The Sankracharya Temple was missed by me due to the steep climb but I did go Downtown on the advice of Ishfaq Bhai. Downtown, popularly known as Shahar-e-Khaas, is mostly located on the banks of Jhelum river.  In general, the whole area to the north of city centre Lal Chowk is considered a part of downtown although some areas hold high significance. The river was rippling with bridges connecting the two parts. The Jamia Masjid,  and many other shrines are located here, which makes it the central spiritual, religious, political and moral center of whole Kashmir. Could not pack in all and have to certainly return to see the rest.

The Jamia Masjid is heavily influenced by Persian architecture, with similarities to the Buddhist pagodas. The structure is quadrangular in shape with four turrets. This courtyard is based on the traditional Chaar Bagh plan and has a tank in the centre. The entire courtyard is made up of pointed arched, brick arcade. The pillars in the halls are cedar trees which have been polished and installed.

 

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