Srinagar, Mar 14 : Archaeologists in Jammu and Kashmir have undertaken the renovation of a 15th century mosque near Srinagar. A prominent historical and architectural landmark of Srinagar, Aali mosque was constructed by Sultan Hassan Shah, a 15th century ruler of Kashmir.

The renovation work has been jointly undertaken by the state Tourism Department and the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) in an attempt to restore the mosque to its pristine glory.

The main aim behind the renovation of this 670 years' old mosque is to promote heritage tourism in the state.

"We want to utilise the scope of heritage tourism in the state. The maximum tourists who come to the state visit the golf course or the heritage sites. We plan to further promote heritage tourism by renovating such sites," said Farooq Shah, Director, Tourism, Kashmir.

The renovation and rebuilding of the two-storey Aali mosque, which was rebuilt in 1801 by an Afghan soldier after it was gutted in a fire, has been welcomed by the people.

"We are very happy. People are coming here to see the mosque. Tourists, residents all are thronging the place to see the mosque being renovated," said Shabir Khan, a resident.

The renovation of the mosque, which has been in shambles, is being done in two phases. The first phase, which includes conditional and structural appraisal of the building, is nearing completion at an estimated cost of 12.5 million rupees.

Lime and mud is being used to restore its original sheen. (ANI)