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Dhaka (North)
Dhaka, the historic city and capital of Bangladesh, lies on the Buriganga River. The river connects the city with all major inland ports in the country, contributing to its trade and commerce, as it has done for centuries.
The old part of the city, to the south of the centre and on the banks of the river, is dominated both by the commercial bustle of the waterfront and several old buildings. These include the uncompleted 17th-century Lalbagh Fort, the spectacular Ahsan Manzil palace museum, the Chotta Katra and a large number of mosques. To the north of this region is the European quarter (also known as British City), which contains the Banga Bhavan, the presidential palace, several parks, the Dhakeswari Temple and the National Museum. To the north and the east are to be found the commercial and diplomatic regions of Dhaka. The Zoo and Botanical Gardens are a bus or taxi ride into the suburbs. The waterfront has two main water transport terminals at Sadarghat and Badam Tali, located on the Buckland Road Bund. The famous ‘Rocket’ ferries dock here and boats can also be hired. There are many buildings of interest along the river and in the old part of the city. The Khan Mohammed Mirdha Mosque and the Mausoleum of Pari Bibi are worth a visit, as are the Baldha Gardens with their collection of rare plants. There are dozens of mosques and bazaars to visit – the Kashaitully Mosque is especially beautiful.
The modern part of the city comprises the diplomatic and commercial regions and is to be found further north in areas such as Motijheel and Gulshan.
City tours of Dhaka and its environs are available: contact the Parjatan Tourist Information Centre for further information.
Excursions:
Sonargaon, about 30km (20 miles) east of Dhaka, was the capital of the region between the 13th and early 17th centuries and retains a number of historical relics of interest, although many of these are now in ruins. The Rajendrapur National Park, about 50km (30 miles) north of the capital, is noted for its varied birdlife. Northwest of Dhaka is Dhamrai which contains several Hindu temples. Further north still is Mymensingh, at the centre of a region famous for its supply of high-quality jute. The Madhupur National Park and Game Sanctuary is situated about 160km (99 miles) from Dhaka.
North of Dhaka is Sylhet, known as ‘the land of two leaves and a bud’ because of its long renown as a tea-growing area. Srimongol is the main centre of the Sylhet tea gardens. Nearby Madhabkunda is noted for panoramic scenery and enchanting waterfalls. Around 43km (27 miles) from Sylhet are the ruins of Jaintiapur, once the capital of an ancient kingdom. Tamabil is a border outpost on Sylhet–Shilong Road. There are excellent views of the surrounding area, including some spectacular waterfalls across the Indian border. Zaflong is a scenic spot nearby, set amidst tea gardens and beautiful hills.
Copyright © 2003 Columbus Publishing Ltd.
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