Jama Masjid, Delhi

Jama Masjid in Old Delhi is one of India’s largest and most important mosques, commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and completed in the mid-17th century. It is a principal landmark of the Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi) area and a major site for congregational prayers.

The mosque features a very large rectangular courtyard capable of holding many worshippers, a triple-domed prayer hall built of red sandstone and marble, and two tall minarets that frame the complex. The architecture follows Mughal imperial design traditions and remains a functioning place of worship as well as a tourist destination.

Construction was carried out under Shah Jahan in the 1650s and the mosque has served as a central religious and civic space in Old Delhi since its completion. Over time it has been maintained and repaired while retaining its primary role as a congregational mosque.

Situated in the heart of Old Delhi, the mosque stands near Chandni Chowk and the Red Fort and is easily reached on foot from many historic streets and markets in the walled city.

• Visitor access: Non-Muslim visitors are generally admitted outside of the five daily prayer times and during specific visiting hours; modest dress and removal of shoes are required for entry.

What to See #

• Courtyard and prayer hall: The mosque's large open courtyard leads to the main prayer hall, which is framed by three white marble domes and rows of red sandstone arcades built in the Mughal style.
• Minarets: Two minarets flank the mosque complex and provide vertical emphasis to the façade and skyline of Old Delhi when viewed from surrounding streets.