The Mecca Masjid is a famous site that attracts tourists and pilgrims from all over India. The mosque in Mecca inspired both the name and the style of this sacred site. The mosque was built by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth emperor of the Qutub Shahi dynasty, in the early 16th century, when Hyderabad was known as Golkonda. He lay the mosque's foundation stone, but it was completed in 1694 by Emperor Aurangzeb after the Mughals acquired control of the city.

Visitors will be astounded to learn that the soil used to make the bricks for the mosque's central arch was imported from Mecca (the holiest place in Islam). Around 8,000 masons and labourers laboured tirelessly for days and nights until the final stone was put, and the edifice that remains today is the result of their efforts.

The mosque's architecture is stunning. This mosque, which is said to be the oldest in Hyderabad and one of the largest in India, has 15 arches and a hall that can hold up to 10,000 worshipers. The arches are programmed with thousands of monologues from the holy Quran. This tranquil location emanates perceptible spiritual energy and serves as a symbol of oneness and tremendous religious significance.

Time for Opening and Closing
8 a.m. to 12 p.m.; 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Entry ticket cost
Free

Possibilities for photographs
The greatest moment to photograph the mosque is around sunset, when light from adjacent sources reflects off its walls.