The Shankaracharya Temple is known to be an ancient temple that dates back to 200 BC. The structure we see today was built in the 9th century AD. The historians concluded that during the Buddhist era the temple was used by Buddhist monks as a site of worship. This temple was also known as the Garden of King Soloman. If noticed closely Persian inscriptions can also be seen, although they have aged with time but are still visible. 

Shankaracharya visited the temple way back and since then the temple has carried his name. It is said that upon his visit he decided that the temple would be considered a place of worship for Hindus. The Linga that resides inside the temple is said to be there since the 19th century. There are a lot of mysteries that surround the temple as some say that the temple was built by a Hindu King named Sandiman and some say that it was a Buddhist site that was later turned into a Hindu temple. The temple has undergone several repairs that were made by the Kings that ruled the neighboring states.

The Shankaracharya Temple's architecture is one of the features that make it a tourist spot. It is built on a high raised octagonal platform. Devotees and visitors need to climb a flight of 250 stairs to reach the temple. The stairs were built under the reign of Maharaja Gulan Singh. The boundaries along the steps have ancient inscriptions on them similar inscriptions are visible inside the temple too. It is believed that the inscriptions belong to the Shah Jahan period.

The structure of the ancient temple has two buildings that were built back then by the saints. Once you reach the temple you will be taken aback by the breathtaking view of the surroundings. From the top, you will get to see the Dal lake. 

• Enjoy the view from the temple.
• Click pictures while you can.
• Offer silent prayers and seek blessings.
• Meditate at the temple if you feel the energy.
• Sit down for some quality time with yourself. 

• Respect the faith and beliefs of all religions.
• Do not create chaos in the temple.
• If the temple is crowded be patient and wait for your turn.
• Remove your footwear before entering the temple.
• Use the dustbin to dispose of waste.
• Wear decent clothes while visiting the temple.

If you plan a trip to Srinagar from April to June then you are going to enjoy the trip cause the temperature is favorable. The Shankaracharya temple is filled to the brim with devotees during the festive season. The best time to visit the Shankaracharya temple is from May to September. The people who go to the Amarnath make sure to stop by and offer prayers.

• Pari Mahal
• Dal lake
• Shalimar Bagh
• Jamia Masjid
• Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
• Nigeen Lake