Zeashta Devi Shrine

The Zeashta Devi Shrine is a Hindu temple located on Gopadri hill at about 1,700 meters elevation, positioned near the eastern shore of Dal Lake's Gagri Bal section. The site features several structures spread across the hillside, including an open courtyard that offers views of the surrounding landscape and water.

King Gopaditya built the original Jyeshtarudra Temple in the 6th century, and it was later renovated by King Lalitaditya in the 8th century. Over the centuries, the site evolved from a Shiva temple into a major Shakti peeth shrine.

The shrine becomes a gathering place during the Jyesht Ashtami festival in May and June, when Kashmiri Pandits gather here to perform the annual maha yagya and connect with their spiritual traditions.

The shrine is accessible between 9 AM and 4 PM and is best reached by car or autorickshaw. Visiting in the morning on weekdays offers a quieter experience than afternoon visits during weekends.

Archaeological discoveries of ancient Lingas near the site reveal that the location held sacred significance from very early times. These findings help scholars understand how the place transformed from a Shiva-focused shrine into a major goddess sanctuary.