Delhi 2018 - Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid towers over Chandni Chowk being the tallest structure in the old city. It was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and was one of his last projects. This is also one of the biggest mosques in India - the courtyard being able to accommodate around 25,000 people.

The mosque sits on an elevated platform and is accessed by flights of stairs from 3 sides - in the east, north, and south. The eastern gate is the largest and served as the Royal entrance.

The building is clad in red sandstone and white marble. The domes are covered in white and black marble - and capped with gold ornaments. In terms of proportions - I felt it was not as elegant as some of the other buildings we've seen.

The mosque itself is surprisingly shallow. The main covered prayer hall would probably accommodate only a few hundred worshipers.

One thing you need to be prepared for when visiting Jama Masjid is the heat on the courtyard floor. The stone floor absorbs a lot of heat from the sun, and as you need to take off your shoes when visiting - you could burn your feet if you are not careful. Wear thick socks when you visit - you will thank me later.