National Martyrs’ Memorial
About National Martyrs’ Memorial
The National Martyrs’ Memorial, Jatiyo Smriti Soudho in Bengali, stands in Savar, about 35 km northwest of central Dhaka. Designed by the architect Syed Mainul Hossain and completed in 1982, it is made of seven triangular concrete planes that rise to about 45 metres, appearing to change shape as you walk around it.
The seven planes are commonly said to represent seven key phases of the struggle that led to independence in 1971. The approach leads past reflecting pools and lawns, and near the monument are mass graves of people killed during the war, a sobering reminder of what the memorial marks.
It is the place where Bangladeshis gather in large numbers on Independence Day (26 March) and Victory Day (16 December), and where visiting heads of state lay wreaths. On ordinary days it is peaceful and spacious. Evergreen Bangladesh Tours visits on private tours with a local guide, sometimes combined with the riverside sights of Old Dhaka such as Lalbagh Fort.
Things to do
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See the monument
Walk around the seven concrete planes and watch the form change from different angles.
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Reflect at the mass graves
Pause quietly at the graves near the memorial, which honour those killed in 1971.
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Stroll the gardens
Lawns, pools and tree-lined paths make the grounds pleasant for a slow walk.
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Learn about 1971
A guide can explain the Liberation War and why this site matters so much to Bangladeshis.
Getting there
From Dhaka: drive northwest along the Dhaka to Aricha highway to Savar, about 35 km. In traffic this can take one to two hours or more each way.
Starting early in the morning helps avoid the worst congestion on the highway.
Where to stay
Most visitors return to Dhaka the same day. Gulshan, Banani and Dhanmondi have the widest choice of hotels.
Tours that visit National Martyrs’ Memorial
Holiday Tours
Bangladesh Cultural and Heritage Discovery Tour
from $800 per person
Short Tours
Heritage Treasures of North Bengal
from $550 per person
Holiday Tours
Ten Days Across Bangladesh
from $800 per person
Questions
How far is the memorial from Dhaka?
About 35 km northwest of central Dhaka. Allow one to two hours each way by car.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry has generally been free. Opening hours and security arrangements can change, so check before visiting.
How long should I allow?
About an hour at the site is enough for most visitors.
Is there a dress code?
There is no formal code, but modest clothing and respectful behaviour are expected at this national memorial.