HAZRATBAL MOSQUE

The holiest Muslim shrine in the Kashmir Valley, the Hazratbal shrine is a famous mosque holding high
devotion amongst Muslims. The name is derived from the Kashmiri language, where hazrat means ‘holy’
and. word bal stands for ‘place’, thus it means the majestic place. Located on the left bank of the
spectacular Dal lake, it houses relic known as Moi-e-Muqaddas – a sacred hair of Prophet Mohammed,
which makes this place the most visited place in Srinagar. Hair preserved safely in the shrine is brought
before general public only on special occasions. Built in 17 th century by emperor Shah Jahan’s subedar
Sadiq Khan, it is the only domed mosque in Kashmir, while the rest have a pagoda-style roof. The
construction of this white edifice was started in 1968 and completed in 1979. Known by various names
like Assar-e-Sharif and Madinat-us-Sani, the mosque is an epitome of love and devotion of Muslims for
the prophet. House of prayers, this mosque is used as a shrine which is flocked by many devotees,
irrespective of religion. Occasions on which sacred hair is displayed attracts many devotees and tourists.
carpets of green meadow add to the beauty of the mosque. Considered to be sacred amongst the
Muslims, it attracts thousands of tourists to it from all across the country. One can catch a beautiful view
of Dal lake and mountain ranges beyond from the grand shrine. One can photograph the breathtaking
view of flight of thousands of pigeons against the backdrop of dargah. Visitors must know that only men
are allowed in the inner prayer hall and women are allowed up to outer hall only. Being featured in
Bollywood movies like Fanaa and haider and a mention in the plot of the movie mission Kashmir, this
famous mosque attracts visitors. The splendid architecture of the shrine can be seen here. a must visit
place on a tour to Kashmir valley is the hazratbal shrine. This beautiful structure made of white marble is
worth seeing and leaves one overwhelmed with the beautiful architecture done. Although shrine is
frequented by locals for mass prayers , it also experiences flock of people on special occasions.