The Sultan Ahmed Shah Mosque, also known as the Jama Masjid, is a historic mosque in the old city of Ahmedabad in Gujarat, India. The mosque was built by Sultan Ahmed Shah in the 15th century and is considered one of the region's most important mosques.
The mosque features a large courtyard surrounded by pillared cloisters, with the main prayer hall in the centre. Three large domes top the prayer hall, and the walls are decorated with intricate carvings and calligraphy. The mosque is particularly known for its unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, with lotus-shaped domes and ornate carvings depicting Hindu gods and goddesses.
There are several interesting places to visit near the Sultan Ahmed Shah Mosque. One such place is the Bhadra Fort, located nearby and built by Sultan Ahmed Shah in the 14th century. The fort features a massive gate topped by an ornate clock tower. There is also a large courtyard within the defence, home to several other historic buildings, including the Teen Darwaza and the palace of the Maharaja of Ahmedabad.
Another interesting place to visit near the mosque is the Calico Museum of Textiles. The museum is in an old haveli (traditional mansion) and is home to a vast collection of textiles from all over India, including rare and antique pieces. The museum also features several galleries showcasing different types of materials, a library and a conservation lab.
Other places of interest near the Sultan Ahmed Shah Mosque include the Kite Museum, which features a collection of colourful kites from all over the world, and the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, known for its intricate stone latticework. Visitors can also explore the nearby markets and bazaars, which offer a wide range of goods, including textiles, jewellery, spices, and handicrafts.
Located about 7 km from the mosque, Sabarmati Ashram is a historic site that served as the residence of Mahatma Gandhi during India's freedom struggle. The ashram houses a museum that showcases Gandhi's life and his philosophy of non-violence.
About 5 km from the mosque, Kankaria Lake is an artificial lake offering a wide range of entertainment options, such as amusement park rides, water sports, and a zoo.
Located about 1 km from the mosque, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque is famous for its intricate stone carvings. The mosque is also known as the Sidi Saiyyid ki Jaali mosque, as it has an iconic latticework screen on one of its walls.
Located about 4 km from the mosque, the Calico Museum of Textiles is a must-visit place for those interested in textiles and crafts. The museum has a rich collection of materials from different parts of India, including ancient textiles, embroidery, and weaving.
About 7 km from the mosque, Sarkhej Roza is a complex of tombs, mosques, and palaces built during the reign of Sultan Ahmed Shah. The complex showcases a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
Located about 17 km from the mosque, Auto World Vintage Car Museum is a paradise for car enthusiasts. The museum has an impressive collection of vintage and classic cars from different eras.