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Not only picturesque views of the mountain range and serene sea beaches, the port city of Chattogram is also dotted with historical landmarks. From the renowned Persian saint, Bayazid Bostami’s Mazar and ancient architectural monuments to the Chattogram War Cemetery that has its roots steeped in World War ll, the second-largest city in Bangladesh has much to offer. Whether you are planning a trip or just want some respite from all the chaos of a mechanical life, these historic landmarks of Chattogram can cater to those needs. Having been said, here are 4 must-visit historic landmarks of Chattogram.

Chattogram War Cemetery

Chattogram War Cemetery
This landmark has its root in World War ll

Looking into history, you will find heroic achievements and accomplishments. What you will also find are ugly and bloody events. Effects of which were so monumental that it changed the shape of the entire world as we know it. Chattogram War Cemetery or Chattogram Commonwealth War Cemetery is one such landmark that reminds us of how the foundation of the world was built and what it cost to lay such a foundation.

Located 8km from the port, the war cemetery is a Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery in Bangladesh. The cemetery was built by the British army. It was established in tribute to the soldiers of commonwealth countries and others who died in World War ll. Initially, 400 people were buried in the cemetery but there are 731 burials now. The graves were transferred from across the country. Primarily the entire cemetery area was a crop field and that was then transformed into a cemetery. Of the all historic landmarks of Chattogram, the Chattogram War Cemetery is one of the most popular destinations for tourists.

Chandranath Temple

Chandranath Temple
The temple is located 1,020 feet above the ground

This temple is one of the seven Shakthi Peeths in Bangladesh. It is a significant pilgrimage destination for the devotees of Shaktism. This makes Chandranath Temple one of the most significant historical landmarks of Chattogram. Located almost 1,020 feet above the ground on top of Chandranath hill, the journey to the Temple is not an easy one. But trekking through the mountain and climbing high peaks makes the journey that much more thrilling. You will even find tea stalls on the way to the temple.

The legend behind the Chandranath temple and why it is a sacred place is captivating. It is believed that, after the demise of goddess Sati (the first wife of Lord Shiva), Lord Shiva became infuriated. Deeply remorse, Shiva then took His wife’s corpse onto his shoulder and started “Tandav Nritya” (dance of destruction) around the world. Fearing the dance could bring apocalyptic destruction to the world, God Vishnu used his Chakra and dismembered Sati’s body into 51 pieces. In effect, Shiva returned back to normalcy, and all the places where Sati’s body parts fell became sacred and came to be known as Shakthi Peetha. 

Masjid-e-Siraj ud-Daulah

Masjid-e-Siraj ud-Daulah
The vibrant Chandanpura Masjid is a sight to behold

When it comes to famous landmarks and establishments in Chattogram, Chandanpura Jame Masjid, otherwise known as Masjid-e-Siraj ud-Daulah, reigns supreme. For locals, it is a part of their identity and is considered to be one of the most notable historic landmarks of Chattogram. Historians estimate the mosque was built-in 1870 by a contractor named Master Abdul Hamid. It is said that the builders and architects were brought here from India (Lucknow and Mumbai) to construct the magnificently vibrant structure.

Everything about this historic mosque, from the intricately designed exterior and interior to the eye-catchy zigzag staircase that reaches to the top of two minarets on both sides, screams the greatness of Mughal style architecture. It is located between the Andarkilla and Chawkbazar intersections of the city. And the stunning view of this five dome mosque is a sight to behold.

Wali Khan Mosque

Wali Khan Mosque
This historic structure was built in 18th century

Not just Chandanpura Jame Masjid, the Chawkbazar area houses another historic landmark of Chattogram; Wali Khan Mosque. The establishment of the Wali Khan Mosque dates back to the 18th-century. It was built by the Mughal Faujdar Wali Beg Khan. The founder of Chawk Bazar also donated a significant portion of land for its maintenance.

With four octagonal towers on each side of the rectangular establishment, the mosque features three entrances. The interior is divided into two sections supported by arches and pilasters. The mosque was beautifully embellished with intricate motifs when it was built. Unfortunately due to repeated renovation, the grandeur of this stunning six-dome masonry structure has lost much of its charm.

Historic landmarks are the connection to our past. These are also the testament of our history and represent our commonalities and interests as a nation. To that end, all the historic landmarks of Chattogram are rich with multicultural diversities that have their connection to a significant event, era, or individual. If you happen to live in Chattogram, visit at least one if you want to get a sense of oneness with our past.

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