Jama Masjid, Champaner, Gujarat India

Jama Masjid (also, Jami Masjid; meaning "public mosque") 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.

The mosque dates to 1513; construction was carried out over 125 years.It is one of the most notable monuments built by Sultan Mahmud Begada.It has a blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture, preserving the Islamic ethos, and is considered one of the finest mosques in Western India with its elegant interiors.The ornamentation of the surface areas of the mosque and tomb consists of symbols of motifs of the Sun, diamonds, pots and vines, and lotus insignia which were used in the earlier temples; the artists of the region who worked on these monuments had imbibed their craftsmanship from their forefathers and they were not sectarian in character as they worked on assignments given by Hindus, Muslims or Jains. 

There are steps to the mosque from northern and southern directions. Tall octagonal minarets 30 metres (98 ft) in height are situated on both sides of the main carved entrance.A typical Gujarat style of architecture is seen in the form of oriel windows with distinctive carvings on the outer surface.The carved roof contains several domes and the courtyard is large.There are seven mihrabs and the entrance gates are carved and fitted with fine stone jalis.

Multiple prayer halls are separated by almost 200 pillars.The main prayer hall has eleven domes, with the central dome, a double-storied structure, built on pillars in an arcade form. The ruler's prayer hall is separated from the main area by jalis.There is a double clerestory in one of the domes. Other interior features include an arcuate maqsurah screen, trabeate hypostyle lwan, double square side wings, zanana enclosure, and screened off northern mihrab.

The Jama Masjid is one of the most visited mosques of Champaner. It is adorned by two proud minarets of 30m each. The detailed carvings and beautifully worked pillars make this place a lovely sight.