Hazratbal Shrine

About Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar, Kashmir

Known as the holiest shrine in Kashmir, Hazratbal is where a hair strand Prophet Mohammed is preserved. The hair is also called ‘the relic’ or the Moi-e-Muqaddas. The word Hazrat means holy/respected and Bal stands for place, thus the words when put together mean a ‘holy place’ or a ‘respected place’. Tourists in general find Hazratbal Shrine as an important site to see in Srinagar, whereas Muslim devotees from across the country make sure to visit this sacred shrine once in their lifetime.

The sacred hair of the Prophet is displayed to public on certain occasions like e the birthday of Prophet Muhammad and his four main companions, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique, Hazrat Umar ibn Khattab, Hazrat Usman ibn Affan and Hazrat Ali. Such occasions are attended by many devotees and tourists from all around the country.

History Hazratbal Shrine

The relic of Hazratbal shrine was brought to India by Syed Abdullah, who was believed to be the descendant of Mohammad. After his death, his son Syed Hamid inherited the relic, however, he was unable to take care of it and sold it to a wealthy Kashmiri businessman, Khwaja Nur-ud-din Eshai during the reign of Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb.

When Aurangzeb heard about the relic, he not only ordered to seize it but also imprison Khwaja Nur-ud-din Eshai. In 1700, the relic was again sent to Kashmir with the deceased body of Khwaja Nur-ud-din Eshai who died in imprisonment. His daughter, Inayat Begum became the official custodian of the relic and she established the shrine which is now taken by the male descedants, the Banday Family.

Architecture of Hazratbal Shrine

Hazratbal Shrine due to its popularity is the most visited place in Srinagar and it boasts an impressive architecture. The dome and minaret display the influence of Mughal architecture, the shrine though also has the influence of Kashmiri architecture.  

Things to Know

Shikaras are available for visiting the Floating Vegetable Market which can cost around INR 500-700. It is advised to negotiate the cost to prevent over charging.

Best Time to Visit

If you wish to see the relic of Hazratbal Shrine, then it is recommended to plan a visit on the day of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad or that of any of his four main companions, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique, Hazrat Umar ibn Khattab, Hazrat Usman ibn Affan and Hazrat Ali. On such special occasions, the hair of Mohammad is displayed in a glass casket to general public.

Things to Know Before Visiting

• On Fridays, the mosque is crowded for the Jumma Namaz (friday prayers), thus tourists should avoid going on this day of the week.
• Women are only allowed to the first part of the mosque.