Khulna and Bagerhat Travel Guide: Best Places to See, Exciting Things to Do

Dhaka
June 30, 2023, 01:10 PM
by Md. Mehedi Hasan

UNB News
Dhaka
Publish- June 30, 2023, 01:10 PM
Md. Mehedi Hasan
Update- July 01, 2023, 09:20 AM

Khulna and Bagerhat Travel Guide: Best Places to See, Exciting Things to Do

Sundarbans, Khulna(Image: Wikipedia)

Khulna is Bangladesh's 3rd largest city after Dhaka and Chattogram. It serves as the administrative centre of Khulna district and division. Khulna is located on the Rupsha and Bhairab rivers. The city is served by the Mongla port, the country's second-largest seaport. Khulna's rich history is evident in its oldest and busiest river port. Bagerhat is another district in Khulna division that can’t be ignored while travelling in Khulna. These two districts share a few historically and culturally significant places. This article explores the ten most interesting places to see in Khulna and Bagerhat, and things to do there.

How to Reach Khulna from Dhaka

The easiest way to reach Khulna from Dhaka is by bus or train. You can take Sundarbans, or Chitra Express trains from Kamalapur Station in Dhaka to go to Khulna. You have to pay Tk. 550-1400 per seat, depending on the class. You can also take a bus from Syedabad, Malibagh, or Gulistan bus station. Generally, bus tickets will cost you around Tk 650-1400 per seat.

How to Reach Bagerhat from Dhaka

You can reach Bagerhat from Dhaka in two ways. First, you can take a direct bus from Syedabad, Malibagh, or Gulistan bus station to Bagerhat. It will cost around Tk 500 to 1000. The other way is to reach Khulna by train and, from there, reach the Shonadanga Bus Stand. There you will find buses for Bagerhat for Tk 100-150 per seat.

Top 16 Tourist Attractions in Khulna and Bagerhat

Khulna Divisional Museum

The Khulna Divisional Museum, established on September 12, 1998, is the second-largest museum in Bangladesh's Khulna division. Located near Shivbari Mor in the city's Public Hall area, the museum showcases photographs of heritage sites and essential structures from the southern region. It houses rare artifacts unearthed at various excavations, including Bharat Bhayana in Jashore, Barobazar in Jhenaidah, and Khan Jahan Ali Samadhi Soudho in Bagerhat.

Visitors can explore antiquities from the Gupta, Pal, Sen, Mughal, and British periods, along with terracotta, stone and black stone statues, gold and silver coins, and diverse artifacts representing the Khulna division. Managed by the Bangladesh Archaeology department, the museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Saturday (10 am to 6 pm in summer, 9 am to 5 pm in winter), for an entry fee of Tk 20 for children under five. Foreign tourists (from the SAARC region) have to pay Tk 50, and those from other nations have to pay Tk 100.

The museum is a mere 4 km away from Khulna city and is easily accessible by local transport.

Khan Jahan Ali Bridge

Khan Jahan Ali Bridge is a prominent attraction in Khulna, drawing couples, families, and schoolchildren. It goes over the Rupsha river and is the primary entry point to Khulna city, connecting the southern districts and Mongla seaport. This Japanese-funded bridge is especially popular during festivals and weekends, offering separate lanes for pedestrians and vehicles and staircases for easy access. The bridge's western end attracts a lively crowd, while the nighttime view of Khulna city is truly mesmerizing.

Khan Jahan Ali Bridge (Image: Wikipedia)

To reach this place from Khulna city’s bus terminal, follow the separate road leading to Rupsha Bridge, which leads to Khan Jahan Ali Bridge. It will take up to 30 taka by Easy Bike and 100 taka by rickshaw.

Rabindranath Tagore’s In-laws' Home

Dokkhindihi village in Phultala Upazila, just 19 km from Khulna city, boasts the once magnificent Roy House and Rabindranath Tagore's in-laws' house. Known as the 'Rabindra Complex,' it holds historical significance in Khulna. The complex features busts of Tagore's wife, a two-storey structure, lush green gardens, and nurseries.

The complex organises events for Tagore's birth and death anniversaries. Although initially neglected, it was renovated in 1995 and recognised as a preserved antiquity in 1999.

Tagore's in-laws' house is open for visitors six days a week (closed on Sundays), from 10 am to 6 pm in summer and 9 am to 5 pm in winter.

To reach Tagore's in-laws' house at Phultala upazila from Khulna city, take a rickshaw or auto rickshaw. It won’t cost more than 100 taka.

Bangabandhu Island

For those seeking the best places to visit in Khulna, Bangabandhu Island is a perfect choice to immerse in nature. Located in the Bay of Bengal, between Hiran Point and Dublar Char, it is approximately 10 km from Dublar Char in Mongla upazila.

The island is home to endangered bird species like Chamuchtunto batan and Eurasian oysters. Visitors may catch a glimpse of the Irrawaddy dolphin in the nearby river. Plans are underway to develop tourist destinations and watchtowers on the island, which holds great tourism potential.

The distance between Khulna city and Mongla port is about 36 km and the road distance is about 45.4 km. Travellers can rent a car or local taxi to reach Mongla port from Khulna city.

Those who want to arrive at Mongla directly from Dhaka city can take Meghna Transport, Tourist Transport, Sakura Transport, or Sohag Transport from Saidabad bus stand. The bus fare costs around Tk 500-600 per person.

Reaching the port of Mongla, you can hire a boat to reach the Bangabandhu island.

After exploring Bangabandhu Island during the day, you can stay at the Bangladesh Tourism Corporation motel at Poshur in Mongla, with prices ranging from Tk 600-2000. General quality hotels in Mongla city offer accommodation from Tk 200-800 per night.

Shahid Hadis Park

Shahid Hadis Park, located on Babukhan Road in Khulna, is a historic park established in 1884. It was later renamed after Shaheed Sheikh Hadithur Rahman Babu in 1969. The park features a replica of the Central Shaheed Minar, a large lake with water fountains, and an observation tower providing a panoramic view of Khulna city.

Local transportation options such as rickshaws and battery-operated auto rickshaws can be used within Khulna city to reach the park. The park is located somewhat at the heart of Khulna city.

Shahid Hadis Park provides a serene environment for leisurely walks, exploring the park's features, and enjoying the lake. Entry to the park is typically free of charge. Accommodation options in Khulna city, including hotels like Tiger Garden, Hotel Royal, Castle Salam, Western Inn, Hotel Holiday International, and Hotel Millennium, cater to various budgets.

Shait Gambuj Mosque

The Shait Gambuj Mosque, also known as the Sixty Dome Mosque, is one of the most renowned mosques located in Bangladesh. Situated in Bagerhat, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the largest mosque in Bangladesh, dating back to the sultanate period (1204-1576). Constructed by Ulugh Khan Jahan, the governor of the Sundarbans, during the Bengal Sultanate, it is regarded as one of the most remarkable Muslim monuments in the entire Indian subcontinent.

To reach the Sixty Dome Mosque, one can avail buses, microbuses, CNG-run vehicles, or easy bikes/auto-rickshaws from Bagerhat District Bus Stand. As soon as you disembark, you will be greeted by the sight of the sixty-domed mosque situated by the roadside.

Sixty Dome Mosque, Bagerhat (Image: Wikipedia)

Karamjal Tourist Spot

Karamjal is an ideal destination for experiencing the beauty of the Sundarbans in a day. It offers a glimpse of the Sundarbans' diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, deer, and rhesus monkeys. The area features wooden trails, observation towers, and fishermen's fishing activities, adding to the charm of nature. Karamjal is also home to Bangladesh's only crocodile natural breeding center.

To reach Karamjal, it takes about one to one and a half hours by engine-operated boat from Mongla. The tourist spot serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Sundarbans, providing insights into the region's map and biodiversity.

The entry fee for Karamjal varies, with Bangladeshi tourists paying Tk 20 and foreigners Tk 300. Video camera entry costs Tk 200 for Bangladeshis and Tk 300 for foreigners. VAT of 15% applies to all prices.

Katka Beach

Katka, situated approximately 90 kilometers north of Mongla port, is a diverse and enchanting destination within the Sundarbans mangrove forest, making it a must-visit place in Khulna. The main attraction at Katka is the 40 ft tower, providing stunning panoramic views of the natural beauty of the Sundarbans. The beach, locally known as Jamtala Beach, boasts a pristine and deserted atmosphere adorned with intricate crab artwork. Swimming in unpredictable waves is not recommended due to potential risks.

To reach Katka, the primary mode of transportation is by taking a launch. Tourist launches are docked at Katka Khal. A brick-and-mortar road can be found by walking west from the Katka.

The expenses for visiting Katka Beach include a daily travel fee of Tk 150 for domestic tourists, Tk 30 for students, and Tk 1500 for foreign tourists. Entry fees outside the sanctuary range from Tk 70 to Tk. 1000. Accommodation options within Katka are limited, with tourists often preferring to stay on launches or in nearby areas.

Hiran Point

Situated along the banks of the Parramatta Kunga river within the southern region of the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest, Hiran Point is a protected sanctuary and a UNESCO-declared world heritage site.

As a sanctuary, Hiran Point offers a safe haven for diverse wildlife, reptiles, and birds, including monkeys, deer, and tigers. Exploring the beautiful wooden pathways at Hiran Point allows visitors to spot fascinating creatures such as deer, monkeys, guitars, and crocodiles.

Just 3 kilometers away from Hiran Point, there is Keorasuthi Watchtower, providing a captivating view of the natural beauty of the Sundarbans.

The expenses for visiting Hiran Point include a daily travel fee ranging from Tk. 30 to Tk. 150 for students and domestic tourists, and Tk. 1500 for foreign tourists. Additional expenses encompass forest department fees, guide fees, security guard fees, and launch crew fees. Video camera fees are also applicable.

To reach Hiran Point, numerous tour management agencies offer trips to Sundarbans. Buses from Shonadanga Bus Stand will be a good choice to go to Bagerhat, where you can find launches bound for Hiran Point.

Putney Dwip

Located in the picturesque Khulna district, Putney Dwip, also known as Putney Island or Islandchar, is an enchanting island surrounded by scenic beauty. On one side are captivating views of the sea on the horizon and dense forests, while the other offers green grass wilderness and meandering canals.

Putney Island is truly mesmerizing. As the tides rise, the entire area seems to float, and witnessing the sunset over the Arpangasia River and the Mohona of the Bay of Bengal in the late afternoon is a breathtaking experience.

To reach Putney Dwip, permission from the forest department is required. You can obtain permission by contacting either the Mongla forest department office or the forest department office at Hiron Point. Traversing via a trawler from Mongla in Bagerhat, either through Dublar Char or Hiran Point, is the recommended way to reach the island.

There are no accommodations available for an overnight stay on Putney Island. If you wish to camp, set up a tent in an area that won't be reached by tidal waters.

Chandramahal Eco Park

Chandra Mahal Eco Park, located in Ranjitpur village near the Khulna-Mongla highway in Bagerhat district headquarters, is a picturesque eco-park and picnic spot. At the heart of the park stands a Taj Mahal-shaped building known as Chandra Mahal.

In 2002, Salim Hooda established the Eco Park, encompassing approximately 30 acres, and named it Chandramahal in honour of his wife, Naseema Huda Chandra. Visitors to Chandra Mahal Eco Park are mesmerised by its beauty. The golden hue of the building reflects sunlight, creating a unique ambiance. One must pass through a tunnel beneath the surrounding water to access the main building.

Chandramahal houses various archaeological artefacts, delighting visitors with a collection that includes local and foreign currency, postage stamps, ancient timepieces, ornaments, religious relics, stone furniture, rare manuscripts, pottery, and more.

Chandra Mahal Eco Park welcomes visitors daily from 7 am to 8 pm. The entry ticket price for the park is Tk 50 per person.

Chandramahal Eco Park, Bagerhat (Image: Facebook)

Padmabeel or Lotus Beel

Padmabeel, also known as Bhutia Padma Beel, is a captivating destination nestled in the Terkhada Upazila of the Khulna district. This enchanting beel (wetland) serves as a heavenly kingdom for nature lovers, boasting thousands of blooming lotus flowers that create a mesmerizing sight. It offers a serene and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, providing a soothing respite.

The village of Bhutia, which borders Padmabeel, showcases the stunning natural beauty of Bengal that is rarely found elsewhere. The best time to witness the spectacle of lotus flowers is between 6 am and 6:30 am when they are fully open. As the day progresses, the lotus petals gradually close. For those planning a visit, the ideal time to explore Padmabeel in Bhutia is during September and October.

To reach Padmabeel, you must first travel to the city of Khulna District. From there, you can take a bus or a CNG (auto-rickshaw) to Terkhada Bazar, which is approximately 18 km away from Khulna. Once you arrive at Terkhada Bazar, the locals can provide you with directions to Padma Beel. You can hire small dingy boats available in Terkhada for leisurely exploring the beel.

As for the costs, the expenses for transportation to Khulna and Terkhada Bazar would vary depending on your starting location. Local boat rentals for Padmabeel exploration can be negotiated with the boatmen. It's recommended to inquire about the current rates and negotiate the price beforehand.

Mazar of Khan Jahan Ali

The Mazar of Khan Jahan Ali is a remarkable one-storey building with a stunning dome that serves as the burial place of Hazrat Khan Jahan Ali. The tomb, constructed using intricately carved stones whose origin remains uncertain, is believed to have been brought from Chittagong through a remarkable feat of floating on water.

Adorned with Arabic inscriptions, Khan Jahan's Tomb (located in Bagerhat) sits atop a raised mound on the northern bank of the Thakurdighi. The complex includes Khan Jahan's square tomb, the sarcophagus of Muhammad Tahir (his diwan), a single-domed mosque, and a kitchen. Surrounding the tomb and Diwan's sarcophagus is an intermediate wall. The nearby pond, known as the Dighi of Khan Jahan Ali, houses some friendly crocodiles who fakirs feed upon their call.

To reach the Mazar of Khan Jahan Ali, one can avail of buses, microbuses, CNG vehicles, or easy bikes/auto-rickshaws from Bagerhat District Bus Stand. The Mazar of Khan Jahan Ali is situated by the roadside and is not far from the Shait Gambuj Mosque.

Kodla Moth

Kodla Math, a centuries-old structure, is situated in the village of Ayodhya, within the Baruipara Union of Bagerhat Sadar Upazila. Locals also refer to it as the Ayodhya Monastery. This monastery holds historical significance and is approximately 10 km away from the renowned 60 Dome Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bagerhat.

Kodla Math features distinct and self-contained architecture. Its aesthetically crafted design reflects the influence of temples constructed in the Odisha region during the 16th century AD, characterised by the "Rekha" style. The pyramid-shaped structure with peaked or linear formations on the rectangular interior follows the Nagara style prevalent in the Indian region. The smooth brick walls reach a height of 18.29 metres above the ground, with each side of the square interior measuring 2.61 metres.

To reach Kodla Math, one can travel approximately 14 km from the Bagerhat district. Taking a rickshaw from the Bagerhat bus stand and heading east for another 3 km along the Bhairav river will lead you to this beautiful monastery.

Kodla Moth, Bagerhat (Image: Wikipedia)

Bagerhat Museum

Located on old Rupsha Road, in the southeast corner of the 60 Dome Mosque at Sundarghona, Bagerhat district, the Bagerhat Museum is a testament to the preservation of Muslim culture and the memory of Khan Jahan Ali. In response to an international appeal made in 1973, the construction of the museum began in 1995 on a 520-square-metre site, a joint effort by UNESCO and the Bangladesh government. The museum was opened to the public in September 2001.

The museum's architecture prioritises Islamic design, harmonising with the nearby sixty-dome mosque. Its south-facing structure houses three galleries, where visitors can explore archaeological artifacts from various parts of Bagerhat, delving into the region's ancient history. Notable attractions within the Bagerhat Museum include images of mosques and archaeological architecture from across the country and the unique historic crocodile mummy of Khan Jahan Ali. Visitors can also admire a collection of monuments, coins, utensils, documents, maps, and recorded history.

The Bagerhat Museum operates from 10 am to 6 pmduring summer and from 9 am to 5 pm in winter. However, please note that the museum closes for a temporary break from 1 pm to 1:30 pm every day. The museum remains closed for the entire day on Sundays and half a day on Mondays.

The entrance fee for the Bagerhat Museum is Tk 20per person, while children under the age of 5 can enter free of charge.

Mongla Port

Mongla Port, the second largest seaport in Bangladesh, is situated at the Animal and Mongla Rivers confluence in Selabunia Mouza, Rampal Upazila of Bagerhat district, Khulna division. Established on December 1, 1950, the port plays a significant role in the country's maritime trade.

The distance between Khulna and Mongla Port is approximately 48 km, while the port itself is located around 100 km north of the Bay of Bengal. Mongla Port is well-connected to other inland river ports and railway terminals in Khulna.

Operating round the clock, Mongla Port facilitates the unloading of goods and can accommodate ships with a maximum length of 225 metres. Around 3 million metric tonnes of goods are annually imported and exported through the port, with approximately 400 ships anchoring there.

Originally located 18 km upstream on the Poshur River, the port was shifted to its current location in Mongla in 1954 to enhance the benefits of ship anchoring. While Mongla Port maintains connections with ports worldwide, the majority of ships arrive from regions such as Asia, the Middle East, Australia, Europe, and North America.

Conclusion

Khulna and Bagerhat districts present a diverse array of tourist attractions that are worth discovering. From significant historical sites like the establishments of Khan Jahan Ali and the Museum to breathtaking natural wonders such as the Sundarbans mangrove forest, there is something to cater to the interests of every kind of traveller.

Whether you have a penchant for exploring history, immersing yourself in local culture, or admiring the beauty of nature, Khulna and Bagerhat ensures there is an abundance of experiences to be cherished.