Patuakhali, Barishal
A Rakhine Buddhist temple in the village of Misripara near Kuakata, known for its very large statue of the seated Buddha.
The temple is the centre of religious life for the Rakhine of Misripara. Buddhist festivals such as the full-moon days are observed here, and the village’s handloom weaving can sometimes be seen nearby.
Misripara is a Rakhine village in Kalapara upazila, near Kuakata. The Rakhine came to this coast from Arakan in the late 18th century, and they brought with them Theravada Buddhism, building temples (kyang) at the heart of their villages.
The temple at Misripara is best known for its large statue of the seated Buddha, often described as one of the largest in the region, set inside a temple building in the Rakhine style. It is a living place of worship for the local community.
A visit here, together with the temple near Kuakata beach and the Rakhine villages around it, gives a glimpse of a culture that has shaped this coast for more than two centuries.
Start at the Buddhist temple and old well in the Rakhine area near Kuakata beach.
Take a hired motorbike or auto-rickshaw through the villages to Misripara.
Visit the temple quietly and see the large seated Buddha.
Return to Kuakata in time to watch the sunset from the beach.
October to March, in the morning or afternoon; pair it with a day at Kuakata
Misripara is a short ride from Kuakata, usually reached by hired motorbike or battery auto-rickshaw. From Patuakhali town, go to Kuakata first (about 1.5–2 hours) and continue from there.
