
Pandrethan is about 4 miles from Srinagar. It was originally an old capital of Kashmir, founded by Emperor Ashoka. The word is a corrupt form of `Purana`, meaning `old` and `adhishthan` meaning `capital`. There is now a military cantonment in the place. The chief attraction for tourists, is however a handsome stone temple, located not far from the road in a very low spring. The roof of the Pandrethan temple has been chiselled out from a single piece of stone, inventively carved.
The Pandrethan temple was built by Meru, minister to King Partha who ruled Kashmir from 921-931. The temple was dedicated to Lord Vishnu and was named Meru Vardhana Swami. The design and evidences illustrate that the temple must have been a popular seat of pilgrimage in ancient times. Pandrethan finds proud mention in the Amar Nath Mahatmva, but now has lost its sacred associations.
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