You will find the Khanqah-e-Moula, also known as the Shah Hamadan Mosque, situated along the right bank of the Jhelum River in the Old City of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Located between the historic Fateh Kadal and Zaina Kadal bridges, this remarkable site was commissioned in 1395 CE by Sultan Sikandar to honor Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani, a Persian preacher central to the spread of Islam across the Kashmir Valley. As the very first khanqah established in the region, it holds deep cultural significance and is officially designated as a Monument of National Importance.
When you visit, you will witness one of the finest surviving examples of traditional Kashmiri wooden architecture, strikingly adorned with intricate papier-mâché decorations. Over the centuries, the mosque has shown incredible resilience, having been rebuilt after fires in 1480 and 1731, as well as receiving a refurbished spire crown in 2018 following a swift fire response in late 2017. Although twentieth-century claims suggested it replaced a Hindu temple, archeological and historical evidence has thoroughly refuted this idea.
Stepping into this active Sunni shrine allows you to experience Kashmir's rich spiritual history and exceptional artistic craft firsthand along the riverbank.
What to see at Shah Hamadan Mosque
- First khanqah built in the Kashmir Valley, dating back to 1395 CE
- Prime example of iconic Kashmiri wooden architecture with papier-mâché details
- Scenic location on the right bank of the Jhelum River in Srinagar's Old City
- Officially recognized as a Monument of National Importance
Visiting tips
Take time to admire the intricate spire, which features a refurbished crown installed in 2018 following careful restoration efforts.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Shah Hamadan Mosque is easy to reach on Srinagar’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Srinagar travel guide.
See the full Srinagar travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.