Nayabad Mosque
The terracotta gem of Dinajpur
Overview
Located in the village of Nayabad in Dinajpur district, just a few kilometers from the famous Kantajew Temple, the Nayabad Mosque is a beautiful and historically significant piece of 18th-century architecture. Built in 1793, the mosque stands as a testament to the religious harmony and shared craftsmanship of the era.
The mosque is a classic example of Bengal's terracotta architecture. It features three central domes and octagonal towers at its four corners. The exterior walls are adorned with intricate terracotta plaques, displaying floral and geometric motifs that bear a striking resemblance to the artwork found on the nearby Hindu temple.
Though relatively small, the mosque sits in a quiet, peaceful courtyard shaded by large trees. Its historical connection to the Kantajew Temple makes it an essential stop for anyone exploring the rich archaeological heritage of the Dinajpur region.
History & Culture
According to local history and an inscription on the mosque, it was built by Muslim architectural workers and artisans who were brought from Persia (or northern India) by the local Maharaja to construct the Kantajew Temple.
The Maharaja reportedly gifted them the land in Nayabad village so they could settle there and build a mosque for their daily prayers.
Top things to do in Nayabad Mosque
Examine the Terracotta
Look closely at the terracotta plaques on the walls; you can see the shared stylistic elements with the Kantajew Temple.
Explore the Courtyard
The quiet courtyard contains several unmarked graves, believed to be those of the original artisans who built both the mosque and the temple.
Combine with Kantajew
Given its proximity, it is almost mandatory to visit the mosque on the same trip as the Kantajew Temple.
Nayabad Mosque in pictures
Photos via Wikimedia Commons under their respective Creative Commons licences. Click a photo credit for the source and full licence terms.
Highlights
- ✓Beautiful 18th-century Bengal terracotta architecture
- ✓Three elegant domes and four octagonal corner towers
- ✓Intricate terracotta plaques featuring floral and geometric designs
- ✓A fascinating historical connection to the Kantajew Temple
- ✓A deeply peaceful, rural village setting
How to get to Nayabad Mosque
The mosque is located in Kaharole upazila, about 20 km from Dinajpur town. You can hire an auto-rickshaw or CNG from Dinajpur town to take you to Kantajew Temple and then to Nayabad Mosque, which is just 2-3 km away.
Best time to visit Nayabad Mosque
Winter (November to February): The cool weather is perfect for exploring the archaeological sites of Dinajpur.
Late Afternoon: The setting sun casts a beautiful, warm glow on the ancient terracotta bricks.
Where to stay
Visitors stay in Dinajpur town, which has several standard hotels and government rest houses.
What to eat
- 🍽️There are no major restaurants near the mosque. Enjoy traditional food in Dinajpur town, and don't forget to buy some famous Dinajpur Kataribhog rice.
Travel tips
- 💡The mosque is an active place of worship. Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before stepping onto the prayer areas.
- 💡Respect the privacy of the worshippers if you visit during daily prayer times.
- 💡The road from Kantajew Temple to the mosque is a narrow village road, but it is very scenic and peaceful.
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee?+
No, entry to the mosque and its courtyard is completely free.
Can women enter the mosque?+
Women can visit the courtyard and view the exterior architecture, but access to the main interior prayer hall during prayer times may be restricted based on local customs.
Who maintains the mosque?+
It is maintained by the local community and protected as a heritage site by the Department of Archaeology.
