Independence Monument, Eastern Bengal Travel Guide

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A towering glass monument in Dhaka commemorating Bangladesh's independence war and the sacrifices made for freedom in Suhrawardy Udyan.

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Independence Monument

The Independence Monument (Swadhinata Stambha) in Dhaka stands as a powerful reminder of Bangladesh's struggle for liberation in 1971. This national monument, featuring a striking 50-meter high glass tower, commemorates the historical events that unfolded in Suhrawardy Udyan during the war.

A brief summary to Independence Monument

07, Abdul khalek school road, Dhaka, Basundhara Residential Area, BD

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Independence Monument.

Visit during the cooler months (November to February) for a more comfortable experience.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the monument and the underground museum thoroughly.
Photography is restricted inside the museum to preserve the artifacts and maintain a respectful atmosphere.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Independence Monument on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Independence Monument, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

Suhrawardi Udyan, where the Independence Monument is located, is easily accessible via Dhaka's bus network. Numerous bus routes serve the Shahbag area, which is a short walk from the park entrance. Check local bus route information for the most convenient options from your starting point. Bus fares typically range from 10-20 BDT depending on the distance.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Pathao are readily available throughout Dhaka. A short taxi ride to Suhrawardi Udyan from nearby areas like Gulshan or Dhanmondi will typically cost between 150-300 BDT, depending on traffic and distance. Be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand with local taxis, as many drivers may not use the meter.
Walking

If you are already in the Shahbag area, or near Dhaka University, walking to Suhrawardi Udyan is a viable option. The park is a well-known landmark and easily located. Follow the main roads towards the park entrance. Be aware of traffic and pedestrian conditions.

Discover more about Independence Monument

The Independence Monument, also known as Swadhinata Stambha, is a national monument in Bangladesh that commemorates the historical events that took place in Suhrawardy Udyan (formerly known as Ramna Race Course ground) concerning the Bangladesh War of Independence. The monument serves as a poignant reminder of the nation's arduous journey to freedom and the sacrifices made by countless individuals.Located in Suhrawardy Udyan, a sprawling historical ground in Dhaka, the park witnessed numerous pivotal moments in Bangladesh's history. It was here that Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, delivered his historic speech on March 7, 1971, urging the people to prepare for the struggle for independence. The park also served as the site where the Pakistani Instrument of Surrender was signed on December 16, 1971, marking the end of the Liberation War.The Government of Bangladesh initiated the construction of the Independence Monument in 1996 to restore the memories of the Liberation War. Construction began in 1999, and the project was designed by architects Kashef Mahboob Chowdhury and Marina Tabassum, graduates of the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology. Their design aimed to create a space that would not only commemorate the past but also inspire future generations.The main attraction of the Independence Monument is the 50-meter high tower composed of stacked glass panels. This towering structure, known as the 'Tower of Light,' stands at the very spot where the Pakistani Instrument of Surrender was signed. At night, the tower is illuminated, creating a breathtaking spectacle that symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness. The complex also includes a museum, multi-media projection theatre, and amphitheater.