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Itakhola Mura: Echoes of Ancient Bengal

Explore the ancient Buddhist ruins of Itakhola Mura in Comilla, a window into Bengal's rich historical and cultural tapestry.

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Itakhola Mura, an ancient Buddhist monastery dating back to the 7th-8th centuries, is located in Kotbari, Comilla. This archaeological site features a grand stupa complex and offers insights into the region's rich cultural past.

A brief summary to Itakhola Mura

  • C4QH+GPH, Kotbari, BD

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the terracotta sculptures and the scenic surroundings.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Comilla city, take a local bus heading towards Chittagong and get off at Kotbari. From the Kotbari bus stand, hire a CNG (auto-rickshaw) to Itakhola Mura, which is approximately 3 kilometers away. The CNG fare should be around 30-50 BDT.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao (if available) can take you directly from Comilla city to Itakhola Mura. The ride typically takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 200-300 BDT.

  • Walking

    If you are near BARD (Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development) in Kotbari, Itakhola Mura is about a 10-15 minute walk. Head west from BARD, following local signs or asking for directions to reach the site. No additional costs are involved.

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Discover more about Itakhola Mura

Itakhola Mura, situated in Kotbari, Comilla, stands as a significant testament to the region's rich Buddhist heritage. Believed to have been constructed during the 7th to 8th centuries during the Deva dynasty, this archaeological site features the ruins of a Buddhist monastery and stupa. The name 'Itakhola Mura' translates to 'Brickyard Mound,' likely derived from the site's use as a brick quarry in ancient times. Excavations have revealed a grand stupa complex built on a 13.1-meter square platform. A unique feature is the small sanctum (2.4m x 2.1m) on its eastern side, where a damaged life-size stucco image of Akshobhya, a Dhyani Buddha, was discovered. The monastery complex includes a central hall and 19 cells, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of spatial organization. The architecture shows the mature and developed forms of Buddhist temples and viharas. Over the centuries, Itakhola Mura underwent multiple phases of construction, with each phase adding new layers to its architectural and cultural significance. Artifacts recovered from the site include gold, silver coins, copper plates, clay plaques, and various Buddhist statues, providing valuable insights into the religious and artistic practices of the time. Exploring Itakhola Mura offers a captivating journey through time, allowing visitors to connect with the echoes of ancient Bengal.

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