Hazratbal Shrine

Hazratbal Shrine is a revered white-marble Islamic shrine located on the northern shore of Dal Lake in Hazratbal, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Known as Dargah Sharif and Assar-e-Sharif, it enshrines a relic believed to be a hair of Prophet Muhammad. The present domed marble structure, built between 1968 and 1979, replaced an earlier 17th-century building. Set against the Zabarwan Hills, it is the most important Muslim shrine in Kashmir and a major visitor attraction.

Visitors can expect a large white marble shrine with a prominent dome and minaret situated directly on the northern bank of Dal Lake. The complex includes a spacious courtyard, prayer halls, and gardens with views of the lake and Zabarwan Hills. Inside, the main sanctum houses the revered relic displayed on special occasions. The atmosphere is calm and devotional, with visitors walking around the courtyard, viewing the architecture, and enjoying lakeside scenery. Photography is generally allowed in outer areas but restricted inside the prayer hall.

The site was originally Ishrat Mahal, a pleasure house built by Sadiq Khan, brother-in-law of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, in 1623. It was later converted into a place of prayer. The relic was brought to Kashmir in 1699 by Syed Abdullah, a descendant of the Prophet, and was first kept at Bijbehara before being moved to Hazratbal. The earlier structure was replaced by the present white marble shrine constructed between 1968 and 1979.

Hazratbal Shrine is the most sacred Muslim shrine in Kashmir and is also known as Madinat-us-Sani. It is revered for enshrining the Moi-e-Muqqadas and is a major centre of devotion, especially during festivals when the relic is displayed to devotees. The shrine reflects Kashmiri Islamic architectural traditions and holds deep spiritual importance for the local community and visitors.