Brief History:

The Shah Jahan Mosque, also known as Jamia Masjid, in Thatta, Pakistan is a 17th century Mughal era mosque. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and was modeled after the famous Jama Masjid in Delhi. The mosque is considered as the grandest example of Mughal architectural grandeur in Sindh. It is situated in the Saah Thatta tehsil and is known as the Jewel of Sindh. The mosque is believed to be one of the most beautiful mosques in the area and boasts of intricate design along with colorful tiles on its walls and floors. The mosque was under the care of the faithful devotees of four grand shrines located near the mosque. It has served as the main place of worship for the local Muslims since its erection in the 16th century. It is one of the most famous mosque in India which you must visit.

Architecture:

The Shah Jahan Mosque in Thatta, India, is an impressive example of Mughal architecture, constructed between 1644 and 1647 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. This monument is a testament to the magnificence of the Mughal Empire, and features a rich fusion of Indian, Mughal and Persian architectural styles. The mosque stands in the centre of a large plaza, containing several fountains and surrounded by a number of rooms and chambers built in an arc formation. These are used for ritual ablutions and storage of supplies. The principal structure of the mosque is a large central hall with a dome, rising from a four-aisled prayer hall. Four large wheel-like structures, called chihilat, are situated in each corner of the hall. The main entrance to the hall is on the east side, and is flanked by two large rectangular verandahs, which are also accessed by staircases from the ground floor. Inside the prayer hall, the walls, ceilings and arches are decorated with diverse styles of intricate marble, terracotta and classic Islamic motifs. The mosque is unique in its use of two distinct domes, one on each level. The lower dome is an octagonal structure, while the upper is an elongated polygonal dome. Several minarets, reaching up to stately heights, surround the structure, while two large gateways form the entrance. Additionally, the mosque has larger than life galleries on either side of the entrance. These crescent-shaped porticos are used for royal processions and weddings. The Shah Jahan Mosque is adorned with a combination of calligraphy, verses of the Qur’an and geometric patterns. Models of boats, plants and animals and medallions with floral and geometric patterns further adorn the walls of the Mosque. The building is a stunning example of Mughal architecture, and is considered to be one of the most awe-inspiring monuments in India. This is why, it is considered one of the most beautiful mosque in the world.

Visiting Hours:

The Shah Jahan Mosque in Thatta, India is open daily from 8am to 6pm. best mosque in the world.

Travel Information:

The Shah Jahan Mosque is located in Thatta in the Sindh province of Pakistan. It is one of the most famous Mughal-era monuments in South Asia and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, in 1647 and is considered to be the symbol of Islamic art and architecture in the sub-continent. The mosque is the largest in Pakistan and can accommodate up to 10000 worshippers at a time. It was built over a period of seven years at a cost of approximately 70 lakh rupees. The mosque is known for its massive dome, shaped like an inverted lotus bud, and for its intricate marble work and architectural ornamentation. The mosque also houses tombs of the rulers of Thatta, including the tomb of the celebrated Sufi poet, Sahib-e-Iqbal, Hazrat Mirza Ghalib. The Shah Jahan Mosque is easily accessible by train, road or air. It is approximately 95 kilometres (60 miles) from the cities of Karachi and Hyderabad. By train the journey takes about two hours. The nearest airport is the Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, which is approximately 90 kilometres (56 miles) away. From there, one can take a bus or taxi to reach the mosque. beautiful masjid.