More Places in Bagerhat
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Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb
Bagerhat
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](/tourist-places/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. **Who Was Khan Jahan Ali?** 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](/tourist-places/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 Structure** 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. **Religious Significance** 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: - The annual Urs festival (death anniversary celebration) - Every Thursday evening, when special prayers are held - The months of Ramadan and Muharram - Friday afternoons after Jummah prayers 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. **Thakur Dighi and the Crocodiles** 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. **UNESCO World Heritage Connection** Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb is part of the [Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/321/), which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. The entire area, including the tomb, the [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), and dozens of other historical monuments, is protected as a site of outstanding universal value.
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Nine Dome Mosque
Bagerhat
The Nine Dome Mosque (Noy Gumbad Masjid) is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval mosques in the Bagerhat heritage area. Built by Khan Jahan Ali in the 15th century, this elegant mosque features nine domes arranged in a 3x3 pattern, giving it its name. It stands as a fine example of the Sultanate-era architecture that flourished in southern Bengal. Located just 300 meters north of the famous [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), the Nine Dome Mosque is smaller but equally impressive in its craftsmanship. The mosque is part of the [UNESCO World Heritage Site](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/321/) known as the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat, which includes dozens of monuments from the same period. **Architecture and Design** The mosque is a single-story rectangular building measuring approximately 15 meters by 11 meters. The exterior walls are made of brick and are about 2 meters thick, a common feature of Khan Jahan Ali's buildings that helped keep the interior cool. The nine domes are arranged in three rows of three, supported by four stone pillars inside the prayer hall. The corner domes are slightly smaller than the central ones, creating a pleasing visual balance. The central dome is the largest and sits directly above the main prayer area facing the mihrab. The building has three arched entrances on the east side (the main entrance), and one entrance each on the north and south walls. The mihrab (prayer niche) on the western wall is beautifully decorated with terracotta floral patterns, though much of the original decoration has worn away over the centuries. **Historical Significance** Like the other mosques in Bagerhat, the Nine Dome Mosque was built during the reign of Khan Jahan Ali, the saint and administrator who transformed this swampy region into the prosperous city of Khalifatabad. The mosque was likely used for daily prayers by local residents and may have also served educational purposes. The mosque demonstrates the architectural style that Khan Jahan Ali brought to Bengal - a blend of Turkish and local influences that created a unique regional style. The thick walls, hemispherical domes, and terracotta decorations are hallmarks of this period. **Current State** The Nine Dome Mosque has been well-preserved by the Department of Archaeology and continues to serve as a place of worship. Local Muslims still come here for prayers, especially during Friday Jummah and religious occasions. The surrounding area has been maintained as a peaceful garden, making it a pleasant spot for visitors. Compared to the crowded [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), the Nine Dome Mosque offers a quieter, more intimate experience. Visitors can take their time to admire the architecture without the crowds, making it a favorite spot for photographers and history enthusiasts. The mosque is best visited as part of a heritage tour that includes the [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), [Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb](/tourist-places/khan-jahan-ali-tomb), and the other historic mosques scattered around Bagerhat.
Reza Khoda Mosque
Bagerhat
**About Reza Khoda Mosque** Reza Khoda Mosque is a historic single-domed mosque in Bagerhat's [UNESCO World Heritage Site](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/321/). Built in the 15th century during Khan Jahan Ali's rule, this mosque is named after Reza Khoda, believed to be a local saint or notable figure of that time. It represents the typical neighborhood mosque architecture of the sultanate period. **History & Background** - Built during the 15th century Khan Jahan Ali era - Named after Reza Khoda, a local religious figure - Part of the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat - UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 **Architecture** - Single hemispherical dome on square base - Thick brick walls for climate control - Traditional curved Bengali cornice - Simple mihrab on the western wall - Corner towers at four corners - Sturdy construction that has lasted 600 years **What Makes It Special** - Well-preserved example of local mosque design - Shows how smaller communities worshipped - Less visited than major monuments - Authentic medieval atmosphere **Why Visit** Reza Khoda Mosque offers a glimpse into everyday religious life during the sultanate period. Unlike the grand [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque) built for large congregations, this smaller mosque served local residents. Its simple design and peaceful setting make it perfect for those wanting to experience history away from tourist crowds. **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) - Multi-domed historic mosque - [Zindapir Mosque](/tourist-places/zindapir-mosque) - Another single-dome mosque - [Chunakhola Mosque](/tourist-places/chunakhola-mosque) - Known for terracotta decorations
Kodla Math
Bagerhat
**About Kodla Math** Kodla Math is a historic Hindu monastery complex located in Bagerhat district. Dating back several centuries, this religious site showcases the Hindu heritage of the region alongside the famous Islamic monuments. The Math features traditional Bengali temple architecture and serves as an active place of worship. **History & Background** - Ancient Hindu monastery complex - Shows religious diversity of historic Bagerhat - Has been a center of Hindu religious activities for centuries - Features traditional Bengali architectural style **Architecture** - Traditional Bengali temple structures - Terracotta decorations on temple walls - Central courtyard design - Multiple shrine buildings - Classic curved roofs (chala style) - Brick and lime mortar construction **What Makes It Special** - Represents Hindu heritage in predominantly Islamic heritage area - Active religious site with regular worship - Traditional Bengali temple architecture - Less known but historically significant **Why Visit** Kodla Math offers a different perspective on Bagerhat's rich cultural heritage. While the area is famous for its Islamic monuments like [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), this Hindu monastery shows the religious diversity that existed in medieval Bengal. The temple architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it worth visiting for those interested in complete cultural understanding of the region. **Nearby Places** - [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque) - UNESCO World Heritage mosque - [Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb](/tourist-places/khan-jahan-ali-tomb) - Historic mausoleum - [Ghora Dighi](/tourist-places/ghora-dighi) - Historic pond with legends - [Ronvijoypur Mosque](/tourist-places/ronvijoypur-mosque) - Single-dome mosque with large dome