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Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid

The largest Mosque in India, Jama Masjid can accommodate 25000 worshipers at a time. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1650 to 1656, the mosque was named Masjid-i-Jehān-Numā by the emperor.One served as the Royal Mosque, Jama Masjid is considered one of the finest Mughal architectures present in India.The Masjid is embellished with calligraphic inscriptions, which are an important feature of Mughal architecture. Written in Arabic the inscriptions are an expression of the Islamic faith andsome of the inscriptions on the Jama Masjid are verses from the sacred book Quran.

Location

Jama Masjid is located inside the campus of the historic city of Shahjahanabad, presently known as Old Delhi. The mosque is located at a distance of 1km from Red Fort and Sunehri Masjid. Being one of the focus of attention of thetown, Jama Masjid is encompassed by various commercial centers, like the famous Chandni Chowk. The tomb of Indian independence activist MaulanaAbul Kalam Azadis also located next to the mosque

  • Nearest Metro Station – Chawri Bazaar
  • Open – The opening time of the Mosque is 7:00 a.m.daily.
  • Timings– Jama Masjid can be visited anytime between 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on all days except the prayer intervals.
  • Entry Fee The entry fees for Jama Masjid
  • For Indian nationals – Rs. 50/- per person

    Foreign tourists – Rs. 300/- per person

History

Built by Mughal emperor Shihab-ud-Din Muhammad Khurram popularly known as Shah Jahan between 1650 to 1656, Jama Masjid was one of thelast monuments built under his command. Served as the Royal Mosque of the emperors until the end of the Mughal period, Jama Masjid was designed by architect Ustad Khalil andwas constructed by 5000 workers approx. The workforce was varied, consisting of Indians, Arabs, Turks, Persians, and Europeans. Built under the supervision of Sadullah Khan, the wazir during Shah Jahan's dynasty, and Fazil Khan, the controller of Emperor Shah Jahan's household, the construction cost ten lakhs during that time. The mosque was inaugurated on 23rdJuly 1656 by Syed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari, from Bukhara, Uzbekistan, who had been invited by Mughal

Interesting Facts about the Architecture of Jama Masjid

  • Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India, with a capacity to give shelterto over 25,000 worshippers at a time.
  • The mosque is Known for its large, dome-shaped structures and its impressive arches and relics, Jama Masjid is a classic example of Mughal architecture, characterized by its grand scale, sophisticated details, and ornate decoration.
  • The mosque was designed by architect Ustad Khalil and built by nearly 5000 workers.
  • The mosque was built using red sandstone and marble, which were gathered from different parts of the country. The marble used in the mosque was brought from Rajasthan, and the red sandstone was collected from Agra. Because of the use of these materials, Jama Masjidreflects a distinctive red and white color.
  • The mosque was inauguratedby Syed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari, from Bukhara, Uzbekistan on 23rdJuly 1656, who had been invited by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to be the Shahi Imamof the Jama Masjid.
Best time to visit

If anyone wants to take part in the Namaz then one should visit Jama Masjid between 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM as during this time most important prayer is offered. But if anyone wants to explore the beauty of India’s Largest Mosque, then the best time to visit is before 12:00 p.m. and between 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Tips for Visiting Jama Masjid
  • Visitors are not allowed inside the Jama Masjid during prayer time.
  • Leave your footwear outside the mosque.
  • Avoid wearing shorts and skirtsand dress up with modesty.
Nearby Attractions
  • Red Fort Once served as the royal residence of the Mughal Emperors, after transferring the capital from Agra to Delhi, Red Fort has a great significance in the history of India. Initially built in red and white, the structure was designed by architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori who also designed the great symbol of the Love Taj Mahal.
  • St James Church – Once served as the official church of the British Viceroy of India, St James Church is one of the oldest churchesin the city. The Church was built for Colonel James Skinner, an Anglo Indian Soldier of the Maratha Dynasty in 1836.
  • Raj Ghat – Located on the banks of the Yamuna RiverRaj Ghat is a site of national importance as it is a memorial devoted to Mahatma Gandhi. The memorial is made of black marble and marks the spot where Gandhi was cremated after his assassination in 1948. Raj Ghat is a peaceful and serene place that reminds the dedication and sacrifice of Mahatma Gandhi.
  • Feroz Shan Kotla Fort – Built by Feroz Shah Tughlaq, a ruler from the Tughlaq Dynasty, Feroz Shah Kotla Fort was constructed in the 14th century. One of the oldest structures of Delhi, Feroz Shan Kotla Fort, the fortress was established when the Sultan of Delhi, Firoz Shah wanted to transfer the capital from Tughlaqabad to Firozabad.
  • India Gate ndia Gate is a war memorial situated near the Rajpath, New Delhi. It was designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens and was built as a tribute to 84,000 brave soldiers of the British Indian Army who died fighting for the British Indian Army during World War I. The memorial is a 42mhigh stone archway that stands at one end of the Rajpath.
Nearest Shopping place
  • Chandi Chowk Market Famous for its narrow streets and a queue of hawkers and stalls, Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest market areas of the town. The market has served as a center of trade and commerce for centuries. The market is named after the moonlit square,Chandni chowk which was once at its center and was a hub of activity during the Mughal period.
  • Kinari Bazaar– A designer’s paradise, Kinari Bazaar is the wholesale market for fancy laces, borders, and tassels. The market is also very famous for its bridal collection, including lehengas, sarees, and jewelry, and is a popular destination for those looking to buy wedding apparel.
  • NaiSarak – Meaning New Street, NaiSarak is the linking path, connecting the main Chandni Chowk Road to Chawri Bazar in New Delhi. It has a very big wholesale and retail market,especially school and college textbooks.
  • Meena Bazaar Known as Chatta Chowk Bazaar, Meena Bazaar is one of the most popular and oldest markets in Delhi. Meena Bazaar was the first covered market of its time and was used to sell elegant rugs and carpets, quilts, pashmina shawls, woolens, and silks among others.Considering its historic importance, nowadays the Meena Bazaar is maintained by the Archeological Survey of Indiaand sells items like relics, eatables, and drinks.
Restaurants near Jama Masjid
  • Karism's Hotel Pvt Ltd. – Settled in 1913 by HajiKarimuddin, Karism's Hotel Pvt Ltd. is one of the oldest and most famous restaurants in Delhi situated in GaliKababian near Jama Masjid. Name after one of the 99 names of Allah, Karim’s Hotel serves an array of tempting and delicious Mughlai, North India, and BBQ cuisine.
  • Al Jawahar Restaurant – Al Jawahar Restaurant is a medium size restaurant with a clean and relaxed atmosphere and themed décor. The restaurant serves an array of Mughlai, North Indian, Biryani, and Kebab cuisines.
  • Rehmatullaj Hotel – A traditional local fare, RehmatullajHotelis a takeaway shop with no seating area. The hotel offers an array of North Indian and Mughlai cuisines.
  • Aslam Chicken Corner – Popular for its Butter Chicken,Aslam Chicken Corner has won the hearts of folks & tourists forthe last 20 years. This casual-seating restaurant serves an array of Mughlai and North Indian Cuisines.
  • Qureshi Kabab Corner – Situated near the Jama Masjid, Qureshi Kabab Corner is best known for its Beef Kabab, Seekh Kebab Roll, Chicken Seekh,Chicken Kabab, Rumali Roti,and Kababs. The restaurant serves an array of Mughlai, Kabab, and rolls cuisines.
Hotels
  • Taj Palace – A luxurious and stately Hotel, the Taj palace has been Delhi’s Palace since 1983. Offering a panoramic view of the town, the Taj Palace is known for its personalized service and blooming surroundings. Providing the services of 4 award-winning restaurants serving an array of cuisines from across the world, a stylish bar, a temperature-controlled swimming pool, and an expansive Jiva Spa making the Taj Palace in New Delhi, a true urban dynamism.
  • Shangri-la Eros– Situated in India’s one of the largest financial, commercial, and business districts, Shangri-La Eros New Delhi is a lavish and stately Hotel. Providing panoramic views from the Horizon Club, Asian-inspired dining options, and luxurious facilities, Shangri-la Eros hotel offers a pleasant retreat for both business and leisure travelers.
  • The park in New Delhi – Acknowledged as India’s Best Business by famed Travel + Leisure Magazine, The park in New Delhi is a grandiose hotel with impressive décor and interiors. The hotel provides 220 luxury rooms designed with natural materials with discreet details and shades.
  • Metropolitan hotel & spa - Metropolitan Hotel & Spa is one of the finest hotels in Delhi. The hotel provides a unique blend of contemporary luxury with traditional hospitality. The hotel offers agrand outdoor pool,three dining options, a fitness center, and a full-service NeoVeda Spa.
  • Crowne Plaza NewDelhi Mayur Vihar – Hotel Crowne Plaza offers anextravagantretreat just a 27 mins drive from Jama Masjid. Modernize in style and lavishness, the Hotelprovides a rich lounging area, an outdoor pool, and a relaxingon-site spa.
How to Reach
  • By Road: To reach Jama Masjid by road board the bus running from ISBT Kashmere Gate or Old Delhi railway station. One can also opt for cabs or personal vehicles.
  • By Subway: The nearest metro station from Jama Masjid isChawri Bazar situated at a distance of 650 m that runs through the Yellow Line.
Jama Masjid

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

What Is The Former Name Of Jama Masjid?

The former name of Jama Masjid was Masjid-i-Jehan-Numa, which means ‘mosque commanding the view of the world’ in Urdu and Persian.

Is There A Dress Code For Jama Masjid?

Visitors should dress modestly and conservatively and shorts, skirts, and sleeveless dresses are avoided in the mosque. Footwear is not allowed inside the Jama Masjid.

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