The Hazratbal Shrine, also called the Dargah Sharif, is one of the sacred Muslim shrines situated on the north bank of the Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It is a pilgrimage center of great religious significance, attracting pilgrims from all over the world due to its religious importance, magnificent structure, and serene location.
The Hazratbal Shrine holds tremendous religious value because it houses the "Moi-e-Muqqadas", believed to be a strand of hair from Prophet Muhammad. This relic, known as the Prophet's Hair, is displayed to the public on special Islamic festivals like Eid, Milad-un-Nabi (birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad), and other sacred feasts. It is considered the holiest Muslim shrine in Kashmir, where Muslims come to pray and seek blessings, especially when the relic is shown.
This relic arrived in Kashmir during the 17th century under the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and was brought to the region by Syed Abdullah, a descendant of Prophet Muhammad. The shrine was constructed at the same location where Sadiq Khan, the subedar of Kashmir, built a mosque in the 17th century. Over time, the mosque evolved into the present Hazratbal Shrine.
The shrine’s architecture is a blend of Kashmiri and Mughal styles, made from stunning white marble. It is unique as it has only one minaret, compared to most mosques that have multiple minarets. The white dome and minaret create a spectacular view against the backdrop of the Himalayas and Dal Lake. The spacious courtyard can accommodate thousands of devotees during collective prayers, especially on the days when the relic is displayed.
The relic is not always on display, but it is shown to the public during major religious occasions such as Eid, Shab-e-Meraj (the night of ascension of Prophet Muhammad), Milad-un-Nabi, and other Islamic festivals. During these events, a large crowd of devotees gather at the shrine to offer prayers and witness the relic. Fridays and the holy month of Ramadan also see large gatherings for prayers and relic visits.
Hazratbal Shrine is not just a religious landmark, but a cultural one as well. It holds a special place in the hearts of Kashmiris, symbolizing not only a place of worship but also an expression of their Islamic identity. People from all faiths visit the shrine to experience its spiritual ambiance and peaceful environment.
The Hazratbal Shrine is easily accessible from various parts of Srinagar. It is located approximately 25 km from Srinagar International Airport and about 7 km from the city center. The shrine is set in peaceful surroundings along the Dal Lake, offering panoramic views of the lake and the Himalayan mountains. Visitors can also take a traditional shikara boat ride on Dal Lake to reach the shrine. Nearby attractions include the Nigeen Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, and the Mughal gardens, making Hazratbal a central part of Srinagar's spiritual and scenic experience.
The Hazratbal Shrine is a site of deep religious significance, serenity, and architectural beauty. It serves as a symbol of faith for Muslims in Kashmir and around the world while also standing as an architectural landmark that blends history, culture, and devotion. Situated against the majestic Himalayas on the banks of Dal Lake, the shrine is not only a place of worship but also a peaceful retreat for visitors.
