Lattan Mosque
The Lattan Mosque, often referred to as the "Painted Mosque," is one of the most aesthetically pleasing and well-preserved structures in the ancient city of Gour. Attributed to Sultan Shamsuddin Yusuf Shah and built around 1475 AD, it stands as a testament to the peak of the Husain Shahi architectu ral style. The name "Lattan" is traditionally associated with a court dancer of the same name who is said to have commissioned the mosque, although historical records are sparse on this detail. What makes this mosque truly unique is that it was once entirely covered with multi-colored glazed tiles—green, yellow, blue, and white—which earned it its colorful nickname. While much of the tile work has faded or been lost over centuries, the remnants still give a glimpse of its former glory. The mosque consists of a square prayer chamber and a longitudinal verandah, a classic layout for mosques in this region. The interior is a single large hall topped by a massive dome, which is supported by squinches and thick brick pillars. The craftsmanship involved in the terracotta and brickwork is exceptional, featuring floral and geometric patterns that are characteristic of the Bengal Sultanate. Located within the fortified city of Gour, the mosque is surrounded by other ruins, yet it stands out due to its compact and balanced proportions. It reflects the prosperity and artistic refinement of the era when Gour was the heart of the Islamic world in the East. For visitors, the Lattan Mosque offers a peaceful environment to appreciate the intricate beauty of medieval Islamic art. Its location, away from the main highway, ensures a quiet atmosphere where one can almost hear the echoes of the past. It remains a must-visit for anyone interested in the decorative history of Indian architecture.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 1. 5 HoursPlace Type:
Historical Mosque / Heritage SiteSpecial Events:
World Heritage Day: Observed on April 18th with local heritage walks.
Bengali New Year: Visitors often flock here during the April holidays. ...World Heritage Day: Observed on April 18th with local heritage walks.
Bengali New Year: Visitors often flock here during the April holidays.Best Photo Spots:
The East Facade: Best for capturing the three arched entrances.
Corner Towers: For detailed shots of the fluted brickwork.
Verandah Interior: For capturing the play of light through the arches. ...The East Facade: Best for capturing the three arched entrances.
Corner Towers: For detailed shots of the fluted brickwork.
Verandah Interior: For capturing the play of light through the arches.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Photography: Capture the intricate tile fragments and fluted towers.
Study Calligraphy: Observe the Arabic inscriptions on the mihrabs.
Architecture Tour: Compare the "chau-chala" roof with nearby structures.
Picnic: The surrounding lawns are well-maintained for a short rest.
Walk to nearby ruins: Visit the Tantipada Mosque located close by.
Bird Spotting: The old walls often house local owls and parrots.
Sketching: The mosque's symmetry makes it a favorite for artists. ...
Information
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Architecture:
Layout and Dimensions: The mosque is a rectangular structure measuring approximately 21. 95 meters (72 feet) by 15. 54 meters (51 feet). The central square prayer chamber is 10. 36 meters on each side. It is topped by a single large dome with a lotus motif at its apex.Layout and Dimensions: The mosque is a rectangular structure measuring approximately 21. 95 meters (72 feet) by 15. 54 meters (51 feet). The central square prayer chamber is 10. 36 meters on each side. It is topped by a single large dome with a lotus motif at its apex.
Decorative Features: The mosque is famous for its "Chini-tikri" or glazed tile work. The exterior walls feature deep vertical panels and multi-cusped arches. The corner towers are fluted and divided into sections by molded bands. The verandah is roofed with three small vaults—the central one being a "chau-chala" (four-roofed) type, showcasing the local Bengali influence on Islamic architecture. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Bagdogra.
By Train: Reach Malda Town Station.
By Road: Take a taxi or auto towards Gour (17 KMS).
By Local Transport: Hire a cycle-rickshaw or Toto for a ful... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Tantipada Mosque (1 KM), 2. Gunamanta Mosque (2 KMS), 3. Chamkati Mosque (2 KMS), 4. Firoz Minar (3 KMS), 5. Dakhil Darwaza (4 KMS), 6. Boro Sona Masjid (5 KMS), 7. Kadam Rasul Masjid (4 KMS), 8. Lukochuri Darwaza (4 KMS), 9. Ramkeli (5 KMS), 10. Malda Museum (16 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: Wear a mask if sensitive to dust from the old bricks.
Packing: Carry a wide-angle lens and a power bank.
Respect: Do not climb on the delicate ruins or walls.
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