Dharmasagar

District:Comilla•Division:Chittagong

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About

About Dharmasagar

Dharmasagar is one of the largest and most historic man-made lakes in Bangladesh.

Located in the heart of Comilla city, this beautiful dighi (pond) has been a center of local life for centuries.

The lake covers about 9.38 hectares and is surrounded by lush greenery, old trees, and important landmarks.

Historical Background

The lake was dug by Maharaja Dharma Manikya of the Tripura Kingdom during the 18th century.

According to historical records, the king ordered the excavation to provide clean water to local people during a time of severe drought and famine.

The lake was named "Dharmasagar" after the king himself.

Cultural Significance

Dharmasagar has deep cultural roots in Comilla's history.

Famous personalities like legendary singer Sachin Dev Burman and national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam spent time near this lake during their stays in Comilla.

Today, there is a Nazrul Memorial Hall on the northern side of the lake honoring the poet's connection to this place.

What You Will See

The lake is surrounded by large, old trees that create a peaceful green canopy.

Rows of trees line the banks with cement benches underneath for visitors to sit and relax.

The calm water reflects the sky beautifully, especially during sunset.

In winter, migratory birds visit the lake, adding to its natural charm.

Nearby Landmarks

Several important places surround Dharmasagar.

Comilla Stadium and Comilla Zilla School stand on the eastern bank.

A children's park and the Kazi Nazrul Islam Memorial Hall are on the north side.

The Comilla War Cemetery is also nearby, and Ranir Dighi (another historic pond near Victoria College) is just 1 km away.

Visitor Information

Entry Fee

General Entry

•Free entry to the lake area

•No tickets required to walk around the dighi

Boat Rides

•Paddle boat: ৳50-100 per ride

•Regular boat: ৳30-50 per person

Children's Park

•Park entry: ৳10-20 per person

•Rides may have separate charges

Opening Hours

Lake Area

•Open 24 hours

•Best to visit during daylight hours

Popular Visiting Times

•Morning: 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM (for morning walks)

•Evening: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM (most crowded, sunset views)

Children's Park

•Usually open: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM

•May vary on weekends and holidays

Boat Service

•Available from late afternoon until evening

•More boats during weekends

Time Needed

Quick Visit

•1-2 hours for a walk around the lake

•Good for a peaceful evening stroll

Moderate Visit

•2-3 hours including boat ride and park visit

•Time to sit on benches and enjoy the scenery

Extended Visit

•3-4 hours to explore nearby landmarks

•Visit Nazrul Memorial, children's park, and enjoy food at nearby shops

•Can combine with Comilla War Cemetery visit

Best Time to Visit

Best Season

•October to March (winter season)

•Pleasant weather for walking and sitting by the lake

•Migratory birds can be spotted during winter months

Best Time of Day

•Late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) is the most popular time

•Beautiful sunset views over the water

•Cool breeze in the evening

Weather Tips

•Avoid midday visits during summer (April-June) as it gets very hot

•Monsoon season (July-September) can be beautiful but bring an umbrella

•Winter evenings can get chilly, carry a light jacket

Estimated Cost

Transportation (from Comilla town)

•Rickshaw: ৳15-30

•Auto-rickshaw/CNG: ৳20-50

Transportation (from Dhaka)

•Regular bus: ৳200-270

•AC bus: ৳400-600

•Train: ৳100-350 depending on class

Entry & Activities

•Lake area: Free

•Children's park: ৳10-20

•Paddle boat ride: ৳50-100

•Regular boat: ৳30-50 per person

Food & Refreshments

•Tea: ৳10-20

•Snacks: ৳30-100

•Street food: ৳50-150

•Comilla rasmalai (must try): ৳100-200

•Lunch at restaurant: ৳150-400

Total Estimated Budget

•Budget trip (local, minimal spending): ৳100-200

•Mid-range (boat ride, snacks, rasmalai): ৳300-500

•From Dhaka (day trip including transport): ৳800-1,500

Accommodation (if staying overnight)

•Budget hotels: ৳500-1,000 per night

•Mid-range hotels: ৳1,000-2,000 per night

•AC rooms: ৳2,000-3,000 per night

How to Reach

From Dhaka

•Bus from Sayedabad Bus Terminal to Comilla (2-3 hours)

•Bus companies: Tisha, Upakul, BRTC, Asia Line (৳200-270)

•AC bus: ৳400-600

•Get off at Comilla town and take rickshaw to Badurtala/Dharmasagar

From Chittagong

•Bus from Dampara Bus Stand (3-4 hours, ৳250-400)

•Train from Chittagong Railway Station to Comilla Station

From Comilla Town

•Dharmasagar is located at Badurtala, in the heart of Comilla city

•Rickshaw from anywhere in town: ৳15-30

•Auto-rickshaw/CNG: ৳20-50

•Walking distance from Kandirpar area

Landmarks to Ask For

•Ask for "Dharmasagar Dighi" or "Badurtala"

•Near Comilla Stadium and Zilla School

•Most locals know the location well

Facilities

Around the Lake

•Cement benches for sitting under trees

•Paved walking paths around the dighi

•Shaded areas with large old trees

•Open green spaces

Children's Park

•Playground equipment for kids

•Swings and slides

•Small rides (may require extra payment)

•Shaded seating for parents

Food & Refreshments

•Tea stalls and snack shops around the lake

•Street food vendors in the evening

•Restaurants nearby in Comilla town

•Famous Comilla rasmalai shops in the area

Other Facilities

•Boat rental service

•Public washrooms available

•Rickshaw and CNG stand nearby

•Mobile phone charging at some shops

Nearby Services

•Banks and ATMs in Comilla town center

•Medical facilities at nearby hospitals

•Hotels and guest houses within walking distance

Things to Do

Relaxation & Nature

•Walk around the lake on paved paths

•Sit on benches under the shade of old trees

•Enjoy the sunset views over the water

•Watch migratory birds in winter season

•Read a book or simply relax by the water

Boating

•Take a paddle boat ride on the lake

•Regular boat rides available in the evening

•Great for couples and families

•Enjoy the cool breeze on the water

For Children

•Play in the children's park

•Enjoy swings, slides and rides

•Safe play area with open spaces

•Feed the fish at certain spots

Photography

•Capture sunset reflections on the water

•Take photos of the old trees and greenery

•Bird photography during winter

•Historical buildings around the lake

Cultural Visits

•Visit Kazi Nazrul Islam Memorial Hall

•Learn about the lake's history

•See the nearby Comilla Stadium

•Explore historical connections to Sachin Dev Burman

Nearby Attractions

•Visit Comilla War Cemetery nearby

•Explore Shalban Vihara for ancient Buddhist history

•Walk to Ranir Dighi (1 km) - another historic pond

•Trek to Lalmai Hills for nature and panoramic views

•Visit Mainamati Ruins for archaeological sites

•Try famous Comilla rasmalai at local shops

Do's and Don'ts

Do

✓Keep the lake area clean - use dustbins

✓Walk on designated paths around the dighi

✓Respect the peaceful atmosphere

✓Wear comfortable walking shoes

✓Bring a camera for sunset photos

✓Visit during late afternoon for the best experience

✓Try the local Comilla rasmalai at nearby shops

✓Supervise children near the water

✓Be polite to local vendors

Don't

✗Don't throw garbage or plastic into the lake

✗Don't swim in the dighi - it's not allowed

✗Don't play loud music that disturbs others

✗Don't damage the trees or plants

✗Don't feed fish with harmful items

✗Don't sit on restricted areas

✗Don't leave children unattended near water

✗Don't engage in rowdy behavior

✗Avoid visiting alone late at night

Safety Tips

General Safety

•The area is generally safe and family-friendly

•Stay on lit paths during evening visits

•Keep valuables secure in crowded areas

•Travel in groups after dark

Near the Water

•Keep a safe distance from the water edge

•Watch children closely near the lake

•Don't lean over railings or barriers

•Swimming is not allowed - the water can be deep

During Boating

•Always wear the life jacket if provided

•Don't stand up in the boat

•Follow the boatman's instructions

•Don't overload the boat

Health Tips

•Carry drinking water, especially in summer

•Use mosquito repellent in the evening

•Wear sun protection during daytime visits

•Stay hydrated

Emergency Contacts

•Emergency: 999

•Comilla District Police: 081-76001

•Nearest Hospital: Comilla Medical College Hospital

•Fire Service: 081-63233

Location

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