Shaking Minarets Sidi Bashir Mosque Ahmedabad
Witness the marvel of Ahmedabad's 'Shaking Minarets,' an ancient architectural enigma where one tower's vibration affects the other.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Shaking Minarets Sidi Bashir Mosque Ahmedabad
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the marvel of Ahmedabad's 'Shaking Minarets,' an ancient architectural enigma where one tower's vibration affects the other.
"A true architectural wonder! The unique feature of the minarets is an incredible mystery of ancient engineering."
Admire from Afar
Access to climb the minarets is restricted for preservation. Enjoy the view and history from the ground.
Appreciate the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings and surviving gateway; the architecture is a marvel in itself.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Shaking Minarets (Jhulta Minar)
Central Gateway
Witness the marvel of two towering minarets that mysteriously vibrate when one is shaken. An ancient engineering enigma.
Intricate Mughal Architecture
Mosque Exterior
Admire the detailed carvings and surviving structure of this 15th-century mosque, a testament to Gujarat's rich history.
Historical Significance
Entire Site
Explore the legacy of Sidi Bashir and the architectural prowess of the Gujarat Sultanate era. A monument of national importance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Experience the Mystery of the Shaking Minarets
Preservation and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Admire from Afar
Access to climb the minarets is restricted for preservation. Enjoy the view and history from the ground.
Appreciate the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings and surviving gateway; the architecture is a marvel in itself.
Learn the History
Research the stories behind Sidi Bashir and the mosque's construction for a richer experience.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
Weekdays offer a more serene experience with fewer visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
Admire from Afar
Access to climb the minarets is restricted for preservation. Enjoy the view and history from the ground.
Appreciate the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings and surviving gateway; the architecture is a marvel in itself.
Learn the History
Research the stories behind Sidi Bashir and the mosque's construction for a richer experience.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
Weekdays offer a more serene experience with fewer visitors.
Capture the Grandeur
The surviving structure is photogenic, especially during the golden hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the historical architecture and the intriguing mystery of the 'Shaking Minarets.' While the inability to experience the shaking firsthand due to preservation is a common point of disappointment, the site is still lauded as a fascinating monument of ancient engineering and a significant piece of Ahmedabad's heritage.
"All praise is due to Allah, who blessed us with Masajid as beacons of light and guidance. 🌿
“Allah opens the door of knowledge for His servant, and through that knowledge, He raises him to wisdom and success.”
This unique historical Masjid stands as a symbol of faith and beauty, with its remarkable architecture that reflects devotion in every detail. Its arches and domes are not just stone, but stories of iman and ihsan, reminding every visitor of Allah’s greatness.
May Allah preserve His houses of worship and fill them always with prayer, peace, and remembrance. 🕌✨"
Nawaz Khan
"Amazing piece of historic architecture! The shaking minarets are truly fascinating. A must-see for anyone interested in ancient engineering and mystery. Interesting concept but poorly maintained. You can't experience the shaking anymore due to restricted access. Needs better care and signage."
vidula patil
"Sultaan muzaffar shah Ahmed Shah & Sultaan Muhammed shah Ahmed Shah have built this mosque in the year 1430 rabi-ul-aakhar in the name of their mother."
Mahesh Kukadiya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sidi Bashir Mosque, home to the Shaking Minarets, is located in the Sarangpur area of Ahmedabad. You can reach it by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or ride-sharing services. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Parking can be limited in the immediate vicinity due to its urban location. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or be prepared to walk a short distance if arriving by private vehicle.
Auto-rickshaws and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola are very popular and convenient for navigating Ahmedabad. They offer a good balance of cost and accessibility.
While there might be local bus routes nearby, auto-rickshaws and taxis are generally more direct and convenient for reaching the mosque.
The mosque is situated in a bustling urban area of Ahmedabad. While the site itself is a historical monument, the surrounding streets are active with local life.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to view the exterior of the Sidi Bashir Mosque and its Shaking Minarets is generally free. However, access to climb the minarets is restricted for preservation purposes.
The Shaking Minarets can typically be viewed from the outside during daylight hours. There are no strict official opening hours for viewing the exterior, but it's best to visit during reasonable daylight times.
No, climbing the minarets is not permitted. This restriction is in place to protect the delicate structure and preserve its historical integrity.
Viewing the exterior of the mosque and its famous minarets is usually free of charge.
While official guided tours might not be readily available on-site, local guides can sometimes be hired in Ahmedabad. Alternatively, researching the history beforehand will enhance your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography of the exterior of the Shaking Minarets and the mosque is generally allowed. It's a popular spot for capturing historical architecture.
Late afternoons, during the golden hour, offer beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and softer light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and protected monument areas. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
Try capturing the full height of the minarets against the sky, or focus on the intricate details of the surviving gateway. Experiment with different perspectives from across the street.
While the main attraction is the exterior, if there's an accessible prayer area, respectful photography might be permitted. Always be mindful of worshippers and local customs.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The mosque is believed to have been constructed by Sidi Bashir, a slave of Sultan Ahmed Shah, or by Malik Sarang, a noble in the court of Sultan Mahmud Begada.
They are known as 'Jhulta Minar' or 'Shaking Minarets' because when one minaret is shaken, the other vibrates independently, a feat of ancient engineering. 
It's a significant historical monument from the 15th century, showcasing the architectural style of the Gujarat Sultanate and the engineering prowess of the era.
Only the central gateway and the two minarets survive today, as the rest of the mosque structure has been lost to time and earthquakes.
No, the shaking phenomenon can no longer be experienced. Access to the minarets is restricted for preservation, and the vibrations are no longer tested.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit relatively short, focusing on the main attraction. Explain that it's a very old building and needs to be protected, which is why they can't climb it. This helps manage expectations and fosters an appreciation for heritage sites. Pack some water and snacks, as amenities might be limited.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Pay close attention to the surviving gateway and the details of the minarets. Consider the materials used and the construction techniques that allowed for such a unique design. While direct interaction with the shaking is impossible, the visual evidence and the historical accounts provide ample material for study and admiration.
📸 Photographers
+1Experiment with different angles to capture the scale and the unique architectural features. While you can't climb the minarets, framing shots from across the street can give a good perspective. Be mindful of other visitors and respect the historical site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enigma of the Shaking Minarets
This unique characteristic is attributed to a clever system of arches and the way the minarets are constructed, allowing for independent oscillation. While the exact mechanism is debated among historians and engineers, the effect is undeniable. Unfortunately, due to preservation efforts and the fragility of the ancient structure, visitors are no longer permitted to test this phenomenon. The surviving central gateway and the two minarets stand as a poignant reminder of the mosque's former grandeur and the advanced understanding of physics and engineering possessed by its creators.
Despite the inability to experience the shaking firsthand, the Shaking Minarets remain a significant historical monument in Ahmedabad. They are a symbol of the city's rich past and a must-see for anyone interested in ancient architecture, historical mysteries, and the enduring legacy of the Gujarat Sultanate. The intricate carvings and the sheer scale of the surviving structures continue to inspire awe and wonder.
Historical Context and Construction
The mosque was once a grand structure, but time, earthquakes, and neglect have reduced it to its most iconic elements: the central gateway and the two minarets. The surviving architecture showcases the distinctive style of the period, with intricate carvings and robust construction techniques. The fact that these structures have endured for centuries, despite the challenges, speaks volumes about the quality of craftsmanship.
Understanding the historical background enriches the visitor's experience. It allows one to appreciate not just the visual spectacle of the Shaking Minarets but also their place in the broader narrative of Ahmedabad's history and the architectural achievements of the Gujarat Sultanate.
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