










Year Built
1st millennium CE (6th-12th centuries)
Period
Medieval Period
Architectural Style
Kashmiri Hindu Temple Architecture with University Complex Design
Built By
Ancient Hindu Kingdoms of Kashmir
Material Used
Stone, Limestone, Wood, Brick
Heritage Status
Protected Archaeological Site
Sharda Peeth, located in the Neelum Valley of POK Jammu and Kashmir, represents one of the most significant ancient centers of learning and Hindu worship in the Indian subcontinent, dating to the 1st millennium CE and serving as a renowned university-temple complex dedicated to the goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, learning, and the arts. The site, situated at an elevation of 1,981 meters above sea level on the banks of the Neelum (Kishanganga) River, was part of the greater Hindu rashtra that extended across Kashmir and the northwestern regions of ancient India, functioning as both a major educational institution and a sacred pilgrimage site from approximately the 6th to 12th centuries CE. The complex, now in ruins but with substantial structural remains, originally featured a massive stone temple dedicated to Saraswati, surrounded by extensive monastic and educational facilities that attracted scholars from across the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, and beyond, making it one of the most important centers of Sanskrit learning and Hindu philosophy alongside Nalanda, Taxila, and Vikramashila. Archaeological evidence indicates the site was constructed during the period when Kashmir was a major center of Hindu civilization, with the temple complex featuring sophisticated stone architecture, extensive library facilities, and residential quarters for students and scholars. The site is also recognized as one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas, where according to Hindu mythology the right hand of the goddess Sati fell, adding to its religious significance. Historical records indicate that Sharda Peeth attracted thousands of students and scholars, including renowned figures such as Adi Shankara, who is believed to have visited the site, and it played a crucial role in the transmission of Hindu philosophical traditions, Sanskrit literature, and Vedic knowledge. The temple complex was destroyed and abandoned following invasions in the medieval period, but its ruins continue to serve as a powerful symbol of the region’s ancient Hindu heritage and its role as a center of learning in the greater Hindu rashtra. Today, Sharda Peeth remains an important site for understanding the intellectual and religious history of ancient India, demonstrating the sophisticated educational systems that flourished in regions that were integral parts of the historical Hindu civilization. ([1][2])
Sharda Peeth was constructed during the 1st millennium CE, when Kashmir was a major center of Hindu civilization and part of the greater Hindu rashtra extending across the northwestern regions of ancient India. The site functioned as both a major educational institution and sacred pilgrimage site from approximately the 6th to 12th centuries CE, attracting scholars from across the Indian subcontinent. Historical records indicate the site was visited by renowned figures including Adi Shankara. The temple complex was destroyed and abandoned following invasions in the medieval period. The site remains in ruins but continues to serve as a symbol of the region’s ancient Hindu heritage. ([1][2])
British Colonial Administration, Archaeological Survey of Pakistan




Archaeological surveys have revealed structural remains, evidence of educational facilities, and artifacts indicating the site’s significance as a learning center.
Limited conservation work; documentation and survey activities conducted. ([1][2])
Archaeological Survey of Pakistan, Local Authorities
Construction utilized locally quarried stone and limestone, with massive blocks precisely cut and assembled using dry-stone masonry techniques. The main temple featured sophisticated stone architecture with corbelled vaulting and intricate carvings. The educational complex included multiple structures for classrooms, libraries, and residential quarters. The foundation system utilized stepped stone platforms built on bedrock. The temple complex demonstrated advanced understanding of site planning, with structures arranged to maximize natural light and ventilation. ([1][2])
5 items
The structural system employed load-bearing masonry construction with stone blocks, utilizing corbelled vaulting for interior chambers. The foundation system consisted of stepped stone platforms built on bedrock. The educational complex utilized multiple structures arranged around the main temple. The site demonstrated sophisticated understanding of architectural planning for educational and religious functions. ([1][2])
34.783300, 74.200000
{"notes":"Remote mountain location; border area; check security conditions; respect ruins; prepare for mountain weather.","restrooms":"Limited facilities available.","wheelchair_accessible":"Not accessible due to remote location and ruins."}
2 items
Spring and autumn for comfortable weather; early morning for best lighting on ruins.
2 items
Respect ruins; no removal of artifacts; follow security regulations; prepare for mountain conditions.
2
Yes
Yes
75
complete
2025-11-09T08:53:52.400509+00:00
2025-11-09T14:21:38.398+00:00
Medieval Period
Jammu and Kashmir
Kashmiri Hindu Temple Architecture with University Complex Design
Protected Heritage
Sharda Peeth Neelum Valley is a historic Temple located in Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. This Kashmiri Hindu Temple Architecture with University Complex Design architectural masterpiece was built during the Medieval Period period and represents significant cultural and historical heritage of Pakistan. Sharda Peeth, located in the Neelum Valley of POK Jammu and Kashmir, represents one of the most significant ancient centers of learning and Hindu worship in the Indian subcontinent, dating to the 1st ...
| RsEntry Fee | Free; special permits may be required for border area access. |
| 🕐Opening Hours | Dawn to Dusk (6 AM - 6 PM) |
| 📅Best Time to Visit | October to March (Winter) |
| ⏱️Duration | 2-3 hours |
| ♿Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
| 📸Photography | Allowed (No flash) |
Check opening hours and entry fees for Sharda Peeth Neelum Valley . Book tickets online if available to avoid queues. Best visited during early morning or late afternoon.
Sharda Peeth Neelum Valley is located in Sharda Village, Neelum Valley, Pakistan Occupied Kashmir , Pakistan, Jammu and Kashmir. The nearest major city is Sharda Village. Accessible by road, rail, and air. Use GPS coordinates: 34.7833, 74.2.
Entry fee: Free; special permits may be required for border area access.. Follow dress code for religious sites. Photography is allowed. Maintain silence and respect the heritage.
Allocate 2-3 hours to fully explore Sharda Peeth Neelum Valley . Key areas to visit include the main sanctum, pillared halls, and intricate carvings. Consider hiring a local guide for detailed insights.
Construction of Sharda Peeth Neelum Valley by Ancient Hindu Kingdoms of Kashmir
Conservation and restoration efforts initiated under Protected Archaeological Site
Digital documentation and 3D scanning completed by Inheritage Foundation