5 January:Mosques, Bhadra Fort, Hindu Temple

On Tuesday, our morning excursion began at the Juma Masjid.

Description: "At the eastern side of Teen Darwaza, Juma Masjid is one of the most beautiful mosques in India. AHmed SHah built the grand edifice in 1423 A.D. from the items ransomed from the demolished HIndu and Jain temples.

Built in yellow sand stones, this marvelous mosque has a combination of Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture. There are about 260 columns within the mosque to protect its roof."

Photo of some of the intricate inlaid stone work within the mosque.

Detail view of the front of the mosque. All carving was done by hand.

Ahmedabad is a city of gates. This is one of its gates.

The Bhadrakali Temple is housed in the Bhadra Fort. Description: "It is dedicated to Hindu goddess, incarnation of goddess Kali. This Hindu sanctum was built in 1411 A.D. during Maratha rule in Ahmedabad." The outside of the temple is flanked by statues of a penguin and a rabbit.

Here is a view of the Bhadra Fort from within the city: Description: "Among very eminent tourist destinations in Ahmedabad, Bhadra Fort is the most prestigious one. The royal fort, built by Ahmed Shah (founder of the city), had added charm to the city of Ahmedabad."

The final destination of our morning excursion was the Sidi Syed Mosque. Description given: "The Sidi Syed Mosque, built in 1573, is one of the most famous mosques of Ahmedabad. The mosque was built by Sidi Saiyyed, who was a slave of the Sultan of Ahmedabad.

The mosque is entirely articulated. The world famous 'jalis' in the mosque are taken from a temple. The rear wall is filled with square stone pierced panels in geometrical designs. The two bays flanking the central aisle have reticulated stone slabs carved in designs of intertwined trees and foliage and a palm motif." The mosque had a blue door on its side with intricate carving above it.