Bagerhat Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bagerhat, Bangladesh with this travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Bagerhat

Bagerhat is a district in the southern part of Bangladesh that was once part of the Sultanate of Bengal. The city was founded in 1429 and served as a seat of power and learning for several centuries. Today, Bagerhat boasts numerous archaeological sites and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

List of Places to Visit in Bagerhat

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bagerhat is home to several culturally important attractions, including museums and historical places:

  • Sompur Mahavihara: The largest Buddhist monastery in South Asia, Sompur Mahavihara dating from the 8th century.
  • Sixty Dome Mosque: An impressive mosque built in the 15th century and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Khan Jahan Ali Mazar: The tomb of Khan Jahan Ali, a revered saint and preeminent administrator of Bagerhat.

Natural Attractions of Bagerhat: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

In addition to the culturally important attractions, Bagerhat has beautiful natural attractions worth visiting:

  • Shat Gombuj Mosque: Boasts beautiful surroundings and intricate architecture making it among the most beautiful mosques in Bangladesh.
  • Bagerhat Bird Sanctuary: Located in a serene environment, the sanctuary is a great place for bird watchers
  • Sundarban: Bagerhat is the ideal gateway to the beautiful mangrove forest of Sundarban.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bagerhat

Bagerhat has excellent hiking/biking routes:

  • Sundarban: Take a hike or go biking around Sundarban.
  • Sixty Dome Mosque: An impressive mosque built in the 15th century with surrounding beautiful mangroves which makes it an ideal location for a leisure stroll.

Best Things to Do in Bagerhat: Activities and Tours

Bagerhat has many activities and tours that are worth doing:

  • Sunset Views: Watch the beautiful sunset over the mangrove forest on the banks of the Shaat Gombuj and enjoy some snacks with friends and family.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Tour: The heritage sites related to the Sultanate of Bengal from the 14th century can be seen on this tour.
  • Boat Trip in Sundarban: Go for a boat trip in Sundarban and watch the beautiful birds and animals in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bagerhat

Day 1: Arrival and explore local culture Day 2: Visit Sompur Mahavihara and 30-domed Mosque Day 3: Head to Sundarban Day 4: Take a hike or bike ride at Sundarban Day 5: Visit the Bagerhat bird sanctuary Day 6: Go on a boat trip in Sundarban or relax at the beach Day 7: Visit Khan Jahan Ali Mazar and take a sunset/night cruise of the mangrove forest

Food and Drink Scene of Bagerhat

Must-Try Dishes

Bagerhat has unique food and drink scene with local ties:

  • Vapa Pitha: A popular sweet made with rice flower.
  • Hilsha Fish: A common fish commonly found in Bangladesh, served fish curry, fry, and fish roast style.
  • Lassi: A popular drink made with yogurt.

Local Beverages

  • Sugarcane Juice: A refreshing drink made with fresh sugarcane.
  • Cha-Tea: A strong tea that is commonly served with milk.

Where to Stay in Bagerhat: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for accommodations in Bagerhat, ranging from budget-friendly options like guesthouses and hostels to more upscale options like hotels:

  • Hotel The Rahmania International: A modern hotel just 10 minutes from Sundarban.
  • JES Guest House: A budget-friendly guesthouse offering a relaxed environment near cultural attractions.
  • Hotel Grand Park: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean rooms with all basic amenities.

What to Buy in Bagerhat: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shopping in Bagerhat is an excellent opportunity to learn about local culture and bring home souvenirs.

  • Handicrafts: Take home various handicrafts made from bamboo and other local materials.
  • Spices and Tea: Purchase locally grown spices and tea
  • Traditional Clothing: Purchase locally made traditional Bangladeshi clothing.

Local Culture and Customs of Bagerhat

Bangladesh is a conservative Muslim country, so it is customary to dress conservatively and be respectful to local customs.

Best Time to Visit Bagerhat

The best time to visit Bagerhat is during the winter season, from November to February when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bagerhat

Do:

  • Dress conservatively
  • Obtain permission before taking photographs of locals
  • Bargain while shopping at local markets

Don’t:

  • Consume alcohol in public places
  • Touch someone with your shoes/sandals
  • Leave trash in public places

Safety and Health

Safety in Bagerhat

Bagerhat is generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid crowded areas at night.

Health in Bagerhat

Be sure to drink bottled water to avoid getting sick, and bring mosquito repellent since there could be a lot of mosquitoes around mangroves.

Getting to Bagerhat: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bagerhat

The nearest airport to Bagerhat is Jessore airport about 30-45 minutes away from the city. Dhaka airport is about 10 hours away from Bagerhat.

Bus Stations Near Bagerhat

Most long-distance buses arrive and depart from Bagerhat Bus Station.

Other Options

Another great way to reach Bagerhat is by hiring a private car or taxi.

How to Get Around in Bagerhat

The best way to get around in Bagerhat is by hiring a taxi, motorbike, or bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Bagerhat: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The neighboring destinations to Bagerhat are:

  • Khulna City: The third-largest city in Bangladesh with a vibrant food and culture scene.
  • Satmoshia: A popular eco-park located on the edge of the Sundarban mangrove forest.

Conclusion

Bagerhat offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Bangladesh while enjoying natural beauty and outdoor activities. With proper planning, including knowing the best times to visit and how to get around and where to go next, visitors can have a memorable trip.

The Shait Gumbad Mosque The Shait Gumbad Mosque