A 1573 mosque famous for two stone lattice windows carved with an intertwined tree-of-life design, the emblem of Ahmedabad. The jali panels against the arched openings make one of the most recognisable photographs in Gujarat.
Sidi Saiyyed Mosque stands at the north-west corner of the Bhadra Fort area near Lal Darwaza, opposite the electricity house on Salapose Road, and was built in 1573 for a nobleman of Abyssinian descent. Its side windows hold the famous tree-of-life jali, a carved sandstone lattice of palms and branching stems that has become the city's symbol. The best pictures are taken from inside the arcade looking out at the windows, with light behind or beside the stone so the carved tracery is defined. The mosque has a lawn and arched exterior that also make good frames, and the surrounding traffic is heavy, so shooting from the lawn with a longer lens isolates the arches. It is a working mosque, so visitors should dress modestly, remove shoes and avoid prayer times. Entry is free. Tripods can attract attention and should be checked with the caretaker.
| Best time | Early morning, 8:00-10:00AM, when the sun rakes into the west-facing panels |
|---|---|
| Best season | October to March |
| Address | Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Salapose Road, Lal Darwaza, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380001, India |
Shooting notes
- Equipment
- 24-70mm zoom, a 50mm prime for jali details, a small tripod if permitted
Location
Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Salapose Road, Lal Darwaza, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380001, India
23.0268, 72.5807 View on map
Highlights
- Iconic tree-of-life stone jali windows
- Repeating arches and carved arcade detail
- Quiet lawn compared with nearby traffic
- Free entry and easy old city location
Tips for visiting
- Shoot into the jali from inside for silhouette and light
- Avoid Friday prayer time around midday
- Dress modestly and remove shoes at the entrance
- Watch for scooter traffic when crossing to the lawn
When to visit
Early morning, 8:00-10:00AM, when the sun rakes into the west-facing panels
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Frequently asked questions
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry is free.
Can tripods be used?
Tripods may be questioned since the mosque is in active use, so ask the caretaker first.
What is the best time of day?
Morning, when the light is soft and the sun angles into the carved windows.