About Jama Masjid, Delhi
Jama Masjid, formally the Masjid i Jahan Numa, is one of the largest mosques in India. Shah Jahan, who also built the Taj Mahal, commissioned it between 1650 and 1656 as the principal mosque of his new capital, Shahjahanabad. Three gateways lead up broad flights of steps to a courtyard that can hold some 25,000 worshippers.
Red sandstone and white marble alternate in its domes and minarets, and the prayer hall faces west toward Mecca. Visitors can climb the southern minaret for sweeping views over the rooftops of Old Delhi and the Red Fort. The streets below, especially Chandni Chowk and Matia Mahal, are famous for food during Ramadan evenings.
What to see
- Vast courtyard and ablution tank
- Marble domes and striped minarets
- View from the southern minaret
- Eastern gateway facing the Red Fort
- Ramadan food stalls nearby
Visiting Jama Masjid, Delhi: practical guide
- Best time
- October to March
- Hours
- Usually 7 am to noon and 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm; closed to tourists during prayers
- Entry
- Free; camera and minaret fees
- Dress code
- Cover arms and legs; robes provided at the gate
- Nearest airport
- Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL), 20 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Avoid Friday midday prayer times
- Remove shoes at the entrance
- Combine with the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk
Festivals and special days
- Eid al-Fitr
- Eid al-Adha
- Ramadan
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Islam tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Dress modestly, covering arms and legs; women usually cover their hair in mosques.
- Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
- Avoid visiting during prayer times unless invited, and never walk in front of someone praying.
- Be discreet about eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan days.
- Use your right hand for eating and giving or receiving items.
- Some mosques and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina are closed to non-Muslims.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Jama Masjid, Delhi?
Jama Masjid, Delhi is in Delhi, Delhi, India, Asia. GPS coordinates: 28.6507, 77.2334. The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL), 20 km.
What is the best time to visit Jama Masjid, Delhi?
October to March
Is there an entry fee for Jama Masjid, Delhi?
Free; camera and minaret fees Opening hours: Usually 7 am to noon and 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm; closed to tourists during prayers
What should I wear when visiting Jama Masjid, Delhi?
Cover arms and legs; robes provided at the gate
Which religion is Jama Masjid, Delhi sacred to?
Jama Masjid, Delhi is sacred to Islam. Active place of worship.
