Ilyasi Masjid — Attraction in Abbottabad Tehsil

A Soulful Reflection on Ilasi Mosque and the Enchanting City of Abbottabad

When one thinks of spiritual serenity coupled with the natural grandeur of hills and valleys, the name Abbottabad gently floats into the heart like a cool breeze. Nestled in the lush arms of the Hazara region, Abbottabad is not just a city — it's a poem carved by time and nature. And within this poem lies a precious jewel, the Ilasi Mosque, a place that isn’t only a house of worship but a beacon of peace, community, and timeless beauty.

My journey to Abbottabad began on a clear morning. As the vehicle ascended the winding roads that hug the mountains, the air grew cooler, the skies bluer, and the scenery more magnificent with every turn. The first thing that strikes a visitor about Abbottabad is its cleanliness, order, and the gentle hospitality of its people. It has all the charm of a hill station — crisp air, pine-covered slopes, colonial-era buildings — but with a uniquely Pakistani flavor.

Abbottabad welcomes you with an open heart. Its wide roads are lined with tall, graceful trees. Military institutions give the city a disciplined atmosphere, yet it never feels rigid. Instead, the combination of order and nature offers a kind of peace that cities elsewhere struggle to achieve.

As we reached the city center, I could see life flowing in a calm, respectful rhythm. And then, rising gently above the roofs of the city and against the green backdrop of the hills, I saw the Ilasi Mosque (Masjid-e-Ilasi).

The Ilasi Mosque: A House of Worship and Tranquility

Ilasi Mosque, known locally as Masjid Ilasi, is perched on an elevated point near Thandiani Road, offering a panoramic view of the city and its surrounding mountains. From a distance, its majestic white minarets shine like beacons of purity. The mosque is an architectural marvel, combining simplicity with spiritual magnificence.

As I approached the mosque, a profound stillness embraced me. The entrance is adorned with traditional motifs, but not in an overwhelming way. It's elegant — understated, as if not seeking attention but commanding it naturally. The white marble floor was cool beneath my feet as I stepped inside, and the gentle echo of my steps in the prayer hall reminded me that I had entered a sacred space — a place where time seemed to pause.

The interior of Ilasi Mosque is refreshingly modest, yet spiritually overwhelming. High ceilings allow natural light to filter in through stained-glass windows. The mihrab (niche) is beautifully crafted, and Quranic verses are inscribed across the walls with deep reverence. The imamat (prayer leadership) is conducted with humility and grace, and the atmosphere during congregational prayers is one of unity and devotion.

What truly sets Ilasi Mosque apart is its location. From its courtyard, one can see the sprawling landscape of Abbottabad city below. It's a view that humbles you, reminding you of your place in the vast design of creation. It's also a perfect spot for reflection — many visitors, even non-locals, come here not just to pray but to find inner silence.

Community and Culture at Ilasi Mosque

Ilasi Mosque is not merely a religious structure — it's the beating heart of a community. Locals come here not only for daily prayers, but also for Friday khutbahs, Ramadan Taraweeh, and religious education. During Eid, the mosque overflows with worshippers dressed in their finest attire, and the spirit of togetherness is palpable.

I had the honor of meeting some of the caretakers and local worshippers. One elderly man told me how the mosque had been standing for decades, and how it had seen generations come and go — from students of nearby schools and colleges to army officers and local traders. It was this blend of backgrounds that made the mosque so special.

There’s a small madrassah (Islamic school) attached to the mosque as well, where young children learn the Quran and Islamic ethics. Their laughter, their respectful greetings of “Assalamu Alaikum,” and their discipline reflected the nurturing environment...

The ivory white structure of Ilyasi Mosque appears numinous, set against the backdrop of Abbottabad’s lush green valley. It was built around 1927-1932, and stands over 1,250 meters above sea level. Abbottabad itself was founded in 1853, named after Major James Abbott, the first British deputy commissioner of the region.

The majestic mosque is sprawled over 5 kanals, at the foot of a hill, that gives a unique view of the city of Abbottabad. The mosque’s aesthetics incorporate Islamic, British and Sikh architectural influences. Its most prominent feature is its tall minaret which is instantly recognizable. The adjoining dome and the narrow flight of stairs lead up to the water ponds, a vast, open courtyard. There is spacious prayer hall on the left, and a madrassa on the right.

A row of smaller copulas on the roof balance the elevation on the front. Details of Qur’anic verses and devotional Persian couplets of reverence to the Divine adorn the walls of the mosque. Bright, natural light gleams through the side columns of the building’s geometric cement mesh, giving the mosque a spiritual and mystical feel.

The mosque is built over a natural stream of water that comes down from the hill above. The cold, refreshing glacial water gushes out from two ponds in the front section of the mosque. It further gets channeled through over two dozen open spouts and continuously runs almost year long. This unique engineering feat helps to keep the glistening white marble floor cool, and provides water for ablution practices.

The water was much more abundant in the past, as Navid Khan Jadoon, a local resident explained, “As kids, we used to come to the mosque and take dips in the water ponds. Now, sometimes when it doesn’t rain for long spells, the water flow becomes less, and at the peak of summers this natural stream also dries up.”

For the local residents, this stream is a subject of folklores and myths. The water is believed to have curative properties for skin, muscle, and respiratory diseases. Another story talks about how some Christians initially wanted to build a church in this very location, but the local population resisted the plan by building the mosque.

For Navid, and other local residents, these supernatural attributes are real. “I have myself seen people getting cured here. Many people come from across the country to take advantage of this natural bounty. It is a blessing for our town and a means for more customers for local businesses such as transporters, tea stalls, and fruit sellers.”

The colorful, bustling bazar around the mosque is a testament of this spirit. Particularly prominent are the numerous pakora shops around the mosque. They all claim to be the original and the oldest Ilyasi pakora seller. Pakoras are a popular version of savory fritters/fries from the sub-continent, made with potatoes, onions, and some other vegetables coated with gram flour and served with mint chutney.

Over decades, relishing these steaming hot pakoras on a visit to Ilyasi mosque has become a ritual as mandatory as prayer. Some claim that the first Ilyasi pakora shop opened in 1956. My mother, who lived in Abbottabad during 60’s, always reminisced about the Ilyasi Masjid’s pakoras with fondness.

Sometimes a place becomes special because of its features, sometimes its history. At times, its location makes it stand out, and in some cases creates an emotional association. Ilyasi mosque, in the serene town of Abbottabad, is a landmark that has all of these distinctions and more. It is truly a pearl set perfectly in the picturesque valley...

Ilyasi Masjid: A Peaceful Retreat in Abbottabad

Ilyasi Masjid, nestled amidst the serene hills of Abbottabad, is more than just a place of worship. It's a testament to architectural beauty and a tranquil haven for spiritual seekers.

A Brief History

Constructed in 1932, the mosque stands as a symbol of Islamic heritage in the region. Its elegant design and serene atmosphere create a sense of awe and devotion.

Architectural Grandeur

The mosque's architecture is a harmonious blend of traditional Islamic styles. The spacious prayer hall, adorned with intricate calligraphy and geometric patterns, exudes a sense of grandeur. The large courtyard, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a peaceful setting for contemplation and reflection.

A Spiritual Experience

Beyond its architectural significance, Ilyasi Masjid offers a unique spiritual experience. The daily prayers, led by skilled imams, create a sense of community and devotion. The serene ambiance and the rhythmic recitation of verses from the Quran transport visitors to a world of tranquility.

A Community Hub

The mosque is not just a place of worship but also a vibrant community center. It hosts various religious and cultural events, fostering a sense of togetherness among the local residents.

A Must-Visit for Travelers

Whether you're a spiritual seeker or a curious traveler, Ilyasi Masjid is a must-visit destination in Abbottabad. Its serene ambiance, architectural beauty, and historical significance make it a truly unforgettable experience.

Tips for Visitors

Dress modestly, especially women. Maintain silence and respect the sanctity of the mosque. Remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall. Arrive early for prayer times to secure a good spot.

Ilyasi Masjid is a testament to the enduring beauty of Islamic architecture and a beacon of spirituality in Abbottabad. It's a place where one can find solace, inspiration, and a deeper connection with...