The government of Jammu and Kashmir has announced plans to promote the Parihaspora Archaeological Site in Baramulla as a significant heritage tourism destination. This was shared in the Assembly on Monday, responding to an un-starred question posed by MLA Pattan, Javid Riyaz, who inquired about the steps taken to enhance tourism at the site.
In his reply, the Minister emphasized that Parihaspora is a key heritage site, particularly in the context of Kashmir’s rich historical and cultural legacy. He further highlighted that the site is already part of Jammu and Kashmir’s heritage tourism map and is being actively promoted both nationally and internationally. The government is using promotional materials such as videos and brochures, which are showcased in national and international travel marts to attract more visitors.
Additionally, the Minister mentioned that the Tourism Department of Jammu and Kashmir has set up a cafeteria at Parihaspora in 2017, which was outsourced for operation. However, the facility requires repairs and renovations. These restoration works will be included in the upcoming financial year’s Capex Budget to ensure the site is better equipped for tourists.
Parihaspora, known locally as ‘Kani Shahar,’ was once the capital of ancient Kashmir. Located 20 kilometers northwest of Srinagar, it sits on a plateau above the Jhelum River. The city was founded by Lalitaditya Muktapida, a ruler of the Karkota dynasty, and served as the capital of Kashmir between 695 and 731 AD. Under Muktapida’s reign, Parihaspora became an influential center of power and culture in the region.
Historical accounts, including those of the 12th-century historian Kalhana in his book Rajatarangini (The River of Kings), describe the city’s construction, including the residence of Muktapida and the establishment of four temples. Notable structures included temples dedicated to Vishnu, Parihaskesana, and a statue of Buddha in copper, as well as the famed Mattan temple in southern Kashmir.
After Lalitaditya’s death, the capital’s status shifted, and his son moved the royal residence elsewhere. Parihaspora's influence declined, with the Jhelum River, which once passed close to the city, now converging with the Sind Nallah at Shadipur Sangam. Despite these changes, the historical and cultural importance of Parihaspora remains significant, and efforts are underway to attract more tourists to the site.
In his reply, the Minister emphasized that Parihaspora is a key heritage site, particularly in the context of Kashmir’s rich historical and cultural legacy. He further highlighted that the site is already part of Jammu and Kashmir’s heritage tourism map and is being actively promoted both nationally and internationally. The government is using promotional materials such as videos and brochures, which are showcased in national and international travel marts to attract more visitors.
Additionally, the Minister mentioned that the Tourism Department of Jammu and Kashmir has set up a cafeteria at Parihaspora in 2017, which was outsourced for operation. However, the facility requires repairs and renovations. These restoration works will be included in the upcoming financial year’s Capex Budget to ensure the site is better equipped for tourists.
Parihaspora, known locally as ‘Kani Shahar,’ was once the capital of ancient Kashmir. Located 20 kilometers northwest of Srinagar, it sits on a plateau above the Jhelum River. The city was founded by Lalitaditya Muktapida, a ruler of the Karkota dynasty, and served as the capital of Kashmir between 695 and 731 AD. Under Muktapida’s reign, Parihaspora became an influential center of power and culture in the region.
Historical accounts, including those of the 12th-century historian Kalhana in his book Rajatarangini (The River of Kings), describe the city’s construction, including the residence of Muktapida and the establishment of four temples. Notable structures included temples dedicated to Vishnu, Parihaskesana, and a statue of Buddha in copper, as well as the famed Mattan temple in southern Kashmir.
After Lalitaditya’s death, the capital’s status shifted, and his son moved the royal residence elsewhere. Parihaspora's influence declined, with the Jhelum River, which once passed close to the city, now converging with the Sind Nallah at Shadipur Sangam. Despite these changes, the historical and cultural importance of Parihaspora remains significant, and efforts are underway to attract more tourists to the site.
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