The magnificent Jama Masjid is an iconic monument that speaks volumes about the rich history and culture of India. Built in the 1650s by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the mosque is located in Delhi and is one of the largest mosques in the country. With its awe-inspiring red sandstone arcade and four towering minarets, Jama Masjid is a sight to behold. This blog post takes a closer look at the marvelous structure with a detailed travel guide and fascinating facts.
Table of Contents
1. The Jama Masjid of Delhi was constructed between 1644 and 1658, and is the largest mosque in India.
2. Legend has it that over five thousand artisans and laborers were employed in the construction of the mosque.
3. Jama Masjid is made of marble and sandstone and the structure is designed in such a way that it can house 25,000 worshippers at one time.
4. After the completion of the mosque in 1656, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan gifted a fifth of the total cost of construction of Jama Masjid to 800 labourers with 200,000 rupees.
5. Jama Masjid of Delhi holds a significant position in the history of India as it was the site where the first war of independence launched during 1857 revolution.
6. Visitors often come to the Jama Masjid to shop for unique items such as prayer carpets, books, figurines, jewelry, traditional Indian clothing etc.
7. The height of the Jama Masjid Minar is 40 meter.
8. The mosque courtyard is covered by a huge arched verandah.
9. The mosque houses some of the oldest copies of the Holy Quran kept safely in the southern gate of the premises.
10. The congregation hall located at the western wall of the mosque is designed intricately with marble and stucco.
Jama Masjid, also known as the Masjid-i Jahān-Numā, is the principal mosque of Old Delhi in India and the largest in India. Located in the centre of the walled city of Delhi, it was built by Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656 and is a major tourist attraction. The mosque is a vast open courtyard surrounded by four towering minarets and a richly decorated gate. The courtyard can accommodate up to twenty-five thousand worshipers at a time. The architecture of the mosque is a perfect blend of Persian, Indian and Islamic styles.
The mosque was built on a site previously occupied by a Moghul palace, the demolished Jahanpanāh. Eight large marble domes, 212 small domes and four 40-metre-high minarets distinguish the mosque from other Mughal works. The main gate of the mosque is known as the Buland Darwaza, or the Gate of Majesty, and was completed in 1656. It is lavishly decorated with carvings, inscriptions and inscriptions celebrating Shah Jahan’s reign. A majestic staircase leads to the courtyard, which is paved with marble slabs.
The interior of the mosque is just as beautiful as its exterior. It contains three large prayer halls, known as the Mehrab-i Masjid, the Zenānkhānā and the Mīrkhānā, which are elaborately decorated with calligraphy, stucco work, frescos, marble inlays, mirror work and elaborate lamps. In the center of the courtyard is the famous marble tank, known as the Wuzu Khāna, used for the ritual bathing before prayer. The walls and corner of the building are adorned with Quranic inscriptions, while the ceiling of the prayer hall contains exquisite decorations made from marble and jade.
The Jama Masjid continues to be one of the most popular places of worship in India today, and its grandeur never fails to impress. It is a popular gathering place for festivals such as Eid and Ramadan, and its magnificence attracts many visitors from around the world.
Jama Masjid is one of Delhi, India’s oldest and most famous mosques and is an integral part of the city’s cultural heritage. Located in the old walled city, the Jama Masjid is one of the best religious sites in the country and offers tourists a glimpse of the historic and spiritual side of the city. Here is a travel guide to visiting Jama Masjid – Delhi:
When to visit:
The best time to visit Jama Masjid is in the winter, from December to February. The weather during these months is usually pleasant and sunny.
How to get there:
Jama Masjid is easily accessible from all parts of Delhi. The nearest metro station to the Jama Masjid is the Chawri Bazaar Metro Station, which is about 300 meters away. Alternatively, you can take a rickshaw or a bus to reach the mosque.
What to bring:
While visiting the Jama Masjid, it is advisable to dress modestly. Women should cover their arms, legs, halos and hair completely. Men should wear long pants and a shirt that covers their arms and shoulders.
What to do:
Once at Jama Masjid, there are several activities to enjoy. Visitors can explore the intricately-designed mosque and its courtyards, marvel at the marble minarets and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of the mosque. You can also visit the nearby market to experience the hustle and bustle of the city. It is also possible to take a hot air balloon ride and get a bird’s eye view of the mosque and the old city.
Q: What is the address of Jama Masjid?
A: Jama Masjid is located at Meena Bazaar, Old Delhi, Delhi 110006.
Q: Is Jama Masjid open to public?
A: Yes, Jama Masjid is open to public. The mosque can be entered from the southeastern, southern, and northern gates.
Q: Is there an entry fee for Jama Masjid?
A: No, there is no entry fee for Jama Masjid.
Q: How do I reach Jama Masjid?
A: You can reach Jama Masjid by taking a metro, auto-rickshaw, or taxi from various directions including the Old Delhi Railway Station.
Q: What are the opening and closing hours of Jama Masjid?
A: The opening time for Jama Masjid is 7:00 am–7:00 pm, and the closing time is 7:30 pm.
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