Jama Masjid Srinagar

The Jama Masjid is a revered mosque, located in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. The main pilgrim destination for Muslims in Srinagar, Jama Masjid is located at Nowhatta, in the heart of the old city. Built by the Mughals, the mosque is greatly admired for its timber construction. This mosque is believed to have been originally a Hindu temple, built in 1398 by Sultan Sikandar, also known as Sikandar Butshikan - the destroyer of Idols. It was later enlarged by his son, Zain-ul- Abidin. Jama masjid is spacious enough to accommodate 30,000 people, and thousands of devotees congregate here for the Friday prayers.

Jama Masjid is a colossal mosque built around a central courtyard and supported by 370 wooden pillars. The serene atmosphere of the mosque is in stark contrast with the hustle bustle of the old bazaars surrounding it. The mosque structure is a typical example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The largest mosque in Jammu and Kashmir, Jama Masjid has had an eventful history. Destroyed thrice by fire and rebuilt each time, the Masjid, as it now stands, was repaired during the reign of Maharaja Pratap Singh.

About Jama Masjid in Srinagar, Kashmir
Located in Nowhatta also called as Downtown, Jama Masjid is the biggest mosque in Kashmir Valley and amongst the top attractions for tourists in Srinagar. The mosque’s prime location, impressive architecture, large size, as well as historical and religious importance makes it quite a popular place to see in Srinagar. Every Friday, the sacred Jama Masjid can be seen thronged by thousands of devotees to offer prayers.

History of Jama Masjid Kashmir
Jamia Masjid was built in 1402 by Sultan Sikandar. The existing construction was done on the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb Alamgir in 1672. The mosque has been subject to severe damage due to fire. The fire brokeout in Jama Masjid thrice, the last incident taking place during the reign of Emperor Aurangzeb.

Architecture of Jama Masjid Kashmir
The architecture of Jama Masjid has the influence of the Indo-Saracenic style. A magnificent courtyard with 370 wooden pillars add to the charm of Jama Masjid. There are three entrance gates on north, south and eastern sides of Jama Masjid with three turrets standing on the tall columns of deodar wood. The mosque is large in size and can accommodate 33333 people at a time.