Jump to: About the Grand Mosque | History & Architecture | How to Get There | What to Expect | Suggested Visit Itinerary | Visitor Tips | Where to Stay
About the Grand Mosque
The Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque, also called the Grand Mosque of Cotabato City, is the second-largest mosque in the Philippines and one of Southeast Asia’s most prominent Islamic landmarks. It can accommodate up to 15,000 worshippers and is located in Barangay Kalanganan II of Cotabato City.
History & Architecture
- Built in 2011 with 53 % funding from Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei and the rest from the Philippine government.
- Designed by Felino Palafox and his firm—features golden domes, 4 minarets (43 m tall), and a capacity for 15,000 worshippers.
- Exterior dominates the skyline with gold-crescent domes and is illuminated at night to guide pilots.
How to Get There
- From Cotabato City Airport (Awang): take a multicab or jeep to Husky Bus Terminal, then hire a habal-habal (₱70–₱150) to the mosque’s entrance.
- By bus or van from General Santos or Midsayap—routes travel via Cotabato City; then motorbike to the site.
What to Expect
- No entrance fee, but donations are appreciated.
- Dress modestly—men need long pants/shirts, women must cover arms, legs, and hair; scarves or abayas can be rented for ~₱100.
- Visit outside prayer times—morning (8–11 AM) and afternoon (1–3 PM) open hours.
- Expect impressive golden domes, spacious prayer halls, elaborate arches, and serene architectural beauty.
Suggested Visit Itinerary
- 9:00 AM – Arrive and walk around the exterior
- 9:15 AM – Log in, rent modest dress (if needed)
- 9:30 AM – Explore the grounds and take exterior photos
- 10:00 AM – Optional visit to Tamontaka Church nearby
- 10:30 AM – Return via habal-habal to city center
Visitor Tips
- Observe mosque etiquette—no photos inside during prayer, be quiet, remove shoes.
- Arrive early to catch morning light and avoid heat.
- Always travel with someone and stay vigilant.
Where to Stay
- Em Manor Hotel
- The Luxe Suites
- Jeamco Royal Hotel
🏨 View Cotabato City hotels via Agoda
Want to explore more places like this? Here’s my full travel guide after visiting all 82 provinces in the Philippines.
Also read: My 9-day solo backpacking in Mindanao.