Roza Bal Shrine
A controversial shrine in Srinagar, believed by some to be the tomb of Jesus Christ, offering a unique historical and spiritual enigma.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Shrine is open
Roza Bal Shrine
Best Time
Shrine is open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A controversial shrine in Srinagar, believed by some to be the tomb of Jesus Christ, offering a unique historical and spiritual enigma.
"Explore the enigma of Roza Bal, where history and faith intertwine in the heart of Srinagar."
🎯 Check Opening Dates
The shrine is often only open on the 13th of the Islamic and native calendar months. Verify dates before visiting! :calendar:
🚫 No Photography Allowed
Photography is strictly prohibited inside and around the shrine. Be mindful of this rule. :noentrysign:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dual Tombs
Inside the shrine
Discover the two tombs: one of Hazrat Yuz Asaf and another of Islamic saint Syed Naseeruddin.
The Jesus Tomb Theory
Shrine exterior
Explore the controversial claim that this is the burial site of Jesus Christ, a belief held by the Ahmadiyya community.
Spiritual Ambiance
Shrine surroundings
Experience the tranquil and spiritual atmosphere of this significant cultural landmark in Srinagar's Khanyar quarter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respectful Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Dates
The shrine is often only open on the 13th of the Islamic and native calendar months. Verify dates before visiting! :calendar:
🚫 No Photography Allowed
Photography is strictly prohibited inside and around the shrine. Be mindful of this rule. :noentrysign:
🅿️ Parking Nearby
No parking at the shrine. Park near Dastageer Sahib Masjid. :red_car:
🤝 Friendly Locals
Locals are very friendly and may offer tea. Embrace the hospitality! :tea:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Dates
The shrine is often only open on the 13th of the Islamic and native calendar months. Verify dates before visiting! :calendar:
🚫 No Photography Allowed
Photography is strictly prohibited inside and around the shrine. Be mindful of this rule. :noentrysign:
🅿️ Parking Nearby
No parking at the shrine. Park near Dastageer Sahib Masjid. :red_car:
🤝 Friendly Locals
Locals are very friendly and may offer tea. Embrace the hospitality! :tea:
👗 Dress Modestly
As a religious site, modest attire is appreciated. :womanintunic:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Roza Bal Shrine is a site of significant historical and religious intrigue, primarily due to the controversial theory that it is the tomb of Jesus Christ. Visitors are drawn to its spiritual ambiance and the unique cultural narrative, though access is highly restricted and photography is forbidden. While the historical claim is debated, the shrine remains a culturally important landmark in Srinagar.
"Dual Tombs:
The shrine contains two tombs: one of Hazrat Yuz Asaf (also known as Yuz Asaf) and the other of Syed Naseeruddin, an Islamic saint and descendant of the Shia Imam Ali Raza.
Cultural Landmark:
Roza Bal is a significant site in Srinagar's Khanyar quarter, known for its tranquil ambiance and cultural importance, attracting both local and international visitors.
The Claim of Jesus's Tomb
Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's Theory:
In 1899, the founder of the Ahmadiyya movement, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, published his theory that the Roza Bal is the tomb of Jesus Christ, who he claimed survived crucifixion, traveled to India, and lived in Kashmir for many years.
Evidence and Interpretations:
Proponents of this theory point to several pieces of evidence, such as the Hebrew name Yuza, meaning "son of Joseph," Yuz Asaf's meaning "Leader of the Healed," and a rock carving in the shrine that shows wounds on the feet, suggesting crucifixion injuries.
Historical Context:
The theory gained traction as the legend of Jesus's "missing years" in the East, a concept present in some minority traditions, was linked to the shrine.
Modern Perspective
Myth or Belief:
The claim remains controversial, with many historians and scholars dismissing it as a myth or urban legend, while it is a significant belief within the Ahmadiyya community and for some Christians.
Cultural and Spiritual Attraction:
Despite the differing views on its historical claim, the shrine remains an important religious and cultural landmark, attracting visitors who are drawn to its historical significance and spiritual atmosphere."
Bilal Patloo
"The Rozabal Shrine is situated in the Khaniyar locality of Srinagar. It is a significant religious site for both Muslims and some Christians who believe in the claim that Jesus is buried there. The shrine also holds the graves of other important religious figures, including those of the Muslim saint Yuz Asaf and the Islamic scholar Mir Sayyid Naseeruddin.
After getting into deep I found that the mainstream academic and historical consensus does not support the claim that Jesus traveled to India or was buried in the Rozabal shrine. These ideas are not recognized by the Christian faith or the broader scholarly community.
Location: 2 min walking distance from Masjid Dastageer Sahib
Parking 🅿️: There is no space for parking. You can park your vehicle near Dastageer Sahib Masjid."
SUHAIL AHMAD BHAT
"It's very close to Khanayar Main Downtown area photography is not allowed in and around the shrine nor allowed to enter inside the shrine, one can see through windows"
Imtiyaz Beigh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Roza Bal Shrine is located in the Khanyar locality of Srinagar. It's a short walk from Masjid Dastageer Sahib. If you're driving, you'll need to park your vehicle near the mosque as there's no dedicated parking at the shrine.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, Srinagar has a local transport system. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available to reach the Khanyar area. +1
From the city center, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. The journey to Khanyar is relatively short, and drivers will be familiar with the area near Dastageer Sahib Masjid.
Yes, the shrine is very close to Masjid Dastageer Sahib, which can serve as a good landmark for navigation.
Unfortunately, there is no parking space directly at the shrine. Visitors are advised to park their vehicles at the Dastageer Sahib Masjid parking area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of entry fees or tickets for Roza Bal Shrine. It's generally considered a place of worship and cultural significance.
This is the most crucial point: the shrine is often closed and only opens on the 13th of every month, according to both the Islamic and native calendars. It's essential to verify this date before planning your visit.
No, due to its specific opening schedule, you cannot visit at any time. You must align your visit with the 13th of the month as per the local calendars.
While you cannot enter when it's closed, you can observe the exterior of the shrine.
The shrine is a place of religious significance, and while it attracts diverse visitors, respectful attire and behavior are expected from everyone.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely not. Photography is strictly prohibited in and around the Roza Bal Shrine.
The rules state photography is not allowed 'in and around' the shrine, so it's best to err on the side of caution and refrain from taking any photos.
This is likely due to the shrine's religious and spiritual significance, and to maintain a respectful atmosphere for worshippers.
There are no mentioned exceptions to the photography rule. It's a strict policy.
Focus on experiencing the atmosphere and the historical significance. You can take photos of the surrounding areas of Srinagar, but not the shrine itself.
🎫 🤝 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere around the shrine is described as spiritual. Visitors often find it to be a tranquil and culturally significant site.
You can see the two tombs within the shrine: one believed to be of Hazrat Yuz Asaf and the other of Syed Naseeruddin. You can view them through the windows if you cannot enter.
Yes, locals are reported to be very friendly. Some visitors have even been invited for tea by locals after they learned they were from afar.
One tomb is attributed to Hazrat Yuz Asaf, who some believe to be Jesus Christ. The other tomb belongs to Syed Naseeruddin, an Islamic saint.
It's advisable to dress modestly out of respect for the religious nature of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the spiritual atmosphere and the need for quiet reverence might be challenging for very young children. Focus on the external aspects and the surrounding cultural context of Srinagar. The friendly locals might offer a welcoming interaction.
🤔 Curious Travelers & History Buffs
+1 Dive into the evidence presented by proponents and consider the historical context of the 'missing years' of Jesus. Be prepared for the shrine's limited access and strict rules. The real value lies in understanding the cultural significance of the shrine for the Ahmadiyya community and its place within Srinagar's rich history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Controversial Claim: Jesus in India?
He proposed that Jesus did not die on the cross but instead survived, traveled to Kashmir, and lived out his days there. Proponents of this theory point to various interpretations of evidence, such as the name 'Yuz Asaf' (meaning 'Leader of the Healed') and a carving on a tombstone that appears to show wounds on the feet, suggestive of crucifixion injuries.
Despite the academic dismissal, the theory remains a significant belief within the Ahmadiyya community and continues to intrigue many visitors drawn to the mystery and spiritual allure of the shrine.
It transforms the Roza Bal from a simple tomb into a focal point of theological debate and historical speculation. Navigating the Shrine's Access and Etiquette
Photography is strictly prohibited both inside and in the vicinity of the shrine.
The local community around the shrine is known for its warmth and hospitality. Some visitors have shared heartwarming experiences of being invited for tea by locals, adding a personal touch to the visit.
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