Avantiswami Temple Awantipora
Explore the 9th-century ruins of the Avantiswami Temple, a testament to ancient Kashmiri architecture dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Avantiswami Temple Awantipora
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the 9th-century ruins of the Avantiswami Temple, a testament to ancient Kashmiri architecture dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva.
"A fascinating glimpse into Kashmir's ancient history with intricate carvings and a serene riverside ambiance."
Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your understanding of the history and architecture with insights from a knowledgeable local guide.
Photography Opportunities
Capture the intricate details and serene surroundings; the ruins offer unique photographic perspectives.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Stone Carvings
Temple Ruins
Marvel at the detailed sculptures and reliefs that hint at the temple's former grandeur and architectural brilliance.
Temple Layout
Temple Complex
Explore the remnants of the two temples, dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva, and imagine their original magnificence.
Jhelum River Ambiance
Near the Temple
Enjoy the serene atmosphere with the Jhelum River flowing nearby, adding a picturesque backdrop to the historical site.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Understanding the Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your understanding of the history and architecture with insights from a knowledgeable local guide.
Photography Opportunities
Capture the intricate details and serene surroundings; the ruins offer unique photographic perspectives.
Affordable Entry Fee
The entry fee is minimal, making it an accessible historical site for all travelers.
En Route to Pahalgam
Conveniently located on the way to Pahalgam, making it an easy stop for a quick visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your understanding of the history and architecture with insights from a knowledgeable local guide.
Photography Opportunities
Capture the intricate details and serene surroundings; the ruins offer unique photographic perspectives.
Affordable Entry Fee
The entry fee is minimal, making it an accessible historical site for all travelers.
En Route to Pahalgam
Conveniently located on the way to Pahalgam, making it an easy stop for a quick visit.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the ruins comfortably by wearing sturdy and comfortable footwear.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Avantiswami Temple a fascinating historical site, appreciating its 9th-century Kashmiri architecture and intricate stone carvings. The serene location by the Jhelum River and its affordability are highlights. While some note the ruins are smaller than expected and wish for more signage, the site is considered a worthwhile stop for history buffs and photographers, especially when visited with a local guide.
"Visited the Avanti Swami Temple Ruins in Awantipora, and it’s a fascinating glimpse into Kashmir’s ancient history! The 9th-century ruins, built by King Avantivarman, are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Shiva, showcasing intricate Kashmiri architecture with detailed stone carvings. The site, maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, is serene, with well-kept gardens and the Jhelum River nearby, adding to the ambiance.
The ruins are smaller than expected but still impressive, especially the sculptured reliefs and the layout resembling the Martand Sun Temple. A local guide helped bring the history alive, though some guides could be more informative. It’s a great stop en route from Srinagar to Pahalgam, just 30 km from Srinagar. Entry is affordable (₹10), and the site is open 9 AM to 5 PM. Perfect for history buffs and photographers, but more signage would enhance the experience. Highly recommend a quick visit!"
Aditya Singh
"Avantiswami Temple, Avantipura – A Hidden Gem of Ancient Kashmir
Avantiswami Temple is a truly mesmerizing historical site located in Avantipura, just off the Srinagar-Pahalgam highway. This ancient temple, built by King Avantivarman in the 9th century, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and reflects the rich architectural and cultural heritage of Kashmir.
Though the temple is now in ruins, the beautifully carved stones, intricate sculptures, and the layout of the temple complex still leave you in awe. It offers a peaceful and scenic environment surrounded by greenery and the backdrop of the majestic mountains. Photography lovers and history buffs will find this place especially captivating.
The temple is easy to access and not very crowded, which adds to the charm. It’s a wonderful spot for those who enjoy exploring offbeat and lesser-known heritage sites. There is also the nearby Avantiswara temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva), making Avantipura a spiritually and historically significant stop.
Highly recommended for anyone traveling towards Pahalgam – it's a short visit, but a memorable one!"
Jitendra Pawar
"The Avantiswami Temple is a ruined Hindu temple complex situated on the banks of the Jhelum River, approximately 28km southeast ofSrinagar, in Awantipora, Jammu and Kashmir, India. This site originally comprised two temples, one dedicated to Shiva and the other to Vishnu, built during the reign of King Avantivarman of the Utpala dynasty in the 9th century CE. Today, the ruins are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. Locals call the temple Pandav Lari, meaning "house of the Pandavas"
Ticket price is 25"
Shashank Gupta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Avantiswami Temple is located in Awantipora, approximately 28-30 km southeast of Srinagar. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus heading towards Pahalgam and ask to be dropped off at Awantipora. The journey typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours by car. +1
Yes, the temple is easily accessible by car. It's situated near the Srinagar-Pahalgam highway, making it a convenient stop for those traveling between these locations. +1
Awantipora is well-connected by road. The most common way to reach it is by hiring a taxi from Srinagar or other major towns in the region. Public buses also ply this route.
The temple is located on the banks of the Jhelum River and is situated in Awantipora town. It's also a notable stop on the route towards Pahalgam. 
The Avantiswami Temple is approximately 16 km northeast of Pulwama town, making it a relatively short drive from there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for Avantiswami Temple is quite affordable. While one source mentions ₹10, another states ₹25. Children typically have free entry. +1
The temple site is generally open from 9 AM to 5 PM. It's advisable to confirm these timings upon arrival, especially during local holidays.
No, advance booking is generally not required for Avantiswami Temple. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance upon arrival.
Yes, the site is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and features well-kept gardens, contributing to a pleasant visitor experience.
While the general hours are 9 AM to 5 PM, it's always a good idea to check for any specific local advisories or seasonal changes in operating hours.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the 9th-century ruins of two temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, admire intricate stone carvings, and enjoy the serene ambiance by the Jhelum River. +1
The temple is generally not very crowded, especially if you visit during weekdays or off-peak hours, which adds to its charm as a hidden gem. +1
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged. The intricate carvings and the historical ruins offer excellent opportunities for photographers.
Local guides are available at the site and can provide valuable historical context and information about the ruins. +1
It's a significant historical site built in the 9th century by King Avantivarman, showcasing the architectural and cultural heritage of ancient Kashmir. It was dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the detailed stone carvings, the overall layout of the ruins, and the scenic views with the Jhelum River in the background. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.
Drone photography regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the Archaeological Survey of India on-site before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the ruins and close-ups of carvings. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions.
Pay attention to the intricate sculptures, decorative reliefs, and the structural remnants that highlight the unique Kashmiri architectural style of the 9th century.
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provide soft, warm light that beautifully highlights the textures and details of the ruins.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Lovers
+2 The site, maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, provides a well-preserved glimpse into Kashmiri temple architecture. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Architecture
+2 The architectural style reflects a blend of influences, showcasing the unique Kashmiri style with intricate stone carvings, decorative reliefs, and a well-planned layout that echoes other contemporary temple structures in the region, such as the Martand Sun Temple. Although much of the temple is now in ruins, the surviving structures and scattered stone fragments offer a profound glimpse into the craftsmanship and religious practices of the era. The Archaeological Survey of India actively maintains the site, preserving its historical integrity. Locals also refer to the temple as 'Pandav Lari,' meaning 'house of the Pandavas,' adding a layer of local folklore to its historical narrative.
The intricate details on the surviving stone sculptures are particularly noteworthy, depicting various deities, mythological scenes, and decorative motifs. These carvings not only showcase artistic skill but also provide insights into the religious beliefs and cultural milieu of the time. The site's location on the banks of the Jhelum River further enhances its serene and picturesque appeal, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Visiting as a Day Trip
Many travelers incorporate a visit to the Avantiswami Temple as part of a larger itinerary. For instance, it can be visited in the morning before proceeding to Pahalgam, or as a stop on the return journey. The modest entry fee and the availability of local guides enhance the experience, making it a worthwhile detour for those interested in history, architecture, or simply exploring offbeat heritage sites in Kashmir.
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