Jama Masjid, Delhi is the largest mosque of India which was built by Shah Jahan. Read the blog for the History, Timings & other information of Jama Masjid.
Jama Masjid is located in Old Delhi. It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656. Jama Masjid is also called Masjid-i Jahān-Numā which means World-reflecting Mosque.
In Arabic, “Jama” mean Friday that’s why this mosque is also famous for Friday Prayers. The mosque is jointly maintained by the Delhi Wakf Board and the Jama Masjid committee under the directives from the Shahi Imam.
Jama Masjid is closed for the visitors only for half an hour during afternoon prayers. One can easily reach the Masjid by metro as it is very close to Chawri Bazar metro station.
Best time to visit Jama Masjid, Old Delhi is during the month of Ramadan when the mosque is decorated with lights. The market near the mosque is also decorated and comes alive.
History of Jama Masjid, Old Delhi
Jama Masjid was identified as the central mosque of the old Delhi in the era of the Shah Jahan.
The history of Jama Masjid, Delhi incorporated the blood shielding labor of about 5000 laborers for constructing this mosque. Saadullah Khan the Wazir of Shah Jahan was the supervisor for the construction of the masjid.
Shah Jahan spent 1 million rupees in the construction of the Jama Masjid, Delhi. It took 12 years to complete the construction of the massive Masjid in Delhi. It was inaugurated in 1656 by an Imam from Bukhara (Uzbekistan).
Architecture
Jama Masjid is an actual example of great architecture that existed throughout the Mughal period. The Masjid has the fusion of both Hindu and Mughal style of architecture.
Jama Masjid, Delhi has two 40 meter elevated minarets made of pure red stone and white marble. There is a vast use of red stone which assists it standing all seasons of the year. There are three entry gates and four towers in the compound of the Masjid. The eastern gate of the masjid was used by the royal family only that’s why it is the largest amongst the three entrance.
The Masjid can be seen from any area in 2 kilometers of its radius as it was situated on a place which was on an elevated ground in contrast to the other buildings of the area.
The Courtyard of the Masjid can easily accommodate 25,000 people. The Mosque also has a huge prayer hall. Jama Masjid is faced towards the Masjid of Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
How to reach Jama Masjid, Delhi?
Jama Masjid is located at Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi. It is just walking distance from Old Delhi Railway station and ISBT Kashmere Gate. Chawri Bazaar is the adjacent Metro Station, approximately 500m away.
Timing
7:00 AM to an hour prior to sunset (summer), 8:00 AM to an hour prior to sunset (winter). The Jama Masjid is closed for half an hour in the afternoon for prayers.
Entry fees
Entry in the Masjid is free for all, Rs. 200-300 photography charge with Rs. 100 from climbing the southern minaret.
Other Important Info:
Visitors should dress conservatively, head, shoulders, and legs should be covered otherwise you won’t be allowed to enter.
You have to remove your shoes before entering the mosque but you can carry a bag to keep them in it and take it with you inside.
If you are a foodie then you can Visit Karim’s, Aslam Chicken Corner or Qureshi and try their famous dishes.