Sidi Saiyyed Mosque
A 16th-century mosque in Ahmedabad, famed for its exquisite 'Tree of Life' stone lattice work, an architectural masterpiece.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Sidi Saiyyed Mosque
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century mosque in Ahmedabad, famed for its exquisite 'Tree of Life' stone lattice work, an architectural masterpiece.
"World-famous for its intricate 'Tree of Life' stone lattice work, an architectural masterpiece. 
🎯 Admire the Jali Work
Focus on the intricate stone lattice windows, especially the 'Tree of Life' motif.
👟 Remove Your Shoes
Be prepared to take off your footwear before entering the mosque premises.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic 'Tree of Life' Jali
Main facade windows
World-famous stone lattice work depicting a stylized tree, an architectural marvel of Indo-Islamic art.
Intricate Stone Carvings
All windows and facade
Marvel at the detailed craftsmanship in the stone screens, a testament to the skill of 16th-century artisans.
Architectural Inspiration
Exterior facade
See the design that inspired the logo of IIM Ahmedabad, showcasing its enduring cultural significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Respectful Attire and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Admire the Jali Work
Focus on the intricate stone lattice windows, especially the 'Tree of Life' motif.
👟 Remove Your Shoes
Be prepared to take off your footwear before entering the mosque premises.
👗 Dress Modestly
Wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is difficult in this congested area; consider public transport or a taxi.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Admire the Jali Work
Focus on the intricate stone lattice windows, especially the 'Tree of Life' motif.
👟 Remove Your Shoes
Be prepared to take off your footwear before entering the mosque premises.
👗 Dress Modestly
Wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is difficult in this congested area; consider public transport or a taxi.
📸 Capture the Details
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning architectural details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque for its breathtakingly intricate stone lattice work, particularly the iconic 'Tree of Life' design. Its historical significance and architectural beauty are highlighted as major draws, though the congested location and limited parking are noted drawbacks.
"ஆங்கிலத்தில் எழுதுவதற்கு மன்னிக்கவும் dt 22-03-25.
Do Not Travel to Gujarat from March to July, the heat is very very very High.
Visited this famous well known mosque. Ladies are not allowed inside the mosque.
Mosque is quiet small and compact, but highlights the beauty of the indo islamic architecture.
Built in the year 1572-73 by an Abyssinian (person from Ethiopia) called Sidi Saiyyed, who served under the then sultan. This mosque is well known for the wonderful intricate carvings in stone and their unique semi circular tracery windows, depicting the tree of life.
Paper cutouts were made of the carved screens from which two wooden replicas were made and these are now in museum in London and New york.
The driver was telling us that this mosque is still in use as the emblem of the Ahmedabad municipality.
The grave of sidi saiyyed is inside this mosque.
The mosque is in a congested area, hence parking is out of the question. Definitely worth a visit to admire the wonderful jalli work in the windows."
Kalyan Sundar
"The mosque of Sidi Saeed was built in the 1 572 A.D by an Abyssinian
known as Sidi Saeed He came from Habshah (Ethiopio) via Yemen It is still maintained in its old glory, and has the facility to accommodate 500 people to pray from here at a time. There is also a bathroom facility in the underground. I prayed Isha from here. It is a nice peaceful atmosphere."
RiYas AŁi
"Must visit in Ahmedabad.
The lattice work is impeccable and provided inspiration for the logo of IIM Ahmedabad
It is a very busy area. There is no car parking around so plan accordingly. Shoes are to be taken off. Please enquire about entry."
Ajit
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The mosque is located in a busy, congested area of Ahmedabad. It's best to use a taxi or ride-sharing service, as parking is extremely limited. It's also relatively close to the railway station and bus stand, making it accessible via public transport.
Yes, it's in the heart of the city and relatively close to major transport hubs like the railway station and bus stand. Auto-rickshaws and local buses are good options.
From Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD), you can hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing app. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
The mosque is situated amidst bustling markets and busy streets, making it a central point of interest in the old city.
While in a busy area, its fame means most local drivers will know its location. Asking for 'Sidi Saiyyid ni Jali' is also common.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entry fee to visit the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque. It's a functioning mosque, and access is usually free for visitors.
The mosque is typically open from morning until evening. However, it's a place of worship, so it's best to visit outside of prayer times for a more relaxed experience.
While the mosque is active, women may not be permitted in all areas. It's advisable to inquire about specific access rules upon arrival.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. It's also customary to remove shoes before entering.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's respectful to be mindful of worshippers. Avoid flash photography during prayer times.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful lighting. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create stunning shots of the jali work.
The intricately carved 'Tree of Life' jali windows are the most iconic and photographed elements of the mosque.
While generally permitted, be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the overall architecture, while a prime lens can help with detailed shots of the jali work.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and urban areas. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The mosque was built between 1572 and 1573 AD (Hijri year 980) by Sidi Sayyad, a Habshi nobleman.
It was built by Sidi Sayyad, an Abyssinian (Ethiopian) nobleman who served under the Sultan of Gujarat.
It is world-famous for its intricately carved stone lattice windows, particularly the 'Tree of Life' motif.
The mosque showcases Indo-Islamic architecture, known for its elegant arches and detailed stone carvings.
The 'Tree of Life' is a symbolic motif representing nature and life, intricately carved into the stone screens, making it a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. Explain the significance of the 'Tree of Life' jali to engage children. Be prepared for limited parking and consider using a taxi or auto-rickshaw. Ensure children are dressed respectfully.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Photography tips: Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to capture the intricate carvings in the best possible way. Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to highlight the delicate stonework. Be mindful of other visitors and worshippers to ensure respectful photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the Jali Work
These stone carvings are so precise that they resemble delicate paper cutouts. The skill involved in creating such detailed patterns from solid stone is a testament to the architectural prowess of the era. Two wooden replicas of these carved screens were made and are now housed in museums in London and New York, highlighting their international significance.
The jali work is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a significant part of the mosque's structural and functional design. The patterns are a fusion of geometric and natural motifs, reflecting the artistic sensibilities of the period.
Historical Context and Legacy
Beyond its religious function, the mosque holds a special place in the city's identity. It is still in use as a place of worship and has been maintained in its old glory. The mosque's design has had a lasting impact, most notably inspiring the logo of the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad, underscoring its cultural relevance even today.
The mosque's location in a congested area, surrounded by busy markets, adds to its character, offering a glimpse into the vibrant life of old Ahmedabad. Despite its compact size, its architectural beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.
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