Hari Parbat - Heritage on the Hill

Srinagar

Overview

Hari Parbat is a historic hill and fort in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It holds religious significance for Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims, housing the Sharika Devi Temple, a Gurudwara, and the shrine of Sufi saint Makdoom Sahib. The fort atop the hill was built during the Afghan rule in the 18th century, though the site has older origins, including Mughal fortifications.Hari Parbat offers panoramic views of Srinagar and is a symbol of cultural and religious harmony.

Weather

Spring (March to May)

Pleasant and cool with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, making it an ideal time to visit. .

Summer (June to August)

Warm, with temperatures between 15°C and 30°C, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing. .

Autumn (September to November)

Cool with temperatures from 10°C to 20°C and beautiful autumn colours in the surroundings.

Winter (December to February)

Cold, with temperatures dropping below 0°C, and occasional snowfall, making it less ideal for visits but offering a serene winter atmosphere.

How to Reach

By Car/Taxi

You can hire a taxi or drive to Hari Parbat. It is located approximately 5 km from the city centre of Srinagar, and the journey takes around 15-20 minutes. By Auto-Rickshaw Auto-rickshaws are readily available in Srinagar and are a convenient option for getting to Hari Parbat. Negotiate the fare before starting your ride. .

By Walking

If you’re staying nearby, you can also walk to Hari Parbat. The path leading up to the fort is scenic, allowing you to enjoy the local sights and atmosphere.

Public Transport

Local buses may also be available, but they might not be the most convenient option for tourists. It’s best to check with locals for the most current routes.

Best time to Visit

Spring (April to June)

Offers beautiful blooming flowers and lush greenery, enhancing the park's natural beauty.

Autumn (September to October)

Features stunning fall colours, providing a picturesque backdrop for photography and sightseeing.Visiting during these times ensures a comfortable experience with clearer skies,making it easier to enjoy the panoramic views from the fort.

History

Hari Parbat, also known as Koh-i-Maran, is a historic site in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It is believed to be the site of the ancient worship of the goddess Sharika and features the Sharika Devi Temple.The Hari Parbat Fort, built in the 18th century by the Chak rulers and expanded by Shah Jahan, served as a protective structure for the city. The site holds cultural significance for both Hindus and Muslims, with the shrine of Makhdoom Sahib located nearby.

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The City Maps

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Hari Parbat?

How can I reach Hari Parbat?

Are there any entry fees for visiting Hari Parbat?

What are the visiting hours of Hari Parbat?

What are the key attractions around Hari Parbat?

Scams

Overpriced Guides

Some unlicensed guides may approach tourists, offering their services at inflated prices. It’s best to use official guides or services recommended by your hotel.

Souvenir Vendors

Vendors near Hari Parbat may charge significantly higher prices for souvenirs. Bargaining is common in the area, so don't hesitate to negotiate or compare prices.

Transportation Scams

Auto-rickshaw or taxi drivers might not use the metre and could charge exorbitant fares. Always negotiate the fare beforehand or choose metered taxis if available.

Photography Fees

Some individuals may approach tourists offering to take pictures and then demand payment afterward. It’s advisable to clarify any costs beforehand.

Fake Pilgrimage Offers

Be cautious of individuals claiming to offer pilgrimage tours or special access to religious sites for a fee. Always verify through reliable sources before committing.

Flora Fauna

Chinar Trees

These iconic trees are native to the Kashmir Valley and are highly revered. They can be seen across the fort's surroundings.

Walnut Trees

A common sight in the region, walnut trees contribute to the local ecosystem and economy, with their wood used in traditional Kashmiri crafts.

Wildflowers

The hill is home to a range of seasonal wildflowers, adding colour and vibrancy during the spring and summer months.

Kashmir Flycatcher

A rare bird species, often spotted by birdwatchers, this flycatcher is known for its colourful plumage.

Leopard

Occasionally, leopards are known to wander near the hills of Hari Parbat, though sightings are rare due to their elusive nature.

Monkeys

Common langurs and rhesus monkeys are often seen in and around the Hari Parbat area, interacting with tourists.

Adventures

Trekking

Trekking to Hari Parbat is a popular activity. The trail provides breathtaking views of the city of Srinagar and Dal Lake. The fort at the top adds a historical dimension to the adventure.

Bird Watching

Hari Parbat is a great spot for bird watchers due to its diverse range of bird species. The surrounding greenery and proximity to Dal Lake attract a variety of migratory birds.

Photography Expeditions

The panoramic views of Srinagar, Dal Lake, and the nearby Zabarwan Mountains make it an excellent location for photography enthusiasts. Historical monuments and natural landscapes offer diverse photography opportunities.

Heritage Walks

Heritage walks around Hari Parbat allow visitors to explore its ancient structures, including the fort, temple, and Gurudwara, blending history with a light physical activity.

Myths

The Myth of the Demon Jalobhava

According to local legend, Hari Parbat hill was created by a pebble thrown by the goddess Parvati (also revered as Sharika Devi) to trap the demon Jalobhava. The demon had taken control of the Kashmir Valley, which was once a vast lake. Parvati transformed into a bird and dropped a pebble on Jalobhava's head, crushing him beneath it, which eventually formed the hill.

The Legend of Sharika Devi

Another popular myth involves the goddess Sharika, who is believed to reside on Hari Parbat. The hill is considered sacred because of the presence of the Sharika Devi temple. Many locals believe that the goddess blesses the city from her abode on the hill and protects it from evil forces.

The Sacred Nagas

The Nagas, or serpent spirits, are said to inhabit the water bodies around Hari Parbat. They are revered as protective deities and are part of the ancient Kashmiri belief system. It's believed that the Nagas still watch over the natural springs near the hill.

Videos

Video of Hari parbat

Foods

Kashmiri Kebabs

Kashmiri kebabs are made from minced lamb or chicken, seasoned with local spices like cumin, coriander, and fennel. They are grilled over a flame until crispy on the outside but tender inside. These kebabs are often served with chutney and fresh naan bread. The use of saffron and other aromatic spices distinguishes Kashmiri kebabs from other regional varieties.

Rogan Josh

Rogan Josh is one of the most famous dishes in Kashmiri cuisine. It is a slow-cooked lamb curry with a rich, aromatic gravy made from a blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and Kashmiri red chilies, which give it its signature red colour. Saffron and yoghurt add a depth of flavour to the dish. It's usually served with rice or naan.

Dum Aloo

Dum Aloo is a popular vegetarian dish where baby potatoes are first deep-fried and then cooked in a rich, spicy gravy made from yoghurt, ginger, fennel, and Kashmiri chilies. The dish has a smooth, creamy texture and is full of aromatic spices, making it a favourite among locals and tourists.

Gushtaba

Gushtaba is a royal Kashmiri dish consisting of minced mutton meatballs cooked in a yoghurt-based gravy, often served at the end of a meal during special occasions. The meatballs are delicately spiced and simmered in the gravy until tender. It is considered a delicacy in Kashmiri cuisine, typically part of the elaborate Wazwan meal.

Kashmiri Kahwa

Kahwa is a traditional Kashmiri green tea infused with saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and almonds. It’s light, refreshing, and often consumed during the cold months to stay warm. Kahwa is served without milk and has a unique flavour profile due to the use of saffron.

Nearby Places

Pari Mahal - The Palace of Fairies

Tulip Garden - The Floral Wonderland

Chashme Shahi- The royal spring

Dachigam National Park - Home to the Hangul

Nishat Garden - Garden of Delight

Dal Lake - Srinagar’s Jewel

Shalimar Garden - Adobe of Love

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Hari Parbat - Heritage on the Hill

History

Explore the tours

The City Maps

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Hari Parbat?

How can I reach Hari Parbat?

How can I reach Hari Parbat?

Are there any entry fees for visiting Hari Parbat?

What are the visiting hours of Hari Parbat?

What are the key attractions around Hari Parbat?

Scams < >

Overpriced Guides

Souvenir Vendors

Transportation Scams

Photography Fees

Fake Pilgrimage Offers

Flora Fauna < >

Chinar Trees

Walnut Trees

Wildflowers

Kashmir Flycatcher

Leopard

Monkeys

Adventures < >

Trekking

Bird Watching

Photography Expeditions

Heritage Walks

Myths < >

The Myth of the Demon Jalobhava

The Legend of Sharika Devi

The Sacred Nagas

Videos < >

Video of Hari parbat

Foods < >

Kashmiri Kebabs

Rogan Josh

Dum Aloo

Gushtaba

Kashmiri Kahwa

Nearby Places < >

Pari Mahal - The Palace of Fairies

Tulip Garden - The Floral Wonderland

Chashme Shahi- The royal spring

Dachigam National Park - Home to the Hangul

Nishat Garden - Garden of Delight

Dal Lake - Srinagar’s Jewel

Shalimar Garden - Adobe of Love

Reviews

Get Updates & More

Scams

Flora Fauna

Adventures

Myths

Videos

Foods

Nearby Places