The Baitul Mukarram Mosque is the national mosque of Bangladesh, located in the heart of Dhaka, the capital city. It is one of the largest mosques in the country and serves as a key place of worship for the Muslim community in Bangladesh.
Yes, tourists are welcome to visit Baitul Mukarram Mosque. However, visitors are expected to respect the religious nature of the site, dress modestly, and avoid visiting during prayer times, especially the weekly Jummah prayers on Fridays unless they are participating in the prayers.
The mosque is typically open to visitors outside of prayer times. Tourists should check the current opening times, which may vary, and be aware of the five daily prayer times when the mosque is primarily for worship and not for tourism.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Baitul Mukarram Mosque. It is a place of worship and is open to all, although donations are welcomed.
When visiting the mosque, both men and women should dress conservatively. Men should wear long trousers and shirts that cover their shoulders, while women should cover their heads with a scarf and wear long skirts or trousers and long-sleeved tops. Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque.
Guided tours are not routinely offered at Baitul Mukarram Mosque, but visitors can explore the mosque individually. It might be possible to find local guides outside the mosque who can provide a tour, but such arrangements are informal.
The mosque has a modernist architectural style with some traditional features, including its grand marble facade, a vast main prayer hall, and the absence of traditional domes. Its geometric design and simplicity are quite distinctive.
Photography of the mosque's exterior is generally permitted, but restrictions may apply to interior photography to respect the privacy of worshippers. Always ask for permission if unsure or if you wish to take photos during non-prayer times.
Non-Muslim visitors are generally welcome at the mosque, but specific facilities for tourists, like information boards or interactive exhibits, may be limited. Visitors should be prepared to observe quietly and respectfully.
The mosque is centrally located and easily accessible by various modes of transportation in Dhaka, including rickshaws, taxis, and buses. It is situated near the Gulistan and Paltan areas, which are well-known landmarks in the city.