Cumilla (formerly spelled Comilla) is a district in southeastern Bangladesh, part of the Chittagong Division. The district’s main urban center, Cumilla city, lies near the border with India’s Tripura state and is connected to it through the Bibirbazar–Sonaura land port.
Although neither the district nor the city is a major tourist hub, Cumilla offers a few interesting historical and cultural sites worth visiting.
Cumilla (formerly Comilla) is one of Bangladesh’s oldest and most historically significant districts, located in the Chattogram Division of the country’s southeast. The city sits roughly midway between Dhaka and Chattogram, close to the Tripura state of India. Its position along the Dhaka–Chattogram highway has long made it an important transport, trade, and administrative center.
Archaeological findings show that Cumilla was once part of the ancient Samatata Kingdom, which flourished as a hub of Buddhist civilization between the 6th and 13th centuries. The region’s Buddhist heritage remains visible in the ruins of Shalban Bihar, Mainamati, and surrounding sites, where monasteries and artifacts reveal a once-vibrant intellectual and religious culture.
Under British colonial rule, Cumilla developed as a regional center of governance, education, and communication. During World War II, the area hosted several Allied camps and airfields, later commemorated at the Mainamati War Cemetery. In 1971, Cumilla witnessed heavy fighting during Bangladesh’s Liberation War, and the district remains proud of its contributions to the independence movement.
Today, Cumilla blends its ancient heritage with modern life. It is known for its educational institutions, cultural traditions, and especially for its signature sweet, roshomalai, which originated here. While not a major tourist destination, the district offers a mix of archaeological, religious, and historical sites surrounded by peaceful rural scenery. Travelers passing between Dhaka and Chattogram often find it a worthwhile stop to experience a quieter, more historical side of Bangladesh.
Travelers from India can enter Bangladesh through the Bibirbazar–Sonaura Land Port, which connects Cumilla District with Sonamura in Tripura. After completing immigration formalities, Cumilla city can be reached by local transport within about 30–40 minutes.
Battery-operated auto-rickshaws (locally called autos) are the most common form of transport within Cumilla city and nearby sites. These three-wheelers have no doors and are suitable for short distances.
For visiting attractions outside the city—such as the archaeological sites and temples—it is preferable to hire a car with driver for a few hours or a day.
23.4253791.13771Shalban Vihara, Comilla University Road, 24no Word Comilla, Shalmanpur (8 km west of Cumilla), ☏ +880 8174066. 9AM-5PM daily. archaeological site pertaining to Buddhist vihars, that is to say, a Buddhist monastery, dating to the 7th century built under the auspices of King Bhava Deva and used by monks for prayer and religious study until the 12th century. Three sites of particular significance unearthed here are Salban Vihara, Kotila Mura and Charpatra Mura, Kotila Mura for example being where three stupas corresponding to the three deities of Buddha, Sangha, and Dharma were located. There is also a museum called the Mainamati Museum on site with more exhibits. (updated Aug 2020)this is cumilla city credit by Ahmed shifat23.462491.210822Comilla Jagannath Temple (Sateroratna Mandir (Seventeen Jewel Temple)) (in the center of town). Daily 6AM-9PM. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Jagannath and was built by the king of Tripura Ratna Manikya II during the 18th century. It houses the deities Balabhadra and Subhadra and has or had 17 towers corresponding to the jewels namesake.
23.4656391.179343Dharmasagar Pond (in the center of town). A relaxing place to be in the close of the city if the stagnant water smell doesn't get you. Big city park on the north end. (updated Aug 2020)
New Shalban Bihar (Nobo Shalban Bihar). A recently built Buddhist temple complex located near Shalban Bihar. The temple, constructed with support from Thailand, features striking golden statues and several jade and other sculptures inside. Visitors need permission from the caretaker to enter the main temple building. Shoes must be removed at the entrance, and the complex is walked barefoot. There is also an orphanage on site. A beautiful location for photography; be respectful of the religious environment. Tk 30 for Bangladeshi adults; foreigner and student rates vary but remain nominal. (updated Nov 2025)
Mainamati Museum Located adjacent to Shalban Bihar, the Mainamati Museum houses artifacts from the Neolithic period through later Hindu and Buddhist eras. Exhibits include stone sculptures, terracotta plaques, ancient coins, and weapons. Entry fee: Tk 30 for Bangladeshi adults; different rates for foreigners, students, and children.
Mainamati War Cemetery A beautifully maintained cemetery containing the graves of 702 Allied soldiers from World War II, overseen by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. It is serene and immaculately kept — a place of quiet reflection, unlike most other cemeteries in Bangladesh.Free entry.
23.4163991.135581Magic Paradise Park, ☏ +880 1714130945. A kind of Bangledeshi Disneyland with Jurassic Park (Dino Park) and water park all rolled into one. Starts at Tk. 399. (updated Aug 2020)
Cumilla is famous for its roshomalai, a traditional Bengali sweet made from soft cheese and milk syrup. Several sweet shops in Cumilla city sell authentic versions; locals often recommend trying it fresh from established stores near the city center.
Along the Dhaka–Cumilla highway, several roadside restaurants operate under similar names such as Miami, Mayami, and Mayami Resort. These establishments are decent and affordable places to stop for a meal during your journey. They typically serve Bangladeshi-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a variety of snacks, confectioneries, and bakery items. Cleanliness and food quality are generally satisfactory for highway dining, and prices remain low compared to urban restaurants. However, washroom facilities may vary in cleanliness. If necessary, you can politely ask a staff member to tidy up before use—offering a small tip is often appreciated.
PC Restora, near the Dharmasagar, serves a Bengali specialty called chicken chaap.
Golden Spoon Buffet Restaurant, Kazi Zahirul Qayyum Road, close to Pubali Square and south of the Dharmagasar, buffet style with tandoori chicken, rice ball with chicken, pizza, Thai soup, and other items.
23.4600891.182131Hotel Victory Abashik, Jahangir - Jom Jom Tower, 7th and 8th floor, Victoria College Road (downtown), ☏ +880 1714030094. Check-in: 23.46016, check-out: 91.18229. This one is really into pink pillows. Tower is all lit up at night. Breakfast, aircon, wifi. (updated Aug 2020)
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