Jama Masjid
- Address: Matya Mahal, Old Delhi
- Hours: Open daily 7am - 12:15pm and 1:45pm - 30 minutes before sunset. Closed to non-Muslims at times
- Admission: Free
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Cultural Experience,
Holy Place,
Monument - Historical,
Mosque
The stunning Jama Masjid mosque is the largest in India and the final architectural magnum opus of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Construction of the mosque began in 1644, but it wasn't completed until 1658. It has 3 gateways, 4 angle towers and 2 minarets standing 130 feet (40 meters) high, and is constructed of alternating vertical strips of red sandstone and white marble. The main entry point is Gate No 3. The mosque's courtyard can hold a mind-blowing 25,000 people.
For Rs20 it's possible to climb the southern minaret (women must be accompanied by a male; sometimes unaccompanied men may also not be permitted), where the views are superb. From the top of the minaret, you can see one of the features that architect Edwin Lutyens incorporated into his design of New Delhi - the Jama Masjid, Connaught Place and Sansad Bhavan (Parliament House) are in a direct line.
Latest Reviews
Review by Marsha A, April 2013
Doing what: Private Custom Tour: Delhi in One Day
We had a wonderful experience on our Delhi tour. Our guide, Ashish, was able to share the history about India overall and each site specifically. He was lots of fun, spoke excellent English, and engaged in very informative discussions throughout the day. He knew a great place for us to have lunch - the best Indian food we've ever had. Our driver was also wonderful and navigated the complexities of Delhi traffic with great expertise. We couldn't have been more pleased with our experience.
Review by K J A, February 2013
Doing what: Private Tour: Old and New Delhi in a Day
Very informative and a great way to see all the 'must see' aspects of Delhi in an organised fashion without an overload. There was just enough places to see without feeling it was too long and the guide was excellent.
Review by Becky B, February 2013
Doing what: Old Delhi Half Day Small Group Tour
The tour was great! It was just me and another guy, plus the guide, Ashish. Ashish was really friendly, helpful, and extremly knowledgeable about Delhi and Indian history. We went through the narrow streets of Chandni Chowk, to Jama Masjid and to a Sikh temple, and we had an awesome lunch.
Practical Info
It is located opposite the Red Fort of the walled city of Old Delhi. The nearest metro station is Chawri Market, or take a taxi. Visitors should remove their shoes at the top of the stairs (pay the shoeminder Rs5 upon collection). Beware of fake guides insisting there's a charge to enter the mosque (admission is free). If you wish to hire a guide, ask to see accreditation. For non-Muslims the opening times are 07:00-12:15, 13:45-30 mins before sunset; closed noon-14:00
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