Explore Chapainawabganj's Sona Mosque and Kantajew Temple architectural gems. Northwestern district rich in terracotta art, mango orchards, and ancient ruins.
**A Hidden Gem of Sultanate Architecture** Dhania Chalk Mosque is a lesser-known but charming historical mosque tucked away in the rural landscape of Chapainawabganj. Built during the [Bengal Sultanate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengal_Sultanate) period, this small mosque showcases the same brick-and-terracotta building tradition that made the region's Sultanate architecture famous. While it does not have the scale of [Chhoto Sona Masjid](/tourist-places/chhoto-sona-masjid), it has its own quiet beauty and historical importance. **What Makes It Interesting** The mosque features the typical elements of Sultanate-era construction — a rectangular prayer hall with arched doorways, a curved Bengali-style roof (locally called "chala" roof), and decorative terracotta panels on the walls. The "Chalk" in its name may refer to a raised platform or market area (chawk) near the mosque. The terracotta decorations, though weathered over the centuries, still show delicate patterns of flowers and geometric designs. **A Village Mosque with History** Unlike the Gaur ruins which were part of a grand capital city, Dhania Chalk Mosque tells a different story — it shows that fine architecture was not limited to the big cities. Even in smaller villages, the Sultanate rulers and wealthy patrons built mosques with care and artistry. This makes it a valuable example of how Islam and its architectural traditions spread across rural Bengal during the medieval period. **A Peaceful Detour** For visitors who have already seen the Gaur ruins — places like [Darasbari Mosque](/tourist-places/darasbari-mosque) and [Kotwali Darwaza](/tourist-places/kotwali-darwaza) — in Shibganj, Dhania Chalk Mosque offers a pleasant detour into the countryside. The mosque sits in a green, rural setting that feels far removed from the tourist circuit. It is the kind of place where you can sit quietly, enjoy the village atmosphere, and appreciate a piece of history that most tourists never see.
**A Mosque by the Ancient Pond** Khania Dighi Mosque is a Sultanate-era mosque that sits beside a large historic pond (dighi) in the Gaur ruins of Shibganj, Chapainawabganj. The name says it all — "Khania Dighi" refers to the big old pond next to it, and the mosque takes its name from this body of water. Built during the [Bengal Sultanate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengal_Sultanate) period (likely 15th century), this mosque and pond combination shows how medieval builders planned their religious and public spaces together. **The Mosque** The mosque is a brick structure with the typical features of Sultanate-era architecture — arched doorways, thick walls, and traces of terracotta decoration. While not as grand or well-preserved as [Chhoto Sona Masjid](/tourist-places/chhoto-sona-masjid), it still gives a clear picture of what a neighborhood mosque looked like in ancient Gaur. Parts of the walls and arches still stand, and you can see the outline of the prayer hall and mihrab positions. **The Dighi (Pond)** The large pond beside the mosque is an important part of the site. In the Sultanate period, every major mosque had a water tank nearby for ablution (wudu) before prayers. These ponds also served as water sources for the local community. The Khania Dighi is one of several historic ponds in the Gaur area and is still filled with water, adding beauty to the setting. The reflection of the old ruins in the still water makes for a lovely scene. **Part of the Gaur Heritage** Khania Dighi Mosque is part of the cluster of Sultanate-era monuments scattered across the Gaur ruins on the Bangladesh side. It sits within easy reach of [Tahkhana Complex](/tourist-places/tahkhana-complex), [Chhoto Sona Masjid](/tourist-places/chhoto-sona-masjid), and [Darasbari Mosque](/tourist-places/darasbari-mosque). While it is a smaller and simpler monument compared to some of its famous neighbors, it adds to the overall picture of how the ancient city was laid out, with mosques, ponds, and public buildings dotting the landscape.
**A Zamindar's Mansion in Mango Country** Kansat Rajbari is an old zamindar's (landlord's) mansion located in Kansat, one of the most well-known towns in Chapainawabganj. The word "Rajbari" literally means "King's House," and while the owners were not kings, they were powerful local landlords who controlled vast tracts of land during the British colonial period. The mansion stands as a reminder of the [zamindari system](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zamindari_system) that shaped the social and economic life of rural Bengal for centuries. **What You Will See** The rajbari is a colonial-era building with the typical features of Bengali zamindari architecture — tall columns, arched windows, decorative plasterwork, and spacious courtyards. While parts of the building have deteriorated over the decades, the main structure still gives you a clear idea of how grand it once was. The high ceilings, wide corridors, and ornate facades speak of a time when the zamindar was the most important person in the area. **Kansat — The Mango Capital** What makes visiting Kansat Rajbari special is its location in the heart of Chapainawabganj's mango country. Kansat is home to the [Kansat Mango Market](/tourist-places/kansat-mango-market), the largest mango wholesale market in Bangladesh. If you visit during mango season (May-July), you can combine your rajbari visit with a trip to the bustling mango market — a truly unique experience. The zamindars of Kansat were likely among the first to promote and profit from the region's famous mango orchards. **A Window into Colonial Bengal** The rajbari gives visitors a glimpse into how local administration worked under British rule. The zamindars collected taxes, settled disputes, and served as the link between the colonial government and the common people. Walking through the old rooms and courtyards, you can imagine the busy life that once filled these spaces — from formal meetings to family celebrations. Nearby, [Alpona Village, Tikoil](/tourist-places/alpona-village-tikoil) offers a beautiful contrast — while the rajbari shows the life of the wealthy elite, the village showcases the vibrant folk art traditions of ordinary people.
**Where Science Meets the King of Fruits** The Mango Research Center in Chapainawabganj is a government facility dedicated to the study and improvement of mango cultivation in Bangladesh. Run under the [Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh_Agricultural_Research_Institute) (BARI), this center works on developing new mango varieties, improving farming techniques, and fighting diseases that affect mango trees. For visitors, it offers a fascinating look into the science behind Bangladesh's most beloved fruit. **What You Will Find** The center has a collection of mango trees representing dozens of different varieties from across Bangladesh and beyond. Walking through the grounds feels like a living encyclopedia of mangoes — you will see trees of Langra, Himsagar, Fazli, Gopalbhog, Ashwina, Amrapali, and many experimental varieties being developed by the scientists. Each tree is labeled with its variety name, origin, and key characteristics, making it an educational experience. **Why It Matters** Chapainawabganj produces more [mangoes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mango) than any other district in Bangladesh. The research done at this center directly helps the thousands of mango farmers in the region grow better fruit, protect their orchards from pests and diseases, and increase their income. The center has developed several improved mango varieties that are now widely planted across the country. It is a place where tradition meets modern agricultural science. **A Perfect Addition to Your Mango Tour** If you are visiting Chapainawabganj during mango season and have already experienced the [Kansat Mango Market](/tourist-places/kansat-mango-market), the Research Center adds a different dimension to your mango knowledge. While the market shows the commercial side, the research center shows the scientific side — how new varieties are created, how orchards are managed, and what the future of mango farming looks like. Staff members are often happy to show visitors around and explain their work.
**A Sultanate-Era Mosque and Madrasa in Ruins** Darasbari Mosque is one of the important historical ruins in the ancient city of [Gaur](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaur,_Bangladesh), located in Shibganj Upazila of Chapainawabganj. The name "Darasbari" is believed to come from the word "Dars" meaning "lesson" — pointing to the fact that this mosque was once part of a madrasa (Islamic school). A stone inscription found at the site tells us it was built in 1479 AD during the reign of Sultan Yusuf Shah of the [Bengal Sultanate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengal_Sultanate). **What Remains Today** The mosque is now mostly in ruins, but you can still clearly see the original layout. It was a large rectangular building with multiple arched doorways and several domes. The brick walls still stand to a good height in many places, and you can make out the positions of the mihrabs (prayer niches) on the western wall. Some beautiful terracotta decorations survive on the remaining walls, showing flower and geometric patterns typical of the Sultanate period. **The Madrasa Connection** What makes Darasbari special is its connection to learning. In the Sultanate period, mosques often had madrasas attached to them where students would study religion, law, Arabic, and other subjects. The layout of Darasbari suggests there were rooms and spaces around the main mosque that served as classrooms and living quarters for students and teachers. This gives us a glimpse into the educational life of medieval Bengal. **A Quieter Part of Gaur** Darasbari Mosque sits a bit away from the more visited [Chhoto Sona Masjid](/tourist-places/chhoto-sona-masjid) and [Tahkhana Complex](/tourist-places/tahkhana-complex), which means it gets very few visitors. For those who enjoy exploring ruins without crowds, this is a perfect spot. The partly crumbled walls covered with moss and surrounded by trees create an atmospheric setting that feels like stepping back in time. It is about 1.5 km from Chhoto Sona Masjid and can easily be included in a tour of the Gaur ruins.
**An Underground Marvel of Ancient Gaur** The Tahkhana Complex is one of the most unusual and fascinating historical sites in the Gaur ruins of Chapainawabganj. The word "Tahkhana" comes from Persian and means "underground chamber." True to its name, this site features a remarkable underground structure that was built during the [Bengal Sultanate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengal_Sultanate) period, likely in the 15th or 16th century. It sits just about a kilometer from the famous [Chhoto Sona Masjid](/tourist-places/chhoto-sona-masjid), making it easy to visit both in one trip. **What You Will See** The main attraction is the partially underground brick building with thick walls and arched doorways. The underground rooms were designed to stay cool even during the blazing summers of Rajshahi — a kind of ancient air conditioning. Above ground, you can see the remains of walls, arches, and a raised platform. The whole structure shows the skill of Sultanate-era builders who knew how to work with the local climate. **The Tomb of Shah Niamatullah Wali** Within the complex stands the tomb of Shah Niamatullah Wali, a respected [Sufi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sufism) saint who is believed to have lived in this area centuries ago. The tomb is a simple but dignified structure, and local people still visit to pay their respects. The presence of a Sufi shrine alongside the underground chambers suggests that this complex may have served both as a residence and a spiritual center. **Part of the Gaur Story** Gaur was the grand capital of Bengal for several hundred years, and the Tahkhana Complex is one of many monuments scattered across the area on the Bangladesh side. While the more famous ruins like Firoz Minar and Dakhil Darwaza are on the Indian side of the border, the Tahkhana Complex, along with [Chhoto Sona Masjid](/tourist-places/chhoto-sona-masjid), [Kotwali Darwaza](/tourist-places/kotwali-darwaza), and [Darasbari Mosque](/tourist-places/darasbari-mosque), forms a cluster of important monuments that tell the story of this once-great city. **A Quiet Place to Explore** Unlike the more popular Chhoto Sona Masjid, the Tahkhana Complex sees fewer visitors, which means you can explore it at your own pace without crowds. The quiet atmosphere and the mystery of the underground rooms make it a memorable stop for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
**A Masterpiece of the Bengal Sultanate** Chhoto Sona Masjid, meaning the "Small Golden Mosque," is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved mosques from the [Bengal Sultanate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengal_Sultanate) period. Built in the early 1500s during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah, this mosque stands in the ancient ruined city of [Gaur](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaur,_Bangladesh) in Shibganj Upazila of Chapainawabganj District. Despite its name, it is not really small — it is called "Chhoto" (small) only to tell it apart from the much larger Bara Sona Masjid that sits across the border in India. **Why It Was Built** A nobleman named Majlis-e-Azam Wali Muhammad bin Ali built this mosque as a place of prayer and a gift to his community. The name "Sona" (golden) comes from the gold gilding that once covered the domes, making them shine brilliantly in the sunlight. Though the gold is long gone, the mosque still dazzles visitors with its detailed stone carvings and terracotta decorations. **What Makes It Special** The mosque has 15 domes arranged in three rows of five, topped with beautiful lotus finials. The outer walls are made of brick covered with dressed stone, and almost every surface is decorated with carved flowers, vines, and geometric patterns. Inside, you will find intricately carved mihrabs (prayer niches) with some of the finest stone carving work in all of South Asia. The black basalt pillars inside add to the mosque's striking look. **A Walk Through History** Gaur was once one of the richest and most important cities in all of Bengal. At its height, it was the capital of powerful Muslim rulers who built grand mosques, palaces, and gateways. Chhoto Sona Masjid is the crown jewel of the monuments that survive on the Bangladesh side. The mosque is a protected monument under the Department of Archaeology and has been on [UNESCO's World Heritage tentative list](https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/5580/) since 2018, recognizing its outstanding historical and artistic value. **Visiting Today** Today, the mosque sits in a peaceful, well-maintained compound surrounded by green lawns and old trees. The Department of Archaeology has done a careful restoration job, and the mosque looks almost as grand as it did 500 years ago. Visitors can walk around the mosque, step inside to admire the carved mihrabs, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this ancient place. It is the most important historical site in all of Chapainawabganj and a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Bengal.
**The Ancient Gateway of Gaur City** Kotwali Darwaza is a large historic gateway that once served as an important entrance to the ancient city of [Gaur](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaur,_Bangladesh). The name "Kotwali" comes from "Kotwal," the police chief or city administrator in medieval times, meaning this gateway was near the administrative and law enforcement center of the old city. Built during the [Bengal Sultanate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengal_Sultanate) period, this imposing brick structure stands as a reminder of how grand and well-organized the capital city once was. **What You Will See** The gateway is a tall, arched brick structure that still stands to an impressive height. It has a large central arch that was once the main passage for people, horses, and carts entering the city. The thick walls on either side show just how seriously the rulers took the defense and control of their capital. You can see traces of decorative brickwork and the remains of rooms or guard posts built into the sides of the gateway. **Gaur's City Walls and Gates** In its prime, Gaur was a walled city with several gateways controlling entry and exit. The most famous gateway — the Dakhil Darwaza — is on the Indian side of the border, but Kotwali Darwaza on the Bangladesh side gives you a real sense of the scale of the city's defenses. Standing in front of it, you can imagine the busy traffic of merchants, soldiers, and ordinary people who passed through this arch hundreds of years ago. **A Must-See in the Gaur Circuit** Kotwali Darwaza is about 2 km from [Chhoto Sona Masjid](/tourist-places/chhoto-sona-masjid) and fits naturally into a tour of the Gaur ruins. While it is simpler than some of the other monuments, its sheer size and the history it represents make it well worth a visit. Combined with the nearby [Tahkhana Complex](/tourist-places/tahkhana-complex), [Darasbari Mosque](/tourist-places/darasbari-mosque), and [Khania Dighi Mosque](/tourist-places/khania-dighi-mosque), it completes the picture of what ancient Gaur looked like on the Bangladesh side of the border.
**The Mango Capital of Bangladesh** Kansat Mango Market is the largest mango wholesale market in Bangladesh and possibly in all of South Asia. Located in Kansat town of Chapainawabganj, this seasonal market comes alive every year from May to July when millions of kilograms of [mangoes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mango) flow in from the surrounding orchards. Chapainawabganj is known as the "Mango Capital" of Bangladesh, and Kansat is where the action is — a place where the sweet aroma of ripe mangoes fills the air and the energy of traders is infectious. **What You Will Experience** During peak season, the market is a spectacular sight. Thousands of baskets, crates, and trucks loaded with golden mangoes stretch as far as you can see. Traders from all over Bangladesh come here to buy mangoes in bulk, and the haggling and dealing create a lively atmosphere. You will see varieties you may never have heard of — Langra, Himsagar, Gopalbhog, Fazli, Ashwina, Khirsapati, and the locally famous Chapai variety among many others. The sheer scale of the market is something you have to see to believe. **More Than Just a Market** Kansat Mango Market is not just a place to buy and sell fruit — it is a cultural experience. The mango trade is the backbone of Chapainawabganj's economy, and during the season, the whole district revolves around this market. Farmers, traders, truck drivers, laborers, and visitors all come together, creating a vibrant cross-section of rural Bangladesh. For a different kind of cultural experience, the nearby [Alpona Village, Tikoil](/tourist-places/alpona-village-tikoil) showcases stunning traditional folk art on village walls. Tasting fresh mangoes straight from the orchard, watching the sorting and grading process, and bargaining with friendly traders are all part of the experience. **Chapainawabganj's Mango Heritage** Chapainawabganj produces about a quarter of all mangoes grown in Bangladesh, making it by far the largest mango-producing district in the country. The soil, climate, and centuries of cultivation knowledge have combined to produce mangoes that are considered among the best in the world. The [Mango Research Center](/tourist-places/mango-research-center) near Kansat is dedicated to studying and improving these prized varieties. The mango orchards stretch for miles in every direction, and during blooming season (February-March) the landscape turns into a fragrant white-green carpet of mango flowers.
**A Living Canvas of Bengali Folk Art** Alpona Village in Tikoil is one of the most unique cultural attractions in Chapainawabganj — a district better known for its [Kansat Mango Market](/tourist-places/kansat-mango-market) but equally rich in folk heritage — and indeed in all of Bangladesh. Here, an entire village has been transformed into a living art gallery, with the walls and courtyards of houses painted with traditional [alpona](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpona) designs. Alpona is an ancient Bengali folk art form where intricate patterns are drawn on surfaces using rice paste, natural colors, and now modern paints. What makes Tikoil special is that this tradition is not just preserved in museums — it is alive and thriving on the walls of everyday homes. **What You Will See** Walking through the village, you will be surrounded by color on every side. The walls of houses, boundary walls, courtyards, and even water pots are covered with beautiful hand-painted designs. The patterns include flowers, birds, fish, trees, peacocks, geometric shapes, and scenes from village life. Each house has its own unique designs, and many families take great pride in keeping their walls freshly painted and vibrant. The mix of traditional motifs and creative modern touches makes every corner of the village a photo opportunity. **The People Behind the Art** The artists of Tikoil are mostly women from the local community. They have learned the art from their mothers and grandmothers, passing down this tradition through generations. Using simple brushes, sticks, and their fingers, they create designs that are both intricate and bold. Some families have become well-known for their artistic skill, and their work has been featured in national media and cultural events. **A Cultural Treasure** Alpona Village represents something rare — a community that has turned its traditional art into a way of life and a source of identity. In a time when many folk traditions are fading, Tikoil stands as a bright example of how culture can be kept alive. The village has attracted attention from artists, researchers, and tourists who want to see this living tradition firsthand. Combined with a visit to the nearby [Kansat Rajbari](/tourist-places/kansat-rajbari), a colonial-era zamindar mansion, it makes for a rich day of exploring Chapainawabganj's cultural heritage. It is a perfect destination for anyone interested in folk art, rural Bangladesh, and the creative spirit of ordinary people.
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