If you’re planning to visit the Mainamati War Cemetery in Comilla, you need to know exactly how to get there. The cemetery is located about 8 kilometers southwest of Comilla town, on the Dhaka-Chittagong Highway. Most travelers start from Dhaka.
Getting from Dhaka to Comilla
From Dhaka, the most practical way is by bus. Several non-air-conditioned and air-conditioned buses leave from the Fakirapool, Motijheel, or Saidabad bus stands. The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. Buses run frequently from early morning until evening. The fare for a non-AC bus is around 150-200 BDT, while an AC bus costs about 300-400 BDT. You can also take a train from Kamalapur Railway Station. Several inter-city trains, like the Subarna Express or Mahanagar Express, stop at Comilla. The train takes about 2 hours and costs 150-400 BDT depending on class. Trains depart several times a day; check the Bangladesh Railway website for exact schedules.
Local Transport from Comilla to the Cemetery
Once you arrive at Comilla bus stand or railway station, you need to get to the cemetery. The easiest option is a rickshaw or auto-rickshaw (CNG). The cemetery is about 8 km southwest, near the Mainamati Museum and Shalban Vihara. A CNG ride should take 20-30 minutes and cost around 100-150 BDT. Alternatively, you can take a local bus from the Comilla bus stand heading towards the Mainamati area; the fare is about 20-30 BDT. Tell the conductor to drop you at the Mainamati War Cemetery stop. From there, it’s a short walk.
Entry and Practical Information
The cemetery is open daily from sunrise to sunset. There is no entry fee. It is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The site is quiet and well-kept, with rows of headstones. There are no food stalls inside, so bring water. Mobile network coverage is good. The best time to visit is between November and March when the weather is cooler. Avoid visiting during heavy rain (June to September) as the grounds can become muddy. No special permits are needed. For return travel, simply reverse the process: take a CNG or bus back to Comilla, then a bus or train to Dhaka.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Mainamati War Cemetery from Comilla town?
It is about 8 kilometers southwest of Comilla town, near the Mainamati Museum. A CNG ride takes 20-30 minutes.
Is there an entry fee for the cemetery?
No, entry is free. The cemetery is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Can I visit the cemetery by train from Dhaka?
Yes, take a train from Kamalapur to Comilla. Then take a CNG or bus from Comilla to the cemetery. Trains like Subarna Express or Mahanagar Express stop at Comilla.
What is the best time to visit Mainamati War Cemetery?
November to March is ideal due to cooler weather. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) as the grounds may be muddy.
Are there any facilities like food or toilets at the cemetery?
No food stalls or toilets are available inside. Bring water and use facilities before you arrive.
