Shah Hamdan Mosque
About Shah Hamdan Mosque
Shah Hamdan Mosque, also known as Khanqah-e-Moula, is one of the oldest and most revered mosques in Srinagar. Located on the banks of the Jhelum River in the heart of the old city, this historic mosque was originally built in 1395 AD to commemorate the visit of Mir Syed Ali Hamdani (Shah-e-Hamadan), the Persian Sufi saint who played a pivotal role in spreading Islam in Kashmir. The mosque is a masterpiece of Kashmiri wooden architecture and craftsmanship.
The mosque showcases exquisite Kashmiri wood carving with intricate papier-mâché work on its ceiling and walls. The building features beautiful calligraphy, floral motifs, and geometric patterns that represent the finest examples of Islamic art in Kashmir. Though the structure has been rebuilt several times due to fires, the most recent restoration in 1732 AD maintained its original architectural style. The mosque houses a relic believed to be a hair strand of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), making it one of the most sacred Islamic sites in the region.
Historical Significance
| Location | Old City, Banks of Jhelum River, Srinagar |
| Distance from City Center | 2 km from Lal Chowk |
| Original Construction | 1395 AD |
| Last Rebuilt | 1732 AD |
| Dedicated To | Mir Syed Ali Hamdani (Shah-e-Hamadan) |
| Architectural Style | Traditional Kashmiri wooden architecture |
| Special Feature | Houses sacred relic of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) |
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round (outside prayer times) |
Architectural Features
- Wooden Architecture: Entirely constructed with Kashmiri deodar wood
- Intricate Carvings: Exquisite wood carvings on pillars, ceilings, and walls
- Papier-Mâché Work: Beautiful papier-mâché decorations on ceiling
- Persian Calligraphy: Verses from Quran in beautiful script
- Riverside Location: Scenic setting on Jhelum River banks
- Wooden Pillars: Hand-carved pillars supporting the structure
- Prayer Hall: Spacious hall with traditional design
- Courtyard: Open courtyard with traditional ablution facilities
How to Reach
By Road
Located in the old city area of Srinagar. Accessible via taxi or auto-rickshaw from Lal Chowk and Zero Bridge.
By Air
Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar is 13 km away.
Visiting Information
| Opening Hours |
Open for visitors outside prayer times Best: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Photography | Exterior allowed, interior with permission |
| Duration | 30 minutes - 1 hour |
Travel Tips
- Visit outside prayer times to avoid disturbing worshippers
- Dress modestly - women must cover their heads and wear conservative clothing
- Remove shoes before entering the mosque premises
- Ask for permission before taking photographs, especially inside the mosque
- The mosque is particularly beautiful during sunset when viewed from Jhelum River
- Combine with visits to nearby Jama Masjid and Pathar Masjid for a heritage walk
- Be respectful as this is an active place of worship and a sacred site
Nearby Attractions
- Jama Masjid Srinagar (1.5 km)
- Pathar Masjid (1.5 km)
- Khanqah-e-Moula (same location)
- Zero Bridge (500 meters)
- Old City Bazaars (walking distance)
- Hari Parbat Fort (3 km)