Khirki Mosque : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Khirki Mosque is one of the most ancient monuments of Delhi and a prominent example of Islamic Indo-Saracenic architecture. Located in the village of Khirki, near Siri in South Delhi, it has been popular for centuries due to its distinctive architecture and impressive skyline. Khirki Mosque is also known by the name of Jahaz Mahal, which translates to ‘Ship Palace’. In this blog, let us explore the interesting facts and information about this grand mosque and how to visit it.

Interesting Facts About Khirki Mosque

1. Khirki Mosque is one of the most important religious monuments of the medieval era in Delhi, built during the reign of Feroz Shah Tughlaq in 14th century.

2. It is believed that the mosque is situated on the site of an earlier temple which was demolished for the construction of the mosque.

3. Khirki Mosque is an example of a three-domed mosquewith walls adorned by colourful designs, symbols, and pillars in octagonal shapes.

4. It has five-arched projecting bay with intricate stone tracery decoration on its top.

5. It is known for its unparalleled beauty and grandeur, and it is majorly used by the Islamic followers in Delhi.

6. It is noted for its 14th century ornamentation of minarets, arches, domes, and stone jaalis (lattices).

7. It is said that the name ‘Khirki’ derived from the 14 small windows on the sides and rear of the mosque, which were protected by grilled windows, meaning ‘small windows’ in Hindi.

8. Inside the premises of the mosque, remains of columns can be seen that depict the floor plan of a typical Hindu temple.

9. The mosque has undergone multiple renovations over the years, thus making it a historical marvel.

10. The walls and basement of the mosque are carved with detailed, intricate designs for such an old building.

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History & Information About Khirki Mosque

The Khirki Mosque, also known as the ‘Mosque of the While Window’, is located in the village of Khirki in South Delhi and is one of the oldest surviving mosques in the city. Built in 1399 during the Tughluq Dynasty, the mosque lies in stark contrast to the typical pattern of North Indian mosque architecture of the period. Rather than an open courtyard with a domed prayer hall, the Khirki Mosque has a rectangular layout and is surrounded by a two story enclosure wall with uniquely decorated windows.

The mosque is known for its large white marble latticed windows and has been described as a “unique bridge between ancient and modern Indian architecture”. The latticed windows are set in a dome like arrangement that decorates the mosque’s central facade. The interior walls and ceilings of the mosque are beautifully adorned with Quranic verses and calligraphic designs.

The mosque serves as a reminder of the architectural legacy of the Tughluq Dynasty and continues to be a vibrant space of worship and gathering for the local community. The mosque also attracts many visitors who come to explore its unique blend of architecture and design.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Khirki Mosque

1. Location: Khirki Mosque is located in South Delhi, in the village of Khirki in Greater Kailash. It is surrounded by modern housing and food courts.

2. Hours of Operation: Khirki Mosque is open to visitors throughout the year, but please note that it remains closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Also, women should note that they will not be allowed to enter the mosque on these days.

3. Entry Costs: There is no entry fees for visiting Khirki Mosque.

4. Dress Code: Modest dressing is a must when visiting the mosque. Men should wear a shirt and trousers and women should wear a maximum coverage dress or a modest salwar kameez. Shoes should not be worn inside the mosque.

5. Photographing: Photographs are not allowed inside the mosque, but visitors are welcome to take photographs from outside the mosque.

6. Other Information: Visitors are requested to be respectful and mindful of the mosque’s religious significance. Additionally, visitors should not linger or explore the grounds alone. Loud voices and other disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Khirki Mosque

Q: Where is the Khirki Mosque located?

A: The Khirki Mosque is located in the South Delhi area of Delhi, India.

Q: When was the Khirki Mosque built?

A: The Khirki Mosque was built in the mid-14th century by Feroz Shah Tuglaq.

Q: What is unique about the Khirki Mosque?

A: The Khirki Mosque is unique because it was constructed using a combination of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.

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