Chattogram War Cemetery
Chattogram
The Chattogram War Cemetery, also known as the Chittagong Commonwealth War Cemetery, is a significant memorial site dedicated to Commonwealth soldiers who died during World War II. Established by the British Army, it originally contained about 400 burials but now holds 731 Commonwealth burials, including 17 unidentified soldiers. The cemetery also includes graves of 20 foreign nationals, such as Japanese soldiers and a Dutch Navy seaman. Located in Dampara near Badsha Mia Road, the cemetery is set on what was once paddy fields and is now surrounded by a mixture of jungle, fruit, and flowering trees. Visitors enter through a metal gate flanked by two small brick chapels, and a tarmac lane leads to the burial area. The site is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the war, featuring the Cross of Sacrifice and memorial registers. The cemetery is near prominent landmarks like Finlay's Guest Houses and the Chatteshwari Temple road, making it accessible for visitors interested in history and remembrance.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their visit during daylight hours for better visibility and respectful experience. It is advisable to check opening times and consider purchasing tickets or passes in advance if required. The cemetery is accessible via local transport from central Chattogram, and visitors should respect the solemn nature of the site. There are no specific guided tours, so self-guided visits with prior research are recommended. Photography is generally allowed but should be done respectfully. The best time to visit is during the cooler months to avoid the intense heat and monsoon rains.
Interesting facts
- •The cemetery contains 731 Commonwealth burials from World War II, including 17 unidentified soldiers.
- •There are graves of 20 foreign nationals, including 19 Japanese soldiers and one Dutch Navy seaman.
- •Graves were transferred here from many isolated and military cemeteries across Assam and Bangladesh to centralize remembrance.
- •The burial area is surrounded by a mix of jungle, fruit, and flowering trees, offering a serene environment.
- •The cemetery features two small brick chapels at the entrance and a Cross of Sacrifice within the grounds.
History
The Chattogram War Cemetery was established during World War II by the British Army to consolidate and honor the graves of Commonwealth soldiers who died in the region.
Originally containing about 400 burials, it expanded as graves were transferred from various isolated and military cemeteries across Assam, Bangladesh, and nearby areas.
Over time, the cemetery grew to include 731 Commonwealth burials from the 1939-45 war, along with graves of foreign nationals including Japanese soldiers and a Dutch seaman.
It reflects the historical military presence in the region and the diverse nationalities involved in the conflict.
The cemetery remains a maintained site by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, preserving the memory of those who served and sacrificed during the war.
Place Guide
Entrance and Gate
The cemetery entrance features a metal gate flanked by two small brick chapels, marking the solemn threshold into the memorial grounds.
Burial AreaWorld War II period
The main burial area contains 731 Commonwealth war graves from World War II, including a Cross of Sacrifice and memorial registers honoring the fallen soldiers.
Surrounding Gardens
The cemetery is surrounded by a large area planted with a mixture of jungle trees, fruit trees, and flowering trees, creating a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
