Chhota Sona Mosque | Rajshahi

The Chhota Sona Mosque is a 16th-century mosque located in the city of Rajshahi, Bangladesh. It is a significant example of pre-Mughal architecture in the region.

Visual Characteristics

The mosque is constructed primarily from brick, with terracotta ornamentation. It features a central dome and four smaller domes, supported by arched doorways. The exterior walls are adorned with intricate terracotta panels depicting floral motifs and geometric patterns. The structure has a rectangular plan, measuring approximately 20 meters by 10 meters.

Location & Access Logistics

The Chhota Sona Mosque is situated in the Mahasthangarh Archaeological Site, approximately 12 kilometers north of Bogra town. Access is via the Bogra-Mahasthangarh Road. Bogra is reachable by bus from major cities like Dhaka (approximately 250 km south). Parking is available at the Mahasthangarh site. Local auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available from Bogra town to the mosque.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The mosque was built during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah in the late 15th or early 16th century. Its original purpose was for congregational prayer. The architectural style reflects the transition period between the Sultanate and Mughal eras in Bengal.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the detailed terracotta artwork on the exterior walls. The central prayer hall and the flanking chambers are accessible. Photography of the architectural details is permitted. The site is part of the larger Mahasthangarh archaeological complex, offering opportunities to explore other ruins.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Mahasthangarh visitor center. Limited shade is provided by trees within the archaeological site. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available. Food vendors are present near the Mahasthangarh entrance, offering local snacks and beverages.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is during the morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM) to capture the terracotta details with optimal lighting. The dry season, from October to March, offers pleasant weather conditions. There are no tide-related considerations.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the mosque was originally intended to be covered in gold (Sona means gold), but the project was left incomplete. The intricate terracotta panels are considered some of the finest examples of pre-Mughal art in Bangladesh.

Nearby Landmarks

• Mahasthangarh Archaeological Museum (0.2km West)
• Govinda Bhita Temple (0.8km Southwest)
• Bhasu Vihara (3.5km Northwest)
• Kaderia Jame Mosque (4.0km South)