Historical Significance

• Mughal Era: In 1590, Mughal Emperor Akbar initiated the construction of fortifications on Hari Parbat as part of his plan to establish a new capital, named Nagar Nagor. However, the project remained incomplete, leaving behind the outer walls and two main gateways: Kathi Darwaza and Sangin Darwaza .
• Durrani Period: The current fort structure atop the hill was built in 1808 by Atta Mohammed Khan, the Afghan governor under the Durrani Empire. This fortification was part of his efforts to assert control over the region 
•  Modern Times: After being closed to the public for nearly two decades, the fort was reopened in 2007. On 15 August 2021, a 100-foot tall Indian flag was hoisted atop the fort to commemorate India's 75th Independence Day 

 Religious and Cultural Importance

Hari Parbat is a symbol of communal harmony, housing shrines of multiple religions:

• Hinduism: The Sharika Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Sharika, an 18-armed deity considered the presiding deity of Srinagar. According to legend, the hill originated from a pebble dropped by the goddess to crush a demon named Jalodbhava 

• Sikhism: The Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi, located near the Kathi Darwaza, marks the site where Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Sikh Guru, stayed during his visit to Kashmir 

Visiting Information

• Timings: Open from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Saturday. Closed on Sundays 

 Access Points:
Kathi Darwaza: Accessible via Rainawari.

• Sangin Darwaza: Accessible via Hawal 
• Transportation: Hari Parbat is approximately 5 km from Srinagar city center. Visitors can hire taxis, auto-rickshaws, or use local buses to reach the base of the hill 

• Carry water, but note that food is not permitted inside the fort premises.
• Facilities are limited;

Nearby Attractions

• Dal Lake: A picturesque lake offering shikara rides and houseboat stays.
• Badamwari Garden: Located at the foothills of Hari Parbat, famous for almond blossoms in spring.
• Old Srinagar City: Explore the rich heritage, traditional architecture, and local markets.