Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque, Old Dhaka

Photo: Yahya, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque

A quiet Mughal-era mosque raised high on a platform in Old Dhaka, rarely crowded with visitors. Allow about 30 to 45 minutes.

About Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque

Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque dates from the early 1700s, the late Mughal period. Its most unusual feature is the tall brick platform it stands on: you climb a flight of steps to reach the prayer hall and courtyard, while arched chambers fill the space beneath.

The prayer hall is crowned with three domes, and slim corner towers rise at the edges of the building. From the raised courtyard you look out over the rooftops and lanes of the Lalbagh area of Dhaka.

Compared with nearby Lalbagh Fort, it sees few tourists, which makes it a peaceful stop and a good place to understand how the Mughals built in Bengal. It is still an active mosque, used for daily prayers by the local community.

We often add it to private Old Dhaka walks between Lalbagh Fort and the Dhakeshwari National Temple. For another historic mosque nearby, see the tiled Star Mosque.

Things to do

  • Climb to the platform

    Walk up the steps to the raised courtyard and see the three-domed prayer hall.

  • Admire Mughal details

    Look at the domes, arches and corner towers typical of late Mughal building in Bengal.

  • Rooftop views

    The raised courtyard gives a rare open view over the surrounding Old Dhaka lanes.

Getting there

From central Dhaka: 45 minutes to over an hour by car, then a short rickshaw ride or walk through the lanes from Lalbagh Fort.

Where to stay

Stay in Gulshan, Banani or central Dhaka and combine the mosque with other Old Dhaka sights on a day tour.

Tours that visit Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque

Questions

Can non-Muslims visit Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque?

Usually yes, outside prayer times. Dress modestly and ask the caretaker before going inside.

What should I wear?

Long trousers or skirts and covered shoulders. Women should bring a scarf to cover their hair. Shoes come off before the prayer hall.

How far is it from Lalbagh Fort?

It is close by, a short rickshaw ride or walk through the lanes.

How long should I spend there?

About 30 to 45 minutes.

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