Baba Reshi Shrine - The Spiritual Haven

Baramulla

Overview

The Ziyarat of Baba Reshi, located near Alpather Lake, about 13 km from Gulmarg in Baramulla, is a revered shrine dedicated to the saint Baba Payam-Din. A well-known Muslim mystic and a courtier in the court of Kashmir's king, Zain-ul-Abidin, Baba Payam-Din spent his life in deep prayer and meditation. The shrine marks the spot where the saint passed away in 1480. One of the most striking features of the site is Baba Payam-Din’s tomb, which is draped in a decorative cloth that showcases intricate craftsmanship. The shrine is renowned for granting blessings to its visitors, and those whose prayers are answered often return to offer their gratitude and make offerings in honor of the great saint.

Weather

Winter (December to February)

The winter season in Baramulla is cold and harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, particularly at higher altitudes like near Alpather Lake. Snowfall is common, and the region is blanketed in snow, creating a serene, winter wonderland. .

Spring (March to May)

Spring brings moderate temperatures and is one of the most pleasant times to visit. The landscape begins to bloom with flowers, and the weather is cool and refreshing, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. .

Summer (June to August)

Summers are relatively mild, especially in the higher elevations like the Ziyarat of Baba Reshi. The temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, making it an ideal time for tourists to visit. The surrounding mountains are lush and green during this time, and the weather is generally pleasant.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is a beautiful season, with crisp weather and clear skies. The temperatures cool down, ranging from 10°C to 20°C, and the leaves of trees turn golden, adding to the picturesque views of the region.

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport to Baramulla is Srinagar International Airport (Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport), approximately 60 km away. This airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jammu. From the airport, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Gulmarg, which is the nearest major town to Baba Reshi (around 50-60 minutes by road). .

By Train

The closest railway station is in Baramulla. It is well-connected to other major cities in the region, and you would need to take a taxi or bus from there to Gulmarg or directly to Baba Reshi.

By Road

From Srinagar to Gulmarg: After reaching Srinagar, you can take a taxi or bus to Gulmarg, a scenic hill station located around 50 km from Srinagar. The journey will take about 2 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes. From Gulmarg to Baba Reshi: From Gulmarg, you can hire a taxi or walk for around 13 km to reach the Ziyarat of Baba Reshi. While there are some vehicles available for hire, the area is also accessible by foot, providing a peaceful trek with scenic views, especially during the summer months.

Best time to Visit

April to September

The ideal time to visit Baba Reshi is during the spring and summer months, from April to September, when the weather is pleasant, and the roads are clear for easy access. Winter (December to February) can bring heavy snowfall, making access more challenging.

History

The Ziyarat of Baba Reshi, located near Alpather Lake in Baramulla, Jammu & Kashmir, is dedicated to Baba Payam-Din, a 15th-century Sufi saint and courtier of King Zain-ul-Abidin. Known for his deep spirituality and peaceful nature, Baba Payam-Din spent much of his life in meditation and prayer, earning respect across religious communities. He passed away in 1480 at the site where the shrine now stands. The shrine, featuring Baba Payam-Din’s tomb draped in intricately embroidered cloth, has become a popular place of pilgrimage, where devotees come to seek blessings. The site symbolizes interfaith harmony and continues to attract visitors seeking guidance and spiritual solace.

Explore the tours

Tour

☸️Kashmir Interfaith Journey: A 10-Day Religious Tour

10 days9 Nights

0 Review

from

₹40,000 ₹38,000

The City Maps

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Ziyarat of Baba Reshi located?

Who was Baba Payam-Din?

What is the significance of the Ziyarat of Baba Reshi?

Is the Ziyarat open to people of all faiths?

Are there any facilities available at the Ziyarat?

Is there any entrance fee to visit the Ziyarat?

What can I expect to see at the Ziyarat?

Sports

Cricket

Cricket enjoys widespread popularity in Kashmir, with many local youth taking part in informal games in the streets, fields, and schools. The region has produced a number of professional cricketers who have represented Jammu and Kashmir at national levels.

Football

Football is another popular sport in the region, with both youth and adult teams playing regularly. Local football leagues and tournaments are common, and the sport has a large following, especially in urban areas like Baramulla.

Volleyball

Volleyball has become a widely played sport in the region, especially in schools and community centers. It’s played by both young boys and girls, and informal games are often seen in local villages.

Badminton

Badminton is commonly played in the region, particularly in urban areas and schools. It is a favorite indoor sport during the summer months and is popular among both children and adults.

Horse Racing

Horse racing is part of the cultural heritage of the Kashmir region, and it is often organized during festivals and important community events.

Kabaddi

Kabaddi, a traditional Indian team sport, is also popular in rural areas. It involves players trying to tag members of the opposing team while holding their breath.

Scams

Overcharging for Transport

Taxi drivers and local transport services may attempt to overcharge tourists, especially if they are not familiar with the area. It's essential to agree on the fare before the ride begins or use metered taxis where possible. Hiring a trusted local guide or using authorized transport services can also help avoid overcharging.

Fake Guides

Unlicensed individuals may pose as official guides and offer overpriced tours. These individuals often approach tourists at the shrine, offering to provide a "personalized" experience. To avoid this, always hire guides through recognized travel agencies or local hotels with good reputations, ensuring you get a genuine and informative experience.

Overpriced Souvenirs

Near tourist spots like the Ziyarat, souvenir sellers may charge high prices for items such as handicrafts, shawls, or local artifacts. While bargaining is common, it's safer to purchase from well-known shops in places like Gulmarg or Baramulla, where prices are generally more regulated. Always negotiate before making a purchase.

Fraudulent Charity Requests

Some individuals may approach visitors, claiming to be part of a religious or charitable cause and ask for donations. While some may be genuine, others are simply trying to exploit tourists. It's safer not to give money directly and instead donate to recognized charitable organizations.

Hotel Overcharging

During peak tourist seasons, some hotels may attempt to overcharge for rooms, especially if booked last-minute. To avoid this, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance through trusted online platforms or travel agencies to ensure you get a fair rate.

Fake Religious Offerings

Visitors may be approached by individuals asking for money or offerings, claiming they will pray for you or offer blessings. While many of these people are well-meaning, some may attempt to take advantage of tourists’ generosity. Always be cautious and offer only what you are comfortable with.

Foods

Wazwan

A traditional Kashmiri multi-course meal, often served at weddings and special occasions. It includes dishes like Rogan Josh (spicy lamb curry), Yakhni (yogurt-based mutton curry), and Gushtaba (meatballs cooked in a rich gravy).

Kashmiri Pulao

A fragrant rice dish cooked with dry fruits, saffron, and mild spices. It is often served as a side dish with meat curries.

Kahwa

A traditional Kashmiri tea made with green tea leaves, saffron, almonds, and spices like cardamom and cinnamon. It is often consumed during cold winters to warm up and is also offered to visitors at various places in Kashmir.

Rogan Josh

A signature Kashmiri dish, this tender lamb dish is cooked in a rich, aromatic gravy with spices and is a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Dum Aloo

A dish of potatoes cooked in a spicy gravy, often flavored with Kashmiri red chili and other local spices. It is a common vegetarian dish in the region.

Modur Pulao

A sweet Kashmiri rice dish made with basmati rice, ghee, dry fruits, and sugar, offering a unique balance of sweetness and spice.

Nearby Places

Gulmarg - Meadow Of Flowers

Tangmarg - Gateway To Adventure

Baramulla - The City Of Mountains

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve – A Heaven for Wildlife & Nature Lovers

Drung Waterfall - The Frozen Beauty

St Mary's Church - Inspiring Lives Through Faith

Reviews

0/5

Not Rated

Based on 0 review

Excellent

Very Good

Average

Poor

Terrible

No Review

You must log in to write review

Get Updates & More

Thoughtful thoughts to your inbox