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Jalandhar Moorish Mosque

One of the oldest surviving cities of Punjab, Jalandhar is a historical city with contextual references dating back to A.D.100. It is famous for being a possible site of the Fourth Buddhist council, convened by Emperor Kanishka. However, of late it has witnessed speedy urbanisation and today, it is a highly industrialised commercial hub. Named after the mythological demon king 'Jalandhar', some people say that it was the capital of the kingdom ruled by Rama's son, Lav. While some others also believe that it derived its name from the term 'Jalandhar', which stands for a place located under water. Because the area is based on the plain between the river Beas and river Sutlej, there have been numerous beliefs that point towards Jalandhar being initially called 'Trigartta'. The word is a verbal representation of the three rivers Sutlej, Ravi and Beas.

History of the Jalandhar Moorish Mosque

The Jalandhar Moorish Mosque is one of the most celebrated mosques in Punjab and also one of the most visited. Its construction was approved by Maharajah Jagatjit Singh in 1917. The entire building was constructed by none other than the celebrated architect of France, Monsieur M Manteaux who took approximately 13 years to finish the building. On the 14th March 1930, it was inaugurated by the Maharajah along with the ruler of the state Bahawalpur, His highness the Nawab Sadiq Mohd. Khan Bahadur.

It adds a unique charm to tourism in the city of Jalandhar. With hordes of tourists, visitors and pilgrims from across the world, the mosque has also enhanced the tourism economy in the city.

Recognition From The Government

The Moorish style of architecture is known across the world for its rich detailing, complex angles, majestic architecture and use of diverse raw materials. The Jalandhar Moorish Mosque accordingly derives its look, feel and style from the Qutbya Mosque in Morocco which is a glorious masterpiece of the Moorish style architecture by itself. The inner dome of the Moorish mosque is adorned by the exemplary works of various artists from Mayo School of Art in Lahore which is why one can find a wooden model of this mosque at the entrance of Lahore Museum. The rich and diverse cultural and religious heritage of this mosque has led the mosque to be considered as a National Monument by none other than the Archaeological Survey of India.

Attractions Near The Moorish Mosque

Apart from visiting the Moorish Mosque, travellers can also opt to visit any of the following tourist attractions that are near the mosque

Handira Mausoleum

At a distance of 36km from Jalandhar, the mausoleum is located in the Kapurthala district. It is located on the banks of river Kali Bein and is a beautiful monument. With fine arched Jharokhas and pointed arches, the mausoleum is dome-shaped and has four gates on an octagonal plan.

Kartarpur Gurudwara

Built in 1656 A.D. by Sikh Guru, Guru Arjun Devji, the Gurudwara is 16 km away from Jalandhar.

In memory of his birthday, a fair is arranged every year, which is attended by tourists and devotees from across the country. Kartarpur is well-known for its intricate furniture and also for the Smarak of Swami Virjanad, the teacher of Swami Dayanand Saraswati who founded the Arya Samaj.

Pushpa Gujral Science City

Spread over a total area of 72 acres, the Pushpa Gujral Science city is the largest of its kind in India. It is dedicated to the mother of former Prime Minister of India, Shri I.K. Gujral. The City is more than just being a Theme Park or Museum. It perfectly blends fun with education, to ensure constant visits from tourists and students alike.

St Mary's Cathedral

Located at Jalandhar Cantonment, St Mary's Cathedral attracts tourists from across the globe, thanks to its rare cultural design, which aligns with the traditional Punjabi culture. It was founded by the representatives of Pope John Paul II and is a rare sight in the East. The church is dedicated to St. Patrick and was constructed in 1947. However, the foundation for the current church was laid in the year 1986.

Hotels Near The Moorish Mosque

Finding a decent place around the area to stay isn't a difficult task. One can easily find various well-known hotels, restaurants and guest houses around the area. From budget-friendly hotels to the luxury ones, Jalandhar has a spot for one and all. The topmost hotels around the area include.

The Sekhon Grand Hotel

Equipped with all the latest facilities, the hotel is based in the posh locality of Jalandhar and complies with various international standards.

The Maple Hotel

The hotel houses all the essential amenities required for a comfortable stay in the city.

The Dolphin Hotel

Specifically designed for business travellers, the hotel also allows a good stay for regular tourists and visitors.

The Maya Hotel

Without hotels across the state of Punjab, it offers facilities for business and leisure travellers. You can also book hotel reservations online, instantly.

The Radisson Windsor Hotel

It is a very famous five star hotel in the city and provides luxurious amenities for one and all.

How to Reach

By Road

A wide range of bus services are available from the major cities of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Himachal, Jammu & Kashmir, U.P. and Rajasthan. Apart from government bus services, one can also resort to private bus services.

By Rail

Jalandhar City Railway Station is the nearest railhead and lies on Delhi-Amritsar Railway line. There are direct train services to and fro from major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Puri, Kolkata, Nagpur and Bhopal. The nearest station is in Jalandhar City.

By Flight

Amritsar is the nearest Airport to the city of Jalandhar. From there, one can always choose from a wide range of road transport services to reach the mosque.

Best Time to Visit

Summer

The city witnesses some really hot summers. So, it recommended not visiting the museum during the summer season.

Winter

The winters are usually very cool and last from November to February. The months of February and December are considered the best months to visit the Moorish mosque.