Jaunpur is an ancient city and a major Muslim center situated 58 km to the north-west of
Varanasi, in
Uttar Pradesh. This erstwhile capital of the independent Sharquie kingdom of Jaunpur is now renowned for its jasmine oil, tobacco leaves, radish and
imarti - a sweetmeat.
Jaunpur was founded by Feroz Shah Tuglaq in the 14th century. He named it in memory of his cousin Sultan Mohammad whose real name was Jauna. During the
Mughal reign the city attained the heights of its glory as a prominent Muslim center; art and architecture found patronage – as evident from the marvelous structures that dot the cityscape. Places of tourist interest include Atala Masjid,
Jama Masjid, Lal Darwaza Masjid, Khalis Mukhlis Masjid, Shitla Choukiya Dham, Yamdagni Ashram, Jaunpur fort and Shahi Bridge.
Nearest airport is at Varanasi. Jaunpur is located on the Lucknow -Varanasi line of the Mughal Sarai section of Northern Railway. It has regular connections to Allahabad, Delhi, Patna and Lucknow along with to the east and north-east of the country. By road, the city is linked with Ayodhya (142 km), Allahabad (110 km), Lucknow (228 km) and Gorakhpur (166 km).
Best season to visit is from October to March.
