The Top Most Iconic Monuments to Visit in Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s monuments showcase a rich tapestry of heritage, faith, and resilience shaped by centuries of history. Each site reflects the country’s cultural depth and historical evolution from ancient Buddhist monasteries and Mughal-era mosques to colonial structures and national memorials. 

Whether you’re visiting spiritual sites, royal residences, or places of remembrance, each monument tells a unique story of Bangladesh’s identity and resilience. Here are the iconic monuments in Bangladesh you shouldn’t miss.

Must Read: Bangladesh Visa Extension for Indians

 1. Shaheed Minar

Shaheed Minar is a national monument built to honor the 1952 Bengali Language Movement martyrs. It stands as a symbol of Bangladesh’s fight to preserve its mother tongue. The memorial represents cultural pride and national unity for generations of Bangladeshis.

Location:Secretariat Road, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh

Timings: Open 24 hours daily; best visited early morning or late evening.

Time Required: 30 minutes

Entry Fee: No tickets required; entry is free to all visitors.

Highlights:

• It serves as the center of International Mother Language Day observances each year.
• Thousands gather on February 21 to lay flowers in remembrance of the language martyrs.
• Its minimalist design reflects the solemnity and dignity of the movement it represents.

2. Jatiyo Smriti Soudho 

This monument honors the brave souls who gave their lives during the 1971 Liberation War. It is one of the most visited monuments in Bangladesh, set within a peaceful green park. The structure symbolizes the nation’s struggle, sacrifice, and victory.

Location:Nabinagar-Dhaka-Aricha Highway, Savar, Bangladesh

Timings: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Time Required: 1 to 2 hours

Entry Fee: No entry fee; open to all. Local guides may be hired at the gate.

Highlights:

• The triangular monument rises in stages, symbolizing the stages of liberation. 
• It’s a powerful site for reflection, surrounded by a serene garden and a water body. 
• It often hosts national events and is a major patriotic landmark for citizens and tourists.

 3. Lalbagh Fort

Lalbagh Fort is a 17th-century Mughal-era fort complex located in Old Dhaka. Although incomplete, it is a major historical monument and architectural attraction. The fort reflects Mughal aesthetics through its gardens, mosques, and tombs.

Location: Lalbagh Road, Dhaka 1211, Bangladesh

Timings: Daily, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Time Required: 1.5 to 2 hours

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: ₹14
• Adult: ₹140 (Approx. BDT 20 for locals, BDT 200 for foreigners)

Highlights:

• Its key features include the Tomb of Pari Bibi and the Lalbagh Mosque. 
• The site offers insight into Bangladesh’s Islamic and colonial past. 
• It’s among the best monuments in Bangladesh for tourists and history enthusiasts.

Also Read: Bangladesh Visa Photo Requirements for Indians

 4. Ahsan Manzil 

Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace, is a former royal residence turned museum. It was the home of the Nawab of Dhaka during the British colonial period. The building now displays artifacts that portray Dhaka’s political and cultural past.

Location:2/3 Islampur Road, Kumartoli, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Timings: Saturday–Wednesday: 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM; Friday: 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM; Closed Thursdays.

Time Required: 1.5 to 2 hours

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: ₹14
• Adult: ₹350 (Approx. BDT 20–500 depending on nationality)
• Buy tickets at the gate or through the Ahsan Manzil Museum Website.

Highlights:

• The museum exhibits over 20 rooms with original furniture, photographs, and decor. 
• Its pink exterior and Indo-European design attract thousands of visitors each year. 
• It is one of the most visited monuments in Bangladesh for architecture lovers.

5. Star Mosque

Location: Abul Khairat Road, Armanitola, Old Dhaka, Bangladesh

Timings: Open daily; best visited outside prayer times for non-Muslim visitors.

Time Required: 30 to 45 minutes

Entry Fee:  Entry is free; modest dress and respectful conduct are required.

Highlights:

• The mosque’s interior and exterior are decorated with imported Japanese and English tiles. 
• Its five domes and star motifs create a visually striking religious site. 
• Although a place of worship, respectful visitors are welcome to admire its beauty.

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 6. Kantajew Temple

Kantajew Temple, also known as Kantanagar Temple, is a magnificent 18th-century Hindu temple in Dinajpur. Renowned for its intricate terracotta carvings, it exemplifies late medieval Bengali architecture. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and remains a significant religious site.

Location: Kantanagar, Dinajpur District, Bangladesh

Timings:

• Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Monday: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed (Timings may vary during Ramadan) 

Time Required: 1 to 2 hours

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: ₹14
• Adult: ₹140

Highlights:

• The temple’s walls are adorned with terracotta panels depicting scenes from Hindu epics. 
• Its symmetrical structure and ornate designs attract architecture enthusiasts. 
• Kantajew Temple is considered one of the top monuments to visit in Bangladesh.

Also Read: How to Book a Visa Appointment for Bangladesh

 7. Mahasthangarh (Bogura)

Mahasthangarh is the oldest archaeological site in Bangladesh, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Located in Bogura, it was once the ancient capital of the Pundra Kingdom. The site includes ruins of fortifications, temples, and a museum.

Location: Mahasthan, Bogura District, Bangladesh

Timings:

• Saturday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed (Timings may vary during Ramadan)

Time Required: 2 to 3 hours

Entry Fee: Entry is free for both national and international visitors.

Highlights:

• Visitors can explore ancient structures like the citadel, Govinda Bhita, and Gokul Medh. 
• The Mahasthangarh Museum houses artifacts unearthed from the site. 
• It’s a must-see monument in Bangladesh for history enthusiasts.

Also Read: How to Check Bangladesh Visa Status in India

8. Mainamati Ruins (Comilla)

Mainamati, near Comilla, is an important Buddhist archaeological site in Bangladesh. The area features ancient monasteries, stupas, and temples from the 7th to 12th centuries. 

Location: Mainamati, Comilla District, Bangladesh

Timings:

• Saturday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Friday: 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM
• Thursday: Closed (Timings may vary during Ramadan)

Time Required: 2 to 3 hours

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: ₹14
• Adult: ₹140

Highlights:

• Shalban Vihara showcases the layout of a traditional Buddhist monastery. 
• The Mainamati Museum exhibits artifacts like bronze statues and coins. 
• It’s among the best monuments in Bangladesh for tourists interested in Buddhist heritage.

9. Shat Gombuj Masjid

The Shat Gombuj Masjid, or Sixty Dome Mosque, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bagerhat. Built in the 15th century by Khan Jahan Ali, it’s the largest mosque from the Sultanate period in Bangladesh. The mosque is renowned for its historic significance and architectural grandeur.

Location: Bagerhat District, Khulna Division, Bangladesh

Timings: Open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Time Required: 1 to 2 hours

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: ₹14
• Adult: ₹140

Highlights:

• Despite its name, the mosque features 77 domes supported by 60 pillars. 
• Its terracotta ornamentation and expansive prayer hall are architectural marvels. 
• It’s one of the most visited monuments in Bangladesh, reflecting Islamic heritage.

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 10. Curzon Hall

Curzon Hall, a British colonial-era structure, is part of the University of Dhaka. Built in 1904, it showcases a blend of European and Mughal architectural styles. The hall has been a significant site for political and educational movements.

Location: University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh

Timings: Open daily; best visited during daylight hours.

Ticket Access: No entry fee; open to all visitors.

Time Required: 30 to 45 minutes

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: Free
• Adult: Free

Highlights:

• It was a focal point during the Bengali Language Movement of 1952. 
• The red-brick building features ornate arches and spacious courtyards. 
• Curzon Hall remains an iconic symbol of Bangladesh’s academic heritage.

 11. Bangabandhu Memorial Museum

Located in the former residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation. The museum preserves personal belongings and historical artifacts. It offers insights into Bangladesh’s struggle for independence.

Location: Road No. 32, Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh

Timings:
Thursday to Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed

Time Required:
1 to 1.5 hours

Entry Fee (in INR):

• Infant: Free
• Child: Free
• Adult: ₹5

Highlights:

• Exhibits include photographs, documents, and personal items of Sheikh Mujib. 
• The museum stands as a tribute to his leadership and legacy. 
• It’s a must-visit for those interested in Bangladesh’s modern history.

12. Sonargaon (Narayanganj)

Sonargaon was the ancient capital of Bengal during the medieval period. It houses the Folk Art and Craft Museum, showcasing traditional Bangladeshi culture. The area includes historical sites like Panama City and Boro Sardar Bari.

Location: Sonargaon, Narayanganj District, Bangladesh

Timings:
Saturday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Ticket Access: Tickets available on-site; no online booking.

Time Required: 2 to 3 hours

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: ₹14
• Adult: ₹70

Highlights:

• Panam City features colonial-era buildings reflecting urban planning of the time. 
• The museum exhibits traditional crafts, textiles, and folk art. 
• Sonargaon offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

13. Zia Memorial Museum 

The museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of President Ziaur Rahman. Located in a colonial-era building, it showcases his contributions to Bangladesh. Exhibits include personal artifacts, photographs, and historical documents.

Location: Shahid Saifuddin Khaled Road, Chattogram, Bangladesh

Timings:
April to September:

• Saturday to Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Friday: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

October to March:

• Saturday to Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Friday: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Saturday to Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Ticket Access: Tickets available on-site; no online booking.

Time Required: 1 to 1.5 hours

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: Free
• Adult: ₹14

Highlights:

• The museum provides insights into Bangladesh’s political history post-independence. 
• The building itself is an architectural landmark in Chattogram. 
• It’s an informative site for those interested in the nation’s leadership history.

Also Read: Is Bangladesh Safe to Visit? Your Complete Guide to a Secure Trip

14. Liberation War Museum

Source: wikipedia

The museum commemorates Bangladesh’s struggle for independence in 1971. It houses a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and personal stories. The museum serves as an educational center for national history.

Location:Agnibina, Plot F11/A & F11/B, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh

Timings:
March to September: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
October to February: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ramadan: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Closed on Sundays

Time Required: 2 to 3 hours

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: ₹14
• Adult: ₹35

Highlights:

• Exhibits include photographs, weapons, and personal items from the war. 
• Interactive displays provide immersive learning experiences. 
• It’s a significant site for understanding Bangladesh’s path to sovereignty.

 15. Paharpur

Paharpur is home to the ruins of the ancient Buddhist monastery, Somapura Mahavihara. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it dates back to the 8th century. The site reflects the architectural and cultural zenith of Buddhist Bengal.

Location: Paharpur, Naogaon District, Bangladesh

Timings:
October to March:

• Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Monday: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM, April to September
• Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Monday: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM, Closed on Sundays

Time Required: 2 to 3 hours

Entry Fee (in INR):

• Infant: Free
• Child: ₹14
• Adult: ₹140

Highlights:

• The monastery’s layout includes a central shrine and surrounding cells. 
• Artifacts from the site are displayed in the adjacent museum. 
• Paharpur is a testament to Bangladesh’s rich archaeological heritage.

16. Choto Sona Mosque 

The Choto Sona Mosque is an exquisite example of Sultanate-era Islamic architecture in Bengal. Built in the 15th century, it was once adorned with golden tiles, giving it the name “Small Golden Mosque.” 

Location:Firozpur, Chapai Nawabganj District, Bangladesh

Timings:

• Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Monday: Closed

Time Required: 1 to 1.5 hours

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: ₹8
• Adult: ₹16

Highlights:

• The mosque features seven elegant domes and richly decorated mihrabs with terracotta and stone carvings. 
• Its symmetrical design and artistic detail Highlights the peak of Bengal’s Islamic architectural tradition, making it one of the must-see monuments in Bangladesh.

 17. Baliati Zamindar Palace

Baliati Zamindar Palace is a grand 19th-century mansion complex built by the Baliati Zamindars. With multiple buildings and courtyards, it stands as one of the best-preserved zamindari estates in Bangladesh.

Location:Baliati Palace, Saturia Upazila, Manikganj District, Bangladesh

Timings:

Summer (April–September):

• Tuesday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM
• Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
• Monday: 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed

Winter (October–March):

• Tuesday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
• Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Monday: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed

Time Required: Approximately 2–3 hours.

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child (Students): ₹5
• Adult: ₹20
• SAARC Nationals: ₹100
• Foreigners: ₹200

Highlights:

• The palace’s classical European architectural influence and expansive grounds offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the zamindars. 
• It’s a top monument to visit in Bangladesh for history enthusiasts.

18. Bara Katra

Bara Katra is a 17th-century Mughal-era caravanserai located in Dhaka. It served as a resting place for travelers and merchants, showcasing Mughal architectural grandeur.

Location: Bara Katra, Chowk Bazaar, Old Dhaka, Bangladesh

Timings: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Time Required: Approximately 30 minutes.

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: Free
• Adult: Free

Highlights:

• The structure’s Mughal arches and historical significance make it a notable cultural monument of Bangladesh.
• It’s among the most visited monuments in Dhaka for those interested in Mughal architecture.

 19. Bara Ahnik Mandir 

Bara Ahnik Mandir is a distinguished Hindu temple within the Puthia Temple Complex in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Constructed by the Rajas of Puthia, it exemplifies a unique blend of Bengal temple architecture, featuring a central Do Chala flanked by two Char Chala structures. This tri-mandir design is rare, with only one other known example in Bangladesh. 

Location: Puthia Temple Complex, Puthia Upazila, Rajshahi District, Bangladesh

Timings: Open daily from sunrise to sunset. As an active religious site, visitors are advised to dress modestly.

Time Required: Approximately 1–2 hours.

Entry Fee (in INR):

• Infant: Free
• Child: Free
• Adult: Free

Highlights:
The temple’s eastern facade boasts intricate terracotta plaques, showcasing the artistic excellence of the era. Its architectural uniqueness and historical significance make it a must-see monument in Bangladesh.

 20. Bagha Mosque 

Bagha Mosque is a 16th-century red-brick mosque located in Rajshahi. Built during the Sultanate period, it’s renowned for its terracotta ornamentation and continues to function as a place of worship.

Location: Bagha Upazila, Rajshahi District, Bangladesh

Timings: Open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Time Required: Approximately 1–2 hours.

Entry Fee:

• Infant: Free
• Child: Free
• Adult: Free

Highlights:
The mosque’s intricate terracotta designs and historical significance make it one of the best monuments in Bangladesh for tourists interested in Islamic architecture.

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FAQs

What is the most famous monument in Bangladesh?

The Shaheed Minar in Dhaka is the most famous monument in Bangladesh. It honors the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement and is a powerful symbol of national identity and pride.

Are there any historical monuments in Bangladesh?

Bangladesh is home to many historical monuments like the Lalbagh Fort in Dhaka, the Sixty Dome Mosque (Shat Gombuj Masjid) in Bagerhat, and the Mahasthangarh ruins in Bogura, all showcasing the region’s rich Mughal, Sultanate, and ancient history.

Are any Bangladeshi monuments free to visit?

Many monuments such as the Shaheed Minar, Jatiyo Sriti Shoudho (National Martyrs’ Memorial), and Ahsan Manzil’s exterior grounds are free to visit, though museum interiors may require tickets.

Is the Shaheed Minar considered a historical monument?

Absolutely. Built to commemorate the 1952 Language Movement martyrs, the Shaheed Minar is one of the most important cultural and historical landmarks in Bangladesh.

Do I need tickets to visit Bangladeshi monuments?

Some monuments, like Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and the Mainamati Museum, require entry fees, while others, such as Shaheed Minar and Jatiyo Sriti Shoudho, are freely accessible.

Are guided tours available at major Bangladeshi monuments?

Guided tours are available at popular monuments like Lalbagh Fort, Mahasthangarh, and Panam City, either through site staff or local tourism agencies.

Do Bangladeshi monuments have cafes or rest areas nearby?

Major monuments usually have food stalls or small restaurants nearby, and some larger sites offer designated rest areas and washrooms for visitors.