“Famous Mosque in Nainital built during British rule”
The stately building of Jama Masjid elucidating its beauty in Nainital is a remarkable piece of architecture. The iconic white marble structure of Jama Masjid stands amidst the city. It was built in the late 19th century by the British for their Muslim soldiers, serving in the military.
People of Islamic faith gather here to offer prayers or “salah” also known as namaz. Many Muslim brethren visit Jama Masjid daily and assemble here in large numbers, especially during Eid al-Fitr also called the “Festival of Breaking the Fast”.
The Jama Masjid mosque is located near the Nainital Cricket Stadium, which is famous for hosting many cricket tournaments.
- Location: Mallital in Nainital, Uttarakhand
- Landmark nearby: Cricket ground also known as Nainital stadium
The architecture of Jama Masjid in Nainital:
The Jama Masjid in Nainital is a quintessential Islamic building, wearing a pristine white colour with a tinge of black. Mosque means “place of prostration”. During Friday noon prayer, all practicing Muslim men gather here for namaz.
- The style, layout and intricate drawings carved on the Jama Masjid mosque, tells us a lot about the time when it was constructed.
- Historical account suggests that the Jama Masjid mosque was built by the British to allow Muslim, living in Nainital to pray here.
- One of the most prominent features of Jama Masjid’s architecture is the “mihrab”, a niche in the wall. That indicates the direction of Mecca towards which all Muslims pray.
- One can also see the minaret or tower adjacent or attached to a mosque, from where the call to prayer is announced.
History of Nainital’s Jama Masjid:
The masjid is located on the Mallital Gaari Parao near Mallital Police Station. It was built in the year 1882 during the British Era for Muslims living in Nainital.
The Jama Masjid showcases an intricate architecture. One can see Arabic inscriptions on the entrance of the masjid. The masjid was renovated in the year 2004-2005 (under Anjuman Islamia, Raza Club).
Things to do and Places to visit near Jama Masjid in Nainital:
Jama Masjid is one of the oldest buildings of Nainital. It is an exemplary example of Mughal architecture and many art lovers come here to admire its beauty from outside. The detailing done on the building can be savoured from naked eyes.
Many shutterbugs love to capture its artistic grandeur in their camera. It even attracts the selfie lovers who like to seize the beauty of the mosque, which offers them a beautiful backdrop. Some of the famous places to visit near Jama Masjid are Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Thandi Sadak and Bara Bazaar.
Travel Tips:
- Early morning is the best time to photograph Jama Masjid. Since there’s nobody around to disturb your muse and the lighting is also perfect.
- Don’t forget to enjoy boating on Nainital Lake, which is the USP of this place.
- If you are a shopaholic, visit the Bhotiya market to lay your hands on the best fashion available there.
- Do not barge in since the masjid isn’t open for tourist activity.
How to reach Jama Masjid in Nainital:
Jama Masjid in Nainital is an ornate mosque that lies at one end of the city near Tibetan market, also known as Bhotiya market. It is located close to the cricket ground. The masjid serves as a landmark for Nainital. As uphill and downhill, traffic moves on the sides of this mosque— one-way traffic
The masjid is situated on the Flatts and appears to be the dominant structure in Nainital. It is at a walking distance from Naina Devi temple. Since the mosque is located in the heart of Nainital city one can easily reach here.
Nearest railhead: Kathgodam 36 km
Nearest airport: Pantnagar Airport 70 km or Delhi IGI airport