Cumilla

Understand

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 peacef…

Get around

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.

See

thumb|258x258px|this is cumilla city credit by Ahmed shifat 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.