Abdul Gaffoor Mosque: A National Monument | Singapore Purple Travel Guide

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If you decide to walk to Bugis, our next stop, then pass by Abdul Gaffoor Mosque for a quick photo stop, or even a quick visit outside of prayer times. If you prefer to take the MRT or a Grab, skip this stop.

Tucked away in the Kampong Kapor area of Little India, the Abdul Gaffoor Mosque is one of Singapore’s most architecturally eccentric and beautiful religious landmarks. Completed in 1907, it stands as a testament to the prosperous South Indian Muslim merchants who once dominated the local trade scene. With its fairy-tale-like minarets and intricate sunburst motifs, it is a National Monument that feels worlds away from the busy main roads of Serangoon.

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.

Why You Should Visit

This mosque is a hidden architectural gem that offers a peaceful contrast to the high-energy streets nearby. It is famous for its ‘Saracenic’ style—a unique fusion of Southern Indian, Moorish, and Roman influences. Whether you are interested in religious history or simply want to admire one of the most intricately decorated facades in the city, this site provides a serene and visually stunning experience.

What is Special About It?

• The Sunburst Pediment: Above the main entrance sits a magnificent sundial-like decoration featuring 25 ‘rays’ of light. Each ray is adorned with the names of 25 Islamic prophets in beautiful Arabic calligraphy.
• Miniature Minarets: The roofline is decorated with dozens of small, pencil-shaped minarets, each topped with a crescent moon and star, giving the building an ornate, palace-like appearance.
• The Color Palette: The mosque is painted in a striking combination of creamy yellow and forest green, highlighted by white plasterwork that makes the geometric details ‘pop’ against the sky.
• Stained Glass Interior: Inside the prayer hall, you can see beautiful stained-glass windows that cast colorful patterns on the floor during the afternoon sun.

History and Facts

• Replacement of the ‘Wooden’ Mosque: It was built to replace an original mosque made of wood and palm fronds (attap) that stood on the same site since 1859.
• The Shaik Abdul Gafoor Legacy: The mosque is named after Shaik Abdul Gafoor bin Shaik Hyder, a wealthy chief clerk who spearheaded the construction and managed the mosque’s sprawling estate.
• Restoration Honors: The building underwent a major restoration in 2003, which earned it an Architectural Heritage Award for the meticulous preservation of its complex plasterwork and original features.
• A Community Hub: Historically, the mosque was surrounded by shophouses owned by the mosque’s trust, which provided housing and income for the local Muslim community.

Self-Guided Information

Traveler Tip

Like all mosques in Singapore, a modest dress code is required. You must remove your shoes at the entrance. If you are wearing shorts or sleeveless tops, the mosque provides free robes and wraps for you to borrow. Please be mindful of the prayer times; if you hear the call to prayer (Adhan), it is best to wait in the courtyard or return an hour later to allow the congregation to complete their worship.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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