Jama Masjid Delhi : Best Time, Location, History
Jama Masjid Delhi is one of the major tourist destinations in the city. Located right in the heart of Old Delhi, Jama Masjid was built by Mughal emperor Shahjahan in the mid 17th-century.
As a tourist, you must have Jama Masjid on your itinerary. This travel guide is about the best time to visit Jama Masjid Delhi, its history and location. Keep reading.
Jama Masjid history
According to historians, this mosque was built under the orders of Mughal emperor Shahjahan between 1644 and 1658. Shajahan's prime minister Sadullah Khan guided the construction of this mosque. A princely sum of INR 10 lacs was allocated for this mosque.
Jama Masjid was eclusively made for male worshippers and Shahjahan. There was an exclusive entrance for the Mughal emperor.
This mosque, which is spread over 1200 square meters, is near to the historic Red Fort in Delhi. After you have finished exploring the majectic fort,you can walk down to Jama Masjid.
Jama Masjid Delhi architecture
Built on a 10-feet high red sandstone platform, Jama Masjid has three entrances. The easten gate was probably reserved for the Mughal emperors.
The northern and sputhern gates have a flight of steps. which are wide enough for tourists to sit and relax. In the center of Jama Masjid is a very big courtyard that can accommodate hundreds of devotees. There is a water pool in this area for ablutions.
All the three entrances are marked with tall gates, the large one being the eastern gate.
The prayer area is capped by three domes,the central dome being directly over the minbar and the iqhwan. A long corridor forms the prayer area and at any given day, you can see tens of devotees sitting on the gloor and praying. A flight of steps leads to this area.
Twin towers
You will notice two towers on either side of the three domes. Visitors can climb up to the topmost storey of the left tower and enjoy a bird's eye view of Old Delhi. There is a separate entry fee for this tower.
Weary tourists can sit and relax inside the corridor to the right of the prayer area. From this corridor, they can watch the walls of Red Fort Delhi.
Jama Masjid Delhi location
You can walk down to this mosque from Red Fort Delhi. The walking time is under 10 minutes and Jama Masjid is located roughly southwest of the fort.
If you are tired from your Red Fort Delhi walk, you can hire a battery-operated or a hand-pulled rickshaw.
What to do at Jama Masjid?
You can do the following things in and around Jama Masjid.
- Explore the mosque and climb up the tower.
- Buy silverware in the adjoining market.
- You can also purchase saris and other dress materials in Old Delhi.
- Eat vegetarian or non-veg food in the eateries around Jama Masjid Delhi.
Entry Fee
- Free for Indians.
- Foreigners are charged entry fees.
- Camera charges applicable.
Jama Masjid:Best Time,Location, History
Visiting Time - 7-12.30 PM: 1.30 PM- 6.30 PM. Fridays closed., |
Entry free for Indians. Foreigners need to pay a separate fee. |
Camera charges apply. |
Best Time to Visit Jama Masjid Delhi - Early morning / Evening |
Nearest Metro Station - Red Fort Station |