Jama Masjid
Gandhi Rd, Ahmedabad, India, 380001
This landmark, yellow-sandstone mosque is a standout in Gujarat, with its blend of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic design elements. Built as the principal place of worship for Muslims during the reign of Sultan Ahmed Shah I, the mosque was once among the largest in India and is a must-visit for travelers interested in Indo-Islamic history and architecture.
The basics
Jama Masjid lies in the UNESCO-listed Historic City of Ahmedabad steps from the Teen Darwaja gateway and Bhadra Fort—you can easily visit all three attractions while seeing the sights on foot or taking a tour. Past the entrances through four gates in four cardinal directions, the mosque holds a marble-floored courtyard and architectural features fusing the three religions, including the carved walls and domes, prayer hall, and hundreds of columns. The structure also houses the tomb of Ahmedabad's founder, Ahmed Shah I.
Things to know before you go
The site is a place of worship, so dress modestly and cover your head before entering the mosque.
Wear shoes you can easily slip off, since you must remove footwear before entering.
Only men are allowed in the prayer hall.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's best to ask for permission, especially during prayer times.
Admission is always free.
How to get there
Jama Masjid, in the heart of Ahmedabad and the walled Historic City, at Gandhi Road and Manek Chowk Road, is easily accessible from most of the city by auto-rickshaw, taxi, and local buses, but walking is easiest within the city center. Many buses run on Relief Road and Swami Vivekanand Road nearby; Gheekanta is the nearest metro station, on the Blue Line.
When to get there
The mosque is open daily from dawn until dusk. Visiting during religious festivals, such as Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, is a great time to witness local processions and a vibrant atmosphere. Generally, the best time to visit Gujarat is from November to February, when you’ll have pleasant, cooler weather.
Where to grab a bite near Jama Masjid
A jewelry and vegetable market during the day, Manek Chowk, which stands in front of the mosque, turns into one of Ahmedabad’s liveliest street-food markets in the evening. After visiting the mosque, head to the market to try delicious local specialties, such as dosas, kulfi traditional Indian ice cream, or bhaji pav, curry served on bread rolls.
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