Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif
The sacred hilltop shrine of Hazrat Shah Paran and ancient living banyan tree
Quick Travel Facts & Visitor Guide (2026)
Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif is a prominent travel destination in Sylhet, Sylhet Division, Bangladesh. The optimal time to visit is October to March for pleasant, cool pilgrimage weather; Thursday evenings and annual Urs feature vibrant spiritual gatherings. for a recommended trip duration of Half day (Easily paired with Shah Jalal Dargah and Malnicherra Tea Estate). Entry ticket is Free Entry and weekly off day is Open Daily. The revered 14th-century Sufi pilgrimage complex of Hazrat Shah Paran (nephew of Hazrat Shah Jalal), situated on a scenic hillock in Sylhet, famous for spiritual tranquility, historic mosques, and ancient sacred trees.
Overview
Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif (Dargah-e-Hazrat Shah Paran) is one of the most spiritually venerated and historically celebrated Sufi pilgrimage shrines in Bangladesh, located on an elevated hillock (tilla) in Khadimpara, approximately 8 kilometres east of Sylhet city centre along the Tamabil highway. The shrine is dedicated to Hazrat Shah Paran (R.), the illustrious nephew and chief companion of Hazrat Shah Jalal (R.).
Hazrat Shah Paran was an extraordinary 14th-century Sufi saint and scholar who accompanied Hazrat Shah Jalal from Yemen during the historical conquest of Sylhet in 1303 CE. Renowned for his deep piety, spiritual wisdom, and miracles (karamat), he established his hermitage (khanqah) atop this tranquil hillock to preach the message of divine love, egalitarian brotherhood, and humanitarian service.
The shrine complex is reached by climbing a wide, scenic flight of stone steps shaded by massive, centuries-old sacred banyan and mahogany trees. At the top stands the sacred marble-paved tomb sanctum covered with ornate embroidered silk chaadars, surrounded by burning incense and oil lamps. The complex also features a monumental multi-domed Jame Mosque, expansive prayer courtyards, and a continuous community feeding hall (Langar Khana).
Drawing hundreds of thousands of spiritual seekers and travelers of all faiths each year, Shah Paran Mazar radiates an aura of profound peace, contemplation, and centuries-old Sufi mysticism.
History & Culture
Hazrat Shah Paran arrived in Sylhet in 1303 CE with Hazrat Shah Jalal's 360 companions, playing a pivotal spiritual and diplomatic role in the region's cultural transformation.
Following his passing in the 14th century, his tomb atop the Khadimpara hillock became a revered spiritual sanctuary, patronised by Mughal governors and Bengali sultans.
The shrine has been thoughtfully expanded over centuries while preserving its natural hilltop grove and ancient living banyan tree.
Top things to do in Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif
Pay Respects at the Hilltop Mazar
Ascend the stone stairs to offer floral tributes, light candles, and say prayers at the revered saint's marble tomb.
Pray at the Grand Jame Mosque
Experience congregational prayers inside the spacious, beautifully architected hilltop Jame Mosque.
Sit Beneath the Ancient Sacred Banyan Tree
Relax in the peaceful shade of the monumental banyan tree that has stood over the shrine grounds for centuries.
Experience Langar Hospitality
Participate in the community Langar where blessed khichuri and meat curry (tabarruk) are served to all visitors.
Video Guide: Experience Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif
Watch cinematic 4K footage and essential visual travel highlights before planning your trip to Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif.
Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif in pictures
Curated photography via Wikimedia Commons under Creative Commons licensing.
Highlights
- ✓Sacred 700-year-old Sufi pilgrimage shrine of Hazrat Shah Paran (R.)
- ✓Scenic elevated hilltop location approached by grand stone staircases
- ✓Massive ancient sacred banyan tree shading the holy tomb courtyard
- ✓Magnificent multi-domed modern Jame Mosque with intricate Islamic calligraphy
- ✓Continuous century-old Langar tradition offering meals to pilgrims
- ✓Atmospheric spiritual evening gatherings with incense, zikr, and Qawwali
How to reach Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif (Transport Routes)
Take a 15 to 20-minute CNG auto-rickshaw or bus from Sylhet city (Court Point / Subidbazar) east along the Tamabil highway to Shah Paran Gate (approx. 8 km).
Best time to visit Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif& Seasonal Advisory
November to February: Cool winter weather; ideal for climbing the hilltop stairs and spending peaceful hours in the courtyards.
Thursday Evenings: Special spiritual zikr gatherings, devotional chants, and lively pilgrim atmosphere.
Year-round: Welcoming and active daily from dawn to midnight.
Where to stay near Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif
Pilgrim rest houses at the complex, or modern luxury hotels in Sylhet city centre (8 km away).
Local food & dining
- 🍽️Blessed Langar tabarruk (shrine khichuri and beef curry)
- 🍽️Sylheti special Jilapi and sweetmeats from shrine stalls
- 🍽️Hot tea and fresh Bakarkhani at the hill base market
Essential Travel Tips & Rules for Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif
- 💡Dress respectfully with covered shoulders and head when entering the tomb enclosure and mosque.
- 💡Remove footwear at the designated shoe deposit counters before climbing the upper marble platforms.
- 💡Keep personal belongings secure during busy Thursday evenings and holiday prayer gatherings.
- 💡Combine with Hazrat Shah Jalal Dargah in the city for a complete Sufi pilgrimage.
Nearby Places to Visit around Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif
Combine your visit to Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif with these closely located attractions and scenic destinations.
1 km (NW)Shah Paran Dargah Sharif, located on a peaceful hillock just 7 km east of Sylhet City, is the shrine of Hazrat Shah Paran (R.A.), the legendary nephew and spiritual companion of Hazrat Shah Jalal.
2.1 km (SW)Tilagarh Eco Park in Sylhet City is a 112-acre protected forest reserve featuring undulating green hillocks, walking trails, deer parks, and bird aviaries inside city limits.
5.8 km (N)A dense, peaceful tropical forest located just outside Sylhet city, offering excellent trekking trails, camping spots, and diverse birdlife.
6.2 km (W)Shah Jalal Dargah Sharif in Sylhet City is Bangladesh's most celebrated Sufi shrine, honoring Hazrat Shah Jalal (R.A.) who brought Islamic spiritual teachings to the region in 1303 AD.
Curated Destination Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions about Hazrat Shah Paran Mazar Sharif
Who was Hazrat Shah Paran?+
He was a revered 14th-century Sufi saint and the nephew of Hazrat Shah Jalal (R.), who helped spread Islam and spirituality across Sylhet.
How far is Shah Paran Mazar from Shah Jalal Dargah?+
It is located about 8 kilometres east of Shah Jalal Dargah, reachable in approximately 20 minutes by auto-rickshaw.
Is entry to Shah Paran Mazar free?+
Yes, entry to the shrine, mosque, and courtyards is completely free for all visitors.
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Shah Jalal Dargah Sharif in Sylhet City is Bangladesh's most celebrated Sufi shrine, honoring Hazrat Shah Jalal (R.A.) who brought Islamic spiritual teachings to the region in 1303 AD.
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