Photo: Khalidahasan007, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
World War II Cemetery (Maynamati War Cemetry)
About World War II Cemetery (Maynamati War Cemetry)
During the Second World War, the area around Cumilla (then Comilla) was an important base and hospital centre for the Allied forces fighting in Burma. The Maynamati War Cemetery, also called the Mainamati War Cemetery, was created for those who died here.
Maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it holds more than 700 graves of servicemen from Britain, India, Africa, Canada, Australia and other countries. Terraced lawns, flowering shrubs and white headstones rise up a low slope, with the Cross of Sacrifice at the top. It is one of the most peaceful places in eastern Bangladesh.
Many visitors from the UK, Canada and Australia come to find a relative or a fellow countryman. The cemetery lies a few kilometres from the ruins of Shalban Vihara, so the two make an easy half-day stop between Dhaka and Chittagong. Its city counterpart is the Chittagong War Cemetery. Evergreen Bangladesh Tours includes both on private tours with a local guide.
Things to do
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Pay your respects
Walk the terraced rows and read inscriptions left by families across the Commonwealth.
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Find a relative’s grave
Check the Commonwealth War Graves Commission records in advance and note the plot number.
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Combine with Shalban Vihara
The Buddhist ruins and museum are a short drive away.
Getting there
From Dhaka: about two to three hours by road towards Cumilla.
From Cumilla town: around 15 to 20 minutes by car or CNG auto-rickshaw.
From Chittagong: about three to four hours by road.
Where to stay
Most travellers stop here on the way between Dhaka and Chittagong. Cumilla town has simple to mid-range hotels if you want to stay.
More to see in Cumilla
Tours that visit World War II Cemetery (Maynamati War Cemetry)
Holiday Tours
Explore the Natural Beauty of Bangladesh
Price on request
Questions
Is there an entrance fee?
Commonwealth war cemeteries do not charge for entry. Check opening hours locally.
Who is buried at Maynamati?
Servicemen of the Commonwealth forces from the Second World War, mainly from the Burma campaign, from Britain, India, Africa, Canada, Australia and elsewhere.
How do I find a specific grave?
Search the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website before you go, then use the plot reference on site.
How far is it from Shalban Vihara?
A short drive of about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic.