Jama Masjid Srinagar
About Jama Masjid Srinagar
Jama Masjid, located in the bustling Nowhatta area of Srinagar's old city, is the largest and most important mosque in Kashmir. Originally commissioned by Sultan Sikandar in 1400 AD and later expanded by his son Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin in 1402 AD, this magnificent mosque is a testament to Kashmir's rich Islamic heritage. The mosque has been rebuilt multiple times due to fires, with the current structure dating from 1674 AD, maintaining the original architectural vision.
The mosque is renowned for its unique Indo-Saracenic architecture featuring 378 wooden pillars, each made from a single deodar tree trunk. The courtyard can accommodate over 33,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest mosques in India. The mosque's four minarets and beautifully proportioned structure create an imposing yet elegant presence. The intricate wooden carvings, arched colonnades, and the peaceful courtyard with its central fountain make it an architectural masterpiece that beautifully blends Persian and Kashmiri design elements.
Historical Significance
| Location | Nowhatta, Srinagar Old City |
| Distance from City Center | 3 km from Lal Chowk |
| Originally Built By | Sultan Sikandar (1400 AD) |
| Expanded By | Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin (1402 AD) |
| Current Structure | 1674 AD (rebuilt after fire) |
| Capacity | Over 33,000 worshippers |
| Wooden Pillars | 378 pillars from single deodar trees |
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round (outside prayer times) |
Architectural Features
- 378 Wooden Pillars: Each carved from a single deodar tree trunk
- Massive Courtyard: Can accommodate 33,000+ worshippers
- Four Minarets: Traditional minarets at each corner
- Indo-Saracenic Style: Blend of Persian and Kashmiri architecture
- Arched Colonnades: Beautiful covered walkways around courtyard
- Central Fountain: Traditional ablution fountain in courtyard
- Wooden Carvings: Intricate carvings on pillars and ceilings
- Prayer Hall: Spacious main hall with traditional design
How to Reach
By Road
Located in Nowhatta, old city Srinagar. Easily accessible via taxi or auto-rickshaw from Lal Chowk.
By Air
Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar is 14 km away.
Visiting Information
| Opening Hours |
Open for visitors outside prayer times Best: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Photography | Allowed with respect to worshippers |
| Duration | 45 minutes - 1.5 hours |
Travel Tips
- Visit outside of Friday prayers when the mosque is extremely crowded
- Dress modestly - women should cover their heads and wear conservative clothing
- Remove shoes before entering the mosque courtyard
- Best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for softer light
- The mosque is particularly beautiful during Ramadan with special decorations
- Explore the surrounding old city bazaars and historic lanes after visiting
- Be respectful of worshippers and local customs
Nearby Attractions
- Pathar Masjid (500 meters)
- Shah Hamdan Mosque (1.5 km)
- Khanqah-e-Moula (2 km)
- Old City Bazaars (walking distance)
- Hari Parbat Fort (2 km)
- Dal Lake (4 km)