Mosques in Kerala exhibit the state’s rich legacy through a distinctive fusion of Islamic and native architectural design. These mosques have been hubs of religious activities and communal life for generations, distinguished by their elaborate wooden carvings and traditional Keralan ceilings. One of the oldest mosques in Kerala, The Cheraman Juma Mosque dates back to 629 AD and represents the long-standing influence of Islam in the area. Kerala’s mosques, recognised for their stunning design and historical value, provide a window into the peaceful relationship of various religious trends.
Top 10 Mosques In Kerala
Here’s a list of the famous holy mosques in Kerala that will make your next trip here a memorable one.
1. Mishkal Mosque
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The 14th-century Mishkal Mosque, also renowned as Mishkal Palli, is one of the top mosques in Kozhikode, Kerala. Wealthy Arab businessman Mishkal constructed it, and its four-story hardwood framework is a unique example of Keralan architecture. Visitors can witness the evidence of Kerala’s long commercial ties with the Arab peninsula. It is a prominent religious and spiritual site that reflects the seamless fusion of various stylistic influences and Kozhikode’s ancient past.
Location: Kuttichira, Kozhikode
Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM
How To Reach: Local buses and auto rickshaws are available from central Kozhikode
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2. Cheraman Juma Mosque
Photo: KannanVM / Wikimedia Commons
Cheraman Juma Mosque, established in 629 AD, is one of the nation’s oldest mosques, situated in Kodungallur, Kerala. Malik Ibn Dinar is credited with founding this ancient mosque after Cheraman Perumal, the king of the Chera dynasty, converted to Islam. Visitors can experience the mosque’s beauty and witness the distinctive features, such as a lamp similar to Hindu temples, reflecting a distinct fusion of traditional customs and Islamic aesthetics. This mosque in Kerala draws worshippers from all over the world as a representation of India’s historic maritime commerce links and religious peace.
Location: Kodungallur, Thrissur
Timings: 24*7
How To Reach: Local buses and auto rickshaws are available from the central Kodungallur
3. Odathil Palli
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Moosakkaka, a prominent Arab trader, founded the ancient mosque Odathil Palli in Thalassery, Kerala. This mosque in Kerala is renowned for its distinctive fusion of Mughal and Keralan stylistic forms. Visitors can explore the elaborate wood carvings and the ceramic roof in the Keralan style. The name Odathil Palli, which translates as “mosque in the garden,” has great cultural and historical significance in the area. This mosque in Kerala continues to be a significant place of prayer, gathering, and peaceful coexistence of various communities.
Location: Thalassery, Kannur
Timings: 24*7
How To Reach: Local buses and taxis are available from the central city of Thalassery
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4. Jama-at Mosque
Photo: Richard Bartz / Wikipedia / Image For Representation Only
The famous and ancient mosque in Kerala, Jama-at Mosque, is in Malappuram, Kerala. It is renowned for its aesthetics and cultural relevance. This mosque is constructed in the typical Keralam aesthetics and has a large courtyard where visitors can pray and refresh their minds. It also has halls covered with elaborate woodwork and a ceramic roof. It is an essential mosque to the local Muslims in the area and attracts tourists and believers as a representation of Malappuram’s great Islamic history.
Location: Malappuram
Timings: 24*7
How To Reach: Local buses and taxis are available from central Malappuram city
5. Puthenpalli Mosque
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikipedia / Image For Representation Only
This ancient mosque in Kerala is situated in Kozhikode and is a noteworthy religious site. The mosque is well-known for its exquisite architecture, blends Persian and indigenous Kerala aesthetics. Visitors can witness the elaborate woodwork and a sizable central dome founded in the 1800s. This mosque is a significant hub for the communal and spiritual activities of the Muslim population in the area. Puthenpalli Mosque draws worshippers and tourists to its stunning architecture and is an essential mosque of ancient significance.
Location: Kozhikode
Timings: 24*7
How To Reach: Local buses and taxis are available from the central Kozhikode city
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6. Malik Dinar Mosque
Photo: Prof tpms / Wikimedia Commons
One of the earliest known mosques in Kerala, Malik Dinar Mosque is situated in Kasargod and is thought to have been founded in the seventh century by Malik Ibn Dinar. This ancient mosque is an essential reminder of the early expansion of Islam as a religion in India. Visitors can witness the architectural styles and Malik Ibn Dinar’s grave, which is of utmost importance to the worshippers. This mosque in Kerala showcases historical connections between Kerala and the Arabic world and is an essential place of worship and culture.
Location: Kasargod
Timings: 24*7
How To Reach: Local buses and taxis are available from central Kasaragod city
7. Juma Mosque
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The holy mosque of Juma is a well-known and historically significant place of worship in the centre of Thalassery, Kerala. This mosque dates back to the eighteenth century and is renowned for its traditional Kerala designs, which include elaborate Arabic woodwork carvings. It reflects the spiritual and beautiful legacy of the area and acts as a focal point for all religious events. Juma Mosque is a unique symbol of peace and draws tourists from all over the country. Worshippers from different places can also add to the prominence of the monument by donating to this holy shrine.
Location: Thalassery
Timings: 24*7
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8. Pazhayangadi Mosque
Photo: Moidu.babu / Wikimedia Commons
Kondotty Mosque, also called Pazhayangadi Mosque, is a highly esteemed religious shrine in the Malappuram region of Kerala. This popular mosque in Kerala was constructed in the eighteenth century and is a historically significant hub for Islamic learning and religious counselling. The mosque’s construction, which includes elaborate carvings and a large worship hall, combines Persian and ancient Keralan elements. The Pazhayangadi Mosque is the centre of attention during the yearly Nechra festivals, as tourists can enjoy various events conducted during this time. This mosque attracts tourists and thousands of followers from all over Kerala.
Location: Kondotty, Malappuram
Timings: 24*7
How To Reach: Local buses and taxis are available from the main Kondotty and Malappuram cities
9. Beempalli Mosque
Photo: Akhilan / Wikimedia Commons
The historic Beempalli Mosque is one of the famous mosques in Kerala. During the sixteenth century, this mosque was built by the Kunhi Beevi Umma dynasty. Visitors can explore the ancient carvings and traditionally built halls of the mosque. This mosque is a well-admired location by tourists because of its serene atmosphere and historical appeal. This mosque is an integral part of the local Muslim society, upholding the area’s traditions.
Location: Thalassery
Timings: 24*7
How To Reach: Local buses and taxis are available from central Thalassery city
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10. Mampuram Mosque
Photo: Nesru Markmedia / Shutterstock
Mampuram is one of the popular mosques in Kerala and is a well-admired Islamic centre revered for its cultural prominence and historical importance. The esteemed Sufi saint Sheikh Mohammed Shah established it in the seventeenth century. This mosque draws followers who are looking for spiritual direction and rejuvenation. Tourists can also view the mix of Mughal and Keralan aesthetics with a large courtyard. This mosque is a social events centre and is admired by the neighbourhood’s Muslim population.
Location: Mamburam, Malappuram
Timings: 24*7
How To Reach: Local buses and taxis are available from central Mamburam
Mosques in Kerala serve as both houses of prayer and representations of the state’s rich philosophical and Islamic past. They are essential to Kerala’s legacy because of its ancient importance. Kerala mosques are enlightening and demonstrate the region’s unique blend of spirituality and faith in God. Plan your next trip to Kerala with TripXL and get a chance to experience the serene atmosphere of these important religious sites.
Cover Photo: Md. Ahsanul Haque Nayem / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only