Sacred Sites of Bangladesh
Bangladesh: A Land of Diverse Faiths and Sacred Sites
Bangladesh, a country with a rich blend of religious influences, houses a diverse collection of sacred sites and pilgrimage destinations. These places hold deep spiritual significance for Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and other communities within the nation.
Adinath Temple, Maheshkhali Island
Situated on an island, this Hindu temple is dedicated to the god Shiva and draws pilgrims for its religious significance.
Buddha Dhatu Jadi (Bandarban Golden Temple), Bandarban City
A prominent Buddhist temple, also known as the Bandarban Golden Temple, holding religious significance for Buddhists within Bangladesh.
Buddhist ruins, Comilla Bodha Bihar
Comilla Bodha Bihar features Buddhist ruins, holding significance for pilgrims interested in Buddhist history and archeology.
Dhakeshwari Temple, Dhaka
A major Hindu temple, considered the National Temple of Bangladesh. It holds immense religious importance for the Hindu community.
Kantajew Temple, Dinajpur
An ornate Hindu temple dedicated to Krishna, its intricate terracotta work makes it a significant pilgrimage destination and architectural marvel.
Puthia Temple complex, Puthia Upazila, Rajshahi Division (23 km east of Rajshahi)
This complex features a cluster of Hindu temples, showcasing intricate terracotta architecture. It's a significant pilgrimage site for the Hindu community.
Remains of Pundranagara and mazhar of Shah Sultan Balkhi Mahisawar, Mahasthangarh
Mahasthangarh houses the remains of an ancient city and the holy tomb of Shah Sultan Balkhi Mahisawar, making it a place of historic interest and pilgrimage for Muslims.
Shrine of Bayazid Bostami, Chittagong
The shrine of Bayazid Bostami, a revered Sufi saint, is an important pilgrimage destination for Muslims.
Shrine of Hazrat Shah Paran (Dakshingarh Pargana, about 7 km away from Sylhet town)
Another important shrine dedicated to a Sufi saint, Hazrat Shah Paran. It draws pilgrims, particularly within the Muslim community.
Sompur Mahavihara, Paharpur
Sompur Mahavihara is the ruins of a vast Buddhist monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It retains significance as a place of Buddhist pilgrimage and historical interest.
Sylhet: Shrine of Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Jalal
A revered shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Jalal, an important figure in the spread of Islam in Bengal. It's a significant pilgrimage destination for Muslims.
Note:
Bangladesh might possess other sacred sites associated with local traditions or religious figures. It's crucial to approach all these places with respect for diverse beliefs and customs.
Martin Gray is a cultural anthropologist, writer and photographer specializing in the study of pilgrimage traditions and sacred sites around the world. During a 40 year period he has visited more than 2000 pilgrimage places in 165 countries. The World Pilgrimage Guide at sacredsites.com is the most comprehensive source of information on this subject.