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Kusumba Masjid: The Black Gem of Bengal

Explore the 'Black Gem of Bengal': A 16th-century mosque with unique architecture, stone carvings, and a serene historical ambiance in Naogaon.

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Kusumba Masjid, also known as the Kusumba Mosque, is a historic mosque located in Kusumba village, Naogaon, Bangladesh. Completed in 1559 during the Afghan rule, it showcases a unique blend of Bengal and Suri architectural styles. The mosque, often called 'The Black Gem of Bangladesh,' is a significant cultural and historical landmark, attracting visitors with its intricate stone carvings and serene atmosphere.

A brief summary to Kusumba Masjid

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the mosque, in accordance with local customs.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to other nearby historical sites in Naogaon, such as the Somapura Mahavihara.
  • Visit between November and February for cooler and more comfortable weather.
  • Observe prayer times and be mindful of religious activities at the mosque.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Naogaon city, take a local bus from Baludanga Bus Stand towards Manda. The journey to Kusumba Bazar takes approximately 1 hour, with bus fares typically ranging from 20-30 BDT. From Kusumba Bazar, the mosque is a short walk north.

  • CNG/Auto Rickshaw

    Hire a CNG or auto-rickshaw from Naogaon city directly to Kusumba Masjid. This is a faster but more expensive option, costing around 300-400 BDT for a one-way trip. Negotiate the fare before starting the journey. The ride takes approximately 45 minutes.

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Discover more about Kusumba Masjid

The Kusumba Masjid stands as a testament to Bengal's rich architectural heritage. Constructed in 1558-59 during the reign of Ghiyasuddin Bahadur Shah, it represents a unique fusion of architectural styles. The mosque is named after Kusumba village in Manda Upazila, Naogaon district, and is situated on the west bank of the Atrai River. Built by Sulaiman, a high-ranking official, the mosque's design reflects a departure from earlier Suri architecture of North India, grounding itself firmly in the Bengal style. The structure is primarily brick-built, with the exterior walls and interior surfaces up to the arches adorned with stone. Three types of stone—sandstone, granite, and marble—were used in its construction. The mosque features a rectangular plan with three bays and two aisles. The exterior boasts gently curved cornices and octagonal corner towers, typical of Bengal's architectural traditions. The eastern wall has three entrances, with two additional entrances on both the north and south sides. The interior qibla wall has intricately carved mihrabs, displaying floral motifs, vines and fruits. Once enclosed by a walled compound with a monumental gateway, the mosque also had a large water tank to the east, providing water for the local community. Although damaged in the 1897 earthquake, the mosque has been preserved by the Department of Archaeology of Bangladesh. Today, the Kusumba Masjid is not only a place of worship but also a major tourist attraction, symbolizing the region's cultural and historical identity. Its image is printed on the five taka note of Bangladesh.

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