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Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid: A Mughal Legacy in Old Dhaka

Explore Dhaka's Mughal past at Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid, a historic mosque blending Mughal and Bengali architecture in the heart of Old Dhaka.

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The Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid, also known as Chawk Mosque, stands as a testament to Dhaka's rich Mughal heritage. Constructed in 1664 by Subahdar Shaista Khan, it has evolved over centuries, blending Mughal and Bengali architectural styles. Located in the heart of Old Dhaka, it remains a central religious and community space, accommodating thousands of worshippers.

A brief summary to Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid

  • 49 Chawk Circular Rd, Dhaka, Lalbagh, 1100, BD

Local tips

  • Dress modestly to show respect when visiting the mosque.
  • Visit during non-prayer times to avoid congestion.
  • Explore the surrounding Chawkbazar market during the day for a vibrant experience.
  • Be mindful of prayer times, as the mosque can get busy.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Chawkbazar, the mosque is easily accessible on foot. Navigate through the bustling market streets, heading towards Chawk Circular Road. The mosque is a prominent landmark in the area. Be mindful of the crowded streets, especially during peak hours. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From other parts of Dhaka, take a bus to Chawkbazar. From Gulistan, Arambagh, or Fakirapool bus stations, it's a short ride. Once in Chawkbazar, follow the walking directions to reach the mosque. Bus fares typically range from 10-30 BDT. Alternatively, the Dhaka Metro is an option, with a walk from the nearest station to Old Dhaka. Metro fares vary depending on the distance.

  • CNG

    CNGs (auto-rickshaws) are a common mode of transport in Dhaka. Hire a CNG to Chawkbazar from anywhere in the city. It's normal for a CNG to drop you off at the entrance to a particularly dense neighborhood. Negotiate the fare beforehand, as prices can vary. A short trip within Old Dhaka may cost around 80-200 BDT. From other areas of Dhaka, the cost will be higher depending on the distance.

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Discover more about Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid

Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid, a historical mosque in the bustling Chowk Bazaar area of Old Dhaka, is a significant landmark representing the city's cultural and architectural heritage. Constructed in 1664 by Subahdar Shaista Khan, a Mughal governor, the mosque was intended as a place of worship and a symbol of Mughal power. Over the centuries, it has served as a central religious and community space for the residents of Old Dhaka. The architecture reflects a blend of Mughal and Bengali styles. The original structure featured three domes and several minarets, built on a raised platform, possibly influenced by Tughlaq architecture. This elevated platform housed vaulted rooms beneath, believed to have served as a residential madrasa, accommodating students and teachers. This design integrated religious and educational functions into a single structure, saving space and resources. While some Mughal elements remain, the mosque now incorporates modern architectural features, including a rainbow-colored minaret. Today, the mosque is a multi-storied complex that can accommodate approximately 10,000 people for prayer. The interior is divided into three bays, with a square central bay and rectangular side bays. The central mehrab, an octagonal structure, has been preserved through renovations. Visiting the mosque offers a unique experience, as it is located in the heart of Chawkbazar, a vibrant market area known for its street life and traditional food.

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