Goharshad Mosque
مسجد گوهرشاد
Goharshad Mosque is part of the vast Imam Reza shrine complex in Mashhad and stands as one of the supreme achievements of Timurid Islamic architecture. Commissioned by Queen Goharshad, wife of Shah Rukh, and completed in 1418 under master architect Qavam al-Din Shirazi, the mosque is celebrated for the extraordinary quality of its tilework. Its vast courtyard is enclosed by arcades decorated in turquoise and cobalt faience mosaic tile — a vivid contrast to the golden dome of the adjacent Imam Reza shrine. The interior features among the finest stalactite vaulting (muqarnas) of the Timurid era. The mosque has four iwans and can hold 9,000 worshippers.
✨ Historical Significance
Why Goharshad Mosque Matters
Ranked #84 among the world's top 100
One of the outstanding achievements of Timurid architecture and considered among the finest examples of Persian decorative tilework from the 15th century.
Built
1418 CE
Location
Iran
Annual Visitors
5 million
Coordinates
36.2838°, 59.6149°
📅 Plan Your Visit to Goharshad Mosque
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
Recommended months: March to May, September to November
Temperature
Average: 15–28°C (59–82°F)
Visit Duration
Recommended: 30 min – 1.5 hours
Entry Fee
$5–$20 USD (check current rates)
Dress Code
Remove shoes before entering. Women must cover hair with a scarf. Cover arms and legs. Men should avoid shorts. Some mosques provide coverings.
Getting There
Located in Mashhad, Iran. Reach Mashhad by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Mashhad center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
📍 Location of Goharshad Mosque
Mashhad, Iran · 36.2838°N, 59.6149°E
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Goharshad Mosque
Visit between prayer times. Most mosques close to tourists during Friday noon prayers.
Women should bring a headscarf. Some mosques provide coverings at the entrance.
Currency: Iranian Rial (IRR). Carry small bills for entrance fees and donations.
Language: Persian (Farsi). Learn basic greetings in the local language — locals appreciate the effort.
Best time to visit: March to May, September to November. Check current visa requirements.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Goharshad Mosque
Everything you need to know before visiting Goharshad Mosque.
1Where is Goharshad Mosque located?
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Goharshad Mosque is located in Mashhad, Iran. GPS coordinates: 36.2838°N, 59.6149°E. It is ranked #84 in our Top 100 World Mosques list.
2When was Goharshad Mosque built?
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Goharshad Mosque was built in 1418 CE. One of the outstanding achievements of Timurid architecture and considered among the finest examples of Persian decorative tilework from the 15th century.
3What is the best time to visit Goharshad Mosque?
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The best time to visit Goharshad Mosque in Iran is during March to May, September to November. This is the Spring & Autumn when weather is most comfortable for sightseeing, with average temperatures of 15–28°C (59–82°F).
4How much does it cost to visit Goharshad Mosque?
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Entry fees for Goharshad Mosque are approximately $5–$20 USD (check current rates). Prices may vary by season and nationality. Check the official website for current rates.
5How long should I spend at Goharshad Mosque?
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Plan to spend 30 min – 1.5 hours at Goharshad Mosque. Take time to appreciate the architecture and historical significance.
6What should I wear when visiting Goharshad Mosque?
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Remove shoes before entering. Women must cover hair with a scarf. Cover arms and legs. Men should avoid shorts. Some mosques provide coverings.
7How many people visit Goharshad Mosque each year?
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Goharshad Mosque receives approximately 5 million visitors per year, making it one of the popular mosques in Iran.
8How do I get to Goharshad Mosque?
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Located in Mashhad, Iran. Reach Mashhad by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Mashhad center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
9Do I need a visa to visit Iran?
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Check current visa requirements. The local currency is Iranian Rial (IRR). Iran is in the UTC+3:30 timezone.
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🎯 Nearby Attractions
- •Imam Reza Shrine Complex (mosques #77)
- •Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) in Isfahan
- •Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque) in Shiraz
- •Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque in Isfahan
- •Local museums and cultural centers in Mashhad