These mosques in Indonesia are some of the most unique religious sites in the world!

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Written by Nadia Crowe

Indonesia is accustomed to being known for its beautiful scenery, culture, and people, but it’s also home to beautiful mosques! 

Check out these gorgeous holy structures that are some of the most unique mosques in the world! You can admire them from home for now!

1. You’ll feel like you’re in Russia!: Masjid An Nurumi, Sleman

Reminiscent of the gorgeous colourful domes in St Basil’s Cathedral in Russia, Masjid An Nurumi is truly a masterpiece. Some locals refer to it as the ‘Candy Mosque’

2. A mosque in disguise: Masjid Cheng Ho, Surabaya

What you see here is harmony between two magical cultures to become an incredible sight. There are many nuances in the way it’s designed that perfectly balance the two sides. For example the main building is 11 × 9 m2 and has 8 sides, here’s what it means: 11 is the size of the Ka’bah when it was first built, 9 represents Wali Songo (the Saint of Islam) and 8 means luck or glory in traditional Chinese constructs! ⛩

P.S Don’t forget to head to the basement for a hidden food court!

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3. The beauty and mystery of Istanbul right in Indonesia!: Masjid Tiban, Malang

Legend says that this mosque was built in only one night by the occult nation, but others say it wasn’t, who knows the truth? Whatever it is, there’s no denying that this mosque-turned-Islamic-boarding-school is both intricately designed and absolutely stunning!

4. One that’s underwater: Masjid Arkam Babu Rahman, Palu

What once stood tall above sea level has now been taken by nature. Despite the sad realisation that this wonderful mosque can no longer be used, the fact remains that it is absolutely breathtaking 

Note: This mosque is permanently closed; no religious activities permitted!

5. Holy and scenic at the same time!: Masjid Al-Irsyad, Bandung

The first thing that will strike you about this mosque is how contemporary it is, it almost looks like something out of a sci-fi movie! The most magical part? The open prayer space that overlooks the mountains!

6. A golden dome that can be seen from the skies!☁️: Masjid Dian Al-Mahri (Masjid Kubah Emas), Depok

If the name didn’t tip you off already, this mosque is home to the golden dome, one that can be seen from far above! If the grandiose exterior doesn’t entice you to go in by itself then let me tell you about the inside. A baby blue sky is painted on the ceiling of the dome and surrounded by 24 carat gold accents, perfectly complemented by a crystal chandelier! 

7. A unique earthquake-proof mosque: Masjid Raya Sumatera Barat, Padang

Architecturally, the Grand Mosque of West Sumatra combines traditional Minangkabau housing style with Islamic culture, it’s impeccable and it’s likely there’s no other mosque like it! Built to withstand earthquakes too thanks to its location in Padang, a place prone to earthquakes, this unique mosque will last a lifetime.

8. 25 pillars for 25 prophets: Masjid Agung Jawa Tengah

Not many mosques are so large that you can find a secluded spot to perform your prayer regardless of how many people are there! Other than prayer though, there are ample things to do here, for example take a trip up to the Al Husna restaurant, hidden inside a tower that’s 99 metres in height to be exact! 

9. The over-water floating mosque: Masjid Amirul Mukminin, Makassar

Subuh and Maghrib are spectacular from this mosque, the colours dance across the sky and are reflected in the surrounding water, oh yes this mosque is floating above water!

10. A gift from God through tragedy: Masjid Raya Baiturrahman, Aceh

One of the only buildings left standing after the tragic tsunami over a decade ago as though a gift from God, this mosque is miraculous, strong, and divine!

11. Inspiration from our Middle Eastern family: Masjid Oesman Al-Khair, Kalimantan Barat

Architecturally, this mosque follows the style of the brilliant ones in Saudi Arabia, but the interior is a different story and pays homage to the mosques in Morocco. Floating above the sea, and facing west, evening prayers here paired with a beautiful sunset make for a much more profound worship!

12. A mixture of Javanese and Islamic culture: Masjid Kotagede, Yogyakarta

On the way to see the burial site of King Mataram, you’ll stumble upon this preserved beauty that’s still standing despite being built in the 16th century. Of course, it’s had multiple restorations, but it’s still very much authentic! It has a very thick blend of both Javanese and Islamic culture which make it even more beautiful, and inside it has many historic relics.

13. One of the 10 oldest mosques in Indonesia!: Masjid Agung Sumenep, Madura

Blinding white and golden yellow encompass this mosque and provides it with a brilliant facade to walk around and explore. Its unusual shape is due to inspiration from different cultures such as Persian, European, Chinese, Arabic, and Indian

14. A handwritten surprise is hidden in this mosque!: Masjid Raya Al Mashun, Medan

Hidden in a glass box in the centre of the mosque is a large and completely handwritten Quran. Wonderfully preserved, its large writings are viewed by people both near and far!

15. The beginning of Islam in Lombok: Masjid Kuno Bayan Beleq, Lombok

Lombok is an island filled with serene beaches, gushing waterfalls, and endless adventure! It’s also dubbed the island of 1000 mosques, and this particular wooden mosque is the one that started it all!

16. The mosque with an infinite number of domes: Masjid 99 Kubah, Makassar

Infinite may be overstating it, this architectural masterpiece is actually made up of 99 domes and it appears to be floating on an island in the middle of the ocean!

Special Mention: 2021 will bring us this magnificent structure!: Masjid Raya Jawa Barat, Bandung

A fantastic cluster of triangular glass takes the form of a pyramid! Masjid Raya Jawa Barat is an up and coming architectural masterpiece sitting in the middle of a lake.

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Travel Writer

Nadia Crowe

Eco-friendly princess, sunset chaser and photography enthusiast, I aim to help people roam the world in ways that are both better for the traveller and for the environment. One of my biggest passions is exploring the unexplored!