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How To Reach Chika Mosque
Malda , West Bengal, India
The Chika Mosque is a monument of profound historical and architectural interest, despite its relatively small size compared to the colossal Baroduari and Adina mosques. Located within the heart of the Gour ruins complex, the mosque is believed to have been built in $1486 ext{ AD}$ by Sultan Yusuf Shah or later in the early 16th century. Its name, "Chika" (meaning "bats" or "bats-house"), is a popular local moniker earned centuries ago when the mosque was abandoned and became a nesting place for bats, but historically, its original name is not definitively known. The structure stands out because of its heavily decorated fa ade and the reuse of older Hindu temple stones, a practice common in the Bengal Sultanate architecture that provides a fascinating insight into the use of available materials. The mosque is rectangular, featuring a single, large prayer chamber that was originally covered by a single dome, though the dome is now completely missing. The most striking element is the exquisitely carved stone lintel over the central entrance, which exhibits figures of pre-Islamic deities though heavily defaced clearly indicating its origin from an earlier Hindu structure. This reuse of older religious materials in a new Islamic context makes the Chika Mosque a key site for studying the complex cultural and political transitions of the period. Moreover, the remaining brick and terracotta work on the structure's walls, though fragmented, reveals a high level of craftsmanship, particularly the intricately carved niches (mihrabs) inside. The monument is situated in a quieter part of the Gour complex, offering a more serene and contemplative experience than the major gateways or the larger mosque ruins. The intricate designs, coupled with the mysterious name, make the Chika Mosque a compelling stop for any visitor to the Malda ruins. Its historical narrative, blending political might with architectural resourcefulness, is a microcosm of the entire Gour story.
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How to Reach

By Air:

Via Bagdogra or Kolkata: The most convenient air access is via Bagdogra Airport (IXB) near Siliguri, approximately 230 {KMS} away. From there, a private taxi or bus is required for the 5 to 6 hour journey to Malda City. The alternative, and often preferred, route is flying into Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), followed by a train or bus to Malda Town, which offers better connectivity.

By Train:

Arriving at Malda Town: The primary railhead is Malda Town Railway Station (MLDT), which is roughly 15 {KMS} from the Chika Mosque site. MLDT is a major junction, well-served by express trains from Kolkata, Delhi, and other large cities. The journey from Kolkata takes approximately 6 to 8 hours. This is the most popular and efficient method for reaching the Malda region.

By Road: Connecting to NH 12: Malda City is located on National Highway 12 (NH 12), which facilitates easy road travel. State and private buses operate frequent overnight services from Kolkata to the Gour Kanya Bus Terminus in Malda. The journey takes about 7 to 8 hours. From Malda City, the road to the Gour ruins is well-maintained, passing through a scenic landscape of mango orchards.

By Local Transport:

The Toto Circuit: Once you reach Malda Town or the bus stand, the most effective way to visit the Chika Mosque and the other scattered Gour ruins is by hiring a local motorized three-wheeler, or Toto (e-rickshaw), for a fixed price. You must hire the Toto for the entire circuit and ensure the driver knows all the specific sites, including Chika Mosque. Expect to negotiate a fare of about 400 to 600 {Rupees} for a half-day tour of the entire Gour complex, including waiting time at each monument.

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