Somapura Buddhist Vihara is at Paharpur, Badalgachhi Upazila in Naogaon District, Bangladesh. It is one of the ancient architectures in Bangladesh. It had discovered in the year 1807 by Buchanon Hamilton in the course of his survey of Eastern India.
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Paharpur Somapura Buddhist Vihara Mahavihara[/caption]
History of Somapura Buddhist Vihara
Somapura Mahavihara is located in Paharpur, a small village in Rajshahi district. It is situated 5 kilometers west of Jamalganj. It used to be the very important intellectual center of the Buddist Traditions besides Sanatan Dharma or Hinduism. The Mahavihara is assumed to be established in the Pala period (781-821). The Pala kind named Dharmapala is the founder of this incredible Mahavihara. The architectural value of this Mahavira is simply fantastic and attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. The place has been recognized by UNESCO to be a world heritage site in 1985.
The Importance of Somapura Mahavihara
The Somapura Mahavihara shows the traditions in this region during the Pala dynasty. It indicates the architectural capability of the people of this region in the ancient period. It is also a significant sign of the existence of Buddhist religion and the practice of Buddhist culture within this region.
Major Attractions of Somapura Mahavihara
In this ancient architecture, you will find Terracotta Plaque in the walls especially at the base of the temple which is very attracting. You will also find Balrama Stone, Buddist God Havjara with Sakti stone and a bronze sculpture of Buddha. Other statues of stones include Chamunda, Standing Seetala, Keerti, Gouri, Visnu, Nandi, Sun, and Mansaha statue of claystone.
Nearest Tourist Attractions
There are many famous tourist spots nearby which you can visit at the same time. The most prominent nearby tourist spot is Mahastangarh archaeological site which consists a lot of ancient remnants. The other major tourist attractions include Bairagir Bhita, Khodarpatar Bhita, Parasuramer Prasad, Mankalir Dhap, and Govinda Bhita etc.
Transportation and Communication
One can go to Somapura Mahavihara, Naogaon from Dhaka by Bus. The tourist spot is about 282 kilometers far from Dhaka and may take up to 6. 5 hours to reach there by bus through Panchagarh- Bznglabandha highway. The route shall be Dhaka- Savar- Chandara- Tangail- Jamuna Bridge- Bogra- Naogaon- Badalgashi and finally Paharpur.
One can also visit this spot through air route. A lot of local Airline companies give special packages to visit this tourist spot. In this case, the airplane will land in Hazrat Shah Makhdum Airport, Rajshahi. From there the visitors will give to go to Naogaon by bus or car.
Hotels, Accommodations and Foods
There are many hotels and restaurants near the Somapura Mahavihara. Some of them include Archaeological Rest House, Motel, and Restaurant of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation.
Location of Sompura Mahavihara
Sompura Mahavihara
Rajshahi, Naogaon- 6500
282 kilometers away from the capital, Dhaka.
Somapura Mahavihara in Paharpur, Badalgachhi Upazila, Naogaon District, Bangladesh. It is 5 km west from Jamalganj railway station in the greater Rajshahi district, and it is important and the largest known monastery south of the Himalayas and Buddhist viharas in the Indian Subcontinent and archeological spot.
Information for Traveler
Sompur Paharpur Bihar is about 282 km by road from Dhaka, and it will need about 6.5 hours to arrive at Paharpur by bus/taxi/private. From Dhaka, the direction shall be Dhaka - Savar - Chandra - Tangail - Jamuna Bridge - Naogaon - Badalgachhi - Paharpur
Place / Location / Area / Other important Notes
- Division-Rajshahi
- District -Naogaon
- Upazila-Badalgachhi
- 282 km from Dhaka
- Travel from Dhaka: Mainly bus and private car
- Postal code Badalgachhi-6570
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