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Rupban Mura: Echoes of Ancient Bengal

Explore the ancient Buddhist ruins of Rupban Mura in Cumilla, Bangladesh, and discover the region's rich cultural and historical heritage dating back to the 6th century.

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Explore Rupban Mura, an ancient Buddhist archaeological site near Cumilla, Bangladesh, featuring the ruins of a cruciform temple and monastery dating back to the 6th-7th centuries AD. It offers a glimpse into the region's rich Buddhist history and artistic heritage.

A brief summary to Rupban Mura

  • C4PH+GQG, Kotbari, BD

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking around the ruins.
  • Visit during the cooler months (November to February) for the best weather.
  • Carry water, snacks, and a camera to capture the beauty of the site and its surroundings.
  • Respect the site by avoiding climbing on or touching the ruins.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Cumilla city, take a local bus or CNG (auto-rickshaw) towards Kotbari. Ask the driver to drop you off near BARD (Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development) in Kotbari. From BARD, Rupban Mura is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. CNG fare from Comilla to Kotbari typically costs between 80-120 BDT.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services (like Uber or Pathao, if available) are convenient options from Cumilla city. Simply set your destination to Rupban Mura, Kotbari. The ride typically takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 200-300 BDT for a taxi or ride-share from Comilla city to Rupban Mura.

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Discover more about Rupban Mura

Rupban Mura, located near Kotbari in Cumilla, Bangladesh, is an intriguing archaeological site that provides a window into the region's rich Buddhist heritage. Dating back to the 6th-7th centuries AD, this site was a significant center for Buddhist learning and practice in ancient Bengal. Excavations at Rupban Mura have revealed the remains of a semi-cruciform shrine, measuring 28.2 meters east-west and 28 meters north-south, along with subsidiary structures, including an octagonal stupa. The cruciform temple was originally built as a solid stupa on a square base and later transformed into a semi-cruciform shrine during the 8th century AD. Uniquely, a group of three long, narrow chapels was constructed on the eastern side of the shrine. A colossal stone Buddha, now displayed in the Mainamati Museum, was discovered in the middle chapel. The monastery, built separately from the cruciform stupa, initially had 24 cells in four wings, later reduced to 18 during the second period. The southern wing, irreparably damaged, was abandoned, and a row of new cells was built in front, giving the monastery an oblong shape. Corbelled niches and brick-built bedsteads can be seen in the second-period cells, and a broad corbelled drain was constructed in the courtyard to manage rainwater. Rupban Mura's architectural style reflects the influence of the Gupta and Pala periods, characterized by intricate carvings and detailed sculptures. The use of terracotta plaques and stone carvings depicting Buddhist deities and motifs showcases the artistic skills of the time. Today, Rupban Mura attracts visitors from around the globe with its historical significance and architectural beauty. The well-maintained site features clear pathways and informative signage, enhancing the visitor experience. It stands as a reminder of Bangladesh's rich past, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the history, art, and spirituality of ancient Bengal.

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