Ramadan 2026: Ancient mosques in India with fascinating Mughal era history

New Delhi: India’s mosques, over 300,000 strong, stand as timeless sentinels of faith amid Ramadan 2026’s spiritual crescendo, when crescent moons herald iftar feasts and communal prayers. These architectural marvels—from Kerala’s ancient shores to Delhi’s vibrant core—fuse Indo-Islamic brilliance with regional charm, spotlighting famous mosques in India with unique history. Picture marble domes kissing the sky or lattice screens dancing with light; they invite pilgrims and history buffs alike during this holy month. As Ramadan 2026 unfolds, these sites pulse with devotion, offering serene escapes beyond daily hustle. Whether tracing heritage trails or savouring suhoor tales, they reveal the subcontinent’s rich, resilient tapestry.

Ever pondered a mosque from 629 CE defying time, or one gleaming like a fort’s jewel? During Ramadan 2026, these famous mosques in India transform into vibrant hubs of reflection and unity. Uncover their unique histories—from Mughal splendour to Arab legacies shaping historical mosques in India.

Famous mosques in India to visit during Ramadan 2026

1. Jama Masjid, Delhi

Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1656, this colossal mosque in Old Delhi accommodates 25,000 worshippers amid red sandstone and white marble grandeur. Its three gates, towering minarets, and vast courtyard exemplify Indo-Islamic architecture, serving as the Mughals’ royal prayer hub until their empire’s twilight. A must-visit among historical mosques in India for its sheer scale and symmetry.

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2. Cheraman Juma Masjid, Kerala

Believed to be India’s oldest mosque, built in 629 CE by Arab trader Malik Deenar, a contemporary of Prophet Muhammad. Located in Kodungallur, its Kerala-style architecture with gabled roofs has endured renovations while preserving early Islamic roots from a local king’s conversion. A fascinating peek into pre-Mughal famous mosques in India.

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3. Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad

One of India’s largest mosques, construction began in 1614 under Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah and finished in 1694. Its bricks from Mecca add mystic allure, paired with vast courtyards and majestic minarets near Charminar. This historical mosque in India symbolises Deccan Sultanate opulence and devotion.

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4. Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Ajmer

Erected in 1192 CE by Qutb-ud-Din Aibak, this Rajasthan gem repurposed a Sanskrit college into an early Indo-Islamic mosque famed for corbelled arches and ornate pillars. Named for its lightning build (‘two-and-a-half days’), it showcases Delhi Sultanate innovation among unique historical mosques in India.

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5. Moti Masjid, Agra

Shah Jahan’s 17th-century ‘Pearl Mosque’ in Agra Fort gleams in pristine white marble, designed for royal courtiers with simple elegance and golden motifs. Its intimate prayer hall contrasts grander Mughals works, highlighting purity in famous mosques in India with unique history. Compact yet captivating.

Moti Masjid in Agra, India | Day Tripe with Sunleisureworld

6. Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Ahmedabad

Built in 1573, this petite gem shines with intricate jali screens depicting intertwining trees—a UNESCO-recognised motif and unofficial city emblem. Created by African guard Sidi Saiyyed, it blends Gujarat’s stone lattice mastery with Islamic minimalism in historical mosques in India.

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7. Charminar Mosque, Hyderabad

Atop the 1591 Charminar icon, this mosque marks Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah’s vow fulfilled after plague woes. Four minarets frame a serene top-floor sanctuary, integral to Telangana’s emblem and among the most photographed famous mosques in India with unique history.

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8. Taj-ul-Masajid, Bhopal

India’s largest mosque, initiated in 1865 by Sultan Shah Jahan Begum, sprawls over 430,000 square feet with pink facades, massive domes, and lakeside poise. Its 18-storey minarets evoke Mughal majesty, making it a pinnacle of historical mosques in India for grandeur seekers.

This may contain: an old building with two white domes on it's sides and a fountain in the middle

These famous mosques in India with unique history beckon explorers, especially in Ramadan 2026—plan your pilgrimage today and let their stories inspire.