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Star Mosque, also known as "Tara Masjid" in Bengali, is one of the most beautiful and famous mosques in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Located in the Armanitola area of Old Dhaka, it is known for its unique design decorated with stars on its surface, which gives the mosque its name. This small but stunning mosque is a popular destination for tourists, architecture lovers, and worshippers alike. It combines religious importance with artistic beauty, making it a must-visit landmark in the city.
Star Mosque is situated in the Armanitola area of Old Dhaka. It is easily accessible from different parts of the city by road.
By Car or Rickshaw: You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw (CNG), or a traditional cycle-rickshaw to reach the mosque. From central Dhaka areas like Motijheel, Shahbagh, or Dhanmondi, it may take around 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
By Bus: Local buses heading towards Sadarghat or Chawkbazar pass nearby. You can get off at a nearby stop and take a rickshaw for the rest of the way.
Nearby Landmarks: Ahsan Manzil and Lalbagh Fort are not far from the mosque, so many tourists visit these places on the same day.
Dhaka has a tropical monsoon climate. Summers (March to June) are hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. The rainy season (June to September) brings frequent rainfall, while the winter (November to February) is mild and dry with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Winter is the best time to visit Star Mosque, as the weather is comfortable for walking and sightseeing.
Star Mosque is a functioning mosque, so its open hours are generally based around prayer times. However, visitors are usually welcome during non-prayer times.
Visiting Hours:
- Morning to Evening: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (for tourists)
- Friday prayers and prayer times are reserved for worship only.
It is advised to avoid visiting during Jummah prayer on Fridays (around 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM) unless you are attending the prayer.
Star Mosque is famous for its stunning mosaic artwork made with ceramic tiles and broken china pieces. The mosque is decorated with star-shaped patterns, which appear on both the exterior and interior walls. These stars make the mosque unique and easily recognizable. The artistic decoration reflects the influence of Mughal and Indo-Islamic architectural styles. It is a fine example of Islamic art and craftsmanship in Bangladesh.
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee for visiting Star Mosque. However, donations are welcome.
Visitors are requested to dress modestly and respect religious customs. Women are advised to cover their heads, and everyone should remove their shoes before entering the prayer area.
Photography is allowed, but avoid taking photos during prayer or disturbing worshippers.
The original structure of Star Mosque was built in the early 18th century by Mirza Golam Pir during the Mughal period. It was a simple mosque with three domes. In the 1920s, a local businessman named Ali Jan Bepari renovated and decorated the mosque with imported Japanese and English china tiles. During the renovation, two more domes were added, and the mosque took on its current form with five domes.
The most distinctive feature of the mosque is its detailed mosaic work. Thousands of tiny pieces of colored ceramic tiles, broken dishes, and glass were used to create beautiful floral and geometric patterns. The stars on the mosque's walls and domes give it its name. The interior is equally stunning, with intricate floral motifs and Quranic calligraphy.
While visiting Star Mosque, you can:
- The mosque is called "Tara Masjid" in Bengali, which translates to "Star Mosque" in English.
- Originally built in the 18th century, it was expanded and redesigned in the 1920s.
- The mosque features five domes, all decorated with star-shaped motifs.
- The stars are made from broken chinaware and glass, forming beautiful mosaic art.
- It is one of the few mosques in the world known primarily for its decorative artwork rather than size or grandeur.
- Visit during the winter months (November to February) for pleasant weather.
- Dress modestly and respectfully as it is an active place of worship.
- Remove your shoes before entering the mosque premises.
- Be quiet and respectful, especially during prayer times.
- Ask for permission if you plan to take photos, especially inside.
- Combine your visit with a walking tour of Old Dhaka to explore more historical sites.
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