Weather: 8°C - 22°C
Category: Religious, Mosque
Tags: Heritage, Islamic Architecture, Historical Site
Timings: 5:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Time Required: 30 mins - 1 hour
Entry Fee: Free

Overview of Jama Masjid, Aligarh

Located in the heart of Aligarh, Jama Masjid stands as a majestic symbol of Islamic architecture and history. Situated in the Upper Fort area, the mosque is perched on the highest point in the city, offering panoramic views of its surroundings. What sets this mosque apart from others is its stunning golden dome and minarets, made entirely of pure gold, earning it the title of Asia's highest gold mosque.

Originally founded by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan in 1879, the mosque was later commemorated in January 1915. It is not only a place of worship but also a historical landmark, housing the Ganj-e-Shaheedan, or Martyrs' Colony, which contains the tombs of fallen martyrs. With a capacity of up to 5,000 people, it draws both locals and tourists who come to admire its Islamic design and serene spiritual ambiance.

The mosque’s striking architecture, with three domes flanked by towering minarets, exudes a blend of traditional and intricate design. Its colourful glass windows reflect sunlight during the day, adding to the mosque's ethereal beauty, while its stunning exterior illuminated by lights at night is equally captivating.

Architectural Beauty of Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid's architecture takes inspiration from the Jama Masjid in Delhi, particularly its Iwan design—a large gateway that is enclosed on three sides with an open entrance. The mosque's exterior is adorned with three grand domes, with intricate floral carvings on the minarets.

Inside, the mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic artistry, with walls inscribed with Arabic calligraphy and psalms from the Quran written in gold. The interior also features Araish plaster, adding to the grandeur of the sacred space. The colourful glass doors cast beautiful reflections when sunlight filters through, and the Mezzo Quinto arch acts as a decorative entryway.

The mosque is surrounded by six walls dedicated to offering Namaz, while the latticed windows provide a traditional aesthetic. During the night, the mosque comes alive with exterior lights that create an enchanting glow, making it a mesmerizing sight from afar.

Nearby Attractions

  • Maulana Azad Library
  • Aligarh Fort
    These nearby landmarks complement the cultural and historical experience of visiting Jama Masjid.

How to Reach Jama Masjid, Aligarh

  • By Road: Jama Masjid is located about 3.8 km from the city center, and it takes roughly 16 minutes by car or auto. Public transport such as autos (tuk-tuks) are widely available for a hassle-free commute.

  • By Rail: The Aligarh Junction Railway Station is the nearest railway station. From there, you can hire a taxi or take an auto to reach the mosque.

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Aligarh Airport, but visitors usually opt for Delhi Airport, which is approximately 140 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi to reach Jama Masjid.

Best Time to Visit

The mosque is open daily from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with the first Namaz taking place at 5:00 AM. The best time to visit is during early mornings or evenings when the mosque’s architecture is bathed in natural light, providing a peaceful atmosphere.