Jama Masjid in Delhi

Opening Days and Timings–
All days of the week: 07:00 AM-12:00 PM, 01:30 PM-06:30 PM

“Glorious symbol of Islamic sects and mores, Jama-Masjid, the mosque is a quintessential conglomeration of religion, reverence, humanity and belief.”

Jama Masjid : India’s Largest Islamic Congregation Place

Jama Masjid is the largest mosque of Delhi, India. It was constructed across the road in front of the famous monument Red Fort. This sacred mosque was built between the year 1644 and 1658 and is one of the last outstanding architectural works of the famous Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Its spacious, attractive courtyard of the mosque usually holds thousands of faithful. This holy mosque is situated on a mound in the beautiful heart of the old city and projects amazingly into the Old-Delhi skyline.

Architecture of Jama Masjid

The mosque was constructed in pure red sandstone and white marble by over 5000 artisans. The mosque is originally called the Masjid-i-Jahan-Numa, or “mosque which commands the view of the whole world”, the Jama Masjid stands at the amid of the erstwhile old capital city of the famous Mughals, Shahjahanabad.

It was accomplished under the proper supervision of Saadullah Khan who were the Prime Minister of Shah Jahan at that time. A sum of around Rs 10 lakhs was spent on the total construction. It has been constructed on a red sandstone porch which is almost 30 feet (10 m) from the overall level of the ground. The mosque is about 1400 square yards (1200 m²) in total extent.

The Jama Masjid has main three gateways including four towers, three domes and two minarets. The main entrance of the masjid is located on the eastern side which is facing the Red Fort. Each minaret of the mosque has 5 distinct storeys and each one of these storeys has a perfect projecting balcony. The adjoining edifices are well-crafted, done with artistic calligraphy.

The mosque is properly covered with amazingly intricate carvings and has well-inscribed verses from the holy Koran. The main prayer hall of the mosque is constructed of high cusped arches and well-designed marble domes. The cabinet of the mosque in the north gate of the Jama Masjid comprises of the whole collection of Muhammad’s relics. It is also said that the Koran written on deerskin, a red beard-hair of the prophet were also there in the mosque along with his sandal. His footprints were also implanted in a marble block in the mosque.

The courtyard of the mosque is large enough to accommodate 25000 people at a time.

Area Around Jama Masjid

The area around Jama Masjid is always buzzing with activity. From the main road, the entry to this road is gained from the Ram Lila ground maidan lane. On the way are numerous shops of artefacts and metal crafts. The stationery market and Nai Sarak old books market are close by.

The area around this mosque is also known for its non-vegetarian culinary delights. You can have a range of non-vegetarian items, such as biryani, “nahari”, “kormas”, “kebabs”, “khameeri roti”, and other items prepared in Mughlai way. The sweet items, such as “kheer”. “firni” and “feni” are also prepared. It is often said that if you want to have the best of Mughali food in the capital, then Jama Masjid hotels and restuarants offer the best.

Meena Bazaar is another market area which is close to Jama Masjid. This is the place where you can have small industrial tools and machines made of metals. Bits, drills, cutters, grinders, hammers and many other items which are used in metal works can be found here.

Metro Connectivity and Location

Do visit Razia Begum Tomb and Ghyasuddin’s Tomb situated within a kilometer stretch of this mosque.

The Jama Masjid Metro Station on Violet Line is the closest Delhi Metro Station to this historic mosque.