# Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji Hari Parbat Srinagar > Visit Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji at Hari Parbat, Srinagar — a historic Sikh shrine marking Guru Nanak's 1517 visit to Kashmir, nestled within Hari Parbat Fort. # Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji Hari Parbat Get Directions Share: Entry: Dress Code: Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji at Hari Parbat is one of the most historically significant Sikh shrines in the Kashmir Valley, located on the slopes of Hari Parbat hill — also known as Sharika Hill — in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. Perched within the premises of the historic Hari Parbat Fort, this sacred site marks the spot where Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, is believed to have rested and engaged in spiritual discourse during his visit to the Kashmir Valley around 1517 CE. The gurdwara stands as a living testament to the enduring spiritual legacy of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the region. The hillock, which overlooks the picturesque city of Srinagar and the adjacent Dal Lake, was known in earlier times as Kohimaran — a Kashmiri term meaning 'hill of snakes.' Before the present-day fort existed, the area was inhabited and dotted with temples dedicated to various Hindu deities. Guru Nanak's arrival at this spot transformed it into a spiritually charged site venerated by the Sikh community for centuries. During his visit, Guru Nanak Dev Ji sat at this location and engaged in deep theological discussions with the learned pundits and scholars of the region. His teachings on devotion, universal brotherhood, and the oneness of God left a profound impression on those who gathered. Many of the local inhabitants who witnessed his discourse are believed to have embraced his teachings and become his followers, while retaining their cultural identities — reflecting Guru Nanak's spirit of inclusive spiritual inquiry. The location where Guru Nanak sat was initially consecrated as a 'Thada Sahib' — a raised platform — by Ata Khan, one of the generals serving under Emperor Akbar, as the fort around Hari Parbat was being constructed. Later, Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, visited Srinagar in the company of Emperor Jehangir and formalized the site by constructing a small gurdwara in honor of Guru Nanak's earlier presence. This small gurdwara became a center of Sikh religious life in Srinagar, with regular kirtan and recitation of the Adi Granth attracting even Emperor Jehangir himself. Today, the gurdwara exists within the Hari Parbat Fort complex, accessible to visitors who purchase entry tickets from the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Tourism. The shrine is a place of pilgrimage for Sikh devotees visiting Kashmir, who come to pay their respects and connect with the spiritual heritage of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the Valley. Hari Parbat is a sacred hill that holds religious significance for multiple faiths — Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim communities all maintain places of worship on or around the hill, making it a unique symbol of Kashmir's syncretic religious tradition. ## Significance Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji at Hari Parbat holds deep spiritual and cultural significance as one of the few sacred Sikh sites in the Kashmir Valley. It commemorates the direct presence of Guru Nanak Dev Ji — the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus — on this hallowed ground, giving it an irreplaceable place in Sikh sacred geography. Spiritually, the site represents Guru Nanak's universal message of compassion, devotion, and spiritual equality. His discourses with Kashmiri scholars at this location symbolize his tradition of engaging in respectful dialogue with people of all faiths, transcending religious boundaries. The gurdwara stands as a reminder that Sikhism was shaped through Guru Nanak's wide-ranging travels across the subcontinent and beyond. Culturally, Hari Parbat is a symbol of Kashmir's centuries-long tradition of religious pluralism. The hill is home to sites sacred to Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims alike — a rare confluence that reflects the syncretic spirit of Kashmiri civilization. The Gurdwara of Guru Nanak Dev Ji contributes to this shared spiritual heritage in a meaningful way. For the Sikh diaspora and pilgrims visiting Kashmir, the gurdwara is a must-visit site, offering a tangible connection to the footsteps of the first Guru. It holds particular importance during Gurpurab, the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, when special congregations and prayers are organized. The site also serves as a powerful symbol of the historical Sikh presence in Kashmir, a legacy that continues to be cherished by the community. ## Nearby Gurdwaras ### Gurudwara Guru Nanak Sahib Hari Parbat Srinagar India 5 m away Fort timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Tuesday... Gurudwara Guru Nanak Sahib, situated on the storied Hari Parbat hill within the precincts of the ancient Hari Parbat Fort in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, is one of the most spiritually charged Sikh shrines in the Kashmir Valley. Also known as Gurdwara Pehli Patshahi — honouring the First Sikh Guru's presence here — this gurdwara marks the sacred spot where Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, rested and held spiritual discourses during his third Udasi (journey) in approximately 1517 CE. Hari Parbat, also known as Koh-i-Maran, rises above the western shore of Dal Lake and commands panoramic views of Srinagar city, the Zabarwan Mountains, and the surrounding vale, lending the site a natural grandeur that deepens its spiritual solemnity. Among the most extraordinary aspects of Hari Parbat is that this single hillock shelters sacred places of three great faiths. The slopes of Hari Parbat are home to the Sharika Devi Temple (sacred to Kashmiri Pandits), the dargah of the revered Muslim saint Makhdoom Sahib, and the Sikh Gurdwara Guru Nanak Sahib — a living testament to Kashmir's historic tradition of pluralism and inter-faith harmony. This multi-faith co-existence makes the hill one of the most remarkable religious landscapes in the Indian subcontinent. The gurdwara today occupies a modest structure within the fort complex. Despite its unassuming size, the site draws Sikh pilgrims from across India and the global Sikh diaspora who come to connect with the memory of Guru Nanak's presence in Kashmir. Visitors must obtain entry permits from the Jammu & Kashmir Department of Tourism at the fort's main gate before ascending to the shrine, and navigating to the gurdwara within the fort typically requires a local guide. A CRPF detachment is stationed at the site, reflecting the gurdwara's sensitive location in the Kashmir Valley. The broader Hari Parbat Fort complex is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The nearest prominent Sikh shrine is Gurdwara Chhati Patshahi, approximately 3 kilometres away, which is the most well-known and maintained Sikh gurdwara in Srinagar and the recommended point of contact for pilgrims seeking information before visiting Hari Parbat. For pilgrims and travellers alike, a visit to Gurdwara Guru Nanak Sahib at Hari Parbat is not merely a spiritual journey — it is an encounter with one of the oldest living intersections of faith, history, and Kashmiri culture. The gurdwara's continued existence within the fort, even in its present condition, serves as an enduring reminder of Guru Nanak's transformative passage through the Kashmir Valley over five centuries ago. Historical ### Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi Srinagar India 614 m away Open daily from early morning (approxima... Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi, also known as Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi, is a revered Sikh shrine situated in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Positioned near the southern gate of the historic Hari Parbat Fort and on the banks of the Jhelum River close to Dal Lake, this gurdwara is widely regarded as the most significant Sikh place of worship in the Kashmir Valley. The name 'Chhevin Patshahi' translates to 'Sixth Throne' in Punjabi, a direct reference to Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Guru of the Sikhs, who is believed to have graced this location with his presence during a historic visit to Kashmir in the summer of 1620 CE. The gurdwara marks the site of the house of Mai Bhagbhari, a devout Sikh woman who had long yearned for the darshan (blessed sight) of the Guru. According to revered historical accounts and Sikh tradition, Guru Hargobind Ji fulfilled her heartfelt wish by visiting her home, blessing the surrounding sangat (congregation) with his teachings and presence. He reportedly remained in Kashmir for nearly three months, conducting congregations, delivering spiritual discourses, and spreading the message of Sikhism throughout the valley. Today, Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi serves as both a spiritual sanctuary and a community service center. The gurdwara operates a free langar (community kitchen) offering daily meals to all visitors without distinction of faith, caste, or background. A medical dispensary affiliated with the Guru Nanak Mission Hospital provides free healthcare services to the local community. The complex also maintains a library of Sikh scriptures and religious literature, and conducts religious education classes that preserve the living tradition of Sikhism in a region far from Punjab. The shrine holds deep political and cultural recognition in Jammu and Kashmir. The state government traditionally observes a gazetted public holiday on the occasion of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji's Parkash Utsav (birthday celebration), making it one of the very few states outside Punjab to formally honor this occasion — a remarkable distinction that underscores the profound reverence the gurdwara commands in the region. An ancient well on the gurdwara premises is believed to have been dug under the personal direction of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji during his stay in Srinagar, and is regarded as a sacred relic that adds to the historical and spiritual aura of the site. Each year, especially during the Parkash Utsav of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and the annual Gurmat Samagam, thousands of Sikh pilgrims and devotees from across India and beyond visit the gurdwara to pay their respects, participate in kirtan (devotional singing), and partake in the community langar. The gurdwara stands as a beacon of Sikh heritage, devout memory, and interfaith harmony in the Kashmir Valley. Historical ### Gurdwara Sahib Chatti Patshahi Srinagar, India 617 m away Gurdwara Sahib Chatti Patshahi is a community gurdwara that serves as a center for worship, congregation, and social services for the local Sikh community located in Srinagar, India. It is situated in India, the birthplace of Sikhism and home to the largest Sikh population in the world. As with all gurdwaras, Gurdwara Sahib Chatti Patshahi welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. The gurdwara serves as a place of worship where the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of the Sikhs) is kept with great reverence. The community gathers here for daily prayers (Nitnem), Kirtan (devotional singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib), and Katha (religious discourse). The gurdwara operates a Langar (community kitchen) where free vegetarian meals are served to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, gender, economic status, or ethnicity. This practice, established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and formalized by Guru Angad Dev Ji, embodies the Sikh principles of equality, sharing, and selfless service (Seva). Community ### Gurudwara Shaheed Bungha Baghat E Barzulla India 7.2 km away Open daily from approximately 4:00 AM to... Gurudwara Shaheed Bungha Baghat e Barzulla is a historically resonant Sikh shrine situated in the Baghat-Barzulla neighbourhood of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The gurdwara derives its name from two deeply significant Sikh concepts: 'Shaheed' (martyr), honouring those who sacrificed their lives for their faith, and 'Bungha' (a traditional rest house or dwelling historically associated with Sikh misls and prominent families), together evoking a place of both sacred remembrance and community refuge. Positioned at coordinates 34.04198°N, 74.8024°E in the verdant Barzulla locality along the western fringes of Srinagar, the gurdwara commands a serene setting amid the dramatic backdrop of the Kashmir Valley. The gurdwara serves as one of the primary centres of Sikh worship and congregation in Srinagar, a city that holds deep historical connections with the Sikh faith. Kashmir was visited by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, during his travels, and the valley's Sikh community has maintained an unbroken spiritual presence here for centuries. Gurudwara Shaheed Bungha Baghat e Barzulla stands as a living testament to this enduring legacy, offering daily prayers, kirtan (devotional hymn-singing), and langar (community kitchen) to all visitors irrespective of religion, caste, or creed. The gurdwara is an active place of worship managed by the local Sikh sangat (congregation), which organises religious observances in accordance with the Sikh calendar, including celebrations of Gurpurabs (anniversaries of the Sikh Gurus) and other significant events. It provides an essential spiritual anchor for the Sikh community of Srinagar, which, though a minority in the predominantly Muslim valley, has coexisted with other communities for generations and contributed meaningfully to the social, commercial, and cultural life of the region. Beyond its religious functions, the gurdwara plays an important social role, extending humanitarian services and support to the broader community. The langar hall operates daily, providing free meals to all who visit — a cornerstone principle of Sikh philosophy enshrined by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. During periods of communal hardship, including the turbulent decades of the 1990s insurgency in Kashmir, gurdwaras such as this one are believed to have served as places of solace and community solidarity. The Baghat-Barzulla area of Srinagar is a well-connected urban locality, making the gurdwara accessible to both local residents and pilgrims travelling from across India. Community ## Detailed History The history of Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji at Hari Parbat spans more than five centuries, beginning with the visit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji to the Kashmir Valley around 1517 CE during his third major spiritual journey, known as the third Udasi. Guru Nanak traveled from Leh through Kargil and Tamasdan before reaching Srinagar, where he is said to have rested by the Wullar Lake before proceeding to Hari Parbat. At the time of Guru Nanak's visit, the hillock was known as Kohimaran — 'hill of snakes' in Kashmiri — and the imposing Mughal fort had not yet been built. The surrounding area was populated and contained numerous temples dedicated to Hindu deities. Guru Nanak held theological dialogues with the pundits of Srinagar at this spot, impressing them with his wisdom and spiritual insight. Many of those present accepted him as their Guru, and the site immediately gained spiritual significance for the local community. Decades later, during the reign of Emperor Akbar (1556–1605), a massive fort was constructed around Hari Parbat over a period of approximately twelve years. During this construction, Ata Khan — one of Akbar's generals — recognized the spiritual importance of the spot where Guru Nanak had sat and established a commemorative platform there, known as 'Thada Sahib.' The next major chapter came during the time of Guru Hargobind Ji (1595–1644), the sixth Sikh Guru. When he visited Srinagar in the company of Emperor Jehangir, he is believed to have caused a small gurdwara to be built in honor of Guru Nanak's earlier presence. The gurdwara became a center of Sikh devotion, with regular recitation of the Adi Granth and kirtan congregations that even Emperor Jehangir reportedly attended. Four villages — Zakooran, Gulab Bagh, Gurupura, and Kodrang — were assigned for the maintenance and upkeep of the gurdwara. The gurdwara's fortunes changed significantly after Raja Gulab Singh acquired Kashmir following the First Anglo-Sikh War in 1846. The four villages previously allotted for the gurdwara's maintenance were confiscated, severely limiting its resources. Since then, the shrine has fallen into a state of disrepair and has not received adequate institutional support. In recent times, maintenance has been handled by CRPF personnel stationed at the fort, though calls for restoration by the Sikh community continue. ## Structures in the Complex ### Thada Sahib Platform Sacred Platform A raised platform marking the exact spot where Guru Nanak Dev Ji is believed to have sat during his visit in 1517 CE. Originally established by Ata Khan, Akbar's general, during the construction of Hari Parbat Fort. This platform forms the spiritual heart of the gurdwara complex. ### Gurdwara Prayer Room Prayer Hall A small prayer room of approximately 10 by 8 feet within the fort premises, serving as the main sanctum sanctorum of the gurdwara. The room houses the holy scriptures and is the focus of prayers and devotion for visiting pilgrims. ### Hari Parbat Fort Mughal Fort A large Mughal-era fort built during Emperor Akbar's reign in the late 16th century, encircling the Sharika Hill. The fort is constructed of stone masonry in a blend of Mughal and Kashmiri styles and serves as the outer enclosure within which the gurdwara is situated. ### Adjacent Hindu Temple Temple A small Hindu temple located adjacent to the gurdwara within the fort complex, originally managed by the same custodians (local pundits). Its presence alongside the gurdwara reflects the syncretic religious character of Hari Parbat hill. ### Sharika Devi Temple Temple A prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Sharika (an aspect of Durga), located on Hari Parbat hill. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and a major place of worship for Kashmiri Hindus, representing the multi-faith character of the sacred hill. ## Visitor Information ### Dress Code Modest clothing required; head must be covered inside the gurdwara; shoes must be removed before entering ### Photography Photography is generally permitted in the fort complex; exercise discretion within the gurdwara prayer hall ### Etiquette Cover your head with a cloth or use those provided at the entrance; remove footwear; refrain from smoking, consuming alcohol, or bringing non-vegetarian food into the premises; maintain silence and respect during prayers ## Climate & Best Time to Visit ## Langar (Free Community Kitchen) Limited capacity given the small size of the current gurdwara structure Seating Capacity ## Architecture The gurdwara at Hari Parbat is a modest structure located within the historic Hari Parbat Fort complex. In its current state, the main prayer room is believed to be a small chamber measuring approximately 10 by 8 feet, reflecting the limited resources available for its upkeep over the centuries. The fort itself, constructed during Emperor Akbar's reign in the late 16th century, was built using stone masonry and displays a blend of Mughal and Kashmiri architectural styles, with thick defensive walls encircling the hilltop. The 'Thada Sahib' platform, originally established to mark where Guru Nanak sat, forms the spiritual core of the site. The gurdwara structure was built by or during the time of Guru Hargobind Ji in the early 17th century. Adjoining the gurdwara within the fort complex is a small temple, originally managed by the same custodians. The fort's imposing perimeter walls, perched atop Sharika Hill, provide a dramatic backdrop for the shrine, offering panoramic views of Srinagar, Dal Lake, and the surrounding Himalayan ranges. The layered architecture reflects the site's multiple caretakers across centuries — from Mughal military engineers to Sikh Gurus and local custodians. ## Structures in the Complex ### Thada Sahib Platform Sacred Platform A raised platform marking the exact spot where Guru Nanak Dev Ji is believed to have sat during his visit in 1517 CE. Originally established by Ata Khan, Akbar's general, during the construction of Hari Parbat Fort. This platform forms the spiritual heart of the gurdwara complex. ### Gurdwara Prayer Room Prayer Hall A small prayer room of approximately 10 by 8 feet within the fort premises, serving as the main sanctum sanctorum of the gurdwara. The room houses the holy scriptures and is the focus of prayers and devotion for visiting pilgrims. ### Hari Parbat Fort Mughal Fort A large Mughal-era fort built during Emperor Akbar's reign in the late 16th century, encircling the Sharika Hill. The fort is constructed of stone masonry in a blend of Mughal and Kashmiri styles and serves as the outer enclosure within which the gurdwara is situated. ### Adjacent Hindu Temple Temple A small Hindu temple located adjacent to the gurdwara within the fort complex, originally managed by the same custodians (local pundits). Its presence alongside the gurdwara reflects the syncretic religious character of Hari Parbat hill. ### Sharika Devi Temple Temple A prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Sharika (an aspect of Durga), located on Hari Parbat hill. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and a major place of worship for Kashmiri Hindus, representing the multi-faith character of the sacred hill. ## Events & Celebrations ### Religious Festival #### Guru Nanak Gurpurab The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji is the most significant annual event associated with this gurdwara. Special Akhand Path (continuous recitation of Guru Granth Sahib), kirtan, and community prayers are organized by the local Sikh community and visiting devotees. Processions and congregations mark the occasion in Srinagar. #### Baisakhi Celebration Baisakhi, celebrated on April 13–14 each year, commemorates the founding of the Khalsa in 1699. Sikh devotees in Srinagar gather for prayers and congregational activities, and the gurdwara at Hari Parbat receives pilgrims during this festive occasion. #### Guru Hargobind Gurpurab The birth anniversary of Guru Hargobind Ji — the sixth Sikh Guru who is believed to have built this gurdwara — is observed with special prayers and remembrance. This occasion holds particular resonance at this specific shrine given his direct historical connection to the site. ### Pilgrimage #### Annual Pilgrimage by Kashmiri Sikhs Each year, members of the Sikh community in Kashmir and visiting pilgrims undertake a journey to Hari Parbat to pay respects at the gurdwara. This pilgrimage is an important act of devotion for Sikhs who wish to connect with Guru Nanak's presence in the Kashmir Valley. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Location The gurdwara is located within the Hari Parbat Fort complex on Sharika Hill (Hari Parbat) in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is approximately 5–6 km from the city center and 17 km from Srinagar's international airport. ### Significance The site marks the spot where Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, is believed to have rested and engaged in spiritual discourse with local scholars during his visit to Kashmir around 1517 CE. It is one of the few historic Sikh shrines in the Kashmir Valley. ### History The gurdwara is believed to have been built by or during the time of Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, when he visited Srinagar in the company of Emperor Jehangir in the early 17th century. Prior to the gurdwara, a platform called 'Thada Sahib' was established at the site by Ata Khan, a general of Emperor Akbar. The gurdwara has faced challenges in upkeep since the four villages originally assigned for its maintenance were confiscated after Raja Gulab Singh acquired Kashmir in 1846. In recent times, basic maintenance has been handled by CRPF personnel stationed at the fort, though the shrine remains in need of restoration. ### Visitor Information The gurdwara is located within the Hari Parbat Fort complex, for which the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Tourism charges an entry fee of approximately ₹50 per person. There is no separate entry fee for the gurdwara itself. The best time to visit is from March to October when the weather in Srinagar is pleasant. The gurdwara is especially significant during Guru Nanak Gurpurab (typically in October or November), when special prayers and congregations are organized. ### Facilities Due to the gurdwara's current modest state, regular langar is not consistently available on-site. However, during special occasions such as Guru Nanak Gurpurab, local Sikh organizations may arrange community meals in the area. Suggest an Edit Upload Photos ![Marker](https://unpkg.com/leaflet@1.9.4/dist/images/marker-icon.png) Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji Hari Parbat Leaflet Get Directions → ### Contribute Help improve this page. Suggest edits, add photos, or share information about this Gurdwara. Suggest an Edit