Ukha Masjid Bharatpur

A visit to Bharatpur is incomplete with the visit to the century old Ukha Masjid. Rajasthan is not only famous for Rajput architecture but is a fine example of our glorious Muslim past. Most travellers overlook this fact and concentrate mostly on the forts built by the many Rajput rulers during their reign. However, the presence of Islamic architecture adds more grace to this royal state. The strong influence of Islamic or Persian architecture can be seen in many of its monuments and landmarks, out of which Ukha Masjid in Bharatpur is one. Constructed of red sandstone, it looks beautiful.

Located in Bayana, Ukha Masjid is one of the largest historical building of this place that was built during the Mughal rule in Rajasthan. It has two separate portions—one is known as Ukha Masjid and the other Ukha Mandir. The entrance is one the right hand side of the mosque and there are beautiful Arabic inscriptions on the archway, most of which is still visible.

History of the attraction

It was built on the relics of Jain and Hindu temple by Malik Kaftur Sultani in 1320 AD, during the reign of Qutb-ud-din Mubarak Shah. It was later converted into a Hindu temple by the Jat rulers of Bharatpur.

Getting There

Bharatpur, Rajasthan is easily accessible from all parts of the country.

By Air: Agra is the nearest airport to Bharatpur located at a distance of 56 km.

By Train: Bharatpur is an important city of Rajasthan and is well-connected to other cities like Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Mumbai.

By Road: An extensive network of road connects Bharatpur to the neighbouring states of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Gujarat.

Once you are in Bharatpur, you can avail a taxi or local bus to reach Ukha Masjid.

Things to Do in and around

The Keoladeo National Park, a bird sanctuary is one of the most visited places of Bharatpur which was built by Maharaja Suraj Mal, more than 250 years ago. The Deeg Water Palace is another place that you can visit, though it is located around 32 km from Bharatpur. Located in the middle of a lake, it was the summer resort for the Rajputs. There are about 900 fountains in this place, though they work only two amavasya festivals in the year. The Lohagarh fort is another place that you can visit.

Ganga Temple is a beautiful place to visit. It took more than 90 years to complete the construction of this temple which now is a major tourist destination.

Opening/Closing timings and days

The masjid opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 9:00 PM.

Best Time to Visit

Most people visit Bharatpur during winters, as this the time most migratory bird fly to the sanctuary. The weather during this time to pleasant too.