Pathar Masjid, also known as the Saifuddin Mosque, is a historic mosque located in the heart of Srinagar city in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, it is one of the oldest surviving structures of its kind in the region. The mosque is built entirely out of grey limestone, hence the name ‘Pathar Masjid’ which means ‘stone mosque’ in Hindi.

The mosque was commissioned by Mughal Empress Nur Jahan, wife of Emperor Jahangir, and was completed in the year 1623 CE. It is believed that the mosque was built by Saif Khan, a nobleman in the Mughal court who was appointed as the governor of Kashmir during the reign of Shah Jahan. The mosque was built at a time when the Mughals were trying to establish their authority in Kashmir, which was then a predominantly Muslim state.

Pathar Masjid is a small mosque with a simple yet elegant design. It has a rectangular plan and is divided into three parts – a prayer hall, a courtyard, and a veranda. The prayer hall is square-shaped and has a flat roof. It has three arched entrances, each of which is flanked by two minarets. The courtyard is rectangular and is surrounded by a colonnade of arched arcades. The veranda, which runs along the entire length of the mosque, is supported by a row of pillars.

Pathar Masjid

The mosque has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years, with the most recent one being carried out in the year 2004. Despite these changes, the mosque has retained its original charm and continues to be a popular attraction for tourists visiting Srinagar.

Tourists visiting Pathar Masjid can marvel at its unique architecture and intricate carvings. The mosque is also a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims, who come here to offer prayers and seek blessings. The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths and is a testament to the cultural diversity and religious harmony of the region.

Visitors are advised to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque. The best time to visit Pathar Masjid is during the months of March to November when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. The mosque is located in the heart of Srinagar city and can be easily reached by local transport.

Conclusion || Pathar Masjid

In conclusion, Pathar Masjid is a significant historical and architectural landmark in the region, and its unique design and cultural importance make it a must-visit destination for tourists visiting Kashmir.

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