Located within the majestic Red Fort complex in Old Delhi, the Moti Masjid, also known as the Pearl Mosque, is a remarkable example of Mughal architecture and royal devotion. Built by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1659, this serene marble mosque was used by the imperial family for private prayers. Despite its smaller size compared to grander Mughal mosques, it holds great historical, cultural, and architectural value. This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting Moti Masjid – from history and timings to nearby attractions and travel options. About Moti Masjid
The Moti Masjid, also known as the Pearl Mosque, is a stunning 17th-century mosque built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb inside the Red Fort complex in Delhi, India. Constructed between 1659 and 1660, this exquisite mosque served as a private place of worship for the royal family. Located near the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) and the Hammam (Royal Bathhouse), the mosque stands out for its pristine white marble architecture, which gives it the appearance of a pearl. Though not open to the public, visitors can admire it from outside while exploring the Red Fort complex.
Specialty and Architecture
The mosque is named "Moti Masjid" (Pearl Mosque) due to its pristine white marble construction that resembles a pearl.
It features a three-domed prayer hall with finely carved floral patterns.
The black marble outlines on the floor depict prayer rugs (musallas).
A square ablution fountain is centrally located in the courtyard.
Location and Address
Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi - 110006, India
Coordinates: 28.656815°N, 77.243142°E
Visiting Information
Timings: The Moti Masjid is not open to the public to protect its delicate structure. However, visitors can view it from outside while exploring the Red Fort complex.
Red Fort Visiting Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from dawn to dusk. Closed on Mondays.
Entry Fee (For Red Fort): ₹35 (Indian Citizens), ₹500 (Foreigners)
How to Reach Moti Masjid (Red Fort) :
By Road (Bus Routes)
Nearest Bus Stop: Red Fort Bus Stop / Chandni Chowk Bus Stop
DTC Bus Numbers:
From ISBT Kashmere Gate – 405, 410, 419, 502, 729
From Connaught Place (Rajiv Chowk) – 109, 110, 115
From New Delhi Railway Station – 216, 502, 729
By Train (Railway Routes)
Nearest Railway Stations:
Old Delhi Railway Station (Delhi Junction - DLI) (2 km away)
New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) (4 km away)
Major Trains to Delhi:
Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, Duronto Express, Garib Rath Express connect major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.
By Air (Nearest Airport)
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) (Approx. 20 km away)
Domestic Terminal (T1): Flights from Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, etc.
International Terminal (T3): Flights from Dubai, London, Singapore, New York, etc.
Airport to Red Fort:
Metro: Take Airport Express Line to New Delhi Metro Station → Yellow Line to Chandni Chowk Metro Station.
Taxis & Cabs: Uber, Ola, Prepaid taxis available.
Nearby Cities
Noida (22 km)
Gurgaon (30 km)
Ghaziabad (20 km)
Faridabad (40 km)
Meerut (70 km)
Nearby Religious Sites & Tourist Attractions
Inside Red Fort:
Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience)
Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience)
Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors)
Khas Mahal (Royal Residence)
Lahori Gate & Hammam (Royal Bathhouse)
Nearby Temples & Religious Sites:
Jama Masjid (1 km) – One of India's largest mosques.
Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib (1.2 km) – A historic Sikh shrine.
Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir (1 km) – One of the oldest Jain temples in Delhi.
Akshardham Temple (7 km) – A magnificent Hindu temple.
Other Tourist Attractions:
Chandni Chowk Market (1 km) – Known for street food and shopping.
Raj Ghat (3 km) – Memorial of Mahatma Gandhi.
India Gate (6 km) – A war memorial in Delhi.
Lotus Temple (12 km) – A unique Bahá'í House of Worship.
Best Time to Visit
October to March (Cooler months) – Best time for sightseeing.
April to June – Avoid due to extreme summer heat.
July to September – Monsoon season; unpredictable rains.
Shopping & Famous Markets Nearby
Chandni Chowk Market – Famous for clothes, jewelry, spices, and street food.
Dariba Kalan – Known for silver jewelry.
Khari Baoli – Asia’s largest spice market.
Meena Bazaar – A historic bazaar inside Red Fort.
Dilli Haat (10 km) – Handicrafts and souvenirs from all over India.
Food & Accommodation Facilities
Food Options Near Moti Masjid:
Karim’s (Near Jama Masjid) – Famous for Mughlai cuisine.
Paranthe Wali Gali (Chandni Chowk) – Famous for stuffed parathas.
Bikanervala & Haldiram’s – For vegetarian snacks & sweets.
Al Jawahar – Best place for kebabs and biryani.
Stay Options Near Red Fort:
Budget Hotels:
Hotel Tara Palace
Zostel Delhi
Backpacker Panda
Mid-Range Hotels:
Hotel Broadway
Hotel Ajanta
Luxury Hotels:
The Lalit
Taj Mahal Hotel
The Oberoi The Moti Masjid is a remarkable example of Mughal architectural brilliance, reflecting the opulence and spiritual depth of the Mughal era. While access to the mosque is restricted, its beauty can still be appreciated as part of a visit to the Red Fort, one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks. Surrounded by historical sites, bustling markets, and delicious food joints, a trip to this area offers a rich cultural and historical experience. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a traveler exploring Delhi’s heritage, the Moti Masjid and its surroundings make for an unforgettable visit.
