Meerapalli Mosque Pondicherry




🕌 Meerapalli Mosque, Pondicherry
📍 Location: Yanam Vengadasalam Pillai Street, MG Road Area, Puducherry – 605001
🕒 Timings: Daily | 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: Free
⭐ Rating: 4/5 (Based on 38 reviews)
Meerapalli, also known as the Meeran Mosque, is one of the oldest and most revered mosques in Puducherry. Built in the 18th century by the Arcot Nawab, this peaceful shrine is a spiritual sanctuary and a symbol of architectural heritage in the Union Territory.
Known for its Gothic Islamic design, towering minarets, and calm atmosphere, the mosque also houses the tomb of its founder Meeran and the respected Subhi Errai Perriar Mullah. A functioning Madrasa operates in the evening, keeping the spiritual and cultural teachings alive for younger generations.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Meerapalli is from October to March. These months offer cool and pleasant weather for sightseeing.
☀️ Avoid summer (March–June) and monsoon (June–September) due to heat and humidity.
Send a Massage

🏛️ Historical Highlights
✔ Built by Arcot Nawab in the 18th century
✔ Second-oldest mosque in Puducherry
✔ Gothic Islamic architecture with four tall pillars and minarets
✔ Founder Meeran and Subhi Errai Perriar Mullah tombs on-site
✔ Functions as a mosque and Madrasa (religious school)

📍 How to Reach
✔ By Road: Easily accessible by local taxi or auto from any part of the city
✔
By Train: Puducherry Railway Station is just 500 meters away
✔
By Bus: Puducherry Bus Stand is 2 km away
✔
By Air: Puducherry Airport is 7 km away; Chennai Airport is 150 km

💡 Travel Tips
✔ 🧴 Carry a water bottle and light snacks
✔ 🧕 Wear modest, full clothing & headscarf out of respect
✔ 🚶 Ideal for a quick cultural visit during a city tour
✔ 📷 Photography allowed outside; avoid clicking during prayers
🕌 Note: The Madrasa runs from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM daily.
📌 Entry Fee: Free
🕰️ Ideal Visit Duration: 30 mins – 1 hour
🧠 Did You Know?
The bronze “Kalasa” atop the mosque’s minaret is a rare architectural element in Islamic shrines.
🌆 Nearby Attractions
✔ Promenade Beach: Just 1 km away, perfect for a post-visit beach walk.
✔ Goubert Market: 800m away for souvenirs and local delicacies.
✔ Aurobindo Ashram: About 1.5 km away for a peaceful spiritual retreat.
Day | Timing |
---|---|
Monday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
Tuesday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
Wednesday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
Thursday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
Friday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
Saturday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
Sunday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before visiting Meerapalli Mosque Pondicherry
Can women enter the mosque?
Yes, women can visit but are advised to wear modest attire and cover their heads.
Is there an entry fee for Meerapalli Mosque?
No, entry to Meerapalli is completely free.
What are the opening hours of the mosque?
It is open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Is Meerapalli suitable for family or solo visits?
Yes, the peaceful environment makes it ideal for both solo and family visits.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is allowed outside the mosque, but avoid clicking during prayer sessions.
Are there prayer facilities inside?
Yes, the mosque is active and holds regular prayer sessions.
How far is Meerapalli from main tourist spots?
It’s centrally located—within 1–2 km of places like the Promenade Beach and Aurobindo Ashram.
What’s special about the mosque's architecture?
Its unique Gothic Islamic architecture, towering pillars, and Kalasa-topped minarets stand out.