Hazratbal Shrine: Srinagar's White Marble Landmark on the Dal
The gleaming white shrine on Dal Lake's northern shore is Kashmir's most revered Muslim shrine. Its history, how to visit respectfully and what to see nearby.
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Quick answerHazratbal is a white marble shrine on the northern shore of Dal Lake in Srinagar. It houses a relic revered as a hair of the Prophet Muhammad, making it Kashmir's most important Muslim shrine. Visitors are welcome: dress modestly, women should cover their heads, remove shoes where required, and avoid visiting during Friday prayers if you are sightseeing.
Seen from a shikara at sunset, Hazratbal's white dome glows against the mountains like something from a painting. Up close, it is a living place of faith, busy with families, pigeons and the scent of kahwa from nearby stalls. A visit is one of the most memorable experiences in Srinagar, if you go with respect.
History
- The shrine houses the Moi-e-Muqaddas, a relic revered as a hair of the Prophet Muhammad, brought to Kashmir in the 17th century.
- The present white marble building, with its single dome and minaret, was completed in the second half of the 20th century.
- Its name comes from Hazrat (holy) and bal (place), roughly "the holy place".
Visiting respectfully
- Dress: modest clothing covering arms and legs; women should cover their hair.
- Shoes: remove them where indicated.
- Women: access to some inner areas is restricted for women; follow signs and the guidance of shrine staff.
- Photography: fine outside; ask before photographing people or inside.
- Prayer times: Fridays and religious festivals are very crowded; visit at other times if sightseeing.
Getting there
Hazratbal is about 30–40 minutes by road from central Srinagar, or reachable by shikara from the northern parts of Dal Lake. Many visitors combine it with Nishat and Shalimar gardens. See our things to do in Srinagar.
Nearby
- Dal Lake's quieter north shore, with views back to the Zabarwan range.
- Nigeen Lake, calmer than Dal and lined with houseboats.
- Food stalls near the shrine selling kahwa and local snacks.
Plan the rest of your Kashmir trip
- Sufi Shrines of Srinagar: Kashmir's Sufi heritage lives in its shrines: carved wooden halls, hilltop sanctuaries and centuries of devotion.
- Festivals of Kashmir: Religious festivals, shrine celebrations and seasonal events across the year.
- Srinagar Old City Walk: A self-guided walk through Srinagar's old city (Shehr-e-Khaas): Jamia Masjid, Khanqah-e-Moula, Jhelum bridges, spice markets and old wooden houses.
- Mughal Gardens of Srinagar: The history, highlights and best visiting times for Srinagar's Mughal gardens, the terraced royal gardens built along Dal Lake in the 17th century.
- Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Everything you need to know about a shikara ride on Dal Lake: the classic routes, how prices work, the best time of day and what you will see.
Frequently asked questions
Can non-Muslims visit Hazratbal?
Yes, visitors are welcome if they dress modestly and follow the shrine's etiquette.
What is kept at Hazratbal Shrine?
A relic revered as a hair of the Prophet Muhammad, known as the Moi-e-Muqaddas.
What should I wear to Hazratbal?
Modest clothing covering arms and legs; women should cover their hair.
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