Jumah Mosque
The Jumah Mosque on Andrott Island is one of the most historically and religiously significant structures in the entire Lakshadweep archipelago. It is revered not just as a principal place of Friday congregation but also as the location of the tomb of Hazrat Ubaidullah, the saint credited with intro ducing Islam to the islands in the 7th century AD. This mosque, therefore, represents the spiritual bedrock of the island's Muslim community, which constitutes the majority of the population. The site is a profound testament to the blend of cultural and religious influences that have shaped Andrott over the centuries. A visit offers a peaceful, meditative experience and a deep dive into the island's history, showcasing a unique architectural style that combines traditional Malabar and indigenous Lakshadweep building techniques with classic Islamic motifs. The atmosphere is one of profound tranquility and deep reverence, urging visitors to be respectful and mindful of its sanctity. It remains an active and vital religious center for the islanders.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1-2 hours (More if attending prayer)Place Type:
Religious, Historical, CulturalEntry Fees:
Zero Direct Entry Fee, but Donations Accepted: There is no ticketed entry fee for the Jumah Mosque, as it is an active place of worship. However, visitors are welcome to leave a small, voluntary donation (which can be Rs.20 to Rs.100) towards the maintenance and upkeep of the m...Zero Direct Entry Fee, but Donations Accepted: There is no ticketed entry fee for the Jumah Mosque, as it is an active place of worship. However, visitors are welcome to leave a small, voluntary donation (which can be Rs.20 to Rs.100) towards the maintenance and upkeep of the mosque.
Mandatory Permit Fee Applies: As with all places in Lakshadweep, the cost of the mandatory RAP (Restricted Area Permit), typically Rs.50 to Rs.100 per person, is the primary required expenditure for access to the island itself.
Dress Code Requirement: There is a non-monetary 'cost' of adherence to a strict, modest dress code (covering head, shoulders, and knees for both men and women) as a prerequisite for entry, or even respectful observation from the outside.
No Photography Fee, but Permission is Key: Generally, there is no fee for exterior photography, but requesting permission for interior shots is a matter of respect and may sometimes require a small, polite offering to the mosque fund.Timing:
Regular Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Approx.
): As an active religious center, it is generally open from the first prayer (Fajr) to after the last evening prayer (Isha). Tourists should ideally visit outside of actual prayer times.
<...Regular Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Approx.
): As an active religious center, it is generally open from the first prayer (Fajr) to after the last evening prayer (Isha). Tourists should ideally visit outside of actual prayer times.
Ideal Visit Time: Mid-Morning (9:30 AM to 11:30 AM) or Mid-Afternoon (3:30 PM to 4:30 PM) These times are usually between the main daily prayer times, ensuring minimal disruption to worshippers. It is best to avoid the Friday noon-to-afternoon window when the large congregation gathers.
Prayer Timings to Avoid for Tourism: The five daily prayer times (Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha) and especially the Jumaat (Friday) prayer are strictly for worshippers, and tourists should be mindful not to intrude or photograph during these periods.Special Events:
Maulid-un-Nabi (Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad): The mosque is the center of fervent and elaborate local celebrations during Maulid-un-Nabi, which involve religious discourses, processions, public feeding, and special night prayers, offering a deep cultural immersion. The...Maulid-un-Nabi (Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad): The mosque is the center of fervent and elaborate local celebrations during Maulid-un-Nabi, which involve religious discourses, processions, public feeding, and special night prayers, offering a deep cultural immersion. The date follows the Islamic calendar.
Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha Prayers: The major Eid festivals see the largest congregation of the island's population, with special, large-scale prayers and a festive atmosphere. Visitors can observe the community spirit and traditional attire, though they must maintain a respectful distance.Best Photo Spots:
The Grand White Facade framed by Greenery: The striking contrast of the mosque's simple, white-washed exterior against the vibrant green of the surrounding coconut palms makes for a classic and beautiful frame, particularly with the afternoon sun.
Read MoreThe Grand White Facade framed by Greenery: The striking contrast of the mosque's simple, white-washed exterior against the vibrant green of the surrounding coconut palms makes for a classic and beautiful frame, particularly with the afternoon sun.
Close-up Shots of the Wooden Carvings: Focus your lens on the detailed, intricate woodwork of the doors and window frames (if permitted from the outside) to capture the traditional craftsmanship that defines the island's architectural style.
Wide-Angle Perspective of the Complex: A wide shot from a short distance away that includes the mosque, the Tomb of Hazrat Ubaidullah, and the surrounding peaceful courtyard captures the entire religious and historical ambiance of the complex.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Respectful Interior and Exterior Viewing: Spend time admiring the simple elegance of the mosque's exterior and, if permitted (observing strict etiquette), the intricate woodwork of the interior prayer hall, focusing on the craftsmanship of the Mihrab and pillars.
Visit the Tomb of Hazrat Ubaidullah: Pay a respectful visit to the tomb located within the mosque complex. This is a moment for quiet reflection and acknowledging the immense historical and spiritual significance of the site to the islanders.
Observe Local Life and Prayer: Time your visit to respectfully observe the local Muslim community performing their ablutions and prayers from a distance, without intrusion. Friday afternoon prayers (Jumaat) are particularly significant but require extra caution not to disturb the service.
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Information
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Why Famous:
The Tomb of Hazrat Ubaidullah: The mosque's single most famous feature is that it is the believed final resting place of Hazrat Ubaidullah (also known as Sheikh Ubaidullah), the venerable saint who brought Islam to Lakshadweep in 663 AD. His presence here makes the mosque a...The Tomb of Hazrat Ubaidullah: The mosque's single most famous feature is that it is the believed final resting place of Hazrat Ubaidullah (also known as Sheikh Ubaidullah), the venerable saint who brought Islam to Lakshadweep in 663 AD. His presence here makes the mosque a major pilgrimage site for the island's community.
One of the Oldest Mosques in Lakshadweep: The Jumah Mosque is considered one of the oldest in the archipelago, possibly dating back to the 7th century AD, the era of Hazrat Ubaidullah's arrival. This ancient heritage solidifies its importance as a historical and cultural monument, not just a religious one.
Fusion of Architectural Styles: It is famous for subtly showcasing the indigenous island craftsmanship and materials (like coral and coir wood) blended with early Islamic and Malabar architectural traditions, representing a unique cultural synthesis found nowhere else. -
Architecture:
Architectural Style and Materials: The mosque exhibits a simple yet elegant architectural style, characterized by a traditional flat roof structure and white-washed walls, typical of many old mosques in the Malabar Coast region. The primary building materials used are local...Architectural Style and Materials: The mosque exhibits a simple yet elegant architectural style, characterized by a traditional flat roof structure and white-washed walls, typical of many old mosques in the Malabar Coast region. The primary building materials used are locally sourced coral stone and sturdy timber, which are perfectly suited for the tropical maritime climate.
Interior Woodwork and Dimensions: The interior is famed for its exquisite and detailed woodwork, particularly the intricately carved wooden pillars and the Mihrab (prayer niche). While exact dimensions vary based on extensions over centuries, the main prayer hall often measures approximately 20 meters in length and 15 meters in width, accommodating a significant portion of the local male population for Friday prayers. The pillars are roughly 0. 5 meters in diameter and may number around 20-30 in total.
The Minaret and Dome Features: Unlike some grand mainland mosques, the Jumah Mosque often features smaller, more modest minarets and sometimes a single, simple dome structure, designed for functionality and blending into the island's low-rise architectural landscape. These structures serve as both a call to prayer point and a subtle navigational landmark. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Agatti Aerodrome (AGX) from Kochi (1. 5 hours), then take an inter-island ferry to Andrott Island (128 KMS distance).
By Sea: Take a passenger ship from Kochi (Kerala) to Andrott. The journey takes 14-20 hours. -
Near Tourist Places:
Tomb of Hazrat Ubaidullah (50 meters - located within the complex), Local Handicraft Stalls (1. 5 KMS), Andrott Village Center (1 KM), Shallow Lagoon Coral Viewing Spot (2. 5 KMS), Traditional Boat Race Venue (3 KMS - Seasonal Location), Harminder Bay Beach (3 KMS), Tuna Canning Factory (5 KMS), Andrott Lighthouse (4 KMS), Buddhist Archaeological Remains (2. 5 KMS - historical site), Andrott Harbour (0. 5 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Respect the Sanctity of the Site: This is a deeply revered religious place. Visitors must maintain strict silence, avoid loud conversations, and refrain from any behavior that might be considered disrespectful. Leave your shoes outside the prayer hall.
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