Jarkent Mosque
Making dreams come true
Visitors to the town of Jarkent (also spelled as Zharkent) may experience a sense of cognitive dissonance upon seeing the local mosque – it appears as though a piece of Southeast Asia has been transplanted to Kazakhstan. This unique mosque was constructed in 1895, through the efforts of a local merchant named V.A. Yuldashev, who gathered donations to fund its creation. While it is not uncommon for wealthy individuals to fund the construction of religious buildings, the Jarkent mosque stands out for its architecture.
The construction and decoration of the mosque was overseen by a visiting architect from neighboring China, named Khon Pike (known locally as Mukan). Together with Uighur masters, Khon Pike created the only pagoda-shaped mosque in Kazakhstan. It is unclear why the choice was made to hire a Chinese architect, but it is rumored that Khon Pike had long dreamed of building a Chinese-style mosque. However, his homeland's authorities were opposed to such experiments. In Kazakhstan, Khon Pike was able to realize his dream while also performing a good deed – he is said to have worked on the project for free.
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An unconventional masterpiece
Breaking from traditional mosque architecture, the Jarkent mosque is a unique blend of Chinese and Central Asian styles. Decorative elements inspired by plants, animals, birds, Uighur motifs, and Arabic script adorn the building's facade. One might think that such a mishmash of styles would detract from the building's appeal, but architect Khon Pike succeeded in creating a stunning Chinese-Central Asian «cocktail».
The mosque complex includes a Friday mosque, a smaller mosque, a main entrance in the form of a portal, two side gates, and a stone fence. A single minaret towers 19 meters (62 ft) high, topped with a golden crescent that complements the curved roofs and roofline. During construction, Tien Shan spruce was used in some parts of the building.
Unfortunately, a powerful earthquake destroyed part of the complex at the turn of the 20th century. Over the years, the building served various functions, including barracks, a warehouse, a granary, a tea house, and a cinema. In the 1970s, restoration work was undertaken, and the site was repurposed as an architectural and art museum. Additional reconstruction was completed from 2001 to 2004.
The mosque's soaring roof with curved ends, painted openwork carvings, bright colors, and unique design make it a one-of-a-kind attraction. Year after year, thousands of tourists flock to Jarkent to witness this beauty firsthand. One of our tours offers a visit to Jarkent and the mosque, as well as an introduction to the other fascinating sights of Altyn-Emel National Park.
How to get there?
Address: Jetysu Region, Jarkent, 1a Kunaev St.
Jarkent is located approximately 300 km (186 mi) from Almaty. The most direct route is via the Kuljinsky tract, passing through several settlements, including Guldala, Panfilovo, and Enbekshi. From there, you'll turn onto the Almaty-Khorgos highway, which passes through Amangeldy, Turgaybaza, and Shelek before arriving in Jarkent.
Opening hours:
Tue-Sat from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sun from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Mon – closed
Other tourist attractions near the Jarkent Mosque:
- Altyn-Emel National Park
- Aulie Agash
- Dzungarian Alatau Mountains
- Chunja Hot Springs
- Kapchagai Reservoir
- Charyn National Park
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn-Emel National Park 2-Day Tour")
Visit the stunning Altyn-Emel National Park in Kazakhstan, established to protect endangered species of plants and animals. Witness breathtaking landscapes and wildlife during your visit.
Discover the highlights of Altyn-Emel National Park, including the stunning Singing Dune and the striking Aktau Mountains, along with Kazakhstan's most awe-inspiring canyon, Charyn Canyon.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn-Emel National Park Off-Road Tour")
On request
Explore Altyn-Emel National Park on an exciting 3-day off-road journey, filled with discoveries and unforgettable experiences!
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn-Emel National Park and Charyn Canyon Off-Road Tour")
On request
If you like spending time in nature and delight in discovering the new and unusual – come join us on this off-road tour in Altyn Emel Natural Park and Charyn Canyon!
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Untamed Dzungaria Off-Road Tour")
On request
Discover the mysterious Dzungaria, where encounters with other tourists are rare. Brace yourself for challenging off-road routes, breathtaking alpine meadows, expansive plateaus, and historic ancient settlements.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Golden Ring of Dzungaria Tour")
On request
Embark on a route through the less-explored trails of the Dzungarian Alatau Mountains. This expedition promises encounters with Kazakhstan's tallest waterfall, ancient petroglyphs, the remnants of bygone settlements, an azure mountain lake, and various other natural landscapes!
On request
Discover the untouched beauty of the Dzungarian Alatau Mountains, with their gorges, glaciers, alpine meadows, and lakes. These hidden gems, seldom explored by tourists, promise a truly extraordinary and adventurous journey.