Pray at the Baba Reshi Shrine

The name Baba Reshi is synonymous with not just a shrine but an entire village and the adjoining forest area close to Gulmarg. All three are named after the Sufi Saint Baba Payamuddin Rishi. Baba Payamuddin Rishi was a courtier in the court of king Zain-ul-Aibak in the 15th century. It is said that he gave up his worldly belongings and dedicated his life to serving common people. He lived in this area and after his death, a shrine was built in the year 1480, forming a landmark for his followers and for all those who have interest in the spiritual.

The shrine is around 6 kms from Gulmarg and can be accessed by car, horses or on foot and is at an elevation of roughly 7,000 ft (2,150 meters). One can visit the shrine between 9 am to 5 pm daily. A large number of visitors flock the shrine for historic and religious reasons. A number of childless couples come to pray at the shrine as it is believed that doing so will help the couple bear a child.

One can walk to the shrine from Gulmarg’s outer circle road and go through a beautiful forest area which is full of beautiful views of the mountains and photography opportunities.