SITE
Located 100 miles from Ahmed, medieval Champaner is the site of Jami Masjid, the finest mosque in the state of Gujurat, and the world-renowned Citadel of Muhammed Shah. The spectacular 7th century Champaner Fortress stands proudly atop Pavagadh Peak, which rises 2700 feet above the city below, and was once a Jain holy place of pilgrimage. Over the centuries, the city's secular, religious and civic buildings expanded to cover an area of almost 4 miles. Under the leadership of Muhammad Begada, Champaner became the prosperous capital of Gujarat until repeated attacks by the Mughal Emperor Humayun in the 16th century led to the city's eventual decline.

ARCHITECTURE
The architecture of Champaner retains the splendor of the Hindu, Muslim and Jain regimes. Several religious monuments grace the site, including the 11th century Laukalish Temple and the exquisite 16th century Jami Masjid mosque, located in the citadel of Muhammed Shah. The intricately carved entrance and cloistered galleries of the mosque surround an imposing courtyard, its central arch flanked by five pointed arches with minarets. Constructed high above the city is the magnificent and imposing stone Champaner Fortress, overlooking the ruins of Patai Rawal Palace and the Naulakha Kotha Mansion.

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