Hazratbal Shrine, Islamic mosque near Dal Lake, Srinagar, India

Hazratbal sits on the northern shore of Dal Lake and shows white marble walls with arched galleries and a large dome flanked by a single minaret. The central prayer hall opens onto a wide courtyard surrounded by low arcades that can hold thousands who gather for special occasions.

A general under Shah Jahan built a palace here in the 17th century that was later converted into a religious building when a relic was brought from Medina to Kashmir. The present marble structure arose in the 20th century after several renovations and expansions of the original complex.

The name joins the Arabic hazrat ("respected") with the Kashmiri bal ("place"). The Moi-e-Muqqadas is shown to the public only on special Islamic occasions, such as Mawlid and the birthdays of Muhammad's four principal companions. Custody of the relic has stayed with the male descendants of Inayat Begum, known as the Banday family; in 2019 Manzoor Banday, Ishaq Banday and Mohiuddin Banday cared for it.

Visitors should check local announcements to learn when viewing is possible, as access may be limited on certain days. Modest dress and removing shoes before entering inner areas are expected.

The shrine's name joins the Arabic hazrat (respected) with the Kashmiri bal (place). Custody of the relic has stayed with the male descendants of Inayat Begum, known as the Banday family; in 2019 Manzoor Banday, Ishaq Banday and Mohiuddin Banday were its caretakers. The relic is shown to the public only on special Islamic occasions, such as Mawlid and the celebrations of Muhammad's four principal companions.