1- Jama Masjid, Aligarh
Jama Masjid, Aligarh Overview
Jama Masjid is the oldest historical monuments located in the Upper Fort area of Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. The founder of Aligarh Muslim University, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, started building this establishment within the foreground of the university in 1879. The masjid was commemorated in January 1915. Since then, it had begun the Muslim ritual of reading Namaz at 5:00 AM. The in-built capacity of the mosque is 1000 people.
It attracts many tourists and locals for its Islamic architecture with three domes flanked with minarets on either of their sides. Most of the Muslims attend the first namaz held every day at 5:00 AM. During the daytime, the multi-coloured glasses on doors interplay with sunlight from outside and leave a magnificent view for its visitors. At night, the exterior of the masjid flaunts with lights planted on it. There are inscribed psalms from the Quran on marbles written in calligraphy and gold floral patterns decorating the walls. The nearby attractions to the masjid include Maulana Azad Library and Aligarh Fort.
2- Aligarh Fort
Aligarh Fort, Aligarh Overview
Aligarh Fort, which also goes by the names Aligarh Quila, Baunasaur Quila and Ramgarh Quila is situated in Qila, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. Managed by the Aligarh Muslim University, this structure represents historic Islamic influences from an earlier era through its exquisite architecture and intricate symbolic carvings. The magnificent edifice features distinguishing minarets, bastions, terraces, and a grand arched entrance that announces its presence to the general public. There is a garden, supervised by the Botanical Department of Aligarh Muslim University, adds to the grandeur of the fort, with its diverse variety of vibrant flowers, trees and animal species such as delicate koel birds, beautiful peacocks and ferrets among others.
3- SkyHigh
Sky High, Aligarh Overview
Sky High is the only internationally recognised sky-diving drop zone in India. It is a four-year-old sport-cum-business that attracts those seeking thrill and an escape from their mundane routine. Its propagator, Rudra Bhanu Solanki is an Arizona certified trainee who practices tandem jumps here. The participants are provided with a certificate and merchandise after successful completion of their dive. There are specific guidelines that Sky High abides by (Visit Thing to Keep in Mind for more). They provide the participants with a record of their fall shot on a video and/or camera.
Sky High prioritises the safety of its participants over their zeal, and therefore, it is a mandatory measure to provide a medical certificate of the participants stating their fitness. This is followed by signature on legal documentation, training and finally the dive. This activity’s dependence on weather can be frustrating, and at times the necessary measure to either prepone or postpone the activity are taken.
4- Sir Syed House Museum
Sir Syed House Museum Aligarh, Aligarh Overview
Sir Syed House Museum is located in the heart of Aligarh Muslim University. It is a very well known art gallery amongst the locals. Formerly the museum was Sir Syed’s home which was later converted into a museum. Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was a great dignitary; he was the founder of Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental College which was then converted into Aligarh Muslim University in 1920.
The art gallery was formed with the goal of proliferating awareness amongst people about Sir Syed’s contribution to educational and social betterment. Sir Syed House Museum exhibits the personal life of Sir Syed through his belongings; the museum also exhibits the history of AMU through pictures and written records.
Sir Syed House Museum is divided into three galleries. The first part displays the life of Sir Syed and his comrades; the second gallery showcases detailed stages of development of Aligarh Muslim University and the third gallery presents the pictures of Amu’s campus, and it’s Vice Chancellors. The gallery also exhibits the photos of the university’s events and achievements which took place over the years.
5- Naqvi Park, Aligarh
Naqvi Park, Aligarh, Aligarh Overview
Located in Aligarh city, one of the oldest cities of Uttar Pradesh, Naqvi Park is one of the most popular and most visited parks of the city. Also known as Rajkeey Udhhan Jawahar Park, the park is well-known for its lush green surroundings and fountains that intensify the beauty of the park. The park also houses walking paths and playgrounds that attract the old as well as children, as well as a plant nursery open for sale.
Being a popular spot among couples and locals of Aligarh, the Naqvi Park is an often crowded site. Common morning and evening sightings include meditators and joggers. The park’s vegetation, along with the fascinating sight of the birds attract most visitors. With frequent photoshoots occurring in the park, the peacock is one of the most common bird on the park premises. On the whole, Naqvi Park attracts tourists and photographers throughout the year.