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Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid: A Mughal Legacy in Old Dhaka

Explore Dhaka's Mughal heritage at Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid, a historic mosque in the heart of Old Dhaka's vibrant Chawkbazar.

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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's bustling Chawkbazar, it remains a vital religious and community hub.

A brief summary to Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid

  • 49 Chawk Circular Rd, Dhaka, Lalbagh, 1100, BD
  • 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.
  • Visit during non-prayer times to avoid congestion.
  • Explore the surrounding Chawkbazar market for a taste of local street life and traditional food.
  • Be aware that Chawkbazar is extremely crowded, especially during Ramadan evenings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Dhaka Sadarghat (river terminal), head north on Sadarghat Road towards Chawk Circular Road. Turn left onto Chawk Circular Road and walk for approximately 1.5 kilometers. The mosque will be on your right. This walk takes you through the heart of Old Dhaka, offering a glimpse into the city's bustling street life. Expect the walk to take around 20-30 minutes. There are no specific costs involved in walking.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus heading towards Chawkbazar and get off at the Chawkbazar bus stop. From there, walk towards Chawk Circular Road; the mosque is a short walk away. Bus fares typically range from 10-30 BDT. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option from your starting point. Be prepared for crowded conditions, especially during peak hours.

  • Rickshaw

    From any central location in Dhaka, hire a rickshaw to Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid. Simply tell the rickshaw driver 'Chawkbazar Masjid'. The fare should be between 100-200 BDT depending on the distance and negotiation skills. Rickshaws are readily available and offer a unique way to navigate the narrow streets of Old Dhaka.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Use a ride-sharing app like Uber or Pathao to book a car or bike to Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid. Fares vary depending on distance and traffic, but expect to pay between 200-400 BDT from central Dhaka. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid

Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid, a historical mosque in the Chowk Bazaar area of Old Dhaka, Bangladesh, embodies the city's cultural and architectural heritage. Constructed in 1664 by Subahdar Shaista Khan, a Mughal governor, the mosque symbolizes Mughal power and has served as a central religious and community space for Old Dhaka residents. The mosque's architecture blends Mughal and Bengali styles. The original structure featured three domes and minarets on a raised platform, possibly influenced by Tughlaq architecture. This elevated platform housed vaulted rooms, believed to have accommodated a residential madrasa for students and teachers. This design integrated religious and educational functions, saving space and resources. Over time, the mosque has undergone renovations and extensions, incorporating modern architectural features. A notable addition is the rainbow-colored minaret. Despite these changes, the mosque retains its historical essence and remains an important religious site. Today, it stands as a multi-storied complex accommodating many worshippers, with an interior divided into three bays and a preserved octagonal central mehrab. It can accommodate approximately 10,000 people for prayer. Located in the heart of Chawkbazar, the mosque is surrounded by vibrant street life and traditional food. Visiting requires modest dress and respectful behavior, and it's advisable to visit during non-prayer times. Nearby attractions include Lalbagh Fort, the Armenian Church, and Ahsan Manzil Museum.

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