Jama Masjid – Delhi

Jama Masjid, one of India's most iconic Islamic monuments, stands majestically in the heart of Old Delhi. Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, this architectural masterpiece is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of India's rich cultural and religious heritage. It attracts visitors from around the world for its grandeur, historical relevance, and spiritual significance. About the Masjid

Jama Masjid, officially known as Masjid-i-Jahan-Numa, is one of India's largest and most renowned mosques. Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, it was constructed between 1650 and 1656, employing over 5,000 artisans. It was inaugurated by Imam Syed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari from Bukhara (present-day Uzbekistan). The mosque continues to be a significant place of worship and a historical landmark in Old Delhi. Description:

Constructed primarily in red sandstone and marble, the mosque features three grand gates, four towers, and two 40-meter high minarets. It can accommodate over 25,000 worshippers in its courtyard. It reflects a blend of Islamic, Persian, and Indian architectural styles, offering a serene yet majestic experience. Speciality:

One of the largest mosques in India.

Built by Shah Jahan, the same emperor who commissioned the Taj Mahal.

Houses relics of the Prophet Muhammad, including a hair and a footprint.

Offers panoramic views of Old Delhi from the top of its minarets.

Architectural Significance :

Built with red sandstone and white marble, reflecting classic Mughal architecture.

Features three grand domes, two 40-meter-high minarets, and four towers.

The intricate Persian calligraphy on the walls and the massive courtyard can accommodate 25,000 worshippers.

Inspired by Islamic and Persian designs, similar to the Red Fort. Location and Coordinates : 

Address: Jama Masjid, Old Delhi, Delhi – 110006, India.

Coordinates: 28.6507° N, 77.2334° E. Visiting Hours and Entry Fees : 

Morning: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Afternoon: 1:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Entry Fee: Free for visitors.

Photography Charge: ₹300.

Note: Non-Muslims are not allowed inside during prayer times. Religious Services (Sevas) : 

Daily Prayers: Five times a day.

Special Friday Prayers: Large congregations for Jumu'ah.

Eid Prayers: Huge gatherings on Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha. How to Reach Jama Masjid :

By Road (Bus & Auto) 

Nearest Bus Stations: ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Red Fort Bus Stop.

DTC Bus Routes: Buses from Connaught Place, India Gate, and Karol Bagh frequently pass near Jama Masjid.

Other Transport: Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis available. By Metro : 

Nearest Metro Station: Jama Masjid Metro Station (Violet Line). Alternative Metro Stations:

Chawri Bazar Metro Station (Yellow Line) – 1 km away.

Chandni Chowk Metro Station (Yellow Line) – 1.5 km away.By Train : 

Nearest Railway Station: Old Delhi Railway Station (1.5 km away). Other Nearby Railway Stations:

New Delhi Railway Station (3.5 km away).

Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station (10 km away). By Air : 

Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (Approx. 20 km away).

Airport to Mosque Travel:

Metro Option: Take the Airport Express Line to New Delhi Metro Station, then switch to the Yellow Line for Chandni Chowk.

Taxi/Ride-hailing: Uber, Ola, or prepaid taxis available. Nearby Cities :

Gurgaon – 35 km

Noida – 20 km

Ghaziabad – 30 km

Faridabad – 40 km Nearby Attractions

Red Fort (1 km) – A UNESCO World Heritage site.

Chandni Chowk (500m) – Famous for markets and street food.

Raj Ghat (4 km) – Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial.

India Gate (6 km) – Iconic war memorial.

Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah (10 km) – A famous Sufi shrine.

Fatehpuri Masjid (2 km) – Historic mosque in Chandni Chowk.

Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib (2 km) – Significant Sikh site. Facilities Around Jama Masjid

Traveling Facilities :

Public transport: Metro, buses, and cycle-rickshaws available.

Heritage Walks: Guided tours for history enthusiasts.

Car Parking: Limited parking space near Meena Bazaar. Food Facilities :

Jama Masjid is a food lover's paradise, especially for Mughlai cuisine. Famous Eateries Nearby:

Karim’s – Iconic for kebabs, nihari, and Mughlai curries.

Al Jawahar – Known for biryani and grilled meats.

Aslam Butter Chicken – Specializes in unique buttery chicken.

Cool Point – Famous for desserts like Shahi Tukda and kulfi. Stay Facilities 

Budget Hotels: Affordable stays available in Paharganj and Chandni Chowk.

Luxury Hotels:The Oberoi, New Delhi, Taj Mahal Hotel, The Lalit Delhi

Mid-range Hotels: Hotel Tara Palace (near Jama Masjid) Bloom Boutique Hotel Best Time to Visit :

October to March – Pleasant weather for sightseeing.

Avoid peak summers (April to June) due to extreme heat. Shopping Around Jama Masjid :

Meena Bazaar – Traditional garments, handicrafts, and antiques.

Chandni Chowk Market – Famous for spices, dry fruits, and textiles.

Dariba Kalan – Delhi’s oldest jewelry market, specializing in gold and silver.

Khari Baoli – Asia’s largest spice market, known for high-quality spices.

Jama Masjid is more than just a religious monument it's a living piece of India's Mughal past, vibrant present, and spiritual soul. Whether you’re drawn by history, architecture, or devotion, a visit to this mosque is a journey into the heart of Delhi. With nearby travel, food, and shopping facilities, it makes for a rich cultural and spiritual experience year-round.