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Introduction

Rajshahi Division, located in northwestern Bangladesh, is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Covering an area of 18,174.4 square kilometers, it is one of the eight administrative divisions of Bangladesh. The division comprises 8 districts and 70 upazilas, with a population of over 20 million as of 2022.

As a tourist destination, Rajshahi Division holds significant appeal due to its diverse attractions:

1. Historical sites: The region boasts numerous archaeological wonders and historical landmarks, including ancient Buddhist monasteries, Hindu temples, and Islamic mosques.
2. Cultural heritage: Rajshahi is renowned for its silk production, considered the best in Bangladesh, and houses the oldest museum in the country – the Varendra Research Museum.
3. Natural beauty: The division offers scenic landscapes, including the majestic Padma River, lush mango orchards, and wetlands like Chalan Beel.
4. Culinary delights: Rajshahi is famous for its mangoes, particularly varieties like Fazli, Langra, and Himsagor, as well as traditional sweetmeats like Roshokodmbo and Kanchagolla.

With its blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural wonders, Rajshahi Division presents a unique and diverse experience for tourists, making it an increasingly important destination in Bangladesh’s tourism landscape.

Historical Landmarks

A. Puthia Temple Complex

The Puthia Temple Complex is a remarkable collection of ancient Hindu temples located in Puthia Upazila, Rajshahi District, Bangladesh. It boasts the largest number of historic temples in the country.

Overview of the temple architecture:

• The temples showcase a variety of architectural styles, combining traditional Jor-bangla design with other influences.
• Built using terracotta, the temples feature intricate designs and ornamental bricks.
• The complex includes several notable structures:
  • Govinda Temple: A square-shaped temple with elaborate terracotta designs depicting scenes from Hindu epics.
  • Bhubaneshwar Shiva Temple: The largest Shiva temple in the subcontinent, built in the Pancha-Ratna style.
  • Jagannath Temple: A fine example of Bengali terracotta architecture.

Historical significance:

• Built by Hindu Zamindars of the Puthia Raj family, who were prominent philanthropists in Rajshahi.
• The temples date back to the 16th century and continued to be built and renovated until the late 19th century.
• The complex reflects the religious and cultural heritage of the region, showcasing Hindu architectural and artistic traditions
• Google Map Location: Puthia Temple Complex

B. Mahasthangarh

Mahasthangarh is the oldest known urban archaeological site in Bangladesh, dating back to at least the 4th century BCE.

Ancient city ruins:

• The site contains the remains of the ancient city of Pundranagara, the capital of the Pundra Kingdom.
• The fortified area spans approximately 1.5 km x 1.4 km, with ruins of various structures within and around the citadel.

Archaeological importance:

• Excavations have revealed numerous historical sites, including:
  • Govinda Bhita: Remnants of two Buddhist temples from the 6th and 11th centuries.
  • Parasuramer Palace: Ruins of an ancient palace complex.
  • Jiyat Kunda: An ancient well with historical significance.
• The Mahasthan Museum houses a collection of artifacts recovered from the site, including statues, terracotta plaques, and bronze images.
• Inscriptions found at the site, including a limestone slab with Prakrit text in Brahmi script, confirm its ancient origins.
• Google Map Location: Mahasthangarh

C. Somapura Mahavihara

Somapura Mahavihara, located in Paharpur, is one of the most renowned Buddhist monastic institutions of ancient Bengal.

UNESCO World Heritage Site:

• Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985.
• Recognized for its architectural excellence and influence on Buddhist architecture worldwide.

Buddhist monastery history:

• Built in the late 8th century by the Pala Emperor Dharmapala.
• Flourished as a major center of Buddhist learning until the 12th century.
• The monastery complex covers an area of 27 acres, making it one of the largest south of the Himalayas.
• Features a unique cruciform structure with a central temple rising 22 meters high over three terraces.
• Contains 177 monastic cells surrounding a vast courtyard.
• Served as an important intellectual center for Buddhists, Jains, and Hindus.
• Declined during the 13th century following Muslim occupation of the region.
• Google Map Location: Somapura Mahavihara

Cultural Attractions

A. Varendra Research Museum

Oldest museum in Bangladesh:

• Established in 1910, Varendra Research Museum is considered the oldest museum in Bangladesh and the first to be established in East Bengal.
• The museum became part of Rajshahi University in 1964.

Key exhibits and artifacts:

• The museum houses a rich collection of ancient artifacts and antiquities.
• The collection includes stone and metal sculptures, epigraphs, coins, pottery, terracotta plaques, weapons, Arabic and Persian documents, paintings, and manuscripts.
• Galleries showcase sculptures of Hindu and Buddhist deities from the Pala and Sena dynasties, including statues of Tara, Durga, and Avalokiteshvara.
• The museum library contains books and periodicals essential for research in ancient and medieval history, art, and archaeology of Bengal.
• Google Map Location: Varendra Research Museum

B. Bagha Mosque

Architectural features:

• Built in 1523-24 CE, the mosque measures 22.92 meters long, 12.18 meters wide, and 7.47 meters high.
• The mosque features 10 domes, four minarets, and five entrances.
• It is constructed of bricks with stone plinth, lintels, and pillars.
• The interior is divided into two longitudinal aisles and ten bays of square compartments.
• The mosque boasts intricate terracotta ornamentation both inside and outside, featuring vegetal and floral motifs, as well as chain and bell designs.

Historical importance:

• Built during the reign of Sultan Nusrat Shah of the Husain Shahi dynasty.
• The mosque is a significant example of Bengal Sultanate architecture.
• It has undergone several renovations, including a major reconstruction in 1897 after an earthquake damaged the original structure.
• The mosque complex includes a large tank or Dighi in front, which was dug for public welfare.
• Bagha Mosque is an important historical and cultural landmark, showcasing the artistic fusion of Islamic and Bengali traditions during the Sultanate period.
• Google Map Location: Bagha Mosque

Natural Wonders

A. Padma River

The Padma River is a majestic natural wonder that plays a crucial role in Bangladesh’s geography, culture, and economy.

Scenic beauty:

• The river offers breathtaking views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Its vast sandy stretches along the banks provide picturesque landscapes.
• The river’s dynamic course creates ever-changing scenery throughout the seasons.

Importance to local culture:

• The Padma is deeply ingrained in the cultural identity of the region.
• It has shaped the soul of the land and cultural landscape for millennia.
• Local communities have a spiritual bond with the river, considering it a nurturing mother.
• The river plays a vital role in agriculture, fishing, and transportation for millions of people.
• Google Map Location: Padma River

B. Chalan Beel

Chalan Beel is one of the largest and most significant wetlands in Bangladesh, covering parts of Rajshahi, Pabna, Sirajganj, and Natore districts.

Largest wetland in the region:

• During the rainy season, Chalan Beel covers an area of about 368 sq km.
• It comprises a series of depressions interconnected by various channels.
• The beel’s formation is historically linked to changes in river courses, including the Brahmaputra and Atrai.

Biodiversity and ecosystem:

• Chalan Beel is one of the richest wetland areas in Bangladesh.
• It serves as a habitat for numerous fish species and aquatic plants.
• The wetland is home to various migratory and indigenous bird species.
• It plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.

However, Chalan Beel faces significant environmental challenges:

• The wetland’s area has been shrinking due to siltation and human activities.
• Over-exploitation, pollution, and changes in water courses threaten its ecosystem.
• There’s a decline in fish populations and biodiversity.
• Climate change and human interventions have altered the beel’s natural dynamics.

Google Map Location: Chalan Beel

Local Experiences

A. Mango orchards

Rajshahi’s famous fruit: Rajshahi is renowned as the “Mango Capital of Bangladesh,” producing high-quality mangoes that are coveted throughout the country. The region’s mango orchards are a significant part of the local economy and culture.

Best time to visit: The mango season in Rajshahi typically runs from May to August. According to the 2024 Mango Calendar:

• Guti mangoes: Available from May 15
• Gopalbhog and Ranipasand: From May 25
• Khirsapat: From May 30
• Langra and Banana mangoes: From June 10
• Amrapali and Fazli: From June 15

For the best experience, plan your visit between mid-May and early July to enjoy the peak mango season.

B. Silk production

Traditional silk weaving: Rajshahi has a rich history of silk production dating back to the 13th century. The region is famous for three main types of silk:

• Mulberry silk: Considered the finest and most valuable
• Eri silk (Endi silk)
• Tassar silk

The traditional silk weaving process involves raising silkworms, extracting silk fibers from cocoons, and weaving them into luxurious fabrics.

Shopping opportunities: Visitors can find a wide range of silk products in Rajshahi, including:

• Sarees: Prices range from Tk 2,000 to Tk 15,000
• Panjabis: Available from Tk 1,900 to Tk 6,500
• Salwar kameezes
• Home decor items

Popular shopping destinations for authentic Rajshahi silk include:

• Sopura Silk: Has showrooms in Gulshan and Dhanmondi, Dhaka
• Kori Silk: Located in Dhanmondi, Dhaka
• Usha Silk
• Aarong: Sources silk from Rajshahi for various products.

For the most authentic experience, consider visiting local silk factories and markets in Rajshahi itself, where you can witness the production process and purchase directly from artisans.

Off the Beaten Path Gems

A. Santal tribal villages

Indigenous culture: The Santals are one of the oldest and largest indigenous communities in Bangladesh, with a rich cultural heritage dating back centuries. Their society is based on a division between “siblings” (boeha) and “guests” (pera), reflecting their strong sense of community. Santals have maintained many of their traditional practices and beliefs, including:

• Animistic nature worship, with a belief in supernatural souls (Bonga) that determine worldly good and evil.
• A clan-based social structure with 12 clans divided into 7 senior and 5 junior ranks.
• A traditional Panchayet system of governance, with village headmen holding special status.

Unique traditions: Santal culture is rich in unique customs and traditions, including:

• Numerous festivals throughout the year, such as Sohrai (their national festival) and Baha (spring festival).
• Traditional dances accompanied by Tamak and Tumdak drums.
• Chadar Badar, a form of puppetry unique to Santal culture.
• Sacred groves (Jaher) on the edge of villages where spirits are believed to reside.
• Artistic wall decorations in their homes, showcasing their love for beauty.

B. Kusumba Mosque

Hidden architectural marvel: The Kusumba Mosque, often called “The Black Gem of Bangladesh,” is a stunning example of Afghan-era architecture located in Kusumba village, Naogaon district. Built in 1558-59 AD, it features:

• Unique dark stone construction, giving it a distinctive appearance.
• Six domes arranged in two rows, creating an impressive silhouette.
• Intricate floral and vine motifs adorning the mihrabs and overall design.
• A spacious prayer hall divided into three naves and two aisles.
• Four octagonal towers at the corners, adding to its architectural beauty.

Historical significance: The Kusumba Mosque holds great historical and cultural importance:

• Built during the reign of Ghiyas-ud-din Bahadur Shah, the last ruler of the Suri dynasty.
• Constructed by Sulaiman, a senior official who was likely a converted Muslim.
• Features a unique three-mihrab configuration, rare in mosque architecture.
• Surrounded by a vast 25.83-acre reservoir called Kusumba Dighi, enhancing its scenic beauty.
• The mosque’s image is featured on the Bangladeshi five-taka note, highlighting its national importance.

These off-the-beaten-path gems offer visitors a chance to explore Bangladesh’s rich cultural diversity and architectural heritage, providing unique experiences beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Practical Travel Tips for Rajshahi Division

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Rajshahi Division is from November to February. During these months:

• Temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
• Weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing
• Humidity levels are lower, making outdoor activities more enjoyable

Avoid visiting during:

• March to May: Pre-monsoon hot season with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F)
• June to October: Monsoon season with heavy rainfall and potential travel disruptions

Transportation Options

Rajshahi Division offers several transportation options for travelers:

Air Travel

Shah Makhdum Airport (RJH) in Rajshahi offers the quickest air access to the Rajshahi Division. Here are some key details for travelers:

Airlines operating at RJH:

• Biman Bangladesh Airlines
• US-Bangla Airlines
• Novoair

Destinations served:

• Dhaka (all airlines)
• Cox’s Bazar (Novoair only)

Airport facilities:

• Air-conditioned waiting lounge
• Free Wi-Fi
• Canteen
• Prayer room
• Separate smoking zone

The airport is located about 10 km north of Rajshahi city center. Travelers can reach the city by taxi, bus, or auto-rickshaw after landing. Development plans are underway to expand the airport’s facilities and potentially make it an international airport in the future.

For the most up-to-date flight schedules and bookings, it’s recommended to check directly with the airlines or use travel booking platforms.

Train Services

Luxurious intercity train services connect Dhaka to Rajshahi:

• Silk City Express: Departs Dhaka at 2:40 PM, arrives Rajshahi at 7:35 AM (no service on Sundays)
• Padma Express: Departs Dhaka at 10:45 PM, arrives Rajshahi at 4:00 PM (no service on Tuesdays)
• Dhumketue Express: Departs Dhaka at 6:00 AM, arrives Rajshahi at 12:00 PM (no service on Mondays)
• Visit Bangladesh Railway Official website, Buy ticket only, Click here

Bus Services

Bus journey from Dhaka to Rajshahi takes approximately 5 hours. Options include:

• Non-AC buses: Fare around 710 Taka
• AC buses: Fare around 1400 Taka

Popular bus services: Hanif Enterprise, National Travels, Shamoli Paribahan, Desh Travels, Grameen Travels

Local Transport

For getting around Rajshahi city:

• Auto-rickshaws: Affordable and readily available
• Tempos: Small buses operating on fixed routes
• Rickshaws: Most common mode, accounting for about 45% of all vehicular passenger trips

Accommodation Recommendations

Rajshahi Division offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences:

1. Luxury options:
   • Grand River View Hotel: City-center hotel with outdoor pool.
   • Momo Inn (Bogra): Luxury hotel with bar and conference center.
2. Mid-range options:
   • Royal Raj Hotel & Condominium: Offers free breakfast and parking.
   • Hotel Naz Garden (Bogra): Features outdoor pool and conference center.
3. Budget-friendly options:
   • Hotel Green City International: Affordable option in Rajshahi.
   • Azmiry Residential Hotel: Budget-friendly choice with rooftop terrace.

For the best deals, consider booking in advance and checking for special offers on hotel booking platforms.

Conclusion

Rajshahi Division is a hidden gem in Bangladesh, offering a diverse array of attractions:

• Rich historical sites like Somapura Mahavihara and Mahasthangarh
• Cultural experiences at Varendra Research Museum and traditional silk production centers
• Natural wonders including the Padma River and Chalan Beel wetland
• Local specialties such as world-famous mangoes and exquisite silk products
• Off-the-beaten-path experiences in Santal tribal villages and at Kusumba Mosque

This region provides an authentic glimpse into Bangladesh’s heritage, natural beauty, and local traditions. For travelers seeking unique experiences beyond typical tourist destinations, Rajshahi offers a rewarding journey through one of Bangladesh’s most captivating areas. Exploring this division promises unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse cultural landscape.