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AN IMPORTANT MUSLIM CENTRE
Jaunpur,
located in southern part of Uttar Pradesh was founded
in 14th century by Feroz Shah Tuglaq to perpetuate the memory of his
cousin Sultan Mohammad whose real name was Jauna. Later, around 1394 AD,
it became the centre of the independent Sharquie kingdom of Jaunpur
founded by Malik Sarvar.
Jaunpur was an important Muslim centre, where art and architecture found
patronage. While its architectural heritage speaks of its illustrious
past, the city is known today for its Jasmine oil, tobacco leaves, raddish
and imarti, a sweetmeat.
Religious Places
Atala Masjid:
Built in 1408 in the reign of Ibrahim Sharquie, this mosque stands at the
site of a Hindu temple, dedicated to Atala Devi. This mosque represents
the earliest and finest example of Sharquie architecture. Its most
distinguishing feature is the original treatment of the facade of its
prayer-hall composed of three large ornamental archways, the central one
of which soaring to 23 mts, is gigantic.
Jami Masjid:
The most impressive and the largest of the mosques, Jami Masjid was built
by Hussain Shah in 1458-78. The imposing structure, raised on a high
plinth, encloses a courtyard. At the top of the interior of the prayer
hall is a lofty dome.
Lal Darwaza Masjid:
The construction of this mosque, around 1450, is attributed to Bibi Raji,
the queen of Sultan Mahmud Shah.
Khalis Mukhlis Masjid:
This was constructed by Malik Mukhlis and Khalis in 1417.
Shitla Choukiya Dham:
This famous, ancient temple of Jaunpur is dedicated to Shitla Mata.
Yamdagni Ashram:
A religious centre, this ashram is closely associated with the life of
sage Parashuram. Other places of interest include Shahi Qil, Khwab-Gah,
Dargah Chishti, Pan-e-Sharif, Jahangiri Masjid, Akbari Bridge and the
tombs of the Sharquie Sultans.
Forts
Jaunpur fort:
The simple yet well maintained Jaunpur Fort overlooking river Gomati, was
built by Feroz Shah in 1360. With an old pillar, a mosque and a hammam to
be seen, Jaunpur Fort is worth visiting. There are good views from the
fort's walls, especially towards Akbari Bridge, the best view being from
the fort.
Others
Shahi Bridge:
Constructed by Munim Khan in 1568 this picturesque old bridge spans the
Gomti river.
Trilochan Mahadev Temple:
An important temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is located 40 kms from
Jaunpur.
Allahabad:
One of the largest cities in Uttar Pradesh, Allahabad bears testimony to
the transfer of power from the East India company to the British Crown
after the 1857 uprising. The Public Library, The High Court, Allahabad
University, Muir College, Mayo Memorial Hall are some structures that
portray the exquisite colonial architecture prevalent in the 19th and the
early 20th century.
Varanasi:
It is one of the oldest cities of India. The ghats dotted with temples,
the maze of alleys along the ghats are major attractions among the
tourist.
Air: Babatpur Airport (Varanasi): 38 km.
Rail: Located on the
Lucknow
-Varanasi, Mughal Sarai section of Northern Railway.
Road: The town is easily accessible by all-season, motorable
roads.
Local Transport: Taxis, Auto Rikshaws, Cycle Rickshaws.
Tourist Bungalow, Parade Kothi, Cantt.
Varanasi. Hotel Amber, Manik Chowk.
Manoj Lodge, Chauharsu Chauraha.
Rajendra Rest House, Olandganj.
Shri Ram Lodge, Olandganj.
Anand Rest House, Station Road.
Jaunpur is famous for its oils and perfumes. The main shopping areas are Line Bazar at Olandganj.
Bank: State Bank of India, Station Road.
Post Offices: Near Atala Masjid; Near D.M. Office;
District Hospital, Emergency; Govt. Hospital, Jaunpur.
Restaurants: Rupali Restaurant, Surya Restaurant.
Varanasi: 58-km
Area: 11.2 sq. km.
Population: 3214638 (1991 census).
Altitude: 79.80 m above sea level.
Clothing: Summer: Cottons.
Winter: Woollens.