Taj-ul-Masajid 🇮🇳

When you visit Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, India, you can explore the Taj-ul-Masajid, known as the Crown of Mosques. As India's largest mosque, holding roughly 26,000 worshippers, this magnificent Sunni site offers a captivating glimpse into historic Mughal-inspired architecture. Begun by Nawab Shah Jahan Begum in the 19th century and completed in 1958, the mosque stands near three water bodies: Munshi Hussain Talab, Noor Mahal Talab, and Motia Talab. As you approach, you will admire its pink facade, double-storeyed gateway, and two 18-storey octagonal minarets topped with marble domes.

You will also see an entrance renovated with motifs inspired by 13th-century Syrian mosques, gifted by the Emir of Kuwait. Inside, step onto marble flooring reminiscent of Delhi's Jama Masjid and Lahore's Badshahi Mosque. Explore the impressive main hallway, where massive pillars hold 27 ceilings—16 decorated with ornate petalled designs—and look for the courtyard's central ablution tank. The main prayer hall showcases nine cusped multifold openings alongside four recessed archways.

Remarkably, the mosque features a zenana, a rare dedicated space for women's prayer during its construction era. Adding this historic landmark to your Bhopal itinerary promises an unforgettable architectural journey.

What to see at Taj-ul-Masajid

• Striking pink facade anchored by two 18-storey octagonal minarets with marble domes.
• Spacious main hallway featuring massive pillars holding 27 ceilings decorated with petalled designs.
• Entrance renovated with 13th-century Syrian mosque motifs donated by the Emir of Kuwait.
• Central courtyard featuring a large ablution tank and marble flooring.
• A historic zenana, offering a rare dedicated prayer area for women.

Visiting tips

Take time to examine the entrance motifs inspired by 13th-century Syrian mosques, which were donated by the Emir of Kuwait in memory of his late wife.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Taj-ul-Masajid is easy to reach on Bhopal’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Bhimbetka rock shelters. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Bhopal travel guide.