Jami Masjid | Champaner | A UNESCO World Heritage Site | Gujarat

Anyone who has seen the hugely successful Oscar nominated Hindi film Lagaan would be familiar with the name Champaner. Located in the state of Gujarat, Champaner is a fine offbeat place to visit in India. It was founded in the 8th century by the prominent Chavda dynasty ruler Vanraj Chavda. Champaner is home to the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Apart from the park, the popular Jama Masjid located here is another famous attraction known for its architectural brilliance. Champaner is primarily known as an ancient city of temples which is enough to attract many a history buff. So, if you are looking for a place that is not thronged by tourists and can give you a sneak peek into Indian history while leaving you in awe of its architectural splendor, take a trip to Champaner in Gujarat.

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Jami Masjid (also known as Jama Masjid) in Champaner, Gujarat state, western India, is part of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is among the 114 monuments there which are listed by the Baroda Heritage Trust. It is located about 150 feet (46 m) east of the city walls (Jahdnpandh), near the east gate. Dating back to the 15th century, it is widely considered as one of the finest mosques in western India.

Along with modern techniques of architecture, this mosque also reflects how the architects used modern techniques to cultivate rainwater harvesting systems. The monument has some very majestic artwork on its symmetric pillars and all this has been conserved very well.

Established (completed sometime during the 1530s) by Sultan Mahmud Begada, the Jama Masjid in Champaner-Pavagadh is an extraordinary blend of both Hindu and Islam forms of architecture and craftsmanship.

Besides intricate motif and mural carvings, the Jami Masjid also cites the exquisite lattice-stone work, jali work and roof carvings. This two-storied edifice has a very minutely designed entrance which is flanked by two towering octagonal spires. Some of the structures here also house hymn engraving from the Holy Koran.

With over 200 pillars sectioning numerous prayer halls, the main prayer hall here is roofed with a primary dome alongside 11 smaller ones. Amidst a refreshing garden on the outside, the mosque holds 3 gateways to the main courtyard, with the one on the eastern end being the most magnificent.
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