Han Tenggeli Mosque in Urumqi
Khantengri Grand Mosque, originally known as Nanguan Mosque (南关清真寺), is located in the heart of Urumqi (乌鲁木齐), Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (新疆维吾尔自治区). Situated on Jiefang South Road (解放南路) near the South Gate (南门) of the city, this mosque is one of the largest and most historically significant mosques in Urumqi. It has long been a center for the local Uyghur Muslim community and a symbol of Islamic culture in the region.
The name “Khantengri” is derived from the Uyghur language, meaning “King of Kings” (王中之王), a reference to the sacred mountain peak, Khantengri Peak (汗腾格里峰), which is part of the Tianshan Mountains (天山) and one of the highest peaks in Central Asia. The mosque’s name reflects its grandeur and the important role it plays in the spiritual life of the city and the region.
General Information
- Chinese Name: 汗腾格里清真寺 (Khantengri Grand Mosque)
- Other Historical Names: 喀什寺 (Kashgar Mosque), 南门寺 (South Gate Mosque), 热斯提寺 (Resti Mosque), 肉孜阿吉清真寺 (Rouzi Aji Mosque)
- Established: 1864
- Expanded: 1882
- Architectural Style: Timber structure, combining traditional Islamic and modern architectural elements.
- Location: 31 Jiefang South Road, Tian Shan District, Urumqi City, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China.
- Renamed: 1988, after the Khantengri Peak in the Tianshan Mountains.
History and Renovation
Initial Construction
Khantengri Grand Mosque was first built in 1864 under the name Nanguan Mosque. The mosque quickly became an important religious site for the local Uyghur Muslim community. It was originally located on the northern end of Jiefang South Road, adjacent to the Bank of China Building (中国银行乌鲁木齐支行) at the South Gate of the city. The mosque had become worn down over time due to age and neglect, which led to a decision for reconstruction in the 1980s.
Expansion and Reconstruction
In 1882, significant expansions were carried out, giving the mosque a more prominent position within the city. The mosque was built using traditional timber construction, with Islamic architectural designs. Over the years, the mosque came to be known by various names, including Kashgar Mosque, South Gate Mosque, and Resti Mosque, as well as Rouzi Aji Mosque.
Due to the building’s deteriorating condition, the local authorities decided to move and reconstruct the mosque. In 1984, the mosque was relocated to its current location on Jiefang South Road. After a period of rebuilding, the mosque was officially completed in 1988. To honor the nearby Khantengri Peak (汗腾格里峰) in the Tianshan Mountains (天山), the mosque was renamed Khantengri Grand Mosque, reflecting both its grandeur and the significance of the surrounding region.
Significance and Cultural Importance
As one of the largest mosques in Urumqi, Khantengri Grand Mosque holds a central role in the religious and cultural life of the Uyghur Muslim community. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a gathering place for social and cultural events. The mosque’s expansion in the late 19th and 20th centuries reflects the growing importance of Islam in the region. It remains a vital center of religious education, prayer, and community for Uyghur Muslims in Urumqi.
Architectural Features
Dual-Level Structure
The mosque’s architecture is unique due to its dual-level design. The lower level serves as a commercial space, offering products from Central Asia and the surrounding regions, while the upper level is dedicated to prayer and religious worship. The combination of commercial and religious space reflects the mosque’s role not only as a spiritual center but also as a hub for trade and cultural exchange.
Islamic and Modern Architectural Fusion
Khantengri Grand Mosque’s design combines traditional Islamic architectural elements, such as grand arches, domes, and minarets, with modern construction techniques. This fusion creates an impressive visual impact, making the mosque one of Urumqi’s most recognizable landmarks.
The mosque’s exterior features a large central dome with intricate geometric patterns, a hallmark of Islamic architecture. The minaret rises above the mosque, reaching toward the sky, while the mosque’s walls are adorned with beautiful calligraphy and decorative carvings in Arabic script. These architectural features blend seamlessly with the surrounding urban environment, creating a space that feels both ancient and modern.
Staircase Design
The mosque is flanked by semi-circular staircases that lead visitors up to the prayer hall on the second floor. These stairs not only add to the mosque’s aesthetic appeal but also provide practical access to the upper level. The design of the staircases, along with the large central courtyard, creates an open and welcoming space for worshippers.
Interior Features
Inside the mosque, the prayer hall is spacious, with traditional Islamic carpet flooring and large windows allowing natural light to illuminate the space. The walls are decorated with intricate Islamic calligraphy, and the ceiling features a stunning chandelier, adding to the mosque’s grandeur. The interior layout is designed to accommodate large numbers of worshippers, and the atmosphere is peaceful and reverent.
The Mosque at Night
Khantengri Grand Mosque is particularly stunning in the evening when it is illuminated. The soft lighting casts a golden glow on the mosque’s architecture, highlighting the intricate details and creating a serene atmosphere. The mosque is a focal point for the local community during evening prayers, and its illuminated exterior adds to the city’s nighttime beauty. Visitors can witness worshippers engaged in prayer, which adds to the peaceful and spiritual ambiance of the mosque at night.
How to Get There
By Car
Khantengri Grand Mosque is located at 31 Jiefang South Road, Tian Shan District, Urumqi City, and is easily accessible by car. Visitors can drive directly to the mosque from the city center or surrounding areas. The mosque is located near the South Gate (南门) and the Bank of China building.
By Public Transport
Urumqi’s public transportation network includes buses that pass by Jiefang South Road. Visitors can take a taxi or public bus to the South Gate (南门) area, which is a short walk to the mosque. The mosque is located near the intersection of Jiefang South Road and the city’s main streets, making it easy to reach by public transport.
By Walking
If you are staying in the city center, the mosque is within walking distance of many hotels and attractions. It is a pleasant walk through the heart of Urumqi, and visitors can explore the surrounding streets, which are filled with shops and local restaurants.
Travel Tips
- Dress Modestly: As Khantengri Grand Mosque is a place of worship, visitors should dress modestly. Women should wear headscarves, and both men and women should avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing. This ensures respect for the religious setting.
- Best Time to Visit: The mosque is beautiful at all times of day, but it is particularly stunning at night when the lights illuminate the building’s architecture. Try to visit in the evening to experience the mosque’s peaceful atmosphere during prayer times.
- Photography Etiquette: While it is allowed to take photos of the mosque’s exterior, be mindful when taking pictures inside the mosque or during religious ceremonies. Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially worshippers.
- Cultural Respect: When visiting the mosque, show respect for the religious practices taking place. It is common to hear the call to prayer, and you may witness worshippers performing their daily prayers. This is an important part of the mosque’s role in the community.
- Nearby Attractions: After visiting the mosque, take the time to explore other nearby attractions in Urumqi, such as the Xinjiang Regional Museum (新疆博物馆), the Urumqi Grand Bazaar (乌鲁木齐大巴扎), and Tianshan Mountains (天山). These sites provide a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture.
- Language Tips: While Mandarin Chinese is widely spoken in Urumqi, Uyghur is the primary language used in the mosque. It is a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in either Mandarin or Uyghur to enhance your experience.
