Golakata Mosque

District:Jhenaidah•Division:Khulna

historicalreligiousarchaeological

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1/19/2026

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About

Golakata Mosque is one of the most important archaeological sites in Bangladesh, dating back to the 15th century Sultanate period.

Located in Barobazar, about 28 kilometers from Jhenaidah town, this six-domed mosque tells a mysterious story through its very name - "Golakata" means "beheaded" in Bengali.

According to local legend, the mosque's name comes from a tragic event.

It is said that when the mosque was being built, the workers were beheaded by invaders before they could complete their work.

Another story suggests that the heads of criminals were displayed here as punishment.

Whatever the true origin, the name adds an air of mystery to this ancient place of worship.

The mosque was built during the Bengal Sultanate era, possibly during the reign of Sultan Hussain Shah (1493-1519).

Archaeological excavations by the Bangladesh Department of Archaeology have revealed fascinating artifacts including a handwritten Quran and an ancient sword, now preserved at the site.

These discoveries confirm the mosque's importance as a center of Islamic learning and governance during medieval Bengal.

The mosque features six domes arranged in two rows of three, a style common in Sultanate architecture similar to the famous Sixty Dome Mosque in Bagerhat.

The walls are decorated with beautiful terracotta ornaments showing geometric and floral patterns.

The mihrab (prayer niche) on the western wall displays intricate carvings that showcase the skilled craftsmanship of that era.

Visiting Golakata Mosque offers a window into Bangladesh's rich Islamic heritage.

The peaceful atmosphere, ancient architecture, and mysterious history make it a must-see for anyone interested in history and archaeology.

Nearby, visitors can explore the revered Gazi-Kalu-Champabati Mazar and the Shailkupa Shahi Mosque to complete a heritage tour of Jhenaidah's historic Islamic sites.

Visitor Information

Entry Fee

Free entry for all visitors

Opening Hours

Open during daylight hours (6:00 AM - 6:00 PM)

Time Needed

30 minutes to 1 hour

Best Time to Visit

November to February (winter season) for pleasant weather.

Avoid monsoon season.

Estimated Cost

Transportation

•Bus from Jhenaidah to Barobazar: BDT 40-60

•Rickshaw to mosque: BDT 20-30

Total

•Day trip from Jhenaidah: BDT 150-300 per person

•Usually combined with other Barobazar sites

How to Reach

Location

Golakata Mosque is located in Jhenaidah district.

The exact location should be confirmed with locals as it may be in a rural area not well-marked on maps.

From Jhenaidah Town

By CNG Auto-rickshaw

•Hire a CNG from Jhenaidah bus stand or town center

•Tell the driver "Golakata Masjid" or "the historic dome-less mosque"

•Journey time: Varies depending on exact location (30-60 minutes)

•Estimated fare: 150-300 BDT (negotiate before starting)

•CNG can wait while you explore and bring you back

By Local Bus

•Ask at Jhenaidah bus stand for buses heading toward the mosque area

•Inform the conductor about your destination

•Bus fare: 30-50 BDT

•You may need to walk or take a rickshaw from the main road

By Motorcycle

•Rent a motorcycle in Jhenaidah for more flexibility

•Better for exploring rural roads and multiple sites

•Fuel cost: approximately 100-150 BDT round trip

From Dhaka

•By Bus: Take a direct bus from Gabtoli or Kalyanpur bus terminal to Jhenaidah. Journey: 5-6 hours. Major operators: Shyamoli Paribahan, Hanif Enterprise, Eagle Paribahan, SR Travels. Fare: 400-600 BDT depending on bus type (AC/Non-AC). From Jhenaidah, take local transport to the mosque.

•By Train: Take a train from Kamalapur to Jessore (6-8 hours), then bus to Jhenaidah (1-1.5 hours), then local transport to the mosque.

From Khulna

•Regular bus services from Khulna to Jhenaidah

•Journey time: 2-3 hours

•Fare: 150-250 BDT

•Then local transport to Golakata Mosque

From Jessore

•Frequent buses from Jessore to Jhenaidah

•Journey time: 1-1.5 hours

•Fare: 80-120 BDT

•Then local transport to the mosque

Navigation Tips

•The mosque may not be accurately marked on Google Maps

•Ask locals for "Golakata Masjid" - it is known for its flat roof (no dome)

•"Golakata" means "dome-less" in Bengali - use this term when asking directions

•Local history enthusiasts and mosque-goers can provide accurate directions

•Consider hiring a local guide familiar with historical sites

Combining Your Visit

•Plan to visit other historical sites in Jhenaidah on the same trip

•Nearby attractions include Asia's Largest Banyan Tree, Gazi-Kalu-Champabati Mazar

•Create a heritage tour covering multiple Sultanate-era and colonial structures

Best Time to Visit

•October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor exploration

•Weekday mornings: Fewer visitors, better for photography

•Avoid midday (12-3 PM): Hot in summer, prayer times

•Friday: Experience Jummah prayers but expect more visitors

Facilities

At the Mosque

•Historic mosque structure available for viewing

•Prayer hall still in active use by local community

•Wudu (ablution) facilities for those who wish to pray

•Open courtyard area around the mosque

•Shaded areas under nearby trees

•Local caretakers available to share information about the mosque

•Space for quiet reflection and observation

Visitor Guidelines

•Remove shoes before entering the mosque

•Dress modestly (cover arms and legs)

•Women should cover their heads inside

•Respect prayer times and worshippers

•Ask permission before photographing people

•Small donations help with mosque maintenance

Nearby Facilities

•Tea stalls and small eateries in the local bazaar

•Basic shops for snacks and necessities

•Mobile network coverage available

•Friendly locals willing to help with directions

In Jhenaidah Town

•Hotels and guest houses for overnight accommodation

•Restaurants serving local Bengali cuisine

•Medical facilities, pharmacies, and clinics

•Banks and ATMs for cash withdrawal

•Shops for photography supplies and essentials

•Bus stand with connections to other districts

What to Bring

•Drinking water and light snacks

•Appropriate modest clothing for mosque visit

•Head covering for women visitors

•Camera for photography (be respectful)

•Notebook for taking notes on architectural details

•Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)

•Comfortable walking shoes

•Small cash for donations and local purchases

Best Visiting Times

•Early Morning (7-9 AM): Best lighting for photography, cooler temperature

•Mid-morning (10 AM - 12 PM): After Fajr prayer, quiet atmosphere

•Late Afternoon (4-5 PM): Soft light, pleasant weather

•Avoid: Zuhr (midday), Asr (afternoon), and Maghrib (sunset) prayer times unless you wish to observe prayers

Things to Do

Architectural Exploration

•Study the unique dome-less (gola-kata) architectural style that gives the mosque its name

•Examine the intricate terracotta ornamentation on the exterior walls

•Observe the Sultanate-era construction techniques using thin bricks and lime mortar

•Compare the mihrab design with other historic mosques in Bangladesh

•Look for inscriptions or carvings that reveal the mosque's history

•Notice the arched doorways and windows typical of medieval Bengali architecture

•Photograph the detailed geometric and floral patterns in terracotta

Historical Learning

•Learn about the Sultanate period when this mosque was built

•Understand how Islam spread through Bengal during medieval times

•Discover the architectural evolution from dome-based to flat-roofed mosques

•Study the influence of pre-Islamic Bengali architecture on mosque design

•Talk to local elders and mosque caretakers about the mosque's history

•Research the patronage system that funded such grand religious buildings

Religious Experience

•Observe daily prayers and experience the mosque's spiritual atmosphere

•Join Friday Jummah prayers if you are Muslim (visitors welcome respectfully)

•Experience the peaceful ambiance during quiet hours

•Witness how the mosque continues to serve the local community

•Learn about Islamic prayer practices and rituals

Photography Opportunities

•Capture the unique flat-roofed silhouette against the sky

•Document the detailed terracotta work before further weathering

•Take wide shots showing the mosque in its village setting

•Morning light (7-9 AM) best for exterior photography

•Late afternoon (4-6 PM) creates dramatic shadows on ornamental details

•Black and white photography emphasizes the architectural details

Cultural Activities

•Explore the surrounding village and interact with local residents

•Visit the local bazaar for authentic rural Bengali experience

•Try local snacks and tea at nearby stalls

•Learn about daily life in rural Jhenaidah

•Combine your visit with other historical sites in the district

Do's and Don'ts

Do

✓Dress modestly when visiting the mosque

✓Remove shoes before entering the prayer area

✓Ask permission before photographing artifacts

✓Respect the religious significance of the site

✓Follow any guidelines from site caretakers

✓Bring water and snacks as facilities are limited

✓Visit during daylight hours

Don't

✗Do not touch or damage the ancient walls and decorations

✗Do not climb on the structure

✗Do not litter at this protected site

✗Do not make loud noises

✗Do not remove any artifacts or stones

✗Do not write or carve on walls

Safety Tips

•Visit during daylight hours

•Wear comfortable walking shoes

•Carry water and basic necessities

•Be careful on uneven ground around excavation sites

•Keep emergency contacts saved

•Travel in groups for safety

Location

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