Hari Parbat

Hari Parbat is the hill that rises from the old city on the western side of Dal Lake. Akbar built a long wall around its base in the 1590s; the fort on the summit dates from the Afghan Durrani period in the early 19th century. Restored and illuminated, it is now one of the landmarks of the Srinagar skyline.

The hill is sacred to three faiths. The Sharika Devi temple on the western slope is revered by Kashmiri Pandits; the shrine of the Sufi saint Makhdoom Sahib on the southern slope draws Muslims from across the valley; and Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi at the foot marks a visit by the sixth Sikh guru.

Visiting

The fort has been opened to visitors after restoration, with a road to the top and lighting after dark. Timings and access are set by the authorities and can change, so check before you go. A short ropeway serves the Makhdoom Sahib shrine.

The view from the top covers Dal and Nigeen lakes, the old city and the mountains. Start the morning here, then walk down through Badamwari towards Jamia Masjid.