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Chhota Sona Mosque
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historical-site
The Chhota Sona Mosque, also known as the 'Small Golden Mosque', is one of the best-preserved monuments of the Sultanate period in Bangladesh. Located in the Chapai Nawabganj district near the ancient city of Gaur, it was built by Wali Muhammad during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah (1493-1519). Its name is derived from the fact that its domes were once gilded with gold, causing them to glisten in the sunlight, though the gilding has since worn away. The mosque is built of brick but is entirely faced with finely carved black stone, featuring intricate floral patterns and arabesque designs. It features 15 domes arranged in three rows, showcasing the sophisticated engineering and artistic flair of 15th-century Bengal. Despite suffering damage during the massive earthquake of 1897, the mosque was meticulously restored. It remains an architectural jewel, reflecting the cultural and religious zenith of the independent Bengal Sultanate.
- Location: Bangladesh
- Top sights: Gauda · Baliadighi Mass Graveyeard · Kailabari Jame Mosque
- Nearby: Dinajpur (53 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 21 | 27 | 31 | 32 | 31 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 21 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 7 | 10 | 20 | 67 | 140 | 208 | 282 | 230 | 227 | 118 | 6 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The mosque is open to visitors who dress modestly. The interior cannot be visited during prayer times.
Typical hours
The mosque is usually accessible from morning to evening, with closure during the five daily prayers. The best time to visit is late morning.
Photography
Photography in the mosque is allowed without flash, especially the gilded domes are photogenic. Inside, behave discreetly.
Time needed
A visit usually takes 20 to 30 minutes as the mosque is quite small. Those who want to study the surroundings and architecture can plan for 45 minutes.
Combine with
The mosque is near the Indian border and can be combined with a visit to the old stone mosque in Gaur. The tea gardens in Sreemangal are also not far.
Getting there
The mosque is about 30 kilometers east of Chapai Nawabganj, reachable by car or rickshaw. From Rajshahi, the drive takes about one hour.
Insider tip
Visit the mosque early in the morning when the golden morning light makes the domes glow. Bring a head covering as it may be required when entering the mosque.
Geography
Facts
- The mosque was built between 1493 and 1519 during the Husain Shahi dynasty.
- It features a total of 15 domes arranged in three parallel rows.
- Its name refers to the gold gilding that originally covered the domes.
- The exterior is completely faced with intricately carved black basalt stone.
- The courtyard contains the graves of two national war heroes (Bir Sreshtho).
- A massive earthquake in 1897 damaged the domes, which were later repaired.
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Sights in the town Chhota Sona Mosque (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does Chhota Sona Mosque mean?
It means 'Small Golden Mosque'.
Where is it located?
In the Chapai Nawabganj district, near the Indian border.
Was it really made of gold before?
The domes were originally gilded, hence the name.
What period is it from?
It was built during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah (1493-1519).
Is it still in use?
Yes, it is still used as a mosque.
Chhota Sona Mosque: where is it located?
Chhota Sona Mosque is located in Bangladesh.
Chhota Sona Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gauda, Baliadighi Mass Graveyeard, Kailabari Jame Mosque.
Chhota Sona Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Chhota Sona Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Chhota Sona Mosque, also known as the 'Small Golden Mosque', is one of the best-preserved monuments of the Sultanate period in Bangladesh.
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