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Shalban Bihar: An Ancient Buddhist Monastery

Explore the ancient ruins of Shalban Bihar, an 8th-century Buddhist monastery in Comilla, Bangladesh, and discover the region's rich heritage.

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Shalban Bihar, located in Comilla, Bangladesh, is an ancient archaeological site dating back to the 8th century. Once a renowned Buddhist monastery, it's part of the Mainamati-Lalmai archaeological complex, showcasing the rich cultural and religious heritage of ancient Bengal. The site features well-preserved ruins, including a central shrine, stupas, and numerous cells that housed monks.

A brief summary to Shalban Bihar

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the site involves a fair amount of walking.
  • Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
  • Respect the site by not touching or climbing on the ancient structures.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain in-depth knowledge about the history and significance of Shalban Bihar.
  • Plan for a day trip to explore other nearby archaeological sites within the Mainamati-Lalmai complex.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Comilla city, head to Kandirpar, where you can find local CNG (auto-rickshaw) stand near the Awami League office. Take a CNG to Kotbari for approximately 30 Tk per person. From Kotbari, take another auto-rickshaw to Shalban Bihar for about 10 Tk. Alternatively, from Comilla, a local CNG via Kotbari Bishwaroad will cost about 20 Tk per person.

  • Taxi/CNG

    From any location in Comilla city, you can hire a CNG (auto-rickshaw) directly to Shalban Bihar. A reserved CNG from Comilla city to Kotbari typically costs around 150 Tk. From Comilla Cantonment, a CNG will cost approximately 70-80 Tk.

  • Car

    If traveling by car from Comilla city, take Comilla University Road (Shalban Bihar Road), which is well-marked. Drive straight for about 10 km, and you will see signs for Shalban Bihar on your left. There is no entry fee for parking.

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Discover more about Shalban Bihar

Shalban Bihar, situated in the Mainamati area of Comilla, Bangladesh, stands as a remarkable testament to the region's rich Buddhist past. Dating back to the 8th century, this ancient monastery was a significant center of learning and religious practice. The site is part of the larger Mainamati-Lalmai range, which is dotted with over 50 ancient Buddhist settlements. Originally known as Bhava Deva maha-vihara, Shalban Bihar was established by Srivavadeva, a king of the Deva dynasty, and it flourished until the 12th century. The complex is characterized by its rectangular shape, with each side measuring approximately 167.7 meters. The monastery is enclosed by thick walls, and within these walls are the ruins of 155 rooms where monks once resided and practiced their faith. Each room had a balcony and niches for oil lamps and deities. At the heart of the complex lies a cruciform central shrine, which underwent several phases of construction and renovation. Archaeological excavations have unearthed a wealth of artifacts dating from the 7th to 12th centuries, providing valuable insights into the daily life, religious practices, and artistic traditions of the time. Many of these artifacts are now housed in the Mainamati Museum, located nearby. Visiting Shalban Bihar offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the remnants of a once-thriving Buddhist community. The serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape.

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