Jama Masjid, Delhi
North India Region
Jama Masjid, also known as Masjid-i-Jehan-Numa, is one of the largest mosques in India, located in the historic Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi). Constructed between 1644 and 1656 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, it served as the imperial mosque and a symbol of Mughal sovereignty. The mosque features grand architecture with red sandstone and white marble, including three large gates, four towers, and two 40-meter high minarets. Its vast courtyard can accommodate up to 25,000 devotees. Beyond its religious function, Jama Masjid was a significant social and political center during the Mughal era and British rule. Today, it remains an active place of worship and a major tourist attraction, situated close to landmarks like the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk. Visitors can experience the mosque's rich cultural heritage and its role as a focal point of Old Delhi life.
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Tip: The best time to visit is during the morning tourist hours from 8:00 AM to sunset for foreigners and 11:00 AM to sunset for Indian visitors. Photography is allowed and free. Visitors can hire robes at the northern gate to dress like locals. After sunset, only devotees are permitted for prayers, and the mosque closes thereafter until morning. Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons to avoid queues. Entry is free for Indian tourists, while foreigners have a nominal fee. Wear modest clothing and be prepared for a large crowd, especially during Fridays and Islamic festivals.
Interesting facts
- •Jama Masjid's courtyard can hold up to 25,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest mosque courtyards in India.
- •The mosque was constructed with a diverse workforce including Indians, Arabs, Persians, Turks, and Europeans.
- •It was one of the last major monuments built by Shah Jahan, who also built the Taj Mahal and Red Fort.
- •The mosque's name Masjid-i-Jehan-Numa means 'mosque that reflects the whole world'.
- •During British rule, the mosque was used as barracks for soldiers after the 1857 revolt, which was a deliberate act to insult the Muslim population.
History
Jama Masjid was built between 1644 and 1656 under Shah Jahan's reign, marking one of his last grand architectural projects.
It was inaugurated by Syed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari, the first Shahi Imam.
The mosque served as the royal mosque of the Mughal emperors, symbolizing their political and religious authority.
During British colonial rule, the mosque experienced decline after the 1857 Revolt; it was confiscated and used as military barracks, desecrating its religious purpose.
Despite these challenges, the mosque has remained a vital religious and cultural site in Delhi, retaining its historic significance and architectural grandeur.
Place Guide
Main Prayer Hall1656
The grand prayer hall is richly decorated with red sandstone and white marble, featuring intricate calligraphy and floral motifs. It is the central place for congregational prayers and Islamic ceremonies.
Courtyard1656
A vast open courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees, surrounded by cloisters and arcades. It is used for large congregational prayers, especially on Fridays and Eid festivals.
Minarets1656
Two towering minarets, each 40 meters high, constructed of alternating strips of red sandstone and white marble. These provide panoramic views of Old Delhi from the top.
Northern Gate Robe Rental
Visitors can rent traditional robes at the northern gate to experience local dress customs while touring the mosque, enhancing cultural immersion.
Contact
Phone: 011 2336 5358
