Thazhathangady Juma Masjid

Thazhathangady Juma Masjid is a historic mosque located in Thazhathangady on the banks of the Meenachil River in Kottayam, Kerala. Traditionally dated to the 9th to 11th century and associated with Malik Dinar's family, it is considered one of the oldest mosques in India. Notable for its traditional Kerala architecture with sloping tiled roofs, intricate wood carvings and ornate wooden minbar, it remains an active place of worship and heritage attraction.

Visitors can expect a riverside mosque built in traditional Kerala architectural style with sloping tiled roofs, wooden pillars and intricate wood carvings. The complex includes a large prayer hall with an ornately carved wooden minbar, an ablution tank and an old cemetery, set beside the Meenachil River near the Thazhathangady bridge. Non-Muslim visitors can view the exterior and surroundings, while the interior is used for prayers. The setting is quiet and showcases historic craftsmanship and riverside views.

Traditionally believed to have been founded by Habib Dinar, son of Malik Dinar, in the 9th century or in 1048 AD during the Thekkumkur period, Thazhathangady Juma Masjid is regarded as one of the oldest mosques in Kerala and India. It reflects early Islamic presence on the Malabar Coast and the development of Kerala-Islamic architecture using indigenous timber construction and craftsmanship.

An active place of worship for the local Sunni Muslim community, the mosque is a notable example of Kerala's syncretic architectural heritage blending indigenous woodwork and tiled-roof style with Islamic religious function. It is valued as a heritage and cultural landmark illustrating long-standing trade and cultural links in the Kottayam region.