The small, square stone Shankaracharya Temple, dedicated to Shiva, stands on top of the hill known both as Shankaracharya and Takht-e-Sulaiman (the Throne of Solomon), around 300 m above the city. Tradition links it with the 8th–9th-century philosopher Adi Shankara; the site is regarded as one of the oldest places of worship in the valley, though the present structure has been rebuilt and repaired over the centuries.
Most people come for the view: from the terrace you look straight down on Dal Lake, the houseboat lines, the Boulevard and the old city, with Hari Parbat in the distance. It is the single best panorama in Srinagar.
Top things to do at Shankaracharya Temple
Climb the last flight of steps
A road climbs most of the way through forest; from the car park a flight of around 240 steps leads up to the temple. It is steady but not difficult — take your time at altitude.
Take in the panorama
Pick out the ghats of the Boulevard, Char Chinar, Hazratbal on the far shore and the Mughal gardens along the hillside. Morning light is clearest.
Pair it with the gardens
The hill is just above the Boulevard, so it slots neatly into a morning with the Mughal gardens or the Tulip Garden in spring.
How to get to Shankaracharya Temple
- By taxi: about 5–6 km from Dalgate via the hill road; private vehicles and taxis go up to a parking area below the steps.
- On a tour: included in many Srinagar city tours.
- Timings: the temple road is usually open during daytime hours only; check locally.
Insider tips
- Security is tight: mobile phones, cameras and bags have in the past had to be deposited at the checkpoint — ask before you go and be prepared.
- Remove shoes at the temple; the steps can be cold in winter.
- The climb is not suitable for people with serious mobility problems.
- Carry water, especially in summer.
Tours that include Shankaracharya Temple
These guided trips cover Shankaracharya Temple or combine easily with a visit:
Private city tour from €41 All-Inclusive Srinagar Full & Half-Day Tour with Pickup
A flexible private tour with pickup: choose half a day or a full day to see the Shankaracharya Temple, stroll the Mughal gardens and browse Srinagar’s craft markets with a local driver-guide.
- Hotel or houseboat pickup
- Shankaracharya Temple and the Mughal gardens
- Time to shop for local crafts in the market
Private city tour from €39 Srinagar: Old City and Mughal Gardens Guided Tour
The best single day in Srinagar. A local guide walks you through the old city — its bazaars, wooden mosques and Hari Parbat fort — then drives you round the Mughal gardens above Dal Lake before a shikara-style boat cruise on the lake itself.
- Old-city heritage walk: bazaars, historic mosques and the fort
- Shalimar, Nishat and the other Mughal gardens by AC car
- Boat ride on Dal Lake to finish the day
