Pathar Masjid
About Pathar Masjid
Pathar Masjid, meaning "Stone Mosque," is an architectural marvel located near Nowhatta in the heart of Srinagar's old city. Built entirely of stone in 1623 AD by Empress Nur Jahan, the wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, this mosque stands out for its unique construction style. Unlike other mosques in Kashmir which are typically built with wood, Pathar Masjid features stone masonry throughout, showcasing a blend of Persian, Mughal, and Kashmiri architectural elements.
The mosque is renowned for its impressive stone pillars, intricate carvings, and geometric patterns that adorn its walls and ceilings. The structure features a spacious courtyard and prayer hall with beautifully carved stone arches and pillars. Despite being over 400 years old, the mosque has withstood earthquakes and the test of time, demonstrating the excellent craftsmanship of Mughal-era builders. The mosque remains an active place of worship and is an important heritage site representing Kashmir's rich Islamic architectural tradition.
Historical Significance
| Location | Nowhatta, Srinagar Old City |
| Distance from City Center | 3 km from Lal Chowk |
| Built By | Empress Nur Jahan |
| Year of Construction | 1623 AD |
| Construction Material | Entirely stone (unique in Kashmir) |
| Architectural Style | Indo-Saracenic with Persian influences |
| Current Status | Active mosque and protected monument |
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round (outside prayer times) |
Architectural Features
- Stone Construction: Unique all-stone structure in Kashmir's wooden mosque tradition
- Carved Pillars: Intricately carved stone pillars throughout
- Geometric Patterns: Beautiful Islamic geometric designs on walls
- Arched Entrances: Traditional Mughal-style arched doorways
- Spacious Courtyard: Large open courtyard for congregational prayers
- Prayer Hall: Main hall with stone arches and columns
- Calligraphy: Persian and Arabic inscriptions in stone
- Earthquake Resistant: Sturdy construction that has survived centuries
How to Reach
By Road
Located in the heart of Srinagar near Nowhatta. Easily accessible via taxi or auto-rickshaw from Lal Chowk.
By Air
Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar is 14 km away.
Visiting Information
| Opening Hours |
Open for visitors outside prayer times Best: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Photography | Allowed with permission |
| Duration | 30 minutes - 1 hour |
Travel Tips
- Visit outside of prayer times to avoid disturbing worshippers
- Dress modestly - women should cover their heads and wear conservative clothing
- Remove shoes before entering the mosque premises as per Islamic tradition
- Ask for permission before taking photographs, especially during prayer times
- Combine visit with nearby Jama Masjid and Khanqah-e-Moula for a heritage walk
- The old city area is congested - best to walk from nearby parking areas
Nearby Attractions
- Jama Masjid Srinagar (500 meters)
- Khanqah-e-Moula (1 km)
- Shah Hamdan Mosque (1.5 km)
- Hari Parbat Fort (2 km)
- Dal Lake (4 km)