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Shalban Vihara is one of the most important archaeological sites in Bangladesh and one of the best-known Buddhist monasteries in South Asia.
Located in the beautiful Lalmai-Mainamati hill range, about 8 kilometers west of Comilla city, this ancient site takes you back over 1,300 years to a time when Buddhism flourished in Bengal.
The monastery was built in the 8th century CE by King Bhava Deva, the fourth ruler of the early Deva dynasty.
He named it "Bhava Deva Mahavihara" after himself.
The site served as an active center for Buddhist monks from the late 7th century until the 12th century - that is nearly 500 years of continuous religious activity.
During this long period, monks lived here, studied Buddhist scriptures, meditated, and taught students who came from far and wide to learn.
The monastery was part of a larger Buddhist civilization that left behind more than 50 ancient settlements in the Mainamati hills.
The monastery is built in a square shape, measuring about 167 meters (550 feet) on each side.
It has:
What makes Shalban Vihara special is how well-planned it was.
Each monk had their own small room opening onto the courtyard, where they could study and meditate in peace.
The central temple was the heart of religious life, where monks gathered for prayers and ceremonies.
Excavations that began in 1955 have revealed amazing treasures.
Archaeologists have found:
Most of these discoveries are now displayed at the nearby Mainamati Museum, which you should definitely visit along with the ruins.
In 1999, Shalban Vihara was included in UNESCO's Tentative List of World Heritage Sites as part of "The Lalmai-Mainamati Group of Monuments." This recognition shows its importance to world heritage and Buddhist history.
Note: The same ticket allows entry to both Shalban Vihara and Mainamati Museum.
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**A Place of Remembrance** The Comilla War Cemetery, also known as [Mainamati War Cemetery](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mainamati_War_Cemetery), is a beautifully maintained memorial site that honors 736 soldiers from [World War II](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II). Located in the Cantonment area of Comilla, about 9 kilometers from the city center, this serene cemetery stands as a silent tribute to those who gave their lives during the Burma Campaign (1941-1945). **Historical Background** During World War II, the area around Comilla became strategically important. The British established large military camps here, including field hospitals and supply depots. Many soldiers who were injured in battles along the Myanmar border were brought to these hospitals for treatment. Sadly, many did not survive, and this cemetery became their final resting place. The cemetery was established in 1943 and burials began in 1944. Initially, simple wooden crosses marked the graves. In 1951, the [Commonwealth War Graves Commission](https://www.cwgc.org/) replaced these with permanent white marble headstones that stand today. **Who Rests Here** The cemetery contains graves of soldiers from many nations: - 357 from the United Kingdom - 178 from undivided India (including present-day Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan) - 86 from West Africa - 56 from East Africa - 24 from Japan - 12 from Canada - 12 from Australia - 4 from New Zealand - 3 from Rhodesia - Others from South Africa, Burma, Belgium, and Poland What makes this place special is how soldiers from different countries and religions rest side by side. The cemetery has both Christian and Muslim sections, with over 170 Muslim graves. Even 24 Japanese soldiers are buried here, showing that in death, former enemies share the same peaceful ground. **The Layout** The cemetery is built on a gentle slope with a small hill at the center. As you enter, you will see rows of white headstones arranged in neat lines. The Christian graves are near the entrance, while the Muslim graves are on the far side of the hill. A tall stone Cross of Sacrifice stands on a terrace halfway up the hill, facing the entrance. On the opposite side, a shelter overlooks the Muslim section with views of the countryside beyond. The grounds are beautifully landscaped with flowering trees and evergreen plants. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission maintains it with great care, keeping it peaceful and dignified throughout the year.
**A Treasure of Buddhist Heritage** The [Mainamati Ruins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mainamati) represent one of the most important archaeological complexes in Bangladesh. Spread across the Lalmai-Mainamati hill range, this area contains over 50 ancient Buddhist settlements dating from the 7th to 12th century CE. The ruins tell the story of a flourishing Buddhist civilization that once thrived in this region of Bengal. The hills are named after Queen Mainamati, mother of King Govindachandra of the Chandra dynasty. This low, lenticular hill range stretches 17 kilometers from north to south, with a maximum height of 45 meters, rising from the vast floodplain of the Brahmaputra-Meghna delta. **Major Archaeological Sites** The Mainamati complex includes several important sites, each with its own unique history: **Kutila Mura:** Located about 5 km north of [Shalban Vihara](/tourist-places/shalban-vihara), inside the Comilla Cantonment, this picturesque site features three stupas standing side by side. These represent the Buddhist "Trinity" or Three Jewels - the Buddha, Dharma (teachings), and Sangha (community). It is a beautiful spot for understanding Buddhist symbolism. **Ananda Vihara:** The largest monument in the Mainamati complex, this was a massive religious and educational center. Built by King Shri Anandadeva (third ruler of the early Deva dynasty) around the late 7th or early 8th century, it includes viharas, stupas, chapels, and the largest water tank in the area. **Charpatra Mura:** An interesting site where archaeologists found the remains of a small Hindu temple from the 10th-11th century Chandra period. Four copper plates were discovered here, giving it the name "Charpatra" (four plates). This is one of the earliest known examples of Hindu temple architecture in Bangladesh. **UNESCO Recognition** The [Lalmai-Mainamati archaeological sites](https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/6670/) have been included in UNESCO's Tentative List for World Heritage status. These seven Buddhist monasteries showcase distinctive temple architecture not found anywhere else in South Asia. The sites demonstrate the interchange of artistic styles, coinage, and religious traditions between Bengal and Southeast Asia through ancient maritime trade routes. **Historical Significance** During the golden age of Buddhism, this region was part of the ancient [Samatata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samatata) division of Bengal. It served as a major center connecting Buddhism in the Indian subcontinent with Southeast Asia. The architectural remains and artifacts discovered here provide valuable insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and artistry of ancient Buddhist communities.
**About Ranir Dighi:** Ranir Dighi, meaning "Queen's Pond," is the second largest historical pond in Comilla after [Dharmasagar](/tourist-places/dharmasagar). Located right next to the famous Comilla Victoria Government College, this pond is a beloved spot for locals and visitors who come here for peaceful morning and evening walks. **Historical Background:** The name "Ranir Dighi" comes from the British colonial era, honoring [Queen Victoria](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_Victoria). The pond sits beside Comilla Victoria Government College, which was established in 1899 by Roy Bahadur Ananda Chandra Roy, a wealthy landowner who donated land for both the college and the pond area. The college was named after Queen Victoria, and the pond shares this royal connection. **Cultural Significance:** This area has deep cultural roots in Comilla's history. Famous Bengali personalities like legendary singer [Sachin Dev Burman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sachin_Dev_Burman) and national poet [Kazi Nazrul Islam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kazi_Nazrul_Islam) spent time near Ranir Dighi during their stays in Comilla. The peaceful atmosphere inspired many of Nazrul's poems and songs. Today, you can feel that artistic spirit in the calm surroundings. **What You Will See:** The pond is surrounded by trees and walking paths. On the west side stands the Sadhinota Soudh, a beautiful white marble monument dedicated to Bangladesh's independence. The historic buildings of Victoria College add to the charm of the area. The water reflects the sky beautifully, especially during sunset. **Modern Day:** Today, Ranir Dighi is surrounded by residential buildings and the college campus. Despite urban development, it remains a green oasis in the city where people come to relax, exercise, and enjoy nature.
**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](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/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](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sachin_Dev_Burman) and national poet [Kazi Nazrul Islam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/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](/tourist-places/comilla-war-cemetery) is also nearby, and [Ranir Dighi](/tourist-places/ranir-dighi) (another historic pond near Victoria College) is just 1 km away.