Hari Parbat: Srinagar's Hill of Forts, Shrines and Sunsets
The hill crowning old Srinagar holds a Mughal-era wall, an Afghan fort and shrines revered by Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs. How to visit and when the views are best.
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Quick answerHari Parbat is the hill that rises above old Srinagar. Its slopes carry a 16th-century wall from Emperor Akbar's time, a fort built in the Afghan period, and three revered shrines: the Sufi shrine of Makhdoom Sahib, the Sharika Devi temple and a gurdwara. Go in the late afternoon for views over the city and Dal Lake.
From almost anywhere in Srinagar, look north-west and you will see it: a rounded hill topped by fort walls. Hari Parbat is where Srinagar's many layers meet. In one walk you pass a Mughal gate, climb to a Sufi shrine and look down on the wooden rooftops of the old city.
What you will see
- The Akbar-era wall: Emperor Akbar had a long wall built around the hill in the late 16th century; stretches and gateways survive.
- The fort: the present fort on the summit dates from the Afghan governors of the early 19th century. Access to the fort itself can be restricted, so check locally.
- Makhdoom Sahib: the shrine of the Sufi saint Hazrat Sultan-ul-Arifeen, on the southern slope, reached by steps and visited by thousands.
- Sharika Devi temple: revered by Kashmiri Pandits as the seat of the goddess Sharika.
- Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi: associated with a visit by the sixth Sikh Guru, near the foot of the hill.
Visiting tips
- Dress modestly at all three shrines, and cover your head where asked.
- Climb in the late afternoon for the best light over the city.
- Wear good shoes: the steps to Makhdoom Sahib are steep in places.
- Combine with the old city: Jamia Masjid and Khanqah-e-Moula are close by. See our old city walk and Sufi shrines guide.
Getting there
Hari Parbat is in the Rainawari and Khanyar area, about 15–25 minutes from Dal Lake's Boulevard by cab, longer in old city traffic.
Plan it into your trip
Hari Parbat fits easily into a Srinagar sightseeing day. Our 3 nights 4 days package keeps a full day for Srinagar's heritage, or ask our team for a custom plan through Get My Travel Plan.
Plan the rest of your Kashmir trip
- Srinagar's Wooden Architecture: Old Srinagar is a museum of wood: brick-and-timber houses, carved balconies, lattice windows and ceilings fitted without nails.
- 15 Best Things to Do in Srinagar: From a sunrise shikara ride and Mughal gardens to the old city's shrines and a wazwan dinner: the best things to do in Srinagar, with tips from locals.
- Kashmir Tour Packages from Every State of India: Travelling from any of India's 28 states? Find the fastest route to Srinagar, how many nights to plan, the best season for your region and a link to your state's full…
Frequently asked questions
What is Hari Parbat famous for?
Its hilltop fort, the Akbar-era wall and shrines revered by Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs, along with views over Srinagar.
Can tourists enter Hari Parbat Fort?
Access to the fort itself can be restricted. The shrines on the slopes are open to respectful visitors; check fort access locally.
When is the best time to visit Hari Parbat?
Late afternoon, for soft light and views over the old city and Dal Lake.
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