Background

National Martyrs' Monument: A Symbol of Sacrifice

Pay homage to the heroes of Bangladesh's Liberation War at the National Martyrs' Monument in Savar, a symbol of resilience and national pride set amidst serene gardens.

4.6

The National Martyrs' Monument, or Jatiyo Smriti Soudho, stands as a poignant reminder of Bangladesh's struggle for independence. Located in Savar, near Dhaka, this iconic monument commemorates the sacrifices made during the 1971 Liberation War. Designed by Syed Mainul Hossain, the structure features seven triangular concrete walls, each representing a significant chapter in the nation's history, rising to a height of 150 feet. Surrounded by serene gardens and a reflecting pool, the monument offers a space for reflection and remembrance. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about the war's impact, and pay homage to the fallen heroes. The monument is not only a historical landmark but also a symbol of Bengali nationalism and the enduring spirit of the Bangladeshi people. It is a place where the nation gathers to remember its past and honor those who fought for its freedom, making it a deeply moving and educational experience for all who visit.

A brief summary to National Martyrs' Monument

  • Dhaka - Aricha Hwy, Savar, 1344, BD

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views and fewer crowds.
  • Take time to read the informational plaques for a deeper understanding of the history.
  • Dress modestly out of respect for the memorial and its significance.
  • Bring a camera; the architecture and gardens make for beautiful photographs.
  • Check local holidays for special ceremonies that may enhance your visit.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Dhaka, the most common way to reach the National Martyrs' Monument is by bus. Several bus services operate from Gabtoli Bus Terminal and other major terminals in Dhaka to Savar. Look for buses heading towards Savar or Aricha. The fare typically ranges from 50-100 BDT. Inform the bus conductor that you wish to visit the National Martyrs' Monument. Once in Savar, you can hire a rickshaw or auto-rickshaw for around 50-100 BDT to reach the monument, or walk for about 15-20 minutes from Savar bus stand towards Dhaka-Aricha Highway.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Pathao are readily available in Dhaka. A taxi or ride-share from Dhaka to the National Martyrs' Monument will cost approximately 400-800 BDT, depending on the distance and traffic conditions. The journey takes about 45-90 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking is available near the monument.

  • Driving

    If driving from Dhaka, take the Dhaka-Aricha Highway (N5) towards Savar. Follow the signs for Savar and continue for approximately 30 kilometers. The National Martyrs' Monument will be on your right, just past the Savar Cantonment area. Tolls on the highway may cost around 50-100 BDT. Parking is available near the monument.

Unlock the Best of National Martyrs' Monument

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about National Martyrs' Monument

The National Martyrs' Monument, or Jatiyo Smriti Soudho, is a national monument of Bangladesh, erected in memory of those who died in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, which brought independence and separated Bangladesh from Pakistan. Situated in Savar, approximately 35 kilometers northwest of Dhaka, the monument stands as a powerful symbol of the nation's resilience and the sacrifices made for its freedom. The monument was designed by Syed Mainul Hossain, whose design was selected from 57 submissions in a national competition held in 1978. Construction began in 1978 and was completed in 1982. The monument was inaugurated on December 16, 1982, the 11th anniversary of Bangladesh's victory. The monument complex covers an area of 84 acres and is surrounded by a green belt of 24.7 acres. The architecture of the monument is characterized by seven pairs of triangular-shaped walls or prisms, each varying in size and height. The outermost pair is the shortest but widest, while the inner pairs gradually increase in height, with the innermost pair forming the peak. This unique arrangement creates a structure that appears to change its configuration when viewed from different angles. The highest point of the structure reaches 150 feet. Each of the seven pairs of walls represents a significant chapter in the history of Bangladesh's struggle for independence: 1. The Language Movement of 1952: This movement was a pivotal moment in the assertion of Bengali identity and the demand for recognition of the Bengali language. 2. The provincial election victory of the United Front in 1954: This victory demonstrated the growing political power of the Bengali population. 3. The Constitution Movement of 1956: This movement aimed to establish a constitution that reflected the aspirations of the people of East Pakistan. 4. The movement against the Education Commission in 1962: This movement protested against discriminatory education policies. 5. The Six-Point Movement of 1966: This movement demanded greater autonomy for East Pakistan. 6. The Mass Uprising of 1969: This uprising demonstrated the widespread discontent with the Pakistani regime. 7. The Liberation War of 1971: This war resulted in the independence of Bangladesh. The monument is made of concrete, while the other structures and pavements in the complex are made of red bricks. This contrast in materials adds to the monument's visual impact. The complex also includes several mass graves and a reflection water body in front of the monument, symbolizing the sacrifices made during the war. Visiting the National Martyrs' Monument is a deeply moving experience. As you enter the complex through the main gate, you can see the monument from afar. To reach it, you must walk through a series of pavements and cross an artificial lake by a bridge, symbolizing the struggle for independence. The winding path allows visitors to view the monument from multiple perspectives, experiencing its dramatically differing configurations depending on the viewing location. The monument is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Informative plaques provide insights into the events of the Liberation War and the significance of the monument. The National Martyrs' Monument is not just a tourist attraction; it is a place of national pride and remembrance. It serves as a gathering place for various cultural and national events, especially during significant anniversaries related to the country's independence. The site is also home to a museum that provides deeper insight into the history of the liberation struggle, allowing visitors to gain a greater understanding of the events that shaped the nation. The monument is a testament to the sacrifices made by the people of Bangladesh in their quest for independence. It is a place of reflection, education, and national pride. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor from abroad, the memorial offers a profound and enriching experience. It is a place where you can connect with the heart and soul of Bangladesh's history and pay homage to the heroes who fought for its freedom. The National Martyrs' Monument stands as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the importance of freedom and the sacrifices made to attain it. It is a place where the nation gathers to remember its past, honor its heroes, and reaffirm its commitment to a future of peace and prosperity. The monument is a symbol of Bengali nationalism and the enduring spirit of the Bangladeshi people. It is a place where the nation gathers to remember its past and honor those who fought for its freedom, making it a deeply moving and educational experience for all who visit. The visual magic of the National Martyrs' Monument lies in its optical illusion, perhaps a Picasso-esque cubist twist to what "nation" means. Part of this illusion stems from the plan of the monument itself. Seen frontally, it appears to be one structure, while in reality, it is not. The plan of the monument is an arrangement of seven. The tortuous path to the National Monument appears to symbolise the nation's difficult path to self-rule, as well as the challenging journey that lies ahead. This winding passage also allows the visitor to see the monument from multiple perspectives, experiencing its dramatically differing configurations depending on the viewing location.

Popular Experiences near National Martyrs' Monument

Popular Hotels near National Martyrs' Monument

Select Currency