Perched atop Sharika hill in the heart of Srinagar, the magnificent Hari Parbat Fort reigns supreme. Its walls have witnessed centuries of history, and its ramparts have guarded the city against invaders. From its vantage point, one can admire breathtaking views of the pristine Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains. As the sun sets and the city lights come to life, Hari Parbat Fort transforms into a brilliant beacon of hope and strength as a reminder of the rich heritage and resilient spirit of the Kashmiri people.
Divinity flows through the hillock overlooking the lake’s city as close to Hari Parbat’s vicinity lies three sacred shrines – a Temple, a Gurduwara and a Dargah, revered by three major religions of Kashmir – Hinduism, Sikhism and Islam. The Sharika Temple, Gurdwara Chatti Padshahi and the Makhdoom’s Sahib shrine are all located at Hari Parbat Fort. Sharika Temple, after which the hill is named, is inside the complex, whereas the latter two are nearby outside the compound.
The three shrines are linked through their shared history and cultural significance in the region. The Sharika Temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Sharika. In contrast, the Makhdoom Sahib shrine, on the hill’s southern slope, is dedicated to a Sufi saint, and the Gurudwara marks the visit of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Guru of Sikhs to Kashmir. Goddess Sharika, aka the Siddha Peetha, is manifested in the worshipping form of Swayambhu Sri Chakra and is believed to be the presiding deity of the capital city.
History of Hari Parbat in Kashmir
Hari Parbat is also known as Koh-i-Maran in Kashmir. The fort is located on the west bank of Dal Lake, northeast of Srinagar. Afghan ruler Shuja Shah Durrani built the fort. Later in the 16th century, Mughal Emperor Akbar fortified the Hari Parbat by building the boundary walls of the hill. Following the fall of the Mughal Empire, the fort was used as a military stronghold by the Afghan rulers and later by the Sikh Empire. Even today, this impressive structure is being used by the Indian security forces.
Hindu folklore states that Jalodbhava, a demon, previously haunted the neighbourhood as the hill. The monster was transformed into a hill, and the goddess, Sharika Devi’s temple, was built on its slopes when she defeated him. The tale serves as a reminder of the goddess Sharika’s ability to defend her followers and is thought to symbolise the victory of good over evil. The tale is a significant component of the area’s cultural legacy and commemorates through rites and festivals held at the Sharika Temple on the summit of Hari Parbat hill.
Today, the fort is a famous tourist destination and a symbol of Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural and religious diversity.
How To Reach
Air: The closest airport, Srinagar International Airport, is around 17 kilometres from the city centre.
Rail: Srinagar Railway Station, 17 kilometres from Srinagar, is the closest railway station.
Road: Srinagar has good road access to other Indian towns. You can use taxis, buses, and private automobiles to the fort.
Use Local Transportation: To get to Hari Parbat once you’ve arrived in Srinagar, use local transportation options like taxis, auto-rickshaws, and local buses. You can either hike up the hill to the fort or take a cab there.
Author is a student who loves to explore new corners of learning. He likes writing and travelling while taking challenges that question his abilities and skills. His hobbies are helping people and spending time in nature.