Explore accommodations in Bagerhat sorted by distance
Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb (also known as Khan Jahan Ali's Mazar) is one of the most important religious and historical sites in Bagerhat, Bangladesh.
This sacred tomb holds the remains of Hazrat Khan Jahan Ali, the 15th-century saint, soldier, and city builder who transformed the region and left behind an amazing collection of monuments including the famous Sixty Dome Mosque.
The tomb is located on the northern bank of the beautiful Thakur Dighi (also called Khan Jahan Dighi), a large historic pond that Khan Jahan Ali himself is said to have dug.
The peaceful setting by the water, with ancient trees and the sound of birds, creates a calm and spiritual atmosphere that draws both pilgrims and tourists throughout the year.
Khan Jahan Ali (also spelled Ulugh Khan Jahan) was a Muslim saint and administrator who came to Bengal from Delhi (or possibly Turkey, according to some accounts) in the early 15th century.
He arrived during the reign of Sultan Nasiruddin Mahmud Shah and was given responsibility for governing the southern region of Bengal.
But Khan Jahan Ali was much more than just a governor.
He was a visionary leader who turned the wild, forested swampland of southern Bengal into a thriving city called Khalifatabad (now Bagerhat).
He built mosques, roads, bridges, tanks (water reservoirs), and public buildings.
His greatest creation, the Sixty Dome Mosque, still stands as one of the finest examples of medieval Islamic architecture in South Asia.
He was also known for his kindness to the people and his simple lifestyle.
Local legends say he was a friend to crocodiles, and even today, large crocodiles live in Thakur Dighi and are believed to be descendants of his pets.
Feeding these crocodiles has become a popular attraction for visitors.
Khan Jahan Ali passed away in 1459 AD and was buried at this spot, which has since become a place of pilgrimage.
The tomb building is a beautiful example of 15th-century Sultanate architecture.
It sits on a raised stone platform and features a single large dome.
The building is made of brick with stone decorations and follows the same architectural style as the other monuments Khan Jahan Ali built in Bagerhat.
Inside the tomb, visitors can see the grave covered with beautiful cloth and surrounded by an iron railing.
The interior is simple but dignified, with Arabic inscriptions and Islamic geometric patterns decorating the walls.
The tomb is an active place of worship and pilgrimage.
Thousands of devotees visit throughout the year to pay respects, offer prayers, and seek blessings.
The site is especially crowded during:
Many believe that prayers offered at this tomb are specially blessed, and people come from all over Bangladesh and beyond seeking help with health problems, family issues, or other difficulties.
One of the unique features of this site is Thakur Dighi, the large pond next to the tomb.
Legend says that Khan Jahan Ali dug this pond and kept pet crocodiles in it.
Today, several large crocodiles still live in the pond, and visitors can see them being fed at specific times.
The most famous crocodile was named Kalapahar (Black Mountain), who lived to be very old.
When Kalapahar died, another crocodile took his place.
Feeding these crocodiles with chickens or meat has become a tradition and a tourist attraction.
This feeding usually happens in the morning and attracts many visitors.
Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb is part of the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
The entire area, including the tomb, the Sixty Dome Mosque, and dozens of other historical monuments, is protected as a site of outstanding universal value.
Note: While entry is free, the site is maintained through donations.
Consider contributing if you appreciate the upkeep of this historic site.
The tomb complex is open to visitors throughout the week, but hours may vary for different areas.
Note: The tomb is a religious site, so visitors should be respectful of prayer times.
During Urs festival, the site may have special arrangements and different hours.
Plan to spend 1-2 hours at Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb complex.
Here is a suggested breakdown:
Note: Add 30-45 minutes extra if you want to watch crocodile feeding, as you may need to wait for the right time.
Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb is located about 2 km southwest of Bagerhat town center, close to the Sixty Dome Mosque.
Here is how to get there from different starting points:
The best time to visit Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is cool and comfortable for walking around the outdoor site.
Note: The tomb itself is free to enter.
Main expenses are transport and optional activities like crocodile feeding.
No reviews yet. Be the first to review!
**About Chunakhola Mosque** Chunakhola Mosque is a charming single-domed mosque located in Bagerhat's Historic Mosque City. Built in the 15th century during Khan Jahan Ali's era, this mosque is known for its beautiful terracotta decorations and well-preserved brick structure. It is part of the [UNESCO World Heritage Site](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/321/). **History & Background** - Built during the 15th century sultanate period - Named after the Chunakhola village area - Part of Khan Jahan Ali's mosque network - UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 **Architecture** - Single-dome square structure - Beautiful terracotta floral decorations on exterior - Curved cornice in traditional Bengali style - Ornamental mihrab on the western wall - Thick brick walls with excellent craftsmanship - Four corner towers (now partially ruined) **Special Features** - Rich terracotta ornamentation still visible - Smaller than Sixty Dome but highly decorated - Shows skilled artisan work of the era - Peaceful rural setting **Why Visit** Chunakhola Mosque is a hidden gem among Bagerhat's monuments. While tourists flock to the famous [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), this smaller mosque offers equally impressive terracotta art in a quieter setting. The floral patterns and intricate brick work make it a must-see for architecture lovers and photographers. **Nearby Places** - [Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb](/tourist-places/khan-jahan-ali-tomb) - The saint's mausoleum - [Nine Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/nine-dome-mosque) - Another historic mosque - [Singair Mosque](/tourist-places/singair-mosque) - Beautiful single-dome mosque - [Bibi Begni Mosque](/tourist-places/bibi-begni-mosque) - Historic mosque with unique features
**About Bibi Begni Mosque** Bibi Begni Mosque is a beautiful single-domed mosque located in the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat. This 15th-century mosque is named after Bibi Begni, believed to be the wife or a close relative of Khan Jahan Ali. It is part of the [UNESCO World Heritage Site](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/321/) and shows the elegant simplicity of sultanate-era Islamic architecture. **History & Background** - Built during Khan Jahan Ali's time in the 15th century - Named after Bibi Begni, a notable woman of that era - Part of the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat - UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 **Architecture** - Single-dome square structure - Thick brick walls typical of the period - Curved cornice (Bengali do-chala style) - Mihrab (prayer niche) on the western wall - Simple but elegant design - Original brick construction still visible **What Makes It Special** - Smaller and more intimate than the grand [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque) - Shows how local mosques served the community - Well-preserved example of 15th-century architecture - Peaceful location away from main tourist crowds **Nearby Attractions** - [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque) - The main UNESCO site - [Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb](/tourist-places/khan-jahan-ali-tomb) - The saint's mausoleum - [Nine Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/nine-dome-mosque) - Another heritage mosque - [Singair Mosque](/tourist-places/singair-mosque) - Famous for terracotta work **Why Visit** Bibi Begni Mosque offers a quieter experience compared to the major monuments. Its small size and simple beauty make it a perfect example of everyday religious architecture from the sultanate period.
**A Modern Bridge Named After a Medieval Saint** Khan Jahan Ali Bridge spans the Bhairab River, connecting Bagerhat to Khulna and other parts of southern Bangladesh. Named after the legendary 15th-century saint who built the [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque) and transformed this region, the bridge carries his legacy into modern times. **Why Visit This Bridge** - Beautiful views of the Bhairab River - Connects to the [UNESCO World Heritage](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/321/) zone - Sunset photography spot - Gateway to Bagerhat's historic sites - Modern engineering meets historic significance **The Bhairab River** The river flowing beneath the bridge has been important to Bagerhat for centuries. In Khan Jahan Ali's time, these waterways served as the main transport routes. Boats carried goods and people throughout the Sundarbans delta region. Today, you can still see traditional boats alongside modern vessels. **What You'll Experience** Standing on or near the bridge, you get panoramic views of the river. The water spreads wide here, especially during monsoon season. Fishing boats dot the surface, and you might see cargo vessels heading to [Mongla Port](/tourist-places/mongla-port-area) nearby. **Best Time to Visit** The bridge is particularly beautiful at sunset when the sky turns orange and pink over the water. Local people often gather near the bridge ends to enjoy the evening breeze. It's a slice of everyday Bangladesh life that tourists rarely see. **Connection to Khan Jahan Ali's Legacy** While Khan Jahan Ali built mosques, tombs, and ponds 600 years ago, this modern bridge honors his role in developing this region. Just as he connected communities through religious and civic buildings, this bridge connects communities through modern infrastructure. **Part of Your Bagerhat Tour** Most visitors pass over this bridge when traveling between Khulna and Bagerhat. Take a moment to stop and appreciate the views rather than just driving through. **Nearby Places** - [Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb](/tourist-places/khan-jahan-ali-tomb) - The saint's mausoleum - [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque) - UNESCO World Heritage mosque - [Chitra River](/tourist-places/chitra-river-bagerhat) - Scenic river of Bagerhat - [Sundarbans Gateway Points](/tourist-places/sundarbans-gateway-points) - Entry to the mangrove forest
The Sixty Dome Mosque (Shait Gumbad Masjid) is one of the most famous historical sites in Bangladesh and a [UNESCO World Heritage Site](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/321/) since 1985. Located in Bagerhat, about 175 kilometers southwest of Dhaka, this grand 15th-century mosque is the largest and most impressive monument built during the independent Sultanate period of Bengal. Despite its name, the mosque actually has 77 domes, not 60. The name "Shait Gumbad" (meaning sixty domes) comes from the 60 stone pillars inside that hold up the roof. Another story says the name might come from "Saat Gumbad" meaning "seven rows of domes," since the domes are arranged in 7 rows from east to west. **History and Construction** The mosque was built by Khan Jahan Ali, a Muslim saint and governor, around 1459 AD. Khan Jahan Ali came from Turkey and settled in the Bagerhat region, which was then called Khalifatabad. He built many mosques, roads, bridges, and other public buildings in this area. The Sixty Dome Mosque was his biggest and most important work. Khan Jahan Ali was not just a religious leader but also a skilled city planner. He turned the swampy forest area into a prosperous city. The mosque served as both a place for prayer and as a university where students would come to study Islamic teachings. **Architecture and Design** The mosque covers an area of about 4,980 square meters (53,600 square feet) and measures about 48 meters long and 33 meters wide. The walls are about 2 meters thick, built with small red bricks. The building shows a beautiful mix of Turkish and local Bengali building styles. The 77 domes are arranged in 7 rows and 11 columns. Most domes are rounded in shape, but 4 corner domes have a unique curved Bengali style. The roof is supported by 60 stone columns inside the prayer hall. These columns create 77 spaces below the domes, giving the interior a feeling of endless repetition that many visitors find magical. The mosque has 11 arched doorways on the east side (the main entrance), and 7 doorways each on the north and south walls. Inside, the original mihrab (prayer niche pointing toward Mecca) features beautiful terracotta decorations with flower and vine designs. **Why It Matters** The Sixty Dome Mosque is important for several reasons. It shows the skill of medieval Muslim builders in Bengal. It is one of the best examples of Sultanate architecture that still stands today. Together with nearby monuments like [Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb](/tourist-places/khan-jahan-ali-tomb), it tells the story of Islam's spread in southern Bengal during the 15th century. UNESCO recognized this importance by including the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat as a World Heritage Site in 1985. The site includes not just the Sixty Dome Mosque, but dozens of other mosques, tombs, bridges, and roads from the same era. Today, the mosque remains a working place of worship. Local people come here for daily prayers, and large crowds gather for Friday prayers and religious festivals. Visitors from around the world come to admire this masterpiece of medieval Islamic architecture.