It also represents the perfect picture of religious tolerance where famous shrines of both Hindus and Muslims exist in perfect harmony. It is the state of venerated Amarnathji Yatra and Vaishno Devi shrine. And here, there are famous Muslim shrines of Hazratbal, Charar-e-sharif, and Idgah. Let us explore some of the most revered religious places of Jammu Kashmir here:
Temples in Jammu Kashmir
Martand Sun Temple in Anantnag
The true historical significance is found in the ruins of Martand Sun Temple in Anantnag. It is a mesmerizing location placed in midst of nature. This sun temple is counted among the oldest temples of India which still exists in world, since epic age. Now it is in ruined stage due to demolition by invaders in this region. But still, visitors can have glimpses of this temple’s grandeur at this site.Gauri Kund in Patnitop
Gauri Kund is a main shrine located in the vicinity of Shudh Mahadev. It is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. It is believed that Goddess used to take bathe in Gauri Kund and worship at Shudh Mahadev temple. Mantalai is another place located near the venue to visit when coming for religious tour.Raghunath Temple in Jammu
Journey to religious places of this state should begin with Raghunath Temple located in Jammu. This city is door to Kashmir valley comprised with numerous shrines. In that, Raghunath temple is one of the distinctive locations of tourism. It is a sacred worship place for Hindu community and is dedicated to Lord Rama. This magnificent temple was built during the phase of 1835 AD - 1860 AD. Its walls covered with gold sheet are the unique feature of this shrine.
Sharika Chakreshwar Temple in Hari Parbat
This temple is the most significant among all other shrines located on Hari Parbat in Srinagar. It is dedicated to Goddess Sharika who personified solar energy. Every year, in navratis, huge fair is organized at this temple.
Khir Bhawani Temple in Srinagar
Khir Bhawani Temple or Kheer Bhawani mandir is one of the most famous and respected temples in Jammu and Kashmir. It is a beautiful temple constructed besides the sacred spring in the village of Tula Mula of Srinagar. It is noteworthy place for the followers of Hinduism and absolutely sacred for Kashmiri pundits.Amarnath Temple in Anantnag
Amarnath Temple is supreme place of spirituality for Indians. Though, it is open for only one month in a year, huge rallies and processions are organized for visiting this holy shrine. Locally it is called as yatra, and thousands of devotees pay their devotion during shravan, the sacred month of Hindus. The uniqueness of temple is its lingam bearing resemblance to Lord Shiva.
It is created with ice every year particularly in this phase of time. Another interesting fact is that, the size of lingam increases and decreases according to movement of moon. Registration is required before planning visit to Amarnathji Yatra.
Shiv Khori in Reasi
The revered shrine of Shiv Khori is located in the region of Reasi of Jammu Kashmir. These are the holy caves dedicated to lord Shiva. It is located nearly fifty kilometers from Jammu town. Two hundred meter long cave temple is the most significant attractions of Shiv Khori.Baweywali Mata Temple in Jammu
Bawey Wali Mata Temple is another significant religious place for people in Jammu & Kashmir. It is a holy shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali. The temple was incepted by Maharaja Gulab Singh during 1822 AD. This pristine place is located at the hillock beside Tawi River in Jammu.Vaishno Devi Temple in Katra
Tour of religious places in Jammu and Kashmir does not complete without visiting the renowned pilgrimage Vaishno Devi. It is located in Katra near Jammu. It is visited throughout the year by the devotees of Maa Vaishno. Railway routes and roads of Katra are well connected to all major cities of India. Katra is the base for trekking to the temple.
Around 14 km long flight of steps is required to reach temple. It can be covered on feet or by ponies. For aged persons, lifting carriage is also available at cost. Registration is compulsory to visit temple. People can take registration slip at bus stand or railway station itself.
Shudh Mahadev Temple in Patnitop
Shudh Mahadev temple is an age old religious place located in the region of Jammu Kashmir. It is placed at one of the difficult places of state at Patnitop. The shrine is located at the altitude of 1225 meters and the distance of 120 km from the main town of Jammu. Three days long festival is organized every year at Shudh Mahadev, which is visited by many pilgrims from around the state.Purmandal Temple in Jammu
Nearly 40 kilometers from Jammu, the holy shrine of Purmandal temple is placed on the way to Pathankot. It is located on the banks of Devak River and it is devoted to Lord Shiva. It is famous among the Shaivite Hindu community and also pronounced as Chota Kashi in Jammu Kashmir.Burj & Sui Simbli Temples in Jammu
Burj and Sui Simbli temples are dedicated to Lord Ram and Goddess Sita. These are the famous temples in the region of Jammu at Akhnoor road. Burj temple is wonderfully built with mixture of Rajasthan architecture and Gurudwara theme. Sui Simbli temple is located in vicinity of Burj. It was built by Raja Gulab Singh and dedicated to saint Baba Prem Das.Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar
Sankaracharaya temple is one of the oldest temples of India. It is presumed that the priest of Hinduism, Adi Shankaracharya used to visit this Lord Shiva temple. The deity is assumed to be present since 200 BC, but the current structure of temple was incepted in ninth century. It has restored significant spirituality among the devotees since long time.
The temple is situated at elevated height in the region of Zabarwan Mountain. It is also sacred for Buddhists and they call it Pas Pahar or Jyesteshwara temple. Mostly people come to this temple during their visit to Amarnath Caves in Shravana.
Peer Kho Cave Temple in Jammu
Though, it is not such popular, but still, Peer Kho Cave temple is one of the historically rich religious places of Jammu Kashmir. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the deity is present in the form of lingam. It is also known as Jamwant caves and it exists from the time of Ramayana. The character, Jamvant stayed here during the time of that epic. Simultaneously, it also offers wonderful view of Tawi River and valley to the visitors.Baba Dhansar in Udhampur
Baba Dhansar as a majestic place holds the significance of mythology in India. It is believed that Baba Dhansar was the son of Sheshnag who was left here by Lord Shiva when he visited Amarnath caves. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and named after the son of Sheshnag. It is not only an impressive holy place but also an incredible tourist spot for sightseeing.Machail Mata in Kishtwar
Machail Mata is a famous shrine in Kishtwar region of Jammu Kashmir. It is renowned for chhadi yatra which is organized once every year. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. As such, it is listed among the top holy places of this state.Krimchi Temples in Udhampur
Krimchi temples are the historical shrines of Jammu Kashmir located in the region of Udhampur. These ancient temples were constructed during the period of eleventh and twelfth century. This holy place is pronounced as group of temples which is locally renowned as Pandavas temples as well. It is famous for its Hellenic or Greek influenced architecture placed in the midst of nature.
Bhairav Temple in Katra
While traveling to Vaishno Devi Shrine, Bhairav Temple is one of the major religious intermediate destinations for pilgrims. The interesting stories aligning with Vaishno Devi Shrine makes this place important for religious visitors. It is found en route of Vaishno Mata and it is said that pilgrimage is incomplete without visiting Bhairav Temple.Rani Temple in Gulmarg
Rani Temple or Mandir is one of the major attractions of history located in the region of Gulmarg. The state of Jammu Kashmir was under the rule of Maharaja Hari Singh, the Hindu ruler. It is said that wife of Maharaja built this Rani temple and used to offer her prayers in it. Rani temple derived its name after her, as locally people use to pronounce wife of King as Rani. Ancient architecture and the priest, Ghulam Muhammad Sheikh are the key attractions of Rani Temple.Naag Mandir in Patnitop
Naag Temple is famous historical temples of Hindu community. It is located in the hill station of Patnitop at high altitude. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and visited by followers of Hinduism. This ancient style temple is untouched beauty in itself surrounded by lush trees and greenery.Avantiswami Temple in Gulmarg
Avantiswami temple is the twin temple devoted to Hindu god Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. It is situated 28 km away from the summer capital, Srinagar in the landscaped ambiance of Gulmarg. The temple was built during the 9th century and named after the Awantivarman, the ruler of Utpala Dynasty.
Pandrethan Temple in Srinagar
Pandrethan is a well known ancient temple laid down near the city of Srinagar. The most impressive factor of temple is that its roof is crafted out of single stone. People from long distance come to pay their devotion at Pandrethan. It was constructed by the minister of King Partha, Meru during the period of 921 to 931 AD.Sankaragauriswara Temple in Pattan
This ancient temple located in Pattan, Baramulla, was built during 883-900 CE. It was constructed by Raja Shankaravarman of Utpala Dynasty. The temple today, stands but it still displays beautiful architecture of those times.Aap Shambhu Temple in Jammu
This old temple is located in Sathrian of Jammu. It is built from stone. It is believed that the idol of presiding deity, Lord Shiva was self manifested.Sharada Peeth in Baramulla
Sharada Peeth is the well known temple of Goddess Saraswati, the deity of vedic studies. Kashmir used to be major centers of vedic studies and Hinduism until the devastation caused by Muslim invaders in this region. The temple is located in Neelam valley of Kashmir. This holy temple is also in ruined form but the insight value is still intact in it.
Mamleshwar Temple in Pahalgam
It is one of the prominent places of worship in Hinduism. The temple of Mamleshwar is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the deity is installed in the form of Lingham in the Garbh Gruh. It is quite difficult place to arrive in Pahalgam due to steep height and tricky pathways. The temple was built way back in history and also has the significance of mythological period.Ranbireshwar Temple in Jammu
This famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is venerated for its sanctity. It has 12 lingams made from crystal. It is a famous temple that has many legends related to it. It is located on Shalamar Road opposite the office of Jammu Kashmir Civil Secretariat.Wangath Temple Complex in Ganderbal
These temples were built during 8th Century AD by Lalitaditya of Karkota Dynasty. This complex is located near holy Naranag Spring. There were 17 temple structures found at this site in two groups separated by stone wall. Between these two groups, there wee some structures called Mathas. This revered shrine is in ruined stage but it showcases magnificent artistry in its remnants.
Mosques and Shrines in Jammu Kashmir
Peer Baba Dargah in Jammu
Baba Budhan Ali Shah was one of the famous sufi saints of Jammu Kashmir region. The dargah is dedicated to him and people visit in large numbers to get blessed and fulfill their desires. It is believed that the dargah has the magical powers of fulfilling wishes of devotees. The noteworthy thing is that, it is visited by all religion followers in the valley of Kashmir.Jamia Masjid in Srinagar
This mosque is located in the heart of Srinagar crowded with traffic. Despite this, it displays magnificent architecture in its tall spires and huge structure. It was built in 1394 by Sultan Sikandar. Three times, this mosque has been dilapidated by fire outbreak but rebuilt every time with regained glory. It has splendid lawns lined with Chinar trees and wooden ceiling to add its beauty.
Makhdoom Sahib Shrine in Srinagar
Located in the region of Hari Parbat, Makhdoom Sahib Shrine is one of the best religious spots to visit in Jammu Kashmir. It is dedicated to Muslim saint who stayed here for long period and spread the religion of Islam. It is good place to unwind and get complete peace of mind in mesmerizing ambiance of Makhdoom Sahib Shrine.Dastagir Sahib in Srinagar
Placed in the region of old Srinagar, it is a largely followed religious place of Jammu Kashmir. It got outraged during the syncretism in valley. The location still holds its holy value for the locals of Srinagar and frequently visited by travelers.Idgah in Jammu
Idgah is one of the popular shrines of Muslims located in the region of Jammu. It is a historical monument dedicated to Ziaqrat Baba Buddan Shah. It is one of the popular shrines located at the distance of 8 km on way to Satwari Aerodrome. Pilgrims and devotees visit this place throughout the year for dedicating their prayers.Baba Reshi Shrine in Baramulla
Baba Reshi Shrine is famous religious place in the region of Baramulla. It is just 5 km away from Gulmarg town. It was built in 1480 dedicating to famous scholar and saint Baba Reshi. This place is located in the surroundings of Kashmir valley which offers tranquility and complete peace of mind to visitors. It resembles the beautiful architectural combination of Mughal and Persian. The lush garden around the shrine is also an important spot to explore at Baba Reshi Shrine.
Pathar Masjid in Srinagar
Pathar Masjid is an ancient monument located in the arena of Srinagar. It is made with lime stone in past architectural style maneuvered for offering prayers. It is easy to approach within the city of Srinagar in the dense city area.Jama Masjid in Leh
One of the historical places located in the centralized market of Leh, Jama Masjid is auspicious religious place visited by locals as well as travelers from all around the world. It was constructed during the throne of Deldan Namgyal in 1645 as substantiation of fee against protection by Aurangzeb during that period. Interestingly, it is open for all religion but only visited by men. Architecture and its grandeur are the main things to look in Jama Masjid.
Ziarati Hazrati Youza Asouph in Old Srinagar
This religious place is claimed by both Muslim and Christian followers. Ziarati Hazrati Youza Asouph houses the burial of 2 holy men named Mair Sayyid Naseeruddin and Yuza Asaf. It is believed by many that Yuza Asaf was none other than Jesus Christ who settled here after his revivification.Ziarat Sain Ilahi Baksh Sahib in Poonch
In the midst of nature and surroundings of Pir Panjal Ranges, this shrine of Ziarat Sain is beautifully located. It is exactly located in Batalkote village at distance of 37 km from Poonch. Every year, urs of Baba Sain is held in May and people from all faiths throng this place.Khanqah E Molla in Srinagar
Khanqah-e-molla is one of the oldest places of worship in Srinagar. It is also known as Shah-e-Hamdan dedicated to Mir Syed Ali Hamdan. It was built by his follower Sultan Sikander during the phase of 1395 AD. It was rebuilt by Sultan Hassan Shah during 1493 AD after the damage caused by fire outraged in premises during 1480 AD. Wood crafting and beautiful architecture are the main things to see in this building.Charar-e-Sharif in Yousmarg
Charar-e-Sharif is famous shrine located in the Srinagar. It is unique symbolic place located in the outskirts of Srinagar. It is believed to be six hundred years old shrine. It is dedicated to Sufi Saint Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani. Many historical aspects are attached with this holy shrine which draws lots of history enthusiasts as well as devotees to this place.
Khanqah Mosque in Srinagar
Khanqah Mosque is positioned on the banks of River Jhelum in the town of Srinagar. It was constructed by Mir Sayaed Ali Hamdani who originally came from Persia in thirteenth century. He was the person who spread Islam in the region of Jammu Kashmir during that time. The mosque is completely built in ancient form displaying significant arts of Kashmir valley.Aali Masjid in Srinagar
This is an ancient mosque built during 1471 AD in Srinagar. It is also the second largest mosque in the valley after Jamia Masjid. Sultan Hasan Shah laid its foundation. It showcases the distinctive timber based architectural style of Kashmir region.Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar
Harzatbal Shrine is one of the important religious places in the region of Srinagar. It is located just beside Dal Lake towards the direction of left bank. It is largely followed by Muslim community residing in the state of Jammu Kashmir. It is dedicated to the successor, Moi-e-Muqqadas of Islamic prophet Muhammad.
Masjid of Akhund Mulla in Srinagar
This small mosque near Makhdoom Sahib Mosque was built by Dara Shikoh to honour his teacherAkhund Mulla. It was built using grey limestone and bears inscriptions datin g back to 1649 AD.Hazrat Zain-ud-Din Wali Shrine in Anantnag
This venerated shrine of muslims is located inside a cavern in Aishmuqam village of Anantnag. Due to its strong religious values, this shrine draws large number of devotees on yearly urs of Baba Zain-ud-Din held here.Shahdara Sharief in Rajouri
This shrine is located 30 km away from Rajouri and it is dedicated to Baba Ghulam Shah. The shrine is not confined to one religion. It is visited by Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs in large numbers.
Ziarat Peer Mitha in Jammu
This popular shrine has a mosque and tomb built in Mughal style of architecture. It is dedicated to Peer Mitha who was a famous saint in valley. It has splendid structure set against the backdrop of nature.Baba Hyder Reshi Shrine in Anantnag
This famous mosque is located in Danter village of Anantnag. It has the tomb of Baba Hyder Reshi also called as Reshi Molu. He rests here with his 21 disciples and thousands of devotees visit it every year.
Gurudwaras in Jammu Kashmir
Gurudwara Chatti Patshahi Sahib at Srinagar
This Gurudwara is famous religious place of Sikhism. It is a sacred gurudwara located in the city of Srinagar and dedicated to Sikh Guru Hargobind Singh. It is a historical religious place that was built during 16th century. Today, people from Sikh community visit this gurudwara in large numbers to pay their devotion.
Dera Baba Banda in Katra
Dera Baba Banda is one of the privileged religious places of Sikhism located in the region of Katra. It is dedicated to Baba Banda who was follower of Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh. He was renowned and favorite leader appointed by Guru Gobind Singh. The dera abodes his ashes as well as his weapons are showcased in the Gurudwara for visitors. A three day Vaisakhi Mela is celebrated here once in a year.Gurudwara Manji Sahib in Srinagar
This beautiful gurudwara was built during 1620 AD. It is devoted to Guru Hargobind ji. Guru sahib came to this place to fulfill the wish of an old lady Bhag Bhari, who was mother of Gurudwara's caretaker. Guru ji stayed here for 3 months.
Gurudwara Shri Mattan Sahib in Anantnag
This gurudwara in Mattan village is dedicated to Shri Guru Nanak Dev ji who stayed at this place for 13 days. At this site, Guru sahib had discussions with great Sanskrit scholar, Pandit Brahm Das.
Gurudwara Shri Chhevin Patshahi in Baramulla
This gurudwara is dedicated to Guru Hargobind Singhji, who visited this place after meeting saint Bahlor Shah. He came here with Mughal ruler Jahangir. During this visit, Guru Sahib planted a chginar tree as well at this place.
Gurudwara Shri Thada Sahib in Singhpura
In Baramulla district, this gurudwara was built in memory of Guru Hargobind Singhji. When he visited this place, there was acute shortage of water here. The place where he told that there was reservoir of water, was made into thada (well).
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib in Leh
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is one of the imperative religious places of Sikhism. Located in the region of Leh, it is believed to have presence of Guru Nanak Dev during his visit in 1517 AD. The most important thing to see while coming here is the rock having impression of his shoulder, foot, head and back.
Gurudwara Bahu Fort in Jammu
This gurudwara is situated at proximal distance of 1 km from Jammu Railway Station. It was built to commemorate Mahant Bachiter Singh, who was a devotee belonging to Dera Nangli Sahib of Poonch.
Gurudwara Sant Mela Singh Dastkari Ashram in Jammu
To propogate the principles and goodness of Sikhism in Jammu, this gurudwara was built here. It was constructed by Mahant Bachiter Singh to commemorate Sant Mela Singhji. Young Sikhs are imparted overall training here. In 2007, around 12000 Sikhs were baptized at this gurudwara in Gurmat Amrit Sanchar function.
Gurudwara Nanak Dev in Jammu
This gurudwara near Mubarak Mandi in Jammu was built in memory of Guru Nnak Dev ji who visited here. It is built superbly with carved stones and houses 3 feet tall statue of Guru Dev, installed by Maharaja Pratap Singh.
Gurudwara Maharani Chand Kaur in Jammu
This gurudwara is situated near Gumat chowk in Jammu city. Until 2002, there was a small gurudwara accompanying the samadhi of Maharani Chand Kaur, daughter in law of Maharaja Ranjit Singh ji. Now the samadhi has been demolished and a large gurudwara is being constructed over here.
Gurudwara Tapo Ashthan Baba Sunder Singh ji in Akhnoor
This gurudwara was built in memory of a Sikh saint who meditated at this place. It is located at the scenic locale on the banks of River Chenab. It was built by the Sikh Sangat of this region.
Monastries in Jammu Kashmir
Lamayuru Monastery in Leh
In the beautiful landscape of Leh, Lamayuru Monastery is the magnificent religious place of Buddhism. This is wonderful location situated on the hillock in the serene of souring mountains spread across the valley. It is easy to trace on Leh - Kargil Road.
It was found in the mid of 10th century in this region. It accommodates shrines of Buddhism which draws lot of devotees. Lamayuru Monastery is popular religious destinations for people located in Leh as well.
Thiksey Monastery in Leh
Thiksey Monastery is a renowned Buddhist religious place on the soil of Leh and Ladakh. The monastery itself is built in twelve storeys which houses the idol of Maitrey Buddha. The statue is known as one of the tallest in this region. It was incepted during the period of 1970 carrying forty nine feet statue of Lord Buddha. The antiquity, stone work, crannies, murals designs, and other such are the main attractions of Thiksey Monastery.Phyang Monastery in Leh
This ancient monastery of Leh belongs to Dringungpa school of Buddhism. It is a prominent monastery of this region. With its rich cultural past, it was built in 1515 AD. It is located in Phyang village at distance of 16 km from Leh Airport.
Alchi Choskar Monastery in Ladakh
As the only remnant of Indo Buddhist Iconography, this Gompa was built around 1000 AD by Rinchen Zangpo. It is currently managed by Likir monks. Photography is strictly prohibited inside this beautiful monastery situated in a lowland.Likir Monastery in Ladakh
This oldest monastery of this region is located in serenity of Likir valley on a hillock. It has a huge statue of Maitreya Buddha carved from gold. The monastery was built during 1065 AD while this 75 feet tall statue was laid here in 1999. It houses 2 assenbly halls and a beautifully adorned verandah.
Spituk Monastery in Leh
This old monastery was built during 1040-1050 AD by a monarch from Tibetan Mahayana Buddhist School. It is run by Yellow Hat Sect and has huge statue of goddess Kali inside Paldon Lamo Temple. The monastery is located along the beautiful Indus River. It houses 10 feet tall statue of Buddha and amny small temples dedicated to tantric divinities.Diskit Monastery in Leh
This enchanting monastery in Diskit Village houses 106 feet high statue of Maitreya Buddha. Carved in gold, this statue took 6 years to be completed. It is a 15th century gompa has 70 monks and houses one Gonkhang and 2 prayer halls.
Phutkal Monastery in Ladakh
This monastery is literally built on the mouth of a hill. It was established during 12th century and currently houses about 70 monks. It is the oldest monastery of this region and it is believed that a hollow cave inside it has water with healing powers.
Yung Drung Gompa in Leh
It was built in 11th century by Yogi Naropa. The complex has an old Dukhang and life sized statue of Vairochana Buddha.
Hemis Gompa in Ladakh
This largest Gompa of Ladakh is situated near Thiksey in Zanskar Valley. It was found in 1630 and is popular for Hemis Festival. This 2 day festival has monks dressed up in masks and dancing to the beats of cymbals and long horns.
Stakna Monastery in Leh
This beautiful monastery is built on top of a hill resembling tiger's nose from which it derives its name. It showcases enchanting carvings and murals. It houses images of Arya Avalokiteswara. It was built during 16th century AD.
Shanti Stupa in Leh
As two storey structure resembling the power of peace and harmony, Shanti stupa is one of the unique attractions of Jammu Kashmir. It is located in the region of Leh enlightening the path of Buddhism and its teachings. It is placed on the hill top in Leh and also popular for sunset views. The stupa was built by a Japanese Buddhist follower Bhikshu Gyomo Nakamura in the year 1991 and it was inaugurated by famous Tenzin Gyatso, the fourteenth Dalai Lama.
Prayer Wheel in Leh
A beautiful sight, Prayer Wheel is one of the centric Buddhist religious places in Jammu Kashmir. Leh is the Buddhist concentrated region and many shrines of their culture are found therein. Among them, Prayer Wheel at Fort Road is one of the prominent places to visit. The prayer or mantras are written in cylindrical wheel, mainly called as Mani wheel. It can be spun in clockwise direction to reach entire phrase.Churches in Jammu Kashmir
St. Mary's Church in Gulmarg
This 150 years old church was built during British rule in the valley. It is built in typical British style of architecture and represents the few churches located in this state.
Catholic Church in Leh
This church is located in the mid of Leh city. It has murals painted with images of Jesus Christ and Stories taken from Holy Bible. It is hexagonal church with statue of St Thomas erected on its entrance.
Protestant Church in Jammu
This church is the oldest church of Jammu region. It is located on the famous Wazarat Road of the city.
St Mary's Cathedral in Jammu
This cathedral is located in cantonment area of Jammu city. It was built during 1880s when Catholicism was established in this region.
These are some of the most revered shrines located in the state of Jammu Kasghmir. Visit them to attain Nirvana or simply to find the peace of mind that you often miss in your busy lifestyle.
