The oldest temple in Srinagar, Shankaracharya Temple sits atop a 1,000-metre rocky hill (about 300 m above the city floor) on the southern side of Dal Lake. The approach is by a road that winds up the hill, but the final 243 steps must be walked — no vehicles beyond the checkpoint. The small stone shrine at the top, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is less impressive architecturally than the location itself. The 360-degree view from the summit takes in Dal Lake, the old city, the Mughal Gardens, and the mountain ranges in every direction. On a clear day the view stretches to Gulmarg.
The site is one of the oldest places of worship in Kashmir, predating the Mughal period by many centuries. Security personnel are stationed at the base; cameras and phones are restricted near the temple itself but permitted from the approach path. Remove shoes before entering the temple. The path up the steps is manageable for most people and takes about 20 minutes at a comfortable pace. Early morning visits — particularly around sunrise — are worth the early start for the light over the lake. Non-Hindus are generally welcome.