About the Masjid
The Palayam Juma Masjid, also known as Masjid-i Jahān-Numā, is the principal mosque in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Established in 1813 by the British Indian Second Regiment, it began as a small military mosque but has since grown into a major religious and cultural landmark. Situated beside the Palayam Ganapathy Temple and St. Joseph’s Cathedral, the mosque stands as a testament to Kerala’s spirit of communal harmony. With its blend of Islamic, Kerala, and Mughal architectural styles, the mosque is an architectural marvel that attracts worshippers and visitors alike.
Description and Specialty:
The Palayam Juma Masjid, also officially known as the Masjid-i Jahān-Numā, is the principal and most important mosque in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. Located in Palayam, it stands as a symbol of communal harmony, situated alongside a temple and a Christian church. Its history dates back to 1813 AD when it was initially constructed as a small mosque. It was later renovated and the current structure was inaugurated in 1967.
Description and Specialty:
Speciality
Symbol of Communal Harmony: Located beside Palayam Ganapathy Temple and St. Joseph’s Cathedral, showcasing Kerala’s religious tolerance.
Green Iftar During Ramadan: Serves a special medicinal porridge (Oushadha Kanji) to over a thousand people, including non-Muslims.
Architectural Marvel: A blend of Islamic, Kerala, and Mughal architectural styles, with white marble minarets and domes.
Masjid Details
Address
GX32+C7F, University of Kerala Senate House Campus, Palayam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695034, India.
Location Coordinates
8.50359° N, 76.95056° E
Timings
Daily: 4:30 AM – 10:30 PM
Services (Sevas)
Five daily prayers
Friday Jumma prayers with large congregations
Special Ramadan arrangements for Iftar
Separate prayer area for women
Travel & Connectivity
Nearby Transport Hubs
Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station (2 km)
Thampanoor KSRTC Bus Stand (1.7 km)
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (4.8 km)
How to Reach?
By Road (Bus)
Regular KSRTC city buses stop at Palayam.
Buses from Kollam, Alappuzha, Kochi, Kottayam, and Madurai reach Thampanoor, from where autos/taxis can be taken.
By Train
Trains from Kochi, Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi arrive at Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station.
From the station, autos, buses, and taxis are available.
By Air
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has direct flights to Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Kochi, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Singapore.
Prepaid taxis, Uber, Ola, and KSRTC airport buses provide transport.
Nearby Attractions & Religious Places
Temples
Padmanabhaswamy Temple (2.5 km) – One of the richest temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Attukal Bhagavathy Temple (3 km) – Known for Attukal Pongala, a world-famous women’s festival.
Pazhavangadi Maha Ganapathy Temple (2.2 km) – Devotees break coconuts as offerings.
Churches
St. Joseph’s Metropolitan Cathedral – Located next to the mosque.
Vettukad Church (Madre De Deus Church) (7 km) – Hosts the Feast of Christ the King.
Tourist Attractions
Napier Museum & Thiruvananthapuram Zoo (1 km) – A heritage museum and one of India’s oldest zoos.
Kovalam Beach (13 km) – Famous for lighthouse views and water sports.
Shankumugham Beach (7 km) – Known for sunset views and a giant mermaid statue.
Veli Tourist Village (8 km) – A lake-beach destination for boating and relaxation.
Facilities for Travelers
Food & Stay
Nearby Hotels: Multiple budget and luxury accommodations available.
Nearby Restaurants: Various vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including Kerala cuisine.
Shopping & Local Markets
Palayam Market (Connemara Market) – Famous for fresh vegetables, spices, and groceries.
Chalai Bazaar – Known for textiles, jewelry, electronics, and local handicrafts.
Lulu Mall Trivandrum – A major shopping mall.
The Palayam Juma Masjid is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of unity, culture, and history. Its strategic location, well-connected transport options, and proximity to major tourist attractions make it a must-visit site in Thiruvananthapuram. Whether attending the spiritually enriching prayers, experiencing the unique Green Iftar, or exploring the nearby religious and cultural landmarks, visitors to the mosque will find a deep sense of peace and inclusivity. With ample facilities for travelers, including food, lodging, and shopping options, the Palayam Juma Masjid continues to be a cherished destination for both locals and tourists.
The Palayam Juma Masjid is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of unity, culture, and history. Its strategic location, well-connected transport options, and proximity to major tourist attractions make it a must-visit site in Thiruvananthapuram. Whether attending the spiritually enriching prayers, experiencing the unique Green Iftar, or exploring the nearby religious and cultural landmarks, visitors to the mosque will find a deep sense of peace and inclusivity. With ample facilities for travelers, including food, lodging, and shopping options, the Palayam Juma Masjid continues to be a cherished destination for both locals and tourists.
