Sarkhej Roja is a historical complex located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. It is considered one of the country's finest examples of Islamic architecture and a popular tourist attraction for visitors interested in history, culture and architecture.
The complex was built in the 15th century during the reign of Sultan Ahmed Shah and is spread over an area of around 34 acres. It is located on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, about 8 km from the city centre. The complex consists of several monuments, including a mosque, a mausoleum, a stepwell and other buildings.
The most prominent monument in the complex is the Sarkhej Roja mosque, also known as the 'mosque of Ahmedabad'. It is a beautiful sandstone structure with intricate carvings and decorations. The mosque has several domes and minarets, and its prayer hall can accommodate many worshippers. The mosque also has a beautiful courtyard with a central pool that reflects the mosque's magnificent architecture.
Adjacent to the mosque is the tomb of Sheikh Ahmed Khattu Ganj Baksh, a Sufi saint and spiritual advisor to Sultan Ahmed Shah. The tomb is a beautiful marble structure with intricate carvings and decorations, and it is surrounded by a beautiful garden that adds to the place's charm.
The complex also houses a stepwell called the 'Baoli', a unique feature of Indian architecture. The stepwell has a series of steps leading down to a pool of water, which was used for irrigation and as a source of drinking water during the dry season. The stepwell has several levels and is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
The complex has other structures, such as a library, a palace and a madrasa. The library is a treasure trove of ancient Islamic manuscripts, while the court was the residence of the Sultan's family. The madrasa was an Islamic school where students were taught the Quran and other scriptures.
The Sarkhej Roja Mosque is the most prominent monument within the complex and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture. The mosque is a beautiful sandstone structure with several domes and minarets. Its prayer hall can accommodate many worshippers and is adorned with intricate carvings and decorations.
Tomb of Sheikh Ahmed Khattu Ganj Baksh:
Adjacent to the mosque is the tomb of Sheikh Ahmed Khattu Ganj Baksh, a Sufi saint and spiritual advisor to Sultan Ahmed Shah. The tomb is a beautiful marble structure with intricate carvings and decorations, and it is surrounded by a beautiful garden that adds to the place's charm.
The Baoli or stepwell is a unique feature of Indian architecture and is a must-visit destination within the complex. The stepwell has a series of steps leading down to a pool of water, which was used for irrigation and as a source of drinking water during the dry season. The stepwell has several levels and is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.