The 201 Dome Mosque: A Modern Architectural Wonder in Tangail

Located in the village of Pathalia, under the Gopalpur Upazila of Tangail, the 201 Dome Mosque (known locally as Bimshatadhika Gombuj Masjid) is a breathtaking marvel of modern Islamic architecture. While the Dhanbari Nawab Palace represents the history of the past, this mosque represents the ambition and craftsmanship of the present, quickly becoming one of the most visited religious sites in Bangladesh.

A Vision of Grandeur

The project was initiated in 2013 by the 201 Dome Mosque Welfare Trust, led by Rafiqul Islam. The goal was to create a landmark that would not only serve as a place of worship but also as a center for education and social welfare.

Built on the banks of the Jhinai River, the mosque is designed to accommodate approximately 15,000 worshippers at a once. Its construction has drawn international attention due to its unique structural complexity and the sheer number of domes.

Architectural Highlights

The mosque is a masterclass in symmetry and intricate detailing. Its design breaks several records and features unique elements:

The Domes: True to its name, the roof features 201 domes. The central dome stands at a height of roughly 81 feet, while the surrounding 200 domes are each approximately 17 feet high, creating a mesmerizing "sea of domes" effect when viewed from above.
The Minaret: Adjacent to the mosque stands a soaring minaret that reaches a height of 451 feet (roughly equivalent to a 57-story building). It is currently recognized as one of the tallest concrete minarets in the world.
Artistic Calligraphy: The walls of the mosque are adorned with the entire Holy Quran engraved in brass and marble. The craftsmanship involved in the interior tiling and the Mihrab (prayer niche) reflects a blend of traditional Middle Eastern and local Bangladeshi styles.
Materials: Much of the decorative stone, including high-quality marble and granite, was imported from countries like Turkey and China to ensure a premium finish.

More Than Just a Mosque

The 201 Dome Mosque was designed to be a "Social Complex." The master plan includes:

A Charitable Hospital: Providing free or low-cost healthcare to the local community.
An Orphanage and Madrasa: Focusing on the education and upbringing of underprivileged children.
A Helipad: Designed to facilitate easy access for high-profile visitors and emergency medical transport.
Guest Houses: To accommodate the influx of tourists and pilgrims from across the globe.

Travel Logistics

The mosque is approximately 140 km from Dhaka and about 40-50 km from Tangail city.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to catch the sunlight reflecting off the domes.
Combined Trip: Since it is located in the same district as the Dhanbari Nawab Palace (about an hour's drive away), many travelers visit both sites in a single day trip to witness the contrast between Tangail’s colonial heritage and its modern architectural feats.