Sharika Devi Temple

Sharika Devi Temple, also known as Chakreshwari Temple, is a prominent Hindu shrine located on the western slope of Hari Parbat hill in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Dedicated to Goddess Sharika, a form of Goddess Durga and regarded as the presiding deity of Srinagar, the temple features an 18-armed idol of the goddess. Set within the Hari Parbat fort complex, it is an important pilgrimage centre for Kashmiri Pandits and offers panoramic views of Srinagar city and Dal Lake.

Visitors can expect a hilltop temple reached by a flight of stone steps from the Hari Parbat foothill. The complex includes a small sanctum with the 18-armed idol of Goddess Sharika depicted on a Shri Chakra, surrounded by fort walls and forested slopes. The surroundings offer views over Srinagar city, Dal Lake and the Zabarwan hills. Visitors can explore the temple courtyard, offer prayers, and experience a quiet devotional atmosphere with shops for offerings at the base.

The shrine on Hari Parbat has ancient origins and is mentioned in Kalhana's 12th-century Rajatarangini. The hill is associated with legends of Goddess Sharika. The present temple structure and the surrounding fortifications were developed and renovated during the Mughal and later Afghan and Dogra periods, with Hari Parbat Fort built in the 18th century enclosing the sacred hill.

Regarded as the Isht Devi (presiding deity) of Srinagar and highly revered by Kashmiri Pandits. Considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and a prominent Shakti shrine where the goddess is worshipped as Jagadamba Sharika Bhagwati on a Shri Chakra. Navratri, especially Ashwin Navratri, and other Hindu festivals draw large gatherings for special prayers.