Ton Son Mosque

About this place

Regarded as Bangkok's oldest mosque, on the bank of the Bangkok Yai canal in Thonburi, about a kilometre from Wat Arun. The usual account dates its founding to King Narai's reign in the late seventeenth century, more than a century before Bangkok became the capital, when Muslims of Persian and Malay origin served at the court and in the trade of Ayutthaya. It began as a teak house on a raised platform with a tiled roof, built much like a temple hall, was rebuilt in brick under Rama II and in concrete in the 1950s. First called the Great Kudi, it was later named Ton Son, the pine tree, after two pines planted by its wall. Its grounds hold a cemetery with the graves of notable Muslim figures in the country's history. The mosque is in active use and welcomes respectful visitors outside prayer times, with no fee. Modest dress is required and women cover their hair. Across the canal stands Bang Luang Mosque, the white Thai-style mosque, so the two make one visit. The easiest way there is the Chao Phraya river boat to the Wat Arun pier, then a short walk or motorbike taxi. Friday prayer here is a memorable experience for a Muslim traveller in Bangkok.