The Chaqchan Mosque means “The Miraculous Mosque” is a mosque located in the city of Khaplu, in Gilgit-Baltistan. Dating from 1370, the mosque is one of the oldest in the region and dates from the time when the area’s populace converted a masse from Buddhism to Islam. The mosque’s design is heavily influenced by architecture from the Kashmir Valley and was likely also built by Kashmiri craftsmen. There is no entry for non-muslims. Definitely, it is worth visiting if you are in Khaplu. It’s a really old mosque and has such an authentic charm. The woodwork is really beautiful.
Gilgit Baltistan is a vibrant mix of Persian, Kashmiri and Tibetan architecture, and has stood for almost 700 years. The Government of Pakistan has listed the Chaqchan Mosque as a Pakistan Heritage. The mosque is now currently in use after extensive conservation works. The mosque’s construction style is similar to the Roman opus criticism, in which masonry walls that are suitable for the region’s harsh winter season are built. It’s a must-see for anyone that is interested in history and architecture.
We need to revive old ethnic architecture like this. Rather than celebrating Arab/Turkish/Western architecture, we need to look back in time at the precious remnants of our glorious past and rebuild based on them. Display our glorious past to the world.
