Onlykashmir.in News Desk
The iconic Hazratbal Shrine overlooking Dal Lake has undergone a major transformation under the Centre’s PRASHAD scheme, with the project cost rising from the original ₹40.46 crore sanctioned in 2016–17 to a revised ₹98.29 crore following an expanded scope of work.
The project, titled “Development of Hazratbal Shrine and Adjoining Areas,” was initially conceived to upgrade basic pilgrim facilities. Over time, it grew to include extensive conservation, modern amenities, and heritage-sensitive interventions, prompting the cost enhancement.
Key components now completed or in their final stages include:
• Marble flooring throughout the shrine complex and forecourt
• Expanded and modernised ablution facilities with separate blocks for men and women
• A full-fledged tourist facilitation centre and interpretation gallery
• Landscaped gardens, illuminated walkways, and an improved lake-front promenade
• Upgraded approach roads, enhanced parking, public conveniences, and CCTV-based surveillance and crowd management systems
A ropeway once proposed between Naseem Bagh and the shrine was later shelved due to technical and local concerns.
By November 2025, the Ministry of Tourism had released over ₹88 crore, with the remaining allocation set to cover final handover and maintenance preparations. The redevelopment is being projected as one of the flagship achievements of the PRASHAD scheme alongside major pilgrimage centres such as Kedarnath, Somnath, and the Mahabodhi Temple.
Visitors arriving this winter have welcomed the improved infrastructure and aesthetics. A pilgrim from Anantnag remarked that the shrine, once prone to congestion and slippery surfaces during rain, now feels serene and expansive.
Earlier, on 04 September 2025, the Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, formally inaugurated the Mega Construction and Beautification Project of Dargah Hazratbal after months of sustained work, marking a significant milestone in the redevelopment effort.
With most physical works finished, the historic Hazratbal Dargah has re-emerged as one of Kashmir’s most prominent spiritual landmarks, ready to receive pilgrims and visitors with renewed comfort and dignity.
On Thursday 04 Dec 2025, the Ministry of Tourism reaffirmed its support for boosting tourism infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, informing Parliament that several projects have been funded under Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD schemes.
While detailing multiple Himalayan Circuit projects sanctioned in 2016–17, the Ministry placed special focus on the iconic Hazratbal Shrine, whose development was approved under the PRASHAD scheme at a cost of ₹40.46 crore.
Officials said the project aims to enhance facilities around the revered Dargah and improve the overall pilgrim experience. The Ministry continues to promote J&K’s destinations through social media campaigns, events, fairs, festivals and other outreach initiatives.
