Nestled in Kashmir’s Kulgam district, the village of Chimmer preserves a vital piece of the region’s spiritual heritage through a shrine dedicated to one of its most revered figures, Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani, widely known as Nund Rishi. The shrine, though modest in appearance, stands as a testament to Kashmir’s rich spiritual traditions and continues to draw visitors from across the region.
“This shrine is the heart of our village,” says Mohammad Ashraf, a local resident who has been visiting the shrine for over four decades.
He said that people come here not just for prayers, but to find peace and maintain our connections as a community. The daily stream of visitors includes both villagers and travelers from neighboring areas, seeking moments of quiet reflection or participating in community gatherings.
Set against the backdrop of apple orchards and rolling meadows, the shrine’s architecture reflects the simplicity that characterized Nund Rishi’s teachings in the 14th century. Unlike the grand shrines found in urban areas, Chimmer’s spiritual center embraces a more understated approach, focusing on the essence of spiritual practice rather than ornate decorations.
Nund Rishi, known as “Alamdar-e-Kashmir” (Standard Bearer of Kashmir), founded the Rishi order, which blended Sufi teachings with local traditions. His emphasis on living harmoniously with nature and showing compassion to all beings continues to resonate with Kashmiris today. The saint’s poetry, often recited during gatherings at the shrine, remains a cornerstone of Kashmiri literature and spiritual thought.
“When we recite Nund Rishi’s verses, we’re not just remembering his words – we’re keeping our culture alive,” says Fatima Begum, a resident of Chimmer.
She said that these recitations, typically in Kashmiri, draw crowds of young and old alike, ensuring the transmission of traditional knowledge across generations.
“The shrine’s weekly gatherings have become important community events. Every Thursday evening, villagers gather for special prayers and devotional singing. These gatherings are crucial for maintaining our social fabric,” says Abdul Rashid, a local teacher.
He said tha people from different backgrounds come together, share their concerns, and find solutions to community issues.
“Throughout the year, the shrine hosts various spiritual and cultural events. During spring, the annual Urs celebration attracts hundreds of devotees who participate in night-long prayer sessions and poetry recitations,” he said.
He added that the autumn harvest season brings its own traditions, with farmers offering thanks and seeking blessings for their crops.
“What makes this shrine special is its simplicity and the genuine devotion of its visitors,” said Abdul Rahman, a frequent visitor from a neighboring village.
He said that one gets experience spirituality as it’s practiced in daily life, without ceremony or pretense.
For visitors interested in experiencing this unique aspect of Kashmir’s cultural landscape, the shrine is accessible by road from Kulgam town.
The peaceful atmosphere is enhanced by Chimmer’s natural setting, with its clear streams and mountain views changing with the seasons.
According to details available on district administration, Kulgam website which reads that Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA) was born and raised in Qaimoh, where he spent most of his life. At the age of 30, he left his home and retired to a cave in Guffabal, a small village in Tehsil Qaimoh, for meditation. The cave, about 15 feet deep, continues to attract pilgrims to this day.
Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA) is often considered the patron saint of Kulgam. Immortalized by his verses, which reflect the syncretic Sufi-Reshi tradition of Kashmir, he holds a venerated place among the saints who have shaped the culture and ethos of the region.
In Chimmer, Kulgam, where he spent several years, there is an Astan (shrine) dedicated to him. Though modest in appearance, it pays homage to his life philosophy, and the sense of peace and piety felt there is unparalleled.
