Jaunpur was of great importance during medieval times. It was founded in the 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. They were great patrons of art and architecture and constructed many fine tombs, mosques and madarsas. These have a distinctive style which bear influences of later Tughlaq architecture. Jaunpur was also an important centre of Islamic studies. 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.

Area: 11.2 sq. km.
Population: 3214638 (1991 census)
Altitude: 79.80 mtrs. above sea level.
Season: October-March
Clothing: Summer - Cottons; Winter - Woollens
Language: Hindi, Urdu
Local Transport: Taxis/Auto Rikshaws/Cycle Rikshaws
STD Code: 05452

Places of Interest

Atala Masjid
Started in 1377 but completed only in 1408 in the reign of Ibrahim Sharquie. This mosque represents the earliest and finest example of Sharquie architecture, and conforms to the general plan of the orthodox mosque. 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 last great mosque of Jaunpur and also its largest, the Jami Masjid was built by Hussain Shah in 1458-78. In plan and design it is a larger version of the Atala Mosque. The imposing structure, raised on a high plinth, encloses a courtyard 66 mtr by 64.5 mtr. The interior of the prayer hall is topped by a lofty dome.

Lal Darwaza Masjid
The construction of this mosque, said to have taken place around 1450, is attributed to Bibi Raji, the queen of Sultan Mahmud Shah. It is built on a much smaller area than the Atala Masjid.

Khalis Mukhlis Masjid
This was constructed by Malik Mukhlis and Khalis in 1417.

Shahi Bridge
Constructed by Munim Khan in 1568 this picturesque old bridge spans the Gomti river.

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.