About the Masjid
Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, also known as Taj Juma Masjid, is a historic mosque situated on the scenic banks of the Meenachil River in Thazhathangady, Kottayam, Kerala. With a rich history spanning over 1,000 years, it is one of the oldest mosques in India and a significant cultural and religious landmark. The masjid is renowned for its exquisite Kerala-style architecture, intricate wooden carvings, and a blend of Islamic and traditional Kerala heritage.
Description:
The mosque is an architectural marvel, constructed mostly of teak wood, featuring intricate carvings, a gabled roof, and a traditional Kerala-style wooden structure. It reflects a blend of local craftsmanship and Islamic aesthetics. Only men are allowed entry to the prayer hall, while a special day each year is allowed for women to visit.
Speciality of the Masjid
The mosque is renowned for its exquisite Kerala-style architecture, featuring:
Intricate wooden carvings showcasing traditional craftsmanship.
A beautifully designed gabled roof with a square inner courtyard.
Latticed wooden windows that resemble temple or palace designs.
A traditional bathing area inside the premises. These architectural elements make the masjid a rare blend of Islamic and Kerala heritage.
Location & Address
Address: Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, Thazhathangady, Kottayam, Kerala, India.
Coordinates: 9.5910° N, 76.5225° E
Masjid Timings & Religious Services
Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Traditionally, only men are allowed entry).
Religious Services:
Five daily prayers (Salat)
Friday Jummah prayers
Islamic community gatherings and events
Travel Facilities
Nearest Transport Hubs
Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station (4 km)
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (90 km)
Nearest Bus Station: Kottayam KSRTC Bus Stand (3 km)
How to Reach the Masjid
By Bus:
Regular KSRTC and private buses operate from Kottayam Bus Stand to Thazhathangady.
Direct buses are available from Kochi, Alappuzha, and Thiruvananthapuram.
By Train:Trains from Kochi (Ernakulam Junction – ERS) take around 1 hour.
Express trains from Thiruvananthapuram (TVC) to Kottayam take around 2.5 hours.
Overnight trains from Bangalore (SBC) and Chennai (MAS) arrive at Kottayam.
By Air:
From Cochin International Airport (COK):
Taxis: Private cabs take around 2 hours.
Buses: KSRTC operates Volvo and Superfast buses from the airport to Kottayam.
From Trivandrum International Airport (TRV):
Distance: 150 km.
Best for international travelers coming from Middle East & South East Asia.
By Air:
Accommodation Facilities
Hotels Near the Masjid
Budget Hotels:
Hotel Aida – Affordable stay with basic amenities.
Orchid Residency – Budget-friendly with AC and non-AC rooms.
Mid-Range & Luxury Hotels:The Windsor Castle – A well-rated hotel with modern amenities.
Hotel Arcadia – Offers excellent service and comfort.
Homestays & Resorts:
Kumarakom Heritage Resort – Near the backwaters, great for a peaceful stay.
Houseboat Stays in Kumarakom – Unique Kerala backwater experience.
Community Accommodations:
Some Muslim community guest houses near the masjid offer affordable lodging.
Homestays & Resorts:
Community Accommodations:
Food & Dining Options
Restaurants Near the Masjid
Hotel Anand Bhavan (Vegetarian)
Thali Restaurant
Meenachil Restaurant (Famous for Kerala-style fish curry)
Local Specialties to Try
Malabar biryani
Appam with stew
Puttu and kadala curry
Parotta with beef curry
Banana chips & Pazham pori (banana fritters)
Halal Food Availability
Many restaurants near the mosque serve Halal food, making it convenient for Muslim travelers.
Nearby Cities
Kochi (Ernakulam) – 76 km
Alappuzha (Alleppey) – 46 km
Pathanamthitta – 66 km
Thiruvananthapuram – 150 km
Thekkady – 110 km (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary)
Munnar – 165 km (Tea plantations & hill station)
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Religious & Heritage Sites
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple – Ancient Shiva temple in Kottayam.
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple – Famous for murals, 12 km away.
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple – One of Kerala’s oldest Shiva temples, 33 km away.
St. Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Church (Cheriapally) – A historic Christian church with Syrian-Portuguese architecture.
Nature & Backwaters
Kumarakom Backwaters – 15 km away, famous for houseboats.
Vembanad Lake – The largest lake in Kerala.
Ilaveezhapoonchira – A scenic trekking destination, 40 km away.
Wildlife & Adventure
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady – 110 km away, famous for elephants & tigers.
Illikkal Kallu – A rock-climbing and trekking destination, 60 km away.
Best Time to Visit
October to February (Winter): Best for sightseeing and travel.
June to September (Monsoon): Greenery at its peak, but heavy rains may disrupt travel.
March to May (Summer): Hot and humid.
Shopping in Kottayam – What to Buy?
Spices – Black pepper, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg.
Handicrafts – Traditional wooden and brass artifacts.
Rubber Products – Kottayam is known as the rubber capital of India.
Kerala Sarees & Kasavu Mundu – Handwoven sarees with golden borders.
Banana Chips & Kerala Sweets – A must-buy for visitors.
Books & Literature – Kottayam is called ‘Akshara Nagari’ (City of Letters).
