytime temple hours, subject to current local arrangements.

Travellers planning a special puja or festival visit should reconfirm timings beforehand.

⏱️ Time Required

Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, excluding travel time.

Who Should Include Manzgam?

For a normal first-time Kashmir sightseeing holiday, Manzgam may not naturally fall on the standard tourist circuit.

However, it is highly relevant for:

• Kashmiri Pandit heritage tours
• Religious groups
• Pilgrimage-focused Kashmir itineraries
• Travellers exploring South Kashmir in detail

🕉️ 9. Mata Tripursundari Temple – Devsar, Kulgam

The Mata Tripursundari Temple at Devsar is another important Hindu shrine in South Kashmir.

Dedicated to Goddess Tripura Sundari, the temple holds deep religious importance, particularly among the Kashmiri Pandit community.

📍 Location

Devsar, Kulgam District, Jammu & Kashmir

🕐 Visiting Time

Generally accessible during regular daytime temple hours, subject to local arrangements.

⏱️ Time Required

Approximately 30–60 minutes, excluding travel time.

Best Way to Include It

For travellers specifically interested in a religious tour, Manzgam and Devsar can potentially be incorporated into a broader South Kashmir temple circuit.

This should ideally be planned separately rather than trying to squeeze the temples into an already busy Pahalgam sightseeing day.

📚 10. Sharda Peeth – Ancient Seat of Goddess Sharada

No discussion of Kashmir's ancient Hindu religious and intellectual heritage would be complete without mentioning Sharda Peeth.

Sharda Peeth was historically one of the most important centres of learning associated with Goddess Sharada – the Goddess of Knowledge and Learning.

It has immense religious, historical and cultural importance, particularly for Kashmiri Pandits.

The ancient centre is also closely associated with Kashmir's scholarly traditions and the Sharada script.

📍 Where is Sharda Peeth?

This is extremely important for travellers to understand.

The ancient Sharda Peeth is located in Sharda village in the Neelum Valley, across the Line of Control (LoC).

Therefore:

Sharda Peeth should NOT be planned as a normal sightseeing excursion from Srinagar.

Access from the Indian-administered Kashmir side is dependent upon government policy, border/LoC regulations, permissions and the prevailing security and political situation.

Travellers should not assume that they can simply book a taxi from Srinagar and visit Sharda Peeth.

Why is Sharda Peeth So Important?

Sharda Peeth is associated with:

• Goddess Sharada/Saraswati
• Ancient Sanskrit learning
• Kashmiri scholarship
• Kashmiri Pandit heritage
• Sharada script
• Kashmir's ancient Hindu traditions

Although normal tourist access from the Indian side is restricted, its importance to Kashmir's spiritual and intellectual history makes it essential to mention in any comprehensive Kashmir temple guide.

🙏 11. Sharda Mata Temple – Teetwal, Kupwara

Travellers interested in the Sharda tradition can consider the Sharda Mata Temple at Teetwal.

Located in the beautiful Karnah region of Kupwara district near the Line of Control, the temple has emerged as an important religious destination associated with the spiritual legacy of Sharda.

📍 Location

Teetwal, Karnah, Kupwara District, Jammu & Kashmir

This is a remote border-region destination and requires considerably more travel than temples located in Srinagar.

⚠️ Important Travel Information for Teetwal

Because Teetwal is close to the Line of Control, travellers should check the latest:

• Road conditions
• Security situation
• Identification requirements
• Administrative instructions
• Any applicable permissions

before planning the journey.

This is best planned as a dedicated offbeat/religious excursion rather than as part of normal Srinagar local sightseeing.

🛕 12. Mattan – An Important Hindu Pilgrimage Area

Apart from the famous Martand Sun Temple ruins, Mattan in Anantnag district itself has considerable importance in Kashmir's Hindu religious traditions.

The area has historically been associated with sacred springs, temples and pilgrimage traditions.

Therefore, travellers visiting Martand Sun Temple and particularly those interested in Kashmiri Pandit heritage can consider spending additional time exploring the religious sites around Mattan.

📍 Location

Mattan, Anantnag District

Because Mattan lies close to the Srinagar–Pahalgam travel corridor, it can be conveniently incorporated into a South Kashmir itinerary.

🗺️ Best Kashmir Temple Circuit – How Should You Plan It?

One of the biggest mistakes travellers make is trying to visit temples simply according to a list.

Kashmir is geographically spread out.

The better approach is to group temples according to your travel route.

🏙️ Srinagar Temple Circuit

For your Srinagar sightseeing day:

Shankaracharya Temple → Zeashta Devi Temple → Ganpatyar Temple

These temples can be combined with selected Srinagar attractions such as:

• Dal Lake
• Nishat Garden
• Shalimar Garden
• Chashme Shahi
• Pari Mahal
• Shikara Ride

Start with Shankaracharya Temple in the morning whenever possible.

🌸 Ganderbal / Sonmarg Religious Circuit

If travelling from Srinagar towards Sonmarg:

Srinagar → Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple → Sonmarg

Alternatively:

Sonmarg → Kheer Bhawani → Srinagar

This is one of the easiest ways to incorporate an important temple without requiring a separate sightseeing day.

☀️ Srinagar to Pahalgam Heritage & Temple Circuit

This is one of our favourite routes for travellers interested in Kashmir's history and Hindu heritage:

Srinagar → Pampore → Awantipora Temple Ruins → Martand Sun Temple/Mattan → Pahalgam

Once in Pahalgam, you can separately visit:

Mamleshwar Temple

Depending upon your available time, Pampore's saffron market and Kashmir cricket bat factories can also be included along the route.

🕉️ South Kashmir Religious Circuit

For travellers specifically coming for a Kashmiri Pandit religious or heritage tour, a dedicated South Kashmir circuit can include:

Mattan → Manzgam → Devsar → Other Important South Kashmir Shrines

This requires more time than a normal sightseeing holiday and should ideally be planned as a dedicated religious itinerary.

🙏 Sharda Heritage Circuit

For travellers interested in the spiritual legacy of Sharda:

Srinagar → Kupwara → Karnah → Teetwal → Sharda Mata Temple

This is a beautiful but remote journey and should be planned according to current road, administrative and security conditions.

Remember:

The ancient Sharda Peeth itself lies across the Line of Control and is not a normal tourist excursion from Srinagar.

⭐ Which Kashmir Temples Should First-Time Visitors Prioritise?

If this is your first Kashmir trip and you want to experience important Hindu religious sites without making the itinerary too hectic, we recommend prioritising:

1. Shankaracharya Temple – Srinagar

One of the most iconic temples in Kashmir with spectacular views over Srinagar and Dal Lake.

2. Mata Kheer Bhawani – Tulmulla

One of the most sacred temples for Kashmiri Pandits and easy to combine with your Sonmarg route.

3. Zeashta Devi Temple – Srinagar

A peaceful and important Kashmiri Pandit shrine conveniently located in Srinagar.

4. Martand Sun Temple – Mattan

One of Kashmir's most spectacular ancient Hindu archaeological sites.

5. Mamleshwar Temple – Pahalgam

An ancient Shiva temple that is easy to include during your Pahalgam stay.

6. Awantipora Temple Ruins

Perfect for history lovers and conveniently situated on the Srinagar–Pahalgam route.

These sites can be incorporated relatively easily into a regular Kashmir holiday.

👴 Kashmir Temple Tour for Senior Citizens

Most of the temples mentioned in this guide can be visited comfortably by senior citizens.

The main temple requiring additional physical effort is:

Shankaracharya Temple

Visitors need to climb approximately 250+ steps after reaching the upper access area.

Senior citizens should take the climb slowly and rest whenever required.

Travellers with significant:

• Knee problems
• Mobility limitations
• Heart conditions
• Respiratory conditions

should assess whether the climb is suitable.

Temples such as Kheer Bhawani and Zeashta Devi are generally easier from an accessibility perspective.

For elderly travellers, we recommend designing the itinerary at a relaxed pace rather than trying to visit too many temples in one day.

👨‍👩‍👧 Can Families Visit These Temples?

Yes.

A Kashmir temple tour can easily be combined with a regular family holiday.

Children can also gain an interesting introduction to Kashmir's history and heritage through places such as:

• Martand Sun Temple
• Awantipora ruins
• Shankaracharya Temple
• Kheer Bhawani

Families travelling with small children should simply keep enough time and avoid rushing from one destination to another.

🧥 What Should You Wear While Visiting Temples in Kashmir?

Dress modestly and respectfully while visiting religious places.

Your clothing should also be appropriate for the season.

Winter

Carry:

• Heavy jacket
• Thermals
• Gloves
• Woollen cap
• Proper footwear

Spring & Autumn

Carry a light or medium warm jacket because mornings and evenings can be cold.

Summer

Normal comfortable clothing is generally sufficient, but carrying a light layer is still useful in higher areas.

Footwear will normally need to be removed before entering the main worship area wherever applicable.

🎒 What Should You Carry?

Keep your temple visits simple.

Carry only essential items such as:

• Valid photo identification
• Essential medicines
• Drinking water where permitted
• Appropriate seasonal clothing
• Minimal personal belongings

At security-sensitive sites, particularly Shankaracharya Temple, restrictions may apply to electronic devices, cameras and bags.

Always follow the latest security instructions.

📋 Quick Kashmir Temple Guide

Temple / Sacred Site

Location

Approx. Time Required

Best Way to Visit

Shankaracharya Temple

Srinagar

1–1.5 Hours

Srinagar sightseeing

Zeashta Devi Temple

Srinagar

45–60 Min

Srinagar sightseeing

Ganpatyar Temple

Srinagar

30–45 Min

Srinagar city/heritage tour

Kheer Bhawani

Tulmulla, Ganderbal

45–60 Min + Travel

Combine with Sonmarg

Martand Sun Temple

Mattan, Anantnag

45–60 Min

Combine with Pahalgam

Mamleshwar Temple

Pahalgam

30–45 Min

During Pahalgam stay

Awantipora Temple Ruins

Awantipora

30–45 Min

Srinagar–Pahalgam route

Ragnya Bhagwati

Manzgam, Kulgam

45–60 Min + Travel

South Kashmir circuit

Tripursundari Temple

Devsar, Kulgam

30–60 Min + Travel

South Kashmir circuit

Sharda Mata Temple

Teetwal, Kupwara

Dedicated excursion

Karnah/Teetwal trip

Sharda Peeth

Across LoC, Neelum Valley

Not a regular tourist visit

Access subject to regulations

⚠️ Important Things to Know Before Your Kashmir Temple Tour

Before travelling, remember:

• Temple timings can change according to season.
• Festival days may have considerably larger crowds.
• Security arrangements can affect access and visiting hours.
• Start Shankaracharya Temple early whenever possible.
• Carry valid identification.
• Avoid carrying unnecessary belongings to security-sensitive locations.
• Combine Kheer Bhawani with the Sonmarg/Ganderbal route when practical.
• Combine Martand and Awantipora with the Srinagar–Pahalgam route.
• Do not treat Sharda Peeth as a normally accessible tourist attraction from Srinagar.
• Check current conditions before travelling to border areas such as Teetwal.
• Keep a relaxed itinerary when travelling with senior citizens.

Frequently Asked Questions About Temples in Kashmir

Which is the most famous temple in Srinagar?

Shankaracharya Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples in Srinagar and offers spectacular views over Dal Lake and the city.

How many steps are there at Shankaracharya Temple?

Visitors need to climb approximately 250+ steps from the upper access/parking area to reach the temple.

Where is Kheer Bhawani Temple?

Kheer Bhawani is located at Tulmulla in Ganderbal district, approximately 20–25 km from Srinagar depending upon your starting point.

Can we visit Kheer Bhawani while going to Sonmarg?

Yes. It can often be conveniently incorporated into a Srinagar–Sonmarg or Sonmarg–Srinagar journey.

Where is Martand Sun Temple?

Martand Sun Temple is located near Mattan in Anantnag district and can conveniently be visited while travelling between Srinagar and Pahalgam.

Is Martand Sun Temple an active temple?

The ancient Martand Sun Temple complex is primarily visited today as an important archaeological, historical and religious heritage site.

Can we visit Mamleshwar Temple during our Pahalgam stay?

Yes. Mamleshwar Temple is located close to Pahalgam and can easily be included during your stay.

Can we visit Sharda Peeth from Srinagar?

Sharda Peeth is located across the Line of Control in the Neelum Valley and should not be considered a normal tourist excursion from Srinagar. Access depends upon applicable government and border regulations.

Is there a Sharda temple on the Indian side?

The Sharda Mata Temple at Teetwal in Kupwara district is associated with the Sharda tradition and can be considered subject to current road, security and administrative conditions.

Can senior citizens visit Kashmir temples?

Yes. Most are suitable for senior citizens, but Shankaracharya Temple requires climbing approximately 250+ steps and should be considered according to individual mobility and health.

Plan Your Kashmir Temple & Pilgrimage Tour with iC Kashmir

Kashmir is much more than mountains, snow and beautiful valleys.

Its ancient temples, sacred springs and archaeological sites tell the story of a civilisation with a remarkably rich spiritual, philosophical and cultural heritage.

The key to planning a good Kashmir temple tour is not simply adding every temple to a list.

It is about arranging them according to the right travel route.

At iC Kashmir, we can help you combine your religious visits with your regular Kashmir holiday in a practical way.

For example:

Shankaracharya + Zeashta Devi + Srinagar sightseeing

Kheer Bhawani + Sonmarg

Awantipora + Martand Sun Temple + Pahalgam

Or, for travellers specifically interested in religious heritage, we can create a dedicated Kashmiri Pandit Temple & Heritage Circuit covering Srinagar, Ganderbal, South Kashmir and other important sacred sites according to your available number of days.

This allows you to experience both the natural beauty and spiritual heritage of Kashmir without unnecessary backtracking or an overly rushed itinerary.

iC Kashmir – Your Journey, Our Commitment.

Local Kashmir Experts | Ex-Indian Air Force Veteran Led | J&K Tourism Registered

🌐 www.ickashmir.in
📞 +91 85276 76141

Disclaimer: Temple timings, darshan schedules, entry arrangements, security restrictions, road accessibility and permissions can change due to season, festivals, weather, security or administrative instructions. Travellers should reconfirm current information before visiting, particularly for border-region destinations and when travelling for a specific puja or religious occasion.