♥ Expert Guide by a Kashmir-based Local Explorer
MAKHDOOM SAHIB SHRINE
"The Sovereign Spiritual Citadel of Koh-e-Maran"
In our ongoing journey exploring the sacred places of Kashmir, we ascend to one of the most prominent, politically significant, and deeply revered Sufi landmarks in Srinagar: Makhdoom Sahib. Perched majestically on the southern slopes of the historic Koh-e-Maran (Hari Parbat) hill, this vertical spiritual citadel has stood as a beacon of solace, healing, and faith for over four centuries.
Unlike other valley shrines that sit quietly by the rivers or lakes, Makhdoom Sahib commands the skyline of the Old City. It is a place where royal Mughal history, grand stone fortifications, and deep spiritual devotion converge into an unforgettable traveler's experience.
🗺️ Location: Koh-e-Maran (Hari Parbat), Shehr-e-Khaas (Old City), Srinagar.
⏳ Significance: Resting place of Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom, leader of the Suhrawardi Sufi order in Kashmir.
🚠 Accessibility: Accessible via traditional stone staircases or a modern cable car ropeway system.
1. Who was Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom?
Known throughout the valley by his highly exalted titles, Mehboob-ul-Alam (Beloved of the World), Sultan-ul-Aarifeen (King of the Gnostics), and Shahehshah-e-Kashmir, this venerable saint was born in 1494 into the noble Raina family in Tujr Sharif, near Sopore.
Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom went on to become the absolute pillar of the Suhrawardi Sufi path in Kashmir. He spent his life traveling through the rugged terrains of the valley, preaching spiritual purification, setting up schools, fighting social evils, and advocating for the poor. His influence was so massive that even centuries after his passing in 1576, his resting place remains a spiritual powerhouse where thousands gather daily to seek blessings.
2. The Historical Tapestry of Koh-e-Maran
The hill upon which the shrine rests is an open-air museum. Directly above the mausoleum sits the imposing Durrani Fort, built in 1808 by Ata Mohammad Khan, a prominent governor of the Durrani Empire. But the military history goes even deeper: wrapping around the base of the entire hill are the massive outer stone fortification walls constructed by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1590.
To enter this sacred zone, travelers pass through Akbar's monumental gates—the grand Kathi Darwaza and the intricately built Sangeen Darwaza—which still echo with the footsteps of centuries-old royal guards.
3. Mughal Architecture in Polished Limestone
While the main shrine features classic multi-tiered roofs, the surrounding complex hides an architectural masterpiece. On the southern side, just before reaching the shrine from the Kathi Darwaza path, stands a beautiful, monumental Mughal-era structure: the Akhund Mullah Shah Mosque.
This mosque is exceptionally rare because, unlike the wood-and-brick design that dominates Kashmir, it is rectangular in shape and built entirely from a local, beautifully polished grey limestone. Built by Prince Dara Shikoh for his spiritual tutor, its clean stone arches and stark geometry offer an incredible contrast to the lush trees of the hillside.
4. Accessing the Heights: Steps vs. Ropeway
Because the shrine sits high up on the slopes of the hill, getting there is part of the adventure. Visitors can choose their own path based on their energy levels:
⛩️ The Rainawari Route
Approaching from the Kathi Darwaza side, this traditional path requires a steady climb up 127 wide stone steps. It is beautifully lined with local vendors and offers incredible views as you ascend.
🏛️ The Old City Route
Entering via the Sangeen Darwaza side involves climbing approximately 90 steps. Though fewer in number, this path has a steeper, more challenging incline.
🚠 Modern Option: The Makhdoom Sahib Ropeway
For elderly travelers, families with young kids, or anyone wanting a bird's-eye view of Downtown Srinagar, the state-of-the-art cable car ropeway is an incredible addition. It bypasses the grueling stairs entirely, gliding smoothly over the orchards straight up to the shrine area.
5. The Mystical 13-Day Urs Celebration
The spiritual energy of the hill peaks during the annual 13-day Urs festival, celebrated from the 11th to the 24th of the Islamic month of Safar. During this fortnight, the entire hill turns into a sea of lights. The air resonates with the emotional congregation reciting the Aurad-e-Fathia, while traditional street food stalls blanket the base of the gates, capturing the unyielding spirit of Kashmiri brotherhood and hospitality.
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