Shankaracharya Temple Srinagar

The Shankaracharya Temple, Srinagar Jammu and Kashmir also known as Jyeshteshwara Temple, is a significant Hindu temple on Shankaracharya Hill in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Dedicated to Shiva, it stands at a height of 1,000 feet, offering a panoramic view of the city. The temple holds special importance during festivals like Maha Shivaratri when Kashmiri Hindus visit for worship.

As a monument of national importance, it is under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India, with the Dharmarth Trust managing it since the 19th century, under the chairpersonship of Karan Singh.

Historically and traditionally, The structure is considered the oldest temple in Kashmir. It is situated on a hill, a well-preserved Panjal trap formed by Permian-era volcanic activity. There is no consensus about the exact date of construction.

The Shankaracharya Hill, historically known as Gopadri or Gopa Hill, holds significant cultural and religious importance in Kashmir. It was initially granted to Brahmins by King Gopaditya in the 4th century BCE.

The temple on top of the hill, dedicated to Jyesthesvara (Shiva Jyestharuda), was built around the same time. Over the centuries, the temple has been associated with historical figures like Mihirakula, Jaloka (son of Ashoka), and Adi Shankara. Adi Shankara’s visit to the temple is believed to have led to its association with him, and it is here that the literary work Saundarya Lahari was composed.