Jama Masjid – The Largest Mosque in India

Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India.

It is in the old part of New Delhi, perched on a hill and overlooking the markets below and the Red Fort nearby. This is the first tourist attraction I’ve seen in India. I landed in Indira Gandhi International Airport in the morning and by noon, I met up with the guy I met in Instagram. He was very hospitable in showing me around Old Delhi – despite the pouring rain. We literally walked miles and miles under the rain until I couldn’t bear the icy rain pelting on my skin.

Here are some fascinating facts about Jama Masjid as told by a historian / intagrammer I met on my first day in the city.

Jama Masjid was built by Sha Jahan, the same emperor who built the Taj Mahal in Agra.

It is said to be the last great work of the Mughal Emperor.

It is a good example of Mughal architecture with two soaring minarets.

Jama Masjid means “Friday Mosque.”

The mosque was made possible by more than 5,000 workers to the tune of 1,000,000 rupees.

This 17th century mosque can accommodate twenty five thousand people to pray at the same time.

When the mosque was completed, an Imam from Uzbekistan was invited to inaugurate it.

The best time to visit the mosque is in the morning when it’s serene and only a few people are there.

Take note that, just like any other mosques around the world, showing skin or flesh is prohibited. You are also requested to leave your shoes at the huge door or bring them with you but don’t wear them.

Also, for a small additional amount, you can climb one of the minarets and see the glorious New Delhi skyline from the top.

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