Discover The Beauty of Bangladesh

Nijhum Island

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This Island could be the next prime tourist spot after St. Martins Island. It’s a natural beauty of mangrove forests where you will find Dears of specific species and Monkeys. A huge numbers of migrated birds come in this Island in winter season, enhancing the beauty of this Island. The communication is not excellent but if some one wishes to bear the trouble to go to this Island, he will be enchant to see the beauty of this Island. You can go to this Island either from Dhaka or from Chittagong.

From Chittagong first you will to go Hatia Island by Motor boat or Ship and from there you can go to Nijhum Island by local motor boat. From Dhaka you can go Tomzuddion by launch from Sadarghat launch terminal. From there you can go to Nijhum Island by local motorboat.

Accommodation is very limited for the tourists in this Island. You can take foods from local restaurants but be careful about the quality of foods. If you can take prior permission for forest department then you can stay in forest rest house in Nijhum Island. Another possibility for accommodation is in District Parishod Guest house. If you take the permission from Thana administration (TNO) of Hatia you can also stay in the District Parishod Guest house. For the adventure seekers Nijhum Island could be one of the greatest experience of journey and it will be a memorable enjoyment to stay and pass some days in this isolated Island.

The Aggameda Khyang, Cox's Bazar

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Equally elaborate in plan, elevation and decoration is the Aggameda Khyang near the entrance to the Cox's Bazar town, which nestles at the foot of a hill under heavy cover of a stand of large trees. The main sanctuary-cum-monastery is carried on a series of round timber columns, which apart from accommodating the prayer chamber and an assembly hall, also is the repository of a large of small bronze Buddha images-mostly of Burmese origin-- and some old manuscripts. Beyond the main khyang to the south, there is an elevated wooden pavilion and a smaller brick temple with a timber and corrugated metal root. Apart from bearing an inscription in Burmese over its entrance, the temple contains some large stucco and bronze Buddha images.

Ramu

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This is a typical Buddhist village, about 16 km. from Cox's Bazar, on the main road to Chittagong. There are monasteries, khyangs and pagodas containing images of Buddha in gold, bronze and other metals inlaid with precious stones.

One of the most interesting of these temples is on the bank of the Baghkhali River. It houses not only interesting relics and Burmese handicrafts but also a large bronze statue of Buddha measuring thirteen feet high and rests on a six feet high pedestal. The wood carving of this khyang is very delicate and refined.

The village has a charm of its own. Weavers ply their trade in open workshops and craftsmen make handmade cigars in their pagoda like houses.

Teknaf

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The side of river Naf and the Bay of Bengal situate Teknaf Town, which is the southernmost tip of Bangladesh. It’s a real natural beauty of hills, forest & Naf River. Lots of Salt fields are there by the side of River Naf. There are natural waterfalls in Teknaf, which increases the beauty of nature.

You can come to Teknaf from Cox’s bazaar by an exotic jeep drive besides the Seashore or you can go there by bus or Microbus by road. By road journey, it is 84 km from Cox’s Bazaar.

You can enjoy shopping in the local market called Burmese Market where you will find all the Burmese & tribal hand made materials. Do not forget to see the Well of Ma-Thin – which tells a sad story of love. Myanmar is on the opposite bank of Naf River. Wild animals and birds are available but the most interesting thing is a journey on the river.
Wide sandy beach in the backdrop of high hills with green forests is an enchanting scene never to be forgotten.

Travel ComillaThis is a featured page

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Though this city is nearer from Dhaka but it is in Chittagong Division. Distance of Comilla from Dhaka in 95 km where as from Chittagong town its 167 km .The main attractions of Comilla are Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD), the home of famous Comilla Approach to rural development, Lalmai and Maynamoti hills, Shalban Monastery, Maynamoti museum and Comilla Zoo. Comilla Maheshangon houses one of the richest libraries of old literature and culture.

BARD (Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development)

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This is one of the main attractions in Comilla. This is one of the richest academic institutions for conducting research and action research; execute projects and pilot experimentation and imparting training in the diversified areas of rural development. The famous Comilla Model has been developed for sustained development. Besides academic excellence, the beautiful gardens and planned plantations of various trees are really enjoyable. You can also avail yourself of the facilities to organize seminar symposium and training in this complex .It is undoubtedly one of the good venue in Bangladesh where you can organize seminar, symposiums and workshops. BARD has excellent accommodation facilities for over 250 persons and its cafeteria provides quality foods. For one or two days refreshing you can go to BARD and spend some good time in a very secured and calm place.

Lalmai Moinamoti and Shalbon Bihar

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They are famous historical and archeological places around Comilla. These are a series of hillocks, where the Northern part is called Moinamoti and the Southern part is called Lalmai; and Shalbon Bihar is in the Middle of Lalmai and Moinamoti, which the was established in 8th century by King Buddadev. Salban Vihara, almost in the middle of the Mainarnati-Lalmai hill range consists of 115 cells, built around a spacious courtyard with cruciform temple in the centre facing its only gateway complex to the north resembling that of the Paharpur Monastery.

Kotila Mura situated on a flattened hillock, about 5 km north of Salban Vihara inside the Comilla Cantonment is a picturesque Buddhist establishment. Here three stupas are found side by side representing the Buddhist "Trinity" or three jewels i.e. the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.

Charpatra Mura is an isolated small oblong shrine situated about 2.5 km. north-west of kotila Mura stupas. The only approach to the shrine is from the East through a gateway, which leads to a spacious hall.

If you are in Comilla and already visited Lalmai, Moinamoti then don’t miss to go Moinamoti museum – where you will find the historical things found in Lalmai & Moinamoti of 7th & 8th centuries. The Mainamati site Museum has a rich and varied collection of copper plates, gold and silver coins and 86 bronze objects. Over 150 bronze statues have been recovered mostly from the monastic cells, bronze stupas, stone sculptures and hundreds of terracotta plaques each measuring on an average of 9" high and 8" to 12" wide. Mainamati is only 114 km. from Dhaka City and is just a day's trip by road on way to Chittagong.

Chittagong Hill Traccks

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Decidedly untypical of Bangladesh in topography and culture, the Chittagong Hill Tracts have steep jungle hills, Buddhist tribal peoples and relatively low-density population. The tracts are about 60km (37mi) east of Chittagong. The region comprises a mass of hills, ravines and cliffs covered with dense jungle, bamboo, creepers and shrubs, and have four main valleys formed by the Karnapuli, Feni, Shangu and Matamuhur rivers.

Rangamati, a lush and verdant rural area belonging to the Chakma tribe, is open to visitors, as is Kaptai Lake. The lake, ringed by thick tropical and semi-evergreen forests, looks like nothing else in Bangladesh. While the lake itself is beautiful, the thatched fishing villages located on the lakeshore are what make a visit really special.
Boats that visit the villages leave from Rangamati. Bring your swimming gear because you can take a plunge anywhere.

The Hills

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The Hill Tract is divided into four valleys surrounded by the Feni, Karnaphuli, Sangu (Sankhu) and Matamuhuri rivers and their tributaries. The ranges or hills of the Hill Tracts rise steeply thus looking far more impressive than what their height would imply and extend in long narrow ridges. The highest peaks on the northern side are Thangnang, Langliang and Khantiang while those on the southern side are Ramu, Taung, Keekradang, Tahjindong (4632 ft, highest in Bangladesh), Mowdok Mual, Rang Tlang and Mowdok Tlang.

Tribal Life

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The inhabitants of the Hill Tracts are mostly tribal. Life of the tribal people is extremely fascinating. Majority of them are Buddhists and the rest are Hindus, Christians and Animists. Despite the bondage of religion, elements of primitiveness are strongly displayed in their rites, rituals, and everyday life. The tribal families are matriarchal. The women-folk are more hardworking than the males and they are the main productive force.

The tribal people are extremely self-reliant, they grow their own food, their girls weave their own clothes and generally speaking, they live a simple life. Each tribe has its own dialect, distinctive dress and rites and rituals. The common feature is their way of life, which still speaks of their main occupation.

Some of them take pride in hunting with bows and arrows. Tribal women are very skilful in making beautiful handicrafts. Tribal people are generally peace loving, honest and hospitable. They usually greet a tourist with a smile.

The Forests

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The valleys of the Hill Tracts are covered with thick-planted forests. The vegetation in semi-evergreen to tropical evergreen dominated by tall teak trees. The natural vegetation can be seen best in the Rain-khyong valleys of the Bandarban district.

This district provides valuable wood which is used for various purposes, besides supplying wood and bamboo for the Karnaphuli Paper Mills and the Rayon Mills situated at Chandraghona. Here a tourist may be lucky to see how huge logs of wood are being carried to the plain by the tamed elephants.

The Lakes

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Famous Kaptai Lake, the largest "man-made" lake, spreading over 680 sq. km. of crystal-clean water flanked by hills and evergreen forests lies in the Rangamati Hill District. The lake was formed when the Karnaphuli river dam (153 feet high, 1800 feet long crest) was built for the purpose of hydroelectric power project at Kaptai. The old Rangamati town was submerged under lake water and a new town had to be built later. The lake is full of fish and provides facilities for cruising, swimming and skiing. There are also facilities for angling and short trip by Sampan, local name for country boats.

Hill Districts

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The Hill Tracts is divided into three districts, namely Rangamati, Khagrachari and Bandarban.

N.B For visit of foreign tourists to the Hill Districts prior permission from the Government is required which can be arranged through Tour Operators & BPC.

Rangamati

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If you don’t visit Rangamati you will not discover a big portion of natural beauties of Bangladesh. From Chittagong a 77 km. road amidst green fields and winding hills will take you to Rangamati. It is also connected by waterway from Kaptai.

This is the only place to visit through out the year. Rangamati expresses her full beauty in rainy season. Trees becoming greener, waterfalls are in full tide, the river Karnaphuli in her full wave in this season. If you already visited Rangamati in winter, we advice to go there again in monsoon; you will feel the difference of nature yourself.

Parjatan holiday complex is the best place to stay in Rangamati. There are other hotels in Rangamati where you can stay. Boating is the prime attraction in Rangamati. You can go to Kaptai and also by Karnaphuli River you can go deep in side the hill areas where on the way you will find lots of natural waterfalls. If you wish you can take shower in the waterfall or you can swim in the river. By boat you can visit the tribal villages, King Chakma's (tribal) Palace that is called Chakma Rajbari, Rajbonbihar pagoda, Tribal museum etc. You can also enjoy the tribal handmaid crafts if you go for shopping in the local market.

Kaptai Lake

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Built in early sixties Kaptai Dam and the lake are the main attractions of Kaptai. If you are not visiting Kaptai separately then, don’t forget to go for a boating up to Kaptai on the Kaptai Lake while you go to Rangamati tour.

Khagrachari

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Khagrachhari is the natural wild beauty of Bangladesh. Here you can visit the tribal lifestyle of Chakmas’ in Khagrachari. You can also visit Alutila hill. Approximately 100 meters long a very dark Cave is the mysterious beauty of Alutila hill.

Bandarban

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Lots of hills and hilly areas, waterfalls, River Sangu, Lakes and the tribal culture are the main attraction of Bandarban .

You can go to Bandarban from Chittagong by road. Chimbuk hill is one of the major attractions of Bandarban. You can enjoy the journey to Chimbuk Hill by jig jag hilly roads. It’s the third highest mountain in Bangladesh of approx. 3000 ft height. Reach Chimbuk by jeep or microbus from Rangamati. A beautiful Rest house is there on the top of Chimbuk hill.

If you are lucky then you can feel the clouds touching your whole body. If you take the prior permission from Roads and Highway Department you can spent a night in the rest house on the top of Chimbuk hill. If you stay there a night, you will remember your stay for your whole life with the calmness of nature hearing sometimes the wild animals squalling.

Ruma is another hill town on the same rout of Chimbuk. If you wish to visit Ruma, then 01st go to Ruma spend some time there and then come back to Chimbuk Hill.

You can enjoy the Shailapropat a waterfall in Bandarban. Its also a tourist attraction of waterfall surrounded by hills & forest; be carefully while you go to Shailapropat - the rocky path way is very slippery, if you are not cautious there is a good chance to sleep & make an accident there.

Another tourist spot in Bandarban is Meghla - it’s a beautiful spot where you can enjoy boat or speedboat riding on the lake Meghla. If you are lucky you may see the wild animals in the forest. There are small shades in this spot to protect you from rains in the season of monsoon and from the hit of the Sun in hot summer days. A beautiful hanging wooden bridge enhances the beauty of this spot. In one side there are some constructions and facilities for the tourists like tower, restaurant while on the other side is wild life, natural forest and hills. In the town you can visit the house where the king of tribe Chakma lives and from there you can visit the archeological museum of Bandarban. In this museum you will find the archeological history of the tribal life and the tribes of hill areas of Bandarban. The museum authority has set up various tribal houses in the museum, which will give you a brief idea of kinds of tribal houses, their design and architectural structures.

Khulna Division Tour

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Khulna division is in the southwest part of Bangladesh has an area of 22274 sq. km and a population of 14.47 million. There are 10 districts and 28 municipalities under Khulna. It has the world’s biggest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans. In Khulna town you can visit Khulna Museum and Zoo.

Sundarban

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Sundarban is the world biggest mangrove forest. In Bangladesh tourism, Sundarban plays the most vital role. A large number of foreigners come to Bangladesh every year only to visit this unique mangrove forest. Besides, local tourists also go to visit Sundarban every year. The area of great Sundarban is approximately 6000 sq. km.

General Information about Sudarban:
AREA: Nearly 2400 sq. miles or 6000 sq. km.

FOREST LIMITS: North-Bagerhat, Khulna and Satkhira districts : South-Bay of Bengal; East-Baleswar (or Haringhata) river, Perojpur, Barisal district, and West-Raimangal and Hariabhanga rivers which partially form Bangladesh boundary with West Bengal in India.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS: Wildlife photography including photography of the famous Royal Bengal Tiger, wildlife viewing, boating inside the forest will call recordings, nature study, meeting fishermen, wood-cutters and honey-collectors, peace and tranquility in the wilderness, seeing the world's largest mangrove forest and the revering beauty.

The Sundarbans are the largest littoral mangrove belt in the world, stretching 80km (50mi) into the Bangladeshi hinterland from the coast. The forests aren't just mangrove swamps though; they include some of the last remaining stands of the mighty jungles, which once covered the Gangetic plain.

The Sundarbans cover an area of 38,500 sq km, of which about one-third is covered in water.
Since 1966 the Sundarbans have been a wildlife sanctuary, and it is estimated that there are now 400 Royal Bengal tigers and about 30,000 spotted deer in the area. Sundarbans is home to many different species of birds, mammals, insects, reptiles and fishes. Over 120 species of fish and over 260 species of birds have been recorded in the Sundarbans. The Gangetic River Dolphin (Platanista gangeticus) is common in the rivers. No less than 50 species of reptiles and eight species of amphibians are known to occur. The Sundarbans now support the only population of the Estuarine, or Salt-Water Crocodile (Crocodiles paresis) in Bangladesh, and that population is estimated at less than two hundred individuals

Here land and water meet in many novel fashions, Wildlife presents many a spectacle. No wonder, you may come across a Royal Bengal Tiger swimming across the streams or the crocodiles basking on the riverbanks.

With the approach of the evening herds of deer make for the darking glades where boisterous monkeys shower Keora leaves from above for sumptuous meal for the former. For the botanist, the lover of nature, the poet and the painter this land provides a variety of wonder for which they all crave.

It's beauty lies in its unique natural surrounding. Thousands of meandering streams, creeks, rivers and estuaries have enhanced its charm. Sundarbans meaning beautiful forest is the natural habitat of the world famous Royal Bengal Tiger, spotted deer, crocodiles, jungle fowl, wild boar, lizards, theses monkey and an innumerable variety of beautiful birds. Migratory flock of Siberian ducks flying over thousands of sail boats loaded with timber, golpatta (round-leaf), fuel wood, honey, shell and fish further add to the serene natural beauty of the Sundarbans.

This is indeed a land for the sportsmen, the anglers and the photographers with its abundance of game, big and small, crocodile, wild boar, deer, pythons, wild-birds and above all the Royal Bengal Tiger, cunning, ruthless and yet majestic and graceful, For the less adventurously inclined, there are ducks and snipes,

herons and coots, yellow-lags and sandpipers. It is also the land for the ordinary holiday makers who desire to rest or wander around at will to refresh their mind and feast their eyes with the rich treasure that nature has so fondly bestowed.

Means of Communication: Water transport is the only means of communication for visiting the Sundarbans from Khulna or Mongla Port. Private motor launch, speedboats, country boats as well as mechanized vessel of Mongla Port Authority might be hired for the purpose. From Dhaka visitors may travel by air, road or rocket steamer to Khulna - the gateway to the Sundarbans. Most pleasant journey from Dhaka to Khulna is by Paddle Steamer, Rocket presenting a picturesque panorama of rural Bangladesh. Day and nightlong coach services by road are also available. The quickest mode is by air from Dhaka to Jessore and then to Khulna by road.

Journey time: It varies depending on tides against or in favor in the river. Usually it takes 6 to 10 hours journey by motor vessel from Mongla to Hiron Point or Katka.

FAMOUS SPOTS: The main tourist spots in Sundarban are Karamjol, Katka, Kochikhali, Hiron point and Mandarbaria. Hiron Point (Nilkamal) for tiger, deer, monkey, crocodiles, birds and natural beauty. Katka for deer, tiger, crocodiles, varieties of birds and monkey, morning and evening symphony of wild fowls. Vast expanse of grassy meadows running from Katka to Kachikhali (Tiger Point) provides opportunities for wild tracking.
Tin Kona Island for tiger and deer.

Dublar Char

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Dublar Char, a very beautiful island, is located at the southern boarder of the Sundarban, facing the Bay of Bengal. This is located at the South-west of Katka and South-east of Nilkamal. Water vessel like launch, cabin cruiser, speedboat, etc. can be used to reach the island from Mongla/Khulna.

The island is well known for fish catch and fish processing (dry fish) in the country. This island is famous for Rash Mela and holy bath, a Hindu festival that carries rituals since 200 years back. Hindus believe that the Rash event is the ‘get-together’ of Radha and Lord Krishna. In order to celebrate this assemblage, thousands of people visit this area from different part of the country. A three-day long yearly ritual is a highly exciting event for the tourists of both home and abroad.

Visitors (Present) 50,000 / year

Katka

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Katka is one of Heritage sites in Sunderban. In Katka there is a wooden watching tower of 40 ft. high from where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of Sunderban. A beautiful sea beach is there is Katka; you will enjoy while you are walking to go the beach from the watching tower. Verities birds are visible in Katka.

Hiron Point

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This is another tourist spot in Sunderban. It is called the world heritage state. You can enjoy the beauty of wild nature and dotted dears walking and running in Hiron point.

There are also two other Heritage side in Sunderban; one is Kochikhali and the other is Mandarbaria where you will find dears and birds. If you are lucky you can see the Great Royal Bengal Tiger, but for sure you can at least see the stepping of Great Royal Bengal Tiger here and there in these spots.

Karamjol

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Karamjol is a forest station for the Rangers. Here you can see a dear breeding center. To visit Sunderban you need to go there with a guide and it is even better if you go there with a group. You can stay two/three days in Sunderban depending on your desire and requirements. One-day tour is not enough for Sundarban as you will not be able to see the nature in haste. For one-day tour you can go up to Karamjol and at a glance visit the outer portion of Sunderban forest areas.

In your Sunderban tour you will be able to see a lots of verities birds (a heaven for the bird watchers), can watch the fishing in the river by the fishermen, if you wish you can ask your tour operator to give a stopover in the fishermen villages to watch their lifestyle, see lots of animals like monkeys, various types Dears, foxes, Crocodiles, Snakes and if you are lucky person you will be able to see the greatest mystery of Sunderban –The Royal Bengal Tiger. Sunderban is one of main sources to collect pure honey. You should not forget to buy some pure honey. Another inexpressible and unforgettable beauty you can enjoy if you can match your timing of tour in full moon. In the full moon the nights in Sunderban could be one of the most memorable nights for your whole life.

Other necessary Information about Sundarban Tour:

Entry Permission: Prior permission must be obtained through written application from the Divisional Forest Office, Circuit House Road, Khulna (Phone 20665, 211731) to visit the Sundarbans. Required entrance fees for visitors, vessel or boat payable at the relevant forest station/range office.

Fee for Commercial Photography:

Movie Tk. 5,000.00 per role exposed
Video Tk. 4,000.00 per Cassette
Still Tk. 1,000.00 per role exposed

Rajshahi Division Tour

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Rajshahi division is in the northern part of Bangladesh has an area of 34513 sq. km and a population of 29.99 million. There are 16 districts and 57 municipalities under Rajshahi. It is famous for archeological and historical sites.

Rajshahi City:
Rajshahi town is situated besides the river Padma. In monsoon the great Padma is in full spate with its tides and waves whereas in winter it dwindles and you will feel the desert by the side of river. Rajshahi Division is famous for archeological and historical places like Mohastnangor, Paharpur Buddhist Monastery, Kantajee’s Temple, Ramshagar Dighi, Choto Sona Masjid, and Shopnopuri etc. You can visit Rajshahi University. It’s a very well planed University and you can visit The Shahid Smriti Sangraha Shala in the University, you can see the documents and photography’s from the language movement of 1952 to the liberation was 1972. You can also visit Borendra Research Museum. There you will find the ancient elements of Paharpur, Mohasthangar and Mohenjodaro.

Paharur Buddhist Monastery

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Paharpur Buddhist Monastery is another tourist attraction of North Bengal. Paharpur is a small village 5 km. west of Jamalganj in the greater Rajshahi district. You can go to Paharpur from Jaipur district. Its only 10 km from Jaipur.

King Dharma Pal established Paharpur Buddhist Monastery in 7th century, which is the most important and the largest known monastery south of the Himalayas, has been excavated. The main Mandir is in the center of this Monastery. This 7th century archaeological find covers approximately an area of 27 acres of land.

The entire establishment, occupying a quadrangular court, measuring more than 900 ft. externally on each side, has high enclosure- walls about 16 ft. in thickness and from 12 ft. to 15 ft. height. With elaborate gateway complex on the north, there are 45 cells on the north and 44 in each of the other three sides with a total number of 177 rooms. The architecture of the pyramidal cruciform temple is profoundly influenced by those of South-East Asia, especially Myanmar and Java.

A small site-Museum built in 1956-57 houses the representative collection of objects recovered from the area, where you can see the statues of Buddha and Vishnu. The excavated findings have also been preserved at the Varendra Research Museum at Rajshahi. The antiquities of the museum include terracotta plaques, images of different gods and goddesses, potteries, coins, inscriptions, ornamental bricks and other minor clay objects.

Ramshagor Dighi

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The beautiful Ramshagor Dighi (Lake) was dug in 17th Century by Maharaja Ram Nath to solve the water problem. This is now one of the historical places as well as a tourist spot also.

Shopnopuri

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Shopnopuri is one of the most beautiful artificial tourist spot in North Bengal. You can go there either from Hili or from Dinajpur. There you can enjoy your full day watching this artificial beauty.

You can spend night also In Shoponopuri rest house but for that you will have to book in advance. It is an idle Picnic spot also where lots of picnic parties come every year.

Choto Sona Mosque

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One of the most graceful monument of the Sultanate period is the Chhota Sona Masjid or Small Golden Mosque at Gaur in Rajshahi Built by one Wali Muhammad during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah (1493-1519). Originally it was roofed over with 15 gold-gilded domes including the 3 Chauchala domes in the middle row, from which it derives its curious name.

Varendra Research Museum in Rajshahi

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Situated at Rajshahi, this museum has a rich collection of objects of Mohenjodaro and also of 16th to 19th century A.D. This is devoted to the study of ancient history and culture. Its rich collections contain interesting objects of past Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim heritage. It is located at the heart of Rajshahi town and maintained by Rajshahi University authority. The year of its formal establishment is 1910 A.D. Admission is free.

Rajshahi Division Tour (Puthia)

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Puthia has the largest number of historically important Hindu structures in Bangladesh. The most amazing of the village’s monuments is the Govinda Temple, which was erected between 1823 and 1895 by one of the maharanis of the Puthia estate. It’s a large square structure crowned by a set of miniature ornamental towers. It’s covered by incredibly intricate designs in terracotta depicting scenes from Hindu epics, which give it the appearance of having been draped by a huge red oriental carpet

The ornate Siva Temple is an imposing and excellent example of the five-spire Hindu style of temple architecture common in northern India. The ornate temple has three tapering tiers topped by four spires. It’s decorated with stone carvings and sculptural works, which unfortunately were disfigured during the War of Liberation. The village’s 16-century Jagannath Temple is one of the finest examples of a hut-shaped temple: measuring only 5m (16ft) on each side, it features a single tapering tower, which rises to a height of 10m (33ft). Its western facade is adorned with terracotta panels of geometric design.

Puthia is 23km (14mi) east of Rajshahi and 16km (10mi) west of Natore.

Barisal Division Tour

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Barisal division is in the south west part of Bangladesh, has an area of 13297 sq. km and a population of 8.11 million. There are 6 districts and 22 municipalities under Barisal. It is a revering area. Barishal is a Division of rivers and canals. It is also famous for gardens of coconut trees. You will find thousands of coconut trees throughout Barishal Division. Kuakata is the main tourist spot in the division. In Barishal town you can visit Durga Sagor - a beautiful Dighi where lot of guest birds comes every winter season. This is also a beautiful park where you can spend your leisure time by roaming around the park and watching the birds.

Barisal Division Tour: (Horighata)

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Horinghata is a place where you can see deer roaming around. In Horinghata forest sometimes the Royal Bengal Tiger is seen. Horin is a Bengali word for deer. So name itself express why it’s called Horinghata. You can go to Horinghata from Borguna District.

Barisal Division Tour: (Kuakata)

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Kuakata, locally known as Sagar Kannya (Daughter of the Sea) is a rare scenic beauty spot on the southernmost tip of Bangladesh. Kuakata in Latachapli union under Kalapara Police Station of Patuakhali district is about 30 km in length and 6 km in breadth. It is 70 km from Patuakhali district headquarters and 320 km from Dhaka.

At Kuakata excellent combination of the picturesque natural beauty, sandy beach, blue sky, huge expanse of water of the Bay and evergreen forest in really eye-catching. From its seashore you can watch both sunrise and sunset. The coconut trees increase the scenic beauty of this seashore.

The main tourist season is in winter but all over the year tourists visit this place. In Kuaka you can visit the life style of tribe Rakhains, who are very friendly to the tourist and visitors.

You can visit Buddhist Temple where you can see the statue of Goutom Buddha and two wells of 200 years old. Local name of the well is Kua and Kata is a local name of digging a well; so was the name Kuakata. Fisherman village is another place where you can visit and watch the lifestyle of the Fisherman.

If you are adventurous you may also go for fishing on the fishing boat if you can manage the local fishermen. That will give you pleasure and experience, which you won’t be able to gather from anywhere else. In the fishermen village you will find the fishermen coming back from the fishing and you can purchase some fresh Hilsha fish from them, and by the side of village there are some local restaurants from where you can get the Hilshas cooked and ready for eating. You will remember the wonderful taste of the fresh Hilshas of Kuakata for a long time. From Kuakata you can visit to a part of the great Sundarban forest, which is called Gangamoti Reserve Forest. Don’t forget to visit Fatra’s Chor another tourist place nearby Kuakata.

Kuakata is one of the rarest places, which has the unique beauty of offering the full view of the rising and setting of crimson sun in the water of the Bay of Bengal in a calm environment. That perhaps makes Kuakata one of the world's unique beaches. The long and wide beach at Kuakata has a typical natural setting. This sandy beach has gentle slopes into the Bay of Bengal and bathing there is as pleasant as is walking or diving.

Kuakata is truly a virgin beach-a sanctuary for migratory winter birds, a series of coconut trees, sandy beach of blue Bay, a feast for the eye. Forest, boats plying in the Bay of Bengal with colorful sails, fishing, towering cliffs, surfing waves everything here touches every visitor's heart. The unique customs and costumes of the 'Rakhyne' tribal families and Buddhist Temple of about hundred years old indicate the ancient tradition and cultural heritage, which are objects of great pleasure Kuakata is the place of pilgrimage of the Hindus and Buddhist communities. Innumerable devotees arrive here at the festival of 'Rush Purnima' and 'Maghi Purnima'.

On these two days they take holy bath and traditional fairs are held here. All these additional offers to panoramic beauty make the beach more attractive to the visitors. One should visit Kuakata and discover the lovely grace of Bangladesh.

Means of Communication: There exists road communication between Dhaka and Patuakhali district headquarters. Accessible by road, water or air transport up to Barisal. Then one may travel by road or water to Kuakata or Patuakhali. From Dhaka you can go to Patuakhali by bus & from there by microbus to Kuakata. It is advisable to go Patuakhali by launch, which is an overnight journey, and you can enjoy the unique beauty of Bangladesh Rivers at nighttime during this journey. Instead of Potuakhali you can go to Khepupara by launch, which is also an overnight journey and from Khepupara you can go to Kuakata by microbus. A direct BRTC bus service is also available from Dhaka to Kuakata that leaves from Sayedabad Bus terminal at night takes 12 hours to reach Kuakata. But it might be a hectic bus journey as a number of ferries are there on the way to Kuakata by road. BRTC has introduced direct bus service from Dhaka to Kuakata via Barisal.

Where to stay: There are some hotel and motels in Kuakata where you can stay, but Holiday Homes is the best place to stay in Kuakata. It is a motel of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation and its better if you confirm your booking from Dhaka in advance.

Some Natural Beautiful Photo of Bangladesh

2009-10-12T07:43:00.000-07:00

Sylhet Division Tour (Sunamganj)

2009-10-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

Sunamganj District (Sylhet division) with an area of 3669.58 sq km, is bounded by Khasia and Jaintia hills (India) on the north, habiganj and kishoreganj districts on the south, sylhet district on the east, netrokona and greater mymensingh districts on the west. Annual average temperature: maximum 33.2°C and minimum 13.6°C; annual rainfall 3334 mm. There are many haors and beels in Sunamganj.

Sunamganj (Town) stands on the bank of the river Surma. It was established in late 18th century. It consists of 9 wards and 44 mahallas. The town has an area of 22.16 sq km. It has a population of 49373; male 52.70%, female 47.30%; density of population is 2228 per sq km. Literacy rate among the town people is 58.8%. The town has five dakbungalows.

Administration Sunamganj mahakuma (sub-division) was upgraded to a district in 1984. This district consists of 10 upazilas, 4 municipalities, 36 wards, 139 mahallas, 82 union parishads, 1711 mouzas and 2813 villages. The upazilas are bishwamvarpur, chhatak, derai, dharmapasha, dowarabazar, jagannathpur, jamalganj, tahirpur, sullah and sunamganj sadar.

Sylhet Division Tour (Maulvi Bazar)

2009-10-11T06:34:00.001-07:00

Maulvi Bazar District (Sylhet division) with an area of 2799.39 sq km, is bounded by sylhet district on the north, Tripura state of India on the south, Assam and Tripura states of India on the east, and habiganj district on the west. Main rivers are manu, Dhalai, Juri, Gopala, etc; noted depressions: Hakaluki, Hail and Kawadighi Haors. Annual temperature: maximum 33.2°C, minimum 13.6°C; annual rainfall 3334 mm. The total forest area is 413.65 sq km (about 15% of the total area of the district); noted forest ranges are Patharia, Sanrer Gaz or Longla, Rajkandi and Vanugachh.

Maulvi Bazar (Town) stands on the bank of the River Manu. It consists of 9 wards and 47 mahallas. It has an area of 10.36 sq km; population 41358; male 54.97%, female 45.03%; density of population is 3992 per sq km. Literacy rate among the town people is 56.7%. Maulvi Bazar Municipality was established in 1930. The town has one Circuit House and one Rest House; Pashchim Bazar and Chowmuhana are the main commercial centres.

Administration Maulvi Bazar subdivision was established in 1960 and was turned into a district in 1984. It consists of 6 upazilas, 4 municipalities, 36 wards and 123 mahallas, 66 union parishads, 876 mouzas, 2030 villages. The upazilas are barlekha, kamalganj, kulaura, maulvi bazar sadar, rajnagar and sreemangal.

Sylhet Division Tour (Habiganj)

2009-10-11T06:19:00.001-07:00

Habiganj:

Habiganj District (Sylhet division) with an area of 2636.58 sq km, is bounded by sunamganj district on the north, Tripura State of India on the south, maulvi bazar and sylhet districts on the east, brahmanbaria and kishoreganj districts on the west. Annual average temperature maximum 33.2°C, minimum 13.6°C. Total rainfall 3334 mm. Noted rivers are Khowai, Sutang, Korangi, Kalni, Kushiyara, Gopala, Ratna, Barak.

Habiganj (Town) consists of 9 wards and 64 mahallas. It has an area of 20.60 sq km. The town has a population of 54178; male 52.59%, female 47.41%. Literacy rate among the town people is 59.9%. Habiganj Town Committee was established in 1881 and it was turned into a municipality in 1913. During the British period an embankment was constructed along the Khoai to protect the town. The main business centre of the town is Chowdhury Bazar. The town has one dakbungalow.

Administration Habiganj subdivision was established in 1874 under sylhet district and was turned into a district in 1984. It consists of 4 municipality, 36 wards, 124 mahallas, 8 upazilas, 77 union parishads, 1241 mouzas and 2093 villages. The upazilas are ajmiriganj, baniachang, bahubal, chunarughat, habiganj sadar, lakhai, madhabpur and nabiganj.

Nusrat Shah's Mosque and Tank

2009-07-05T08:39:00.001-07:00

Nusrat Shah's Mosque and Tank On the southeastern corner of a big tank popularly known both as 'Nasrat Badshar Dighi' and 'Bara Dighi' at mouja Chikandandi in Hathazari upazila of Chittagong district, a modern mosque was built in 1988 AD on the site of a medieval mosque. While the foundation of the new mosque was being laid some sand stone architectural members like pier, wall-pier, base stone, lintel, capital, turret, inscription and terracotta embellishment were unearthed. These building materials, except the inscription, illustrate the style of the Bengal Sultanate. The defaced inscription on shale might be an addition of a later date.

The medieval mosque was in use even in or before 1896 AD and looked after by the local Muslims. The design of the capitals and shafts of this mosque resemble those of CHHUTI KHAN'S MOSQUE and GUNMANT MOSQUE. The piece of terracotta window grill found in the debris is also similar in mould to that of BAGHA MOSQUE, another work of NUSRAT SHAH. The mosque was also profusely decorated with terracotta embellishments. The ruin depicts a six-domed mosque of the Husain Shahi style at the site with three arched entrances on the faE7ade, parallel to three mihrabs on the qibla wall. The interior of the mosque had three bays and two aisles.
The tank situated beside this mosque is the biggest one dug during the Sultanate in Chittagong. It is 523.04m in length and 352.04m in breadth over about 45.88 acres of land.
According to local tradition Prince Nusrat Shah, son of Alauddin HUSAIN SHAH, dug this tank and constructed the mosque. Prince Nusrat was sent from GAUR on a campaign to drive away the marauding Arakanese from Chittagong. To commemorate the conquest the prince renamed Chittagong as FATHABAD. The adjoining village Fathabad of the Chikandandi mouja still bears the legacy. [Shamsul Hossain]

Nijhum Dip

2009-07-05T08:35:00.000-07:00

Nijhum Dip (Char Osman) a cluster of islands (mainly, Ballar Char, Kamlar char, Char Osman and Char Muri, with a total landmass of about 14050 acres) emerged in the early 1950s as an alluvium in the shallow estuary of the Bay of Bengal on the south of Noakhali. These new sandbanks first drew the notice of a group of fishermen, who named it Baular Char (literally, the alluvium of sand) later transformed into Ballar Char. During the winter, thousands of migratory birds flocked to it. The fishermen used the airy and sunny land as an ideal place for drying their catches from the sea. Sometimes many also constructed straw huts on the islands as seasonal residence.
As usual, the islands got covered with various aquatic rank grasses and became a rich grazing field. Later, the chars were surveyed professionally and were given the name Char Osman after the name of a pioneer settler Osman, the owner of a large cattle herd who used the islands as the grazing ground.
Migrating people did not come here for settlement until 1970. Many lived there on purely seasonal basis and the territory, popularly called Nijhum Dwip (the quiet island) was included in the Hatiya constituency in early 1970s. At about the same time, a large number of people losing their lands and homes because of riverbank erosion in nearby areas, especially Hatiya, Shahbajpur and Ramgati migrated to the island as new settlers.
Nijhum Dwip has six big bazaars with mainly the grocery shops, small restaurants and drug stores. These bazaars are the only places in the islands to have electricity from generators.
The forest department of the government of Bangladesh created mangrove forests in Nijhum Dwip and the main attraction in these forests is the herd of about 5000 spotted dear. The most important type of tree planted in the island is Keora, also known as Kerfa, which has fast growing roots holding the sandy land. The plant also supplies pillars for houses, materials for making boats and agricultural implements, and fuel for domestic use. In 2001, the government of Bangladesh declared Nijhum Dwip forests as National Park.
The population in Nijhum Dwip in 2001 was 10,670. Their main occupations are cultivation, fishing and livestock farming. The island produces vegetables in large quantities. Life in the island is hard and risky. People live here together amidst natural calamities. Notwithstanding, more and more people are migrating to the island in search of new land for homestead and cultivation.

ALIKADAM

2009-07-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

A very small market town (Monday is the weekly market). This is where one can take boats up the Matamurhi river and hike into interior tribal villages. There is a 3 room government guest house with basic facilities. Bangladesh Ecotours runs a small ecolodge about 20 minutes from the bazar area and arranges homestays with Tripuri, Tanchangya, Marma and Mru families. There are several small villages within a half-days walk.

FOLK ART MUSEUM

2009-07-02T00:24:00.000-07:00

The Folk Art Museum, which was established in 1975 to fulfill the dream of the celebrated painter Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin, has a rich collection of different folk objects of aesthetic and utilitarian values. These reflect the temperment, skill and expertise of the artists and artisans who made them. The museum is a national institution which represents the traditional art and heritage of Bangladesh, exhibiting objects of exceptional design and skill.

Open : Saturday - Thursday 9.00a.m to 5.00 p.m.
Phone : Ph: 880-2-9716960.

ZIA MEMORIAL MUSEUM

2009-07-02T00:23:00.000-07:00

The Chittagong Circuit House built in 1913 atop a hillock was transformed into Zia Memorial Museum in memory of late President Ziaur Rahman who was martyred here by a few misled army personnel at dead of night on 30th May 1980.

The place has developed into a full-fledged museum by September 1993 with a well-equipped conference room, a library and as many as 12 galleries. A total of 743 exhibits that include 336 souvenirs and 13 documents are laid out across the galleries. The radio transmitter, the microphone, the chair and the table which were used by Shahid President Ziaur Rahman when reading the Declaration of Independence in 1971 are displayed in galleries 1 and 2. His personal effects and belongings are exhibited in galleries 3, 4 and 5. In galleries 4 & 7 are put up portraits of the martyred President and the gift items that were presented to him by different Heads of states and diplomats. Gallery 12 contains a reconstruction of the event of this martyrdom.

CLUBS

2009-07-02T00:22:00.001-07:00

American Club House-13, Road-69, Gulshan Avenue , Dhaka Tel: 8821025-7 Fax: 8821435 Email: aradhaka@citechco.net		Canadian Club House 16, DIT Avenue , Gulshan Dhaka-1212 Tel: 9881208, 8822704

Dutch Club Road 80, House 2 Gulshan2, Dhaka Tel: 8821892		Dhaka Club Shahbagh, Dhaka Tel: 8619183-4 Fax: 8610277 Email: dcl@bd-online.com

Dhanmondi Recreation Club House 5, Road 10, Dhanmondi, Dhaka Tel: 9133282		Gulshan Club House-NWJ/2/A, Road-50 Gulshan-2, Dhaka Tel: 8827440, 8810313-4 Fax: 8829476

German Club 78, Gulshan Avenue Road 104, Dhaka Tel: 9895921		Kurmitola Golf Club Dhaka Cantonment Kurmitola, Dhaka Tel: 8752520, 8752563 Fax: 8752521

Ladies Club 36, Eskaton Road, Dhaka Tel: 9331461		National Press Club Topkhana Road , Dhaka Tel : 9563395, 9563383

Uttara Club House 6, Road 9, Sector 1 Uttara, Dhaka Tel: 8912600, 8913143 Fax: 8920642

ART GALLERIES

2009-07-02T00:21:00.001-07:00

Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts House 275/F, Road 27 Dhanmondi, Dhaka Tel: 8123115 Email: bf@bdonline.com		BPS (Bangladesh Photographic Society) Secretariat Gallery 63/2, Science Laboratory Road Ground Floor, Dhaka Tel: 8611284 Email: bps-bd@yahoo.com

Cezanne Art Gallery UAE Moitri Complex Kemal Ataturk Avenue Banani, Dhaka Tel: 8826578 Email: cezanne@bangla.net		Cezanne Art Gallery Dhaka Sheraton Hotel, Dhaka , Tel: 8613391 Ext- 564

Divine Art Gallery Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel 107, Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue Karwan Bazar, Dhaka		Drik Gallery House 58, Road 15A(New) Dhanmondi, Dhaka Tel: 9120125, Fax: 9115044 Email: office@drik.net

Gallery Chitrak House-21, Road-4 Dhanmondi R/A, Dhaka Tel: 8620345 Email: chitrak@agni.com		Gallery 21 765, Satmasjid Road Dhanmondi, Dhaka

National Art Gallery Segunbagicha, Dhaka-1000 Tel: 9562801		Shilpa Rag House 15, Road 16 Dhanmondi, Dhaka Tel: 8117085 Fax: 8117085 Email: shilparg@vasdigital.com

Ree Art Gallery 281, New Circular Road (2nd Floor) Mouchak, Dhaka		Tivoli Art Gallery F/33, DCC Super Market (1st Floor) Gulshan-2 (North) Dhaka Tel: 9895903

Shilpangan House-25, Road-5 Dhanmondi, Dhaka

CINEMAS & THEATERS

2009-07-02T00:19:00.000-07:00

Some of the popular theater groups are - Dhaka Theatre, Nagarik Nattya Sampraday, Aranyak, Natychakra, Natyajon, Kranti, Matridhara and Bibortan etc. There are also many Cinema halls in all cities and towns where people watch mainly Bangladeshi movies. Some cinema halls also screen Hollywood and Hongkong made movies.

Mohila Samity Theatre

New Baily Road,

Dhaka.

Tel: 9337050.

Public Library Auditorium

Dhaka University Area,

Shahbag, Dhaka.

Press Club Auditorium

Topkhana Road, Dhaka.
Tel: 9563385, 9563395

Modhumita Cinema Hall

158/160, Motijheel CA,

Dhaka-1000.

Tel: 9554386, 9550463

Fax: 9569841

E-mail: channel@global-bd.net

Balaka Cinema Hall

Govt. New Market,

Dhaka-1205.

Ovishar Cinema Hall

35 Hatkhola Road,

Dhaka-1203.

Razmoni Cinema Hall

46 Kakrail,
Tel: 8622106

Dhaka-1000.

Shamoli Cinema Hall

Mirpur Road,

Shamoli,

Dhaka-1207.

Tel: 9117744, 9113857

STAR Cineplex

Basundhara City, Level 8
13/Ka/1, Panthapath, Dhaka
Tel: 9138260, 9134098
Fax: 8612455

Girls Guide Theatre Guide House

New Baily Road, Dhaka
Tel: 8315501
Fax: 8315592

E-mail: channel@global-bd.net

ART AND CULTURAL CENTERS

2009-07-02T00:18:00.001-07:00

Alliance Francaise De Dhaka 26, Mirpur Road , Dhanmondi Dhaka , Tel: 8611557 Fax: 8616462, Email: infoad@afdacca.com		Bangla Academy Dhaka University Area, Dhaka Tel: 8619577, 8619583 Fax: 8612352, Email: bacademy@citechco.net

Bangladesh Shishu Academy Old High Court Road (Opp. Carzon Hall), Dhaka- 1000 Tel: 9550317, 9564128		British Council 5, Fuller Road , Dhaka Tel: 8618905-7, 8618867-8 Fax: 8613375, Email:britcoun@thebritishcouncil.net

Bulbul Lalitkala Academy 7, Wise Ghat, Dhaka- 1100 Tel: 7391838		German Cultural Center House 10, Road 9 Dhanmondi, Dhaka Tel: 9126525, 9126526 Fax: 8110712

Indian Cultural Center H-25, Road-96, Gulshan-2 Dhaka-1212 Tel: 8850141, Fax: 8850142		Nazrul Institute House 330B, Road 28(Old) Dhanmondi, Dhaka Tel: 9114500, Fax: 9118051 Email: nazrulin@citecho.net

The Russian Centre of Science & Culture House-510, Road-7 Dhanmondi, Dhaka Tel: 9118531 Fax: 8113026, Email: roscult@accesstel.net		Shilpakala Academy Segunbagicha, Dhaka-1000, Tel: 9561709, 9562801-4

DANCE

2009-07-02T00:16:00.000-07:00

The tradition of dance in Bangladesh is an old one. The classical dance forms have mostly been taken from North and South Indian schools, while influences of middle eastern dance is also noticeable in local dance forms. The indigenous and folk dance traditions are practiced widely and reflect the rich culture and history of Bangladesh. Many ethnic gorups have their own, distinct dance that are distinguished by grace and charm. For the santals and the hill people of Chittagong hill tracts are also have many attractive dance forms that quite popular with the people.

MUSIC & SONGS

2009-07-02T00:13:00.000-07:00

the musical instruments one will see or hear in Bangladesh include the bamboo flute, the tabla (a set of two percussion drums) and a wide variety of stringed instruments from the crude banjo like village 'ek-tara' (one stringed), 'do-tara' (two stringed) and to the highly refined multi stringed 'Sitar' and 'Sarode' used for classical music. Violins are also used and electric as well as ordinary guitars are played. The 'Tanpura' is used for the drone accompaniment in classical music. Harmonium is popular as an accompaniment in vocal performances.

Living in the land of torrential rains, mighty rivers and lush green beauty, the average Bangladeshi has a deep relationship with nature. The music of Bangladesh is therefore emotional, ecstatic and romantic. Among the genres sung or performed quite regularly are :

	Classical songs and music
	Semi-classical songs and music
	Palli Geeti or folk songs
	Rabindra Sangeet (songs by Rabindranath Tagore, the 1913 Nobel Prize winner in Literature)
	Nazrul Geeti (songs by the Rebel poet of Bangaladesh).
	Religious songs
	Adhunik Gaaan or modern Bangla songs
	Gano Sangeet or inspirational songs for the masses
	Pop Songs
	Bhatiali or boatmen's songs
	Bhawaia or bullock cart drivers song
	Band music or rock music

The Manipuri Ethnic Group in Bangladesh

2009-07-01T11:09:00.001-07:00

The Manipuri people are of Mongolian descent and speak a language called Meithei. Most Manipuri people lived in northeastern India. The Manipuri fled from their homeland in the northeastern Indian kingdom of Manipur to settle in East Bengal, which was then ruled by Britain. However, in 1947 East Bengal gained its independence and today most Manipuri people live in the district of Sylhet of northeastern Bangladesh.

In contrast to the flat plains of Bangladesh, the district of Sylhet is characterized by rolling hills and is famous for its tea plantations and lush tropical forests. Most of the Manipuri peoples are farmers and they have a succeeded in growing crops of rice, sugarcane, tobacco, oranges and pineapples.

The Manipuri, according to their custom, do not eat meat, but they do eat fish. Manipuri people are primitive in that they still wash their clothes and bathe in the rivers. Their huts of mud and reeds are commonly built near the river’s edge.

When it comes to marriage ceremonies the Manipuri People must find a spouse from another clan because they may not marry within their own clan. Manipuri enjoy their recreation and some of their activity involves polo, boat racing, drama and dancing. They are famous throughout the world for their beautiful expressive dances, which are closely tied to their religion. Their style pf dancing is graceful and gentle and the themes are usually centered on the life of the god Krishna. Manipuri dancing is also characterized by the balancing technique applied by the dancers. The costumes worn by the dancers are designed so as not to arouse any excitement of the opposite sex and the dance rhythm involves mostly the upper part of the body so as not to appear immodest.

The Manipuri are very religious people, and are believed to have converted to Hinduism in the sixteenth century. However, elements of their pre-Hindu religion still remain today. They worship the Hindu gods but also worship many other gods of nature- the snake being one of them. The Manipuri people are also very superstitious and often make their decisions by observing the positions of roosters’ feet based upon an old proverb, “All wisdom derives from a rooster’s foot.”

Bangladesh launches tourism brand name

2009-07-01T10:59:00.000-07:00

Dhaka - Bangladesh's interim government Saturday launched its tourism brand name 'Rupomoy Bangladesh' (Beautiful Bangladesh) in a bid to attract tourists from home and abroad.

Chief Adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed inaugurated the country's branding slogan and logo - a rising sun over blue sea - at a ceremony organised by the civil aviation and tourism ministry.

Fakhruddin highlighted the need for an investment-friendly climate to achieve the country's branding aims to attract tourists and foreign investments.

The branding and logo would bring all things together of Bangladesh's history, culture, tradition, various festivals and all achievements of the country.

'Branding nowadays is a key factor for broadening the image of the country,' special assistant to chief adviser for tourism ministry, Mahbub Jamil, told the inaugural ceremony.

Ramgarh to get land port

2009-07-01T10:58:00.001-07:00

The shelved project for setting up a land port at Ramgarh in Khagrachari hill district is likely to be revived as both Bangladesh and India see the port will help boost bi-lateral trade and business.
The hope for revival went high last week when officials from Bangladesh and India visited Ramgarh to asses the prospect of the land port. The project was originally planned for1995, but did not go ahead for reason not known.
But both Dhaka and Delhi are now thinking actively to go ahead with the idea of setting up of the land port, which they think will play an important role in boosting
cross border trade.
The deputy high commissioner of India in Dhaka Ms Mukta Dutta and some high officials from Bangladesh and India last week visited Ramgarh to see how the project would be implemented.
An official of the team told New Age that the envoy found the site, communication and security were suitable for a land port.
With positive recommendation of the team, the land port will be built at Ramgarh, which is close to the Indian sub-divisional town Samrum. A bridge over the Feni river will also be constructed to facilitate hassle-free transportation, the official said.

Travel, tourism fair in October 1-3

2009-07-01T10:54:00.000-07:00

The Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh is going to organise a three-day travel and tourism fair at Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre on October 1.
As many as local and foreign travel and tourism-related organisations are likely to showcase their products, meet overseas and local contacts and negotiate business deals at the fair, TOAB president Taufiq Uddin Ahmed said at a press conference in a city hotel on Monday.
The public and privet tour operators and other related organisations of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal and Bhutan would participate in the fair, Taufiq said.
TOAB will organise the fair in support of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, GMG Airlines, Association of Travel Agents of Bangladesh and Agrabad Accom Consortium Limited.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ marketing and sales director Shahnewaj said, ‘Tourism is a major earning sector in many countries. It needs co-operative work of both government and privet organisations to improve this sector.’
The speakers mentioned that the budgetary allocation for tourism sector was insignificant and they expressed their hope that the government would rethink about the matter.
The fair titled ‘Bangladesh Travel and Tourism Fair’ was first held in 2007.

World heritage site left in ruins

2009-07-01T10:52:00.001-07:00

Terracotta artefacts at the Paharpur Buddhist Monastery, a world heritage site, are on the verge of ruination due to sheer negligence of the Department of Archaeology.

The Monastery, one of the most important archeological sites in South Asia, was declared as a protected site dates back to 1919 during the British colonial rule.

Custodian of the ancient site Abdul Latif Pramanik said lack of proper maintenance, shortage of manpower, fund constraint, soil salinity and heavy rainfall contributed to the decay of rare terracotta artworks.

“Even the main temple and other artifacts have been eroding day by day due to lack of proper maintenance,” he added.

King Dharma Pal made the temple dates back to 770-810 century AD, according to the archeological documents.

Badrul Alam, field officer of Rajshahi Regional Office in Bogra, said the site was declared as the 'World Heritage Site' in 1985.

“As many as 2305 terracotta plaques were found in 2004,” said Mahabub-ul-Alam, former custodian of the historical site.

A total of 595 terracotta sculptures of the temple completely eroded due to high salinity of the soil, lack of proper maintenance, heavy rainfall and negligence, said a high official of the department.

At least 1810 rare terracotta figures in the storeroom of the site are now a pile of ruins due to lack of preservation, sources said.

Prominent archeologist Sir Alexander Cunningham submitted a report after his visit to the site and other historical sites in India between 1861-1880. He was later made Director General, Archeological Survey India.

Terracotta artworks depicted images of man, women, flowers, and animals but most of the images have already worn away while some rare terracotta plaques are now shrouded in thick cobwebs.

New law to boost tourism

2009-07-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

The government is considering approval of the Bangladesh Tourism Ordinance 2008 by June, says Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister GM Quader.

“The government sincerely wants to reform the entire tourism industry, so it can perform as a strong revenue generating sector like in Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. These countries have rapidly changed the face of their economies by exploring tourism,” he tells The Daily Star, at his office.

“The government is set to present the Bangladesh Tourism Ordinance 2008 in the next parliament session by May to reform the entire tourism sector,” he adds.

“The National Tourism Board will be formed on the basis of the proposed tourism law. It was approved with minor modifications in the cabinet meeting at the end of February,” he says. “Now it is a matter of time to enact a new law.”

Quader says the main task of the board would be to develop a public-private partnership to help flourish the sector and encourage local and foreign investment.

He says the responsibilities of the board would include monitoring the performance of the business units run by Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation and also the units that have been leased out to private management companies.

Quader says the National Tourism Board would be an autonomous body. Tourism experts, researchers and stakeholders, from both the public and private sectors, would manage the board.

The board will have representation from different government ministries, such as home, civil aviation and tourism, environment and public works, and various private sector entrepreneurs, including tour operators, travel agencies, transport and guide services, he says.

An executive director would be appointed by the government to oversee the board activities to better the tourism industry.

Under the ordinance, all agencies and enterprises involved in tourism will be mandated to register with the board.

“Registration would be mandatory for all, as it is very important for the government to ensure the quality of services and monitor the performance of all the groups,” says Quader. “Registration will also prevent illegal acts by some fake organisations and prevent any violation of public interest.”

Meanwhile, the government decided to issue on-arrival visas to tourists to encourage more foreigners to visit the country, he says.

“Tourists wiling to visit Bangladesh often face difficulties obtaining a visa. This lack of on-arrival visas ultimately lowers revenue from the tourism industry,” Quader says.

“We discussed early this month the issue of introducing on-arrival visas for foreign tourists at the cabinet meeting. We decided to initiate the system soon,” he says.

The on-arrival visa system would initially be applicable to tourists from 30 countries, including the Saarc nations, he says.

“If we can ease visa complicacies, we hope to increase the number of foreign tourists and revenue from the sector,” he adds.

He says the government is also set to develop a new website that will provide tourists with necessary information regarding tourist spots, accommodation, transport fare and security.

GM Quader admits the tourism sector is deeply problem ridden and needs massive reformation. “Since the beginning, the sector suffers from a lack of planning and adequate funds.”

“In the past, the sector was neglected most of the time. Neither the problems were pinpointed nor any solutions figured out,” he says.

“There are major shortcomings in exploring all the potential tourist destinations. For that, we have to initiate major drives to first identify and then promote the spots,” he tells The Daily Star.

To overcome some of the problems, he suggests, “We need to introduce multi-dimensional tourism by exploring new places with specific drives, such as religion, nature and archaeology.”

This sector also suffers due to a lack of proper infrastructure, he feels.

“The roads and communication systems linking many tourists spots are in disarray. A lack of adequate accommodation and low security measures have also restrained the sector's growth,” he adds.

“Time and budgetary allocations are needed to develop infrastructure,” he says.

Quader, who graduated in mechanical engineering from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology in 1969, says, “It's difficult to overcome all these problems overnight, but we have to overcome them to boost the industry.”

He says bureaucratic problems shadow every decision-making and implementation process, as several ministries are involved.

However, he vows to reduce the bureaucratic difficulties and strengthen communication between different ministries and other related organisations.

He finally urges the media and entrepreneurs for organising campaigns and promotional activities at home and abroad to further develop the sector.

Ghuri Utshob (Kite Festival)

2009-06-30T00:38:00.000-07:00

Bangladesh possesses an ancient socio-cultural heritage. Culture in Bangladesh is a unique blend of traditional values, customs and external influences. Bangladeshi daily life is full up with traditions and festivals that reflect the unique culture and tradition of Bangladeshis. Some of the tradition and customs are as ancient as prehistoric days, while others are relatively recent. Kite Festival is one of the popular traditions of Bangladesh. Here it is called shakrain/ Ghuri Utshob.

Tourist Spot of Bangladesh

2009-06-29T11:09:00.000-07:00

Bangladesh is a part of southeast Asia and stands besides India. There are 6 divisions and 64 districts in Bangladesh. The major toursit spots of Bangladesh are Dhaka, Chittagong, Rajshahi, Bogra, Cox's Bazar, khulna, Comilla, Barisal and Sylhet.

Bangladesh offers ample tourist attraction. The facilities for the tourists have also greatly improved compared to even a few years ago. Some of the known tourist attractions are "Srimangal"(called as the Tea capital of bangladesh) Sat Gombuj Masjid(60 tombed mosque) of Khulna, Beautifully located in the hilltracts of Chittagong is the Hanging Bridge of Rangamati, Memorial Monument situated in Savar under Dhaka district, Moynamoti pahar of Comilla and there are the two favourite places for the tourists one of them is the worlds longest beach at Cox's Bazar and the other is full of scenic beauty the forest of Sundarban.

Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation(state owned tourism company or BPC) has information centres in Dhaka, Chittagong, Bogra, Rajshahi, Cox's Bazar, Rangamati and Sylhet.
Five Package Tours ranging from four to five days are arranged by BPC.

Shopping in Bangladesh

2009-06-29T11:04:00.000-07:00

Bangladesh is indeed a shoppers' paradise with a rich tradition in handicrafts at throw away prices. While muslin of ancient Dhaka has gone into history, other products such as contemporary paintings, wood works, shital pati (mattress having cooling effect), bamboo decoration pieces, cane and conch shell products, gold and silver ornament, cotton, silk, gold, silver, jute, reed, brassware, traditional dolls and leather goods also receive deep appreciation of the lovers of arts and crafts now and over the past centuries. In addition, Bangladesh is famous for pink pearl.

Pink Pearl : Pink pearls are the best buy in Dhaka. These natural products are unparallel in luster.

Gold & Silver : A wide range of gold and silver ornaments, silver filigree work etc. are considered by many travelers to be unparalleled.

Brass & Copperware : Among the best buys here are brass and copperware trays, wall decorations, vases etc. all are hand made with fine engravings and filigree work. Products made from the hides and skins of animals and reptiles, intricate wood carvings, cane and bamboo products, conch shell, bangles, embroidered quilts, jamdani and silk fabrics can also be bought. These are available in DIT market and a number of exclusive shop in New Elephant Road, Dhaka.

Duty- free Shopping: Duty free sales and display centers run by Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (NTO) are located in Dhaka, Zia International Airport, Mohakhaii and Sylhet Airport.
These shops enjoy the reputation of being well established with a wide range of goods at unbeatable prices. Goods available include wines and spirits, perfumes, cigarettes, hi-fi stereo and audio-visual equipment, Cameras, Watches and a range of household appliances. All purchases must be paid for in foreign currency.

Flora & Fauna

2009-06-29T10:55:00.000-07:00

Abundance of Bangladesh's bird life makes it an ornithologist's paradise. Of the 525 recorded species, 350 are resident. Among them are bulbul, magpie, robin, common game birds, cuckoos, hawks, owls, crows, kingfishers, woodpeckers, parrots and myna. A wide variety of warblers are also found. Some of them are migrants and appear only in winter. The migratory and seasonal birds are pre-dominantly ducks.

Of the 200 species of mammals, the pride of place goes to the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sunderbans, the largest block of littoral forests spreading over an area of 6,000 sq. km. Next comes the elephants found mainly in the forests of the Chittagong Hill Tracts districts. South Himalayan black bear and the Malayan bear are also seen here. Six types of deer are found in the hill tracts and the Sunderbans. Of them the spotted deer, barking deer and sambar are the most familiar. Clouded leopard, leopard cat, mongoose, jackal and rhesus monkey are also found.

Among the bovine animals, three species- buffalo, ox and gayal- are found. There are about 150 species of reptiles of which the sea turtle, river tortoise, mud turtle, crocodiles, gavial, python, krait and cobra and common. About 200 species of marine and freshwater fish are also found. Prawns and lobsters are available in plenty for local consumption and export.

In the shallow water of the floodplains, ponds and swamps of the country various hydrophytes and floating ferns grow in abundance. Tall grasses present a picturesque site near the banks of the rivers and the marshes. Around 60% of the Gangetic plain is under rice paddy and jute cultivation. The village homes are usually concealed by the lush green foliage of a wide variety of trees, thickets of bamboo and banana plants. A characteristic feature of the landscape is the presence of a variety of palm and fruit trees.

Each season produces its special variety of flowers in Bangladesh; among them, the prolific Water Hyacinth flourishes. Its carpet of thick green leaves and blue flowers gives the impression that solid ground lies underneath. Other decorative plants, which are widely spread are Jasmine, Water Lily, Rose, Hibiscus, Bougainvillea, Magnolia, and an incredible diversity of wild orchids in the forested areas.

Lying close to the Himalayas, the Sylhet area has extensive natural depressed lands locally called 'haors' (pronounced 'howers', wetlands). During the winter season they are home to huge flocks of wild fowl. Outstanding species include the rare Baer's pochard and Pallas' Fish Eagle, along with a great number of ducks . Other important habitats are the remaining fragments of evergreen and teak forests, especially along the Indian border near the Srimongal area.

The Blue-bearded Bee-eater, Redheaded Trogon and a wide variety of forest birds, including rare visitors are seen in these forests. One of two important coastal zones is the Noakhali region, with emphasis on the islands near Hatiya, where migratory species and a variety of wintering waders find suitable refuge. These include rare viitors like Spoonbilled Sandpiper, Nordman's Greenshank and flocks of Indian Skimmers.

The forest cover of Bangladesh is only about 9 percent. The thickest forests are in the coastal Sunderbans and the hill tracts in the northeast. Extensive areas of Rajshahi, Dinajpur and Kushtia are under mango, litchi, sugarcane and tobacco cultivation.

Bangladesh to build replica Taj Mahal

2009-06-29T10:50:00.002-07:00

Taj Mahal (Bangladesh) is a life size replica of the original Taj Mahal located 18 miles northeast of the Bangladeshi capital, Dhaka. Unlike the original the building work took only 5 years and cost its wealthy owner USD 58 million. Ahsanullah Moni, a wealthy Bangladeshi film-maker, has told how he built a replica of the Taj Mahal so that the poor of his nation can realise their dream of seeing neighbouring India’s famed monument.

Bangladesh makes little money out of international tourism, with just 0.1 percent of visitors to the Asia-Pacific region stopping off there, according to the World Tourism Organisation.

Moni first visited the original Taj in 1980 and made the trip six more times as he followed his dream to replicate it.

He hired specialist architects, sending them to India to measure the dimensions of the real Taj Mahal, and brought six Indian technicians to his building site across the border.

Work finally began in 2003 and will be completed this month, when the new Taj throws open its doors to the public.

Moni imported marble and granite from Italy, diamonds from Belgium and used 160 kilogrammes (353 pounds) of bronze for the dome.

Cox’s Bazar swings back to second wonder

2009-06-29T10:50:00.001-07:00

The world’s longest unbroken beach Cox’s Bazar was yesterday promoted to the second position in the race for the new seven wonders of nature.

Earlier, Cox’s Bazar ranked third in “Group G” of a total of seven categories under the New7Wonders Foundation.

The overwhelming support of the citizens of the country, including expatriates, helped Cox’s Bazar and the Sundarbans hold on to the top, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation said in a statement yesterday.

The Sundarbans ranked third in “Group E” for forests, natural parks and reserves, according to the website for the New7Wonders Foundation.

Master plan soon to boost tourism

2009-06-29T10:48:00.000-07:00

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister GM Qader yesterday said a master plan would be undertaken for boosting the tourism sector and making it attractive.

To this end, a time-befitting tourism policy is being formulated, he said while presiding over a meeting on tourism policy at his ministry here.

“There is immense potential for tourism in Bangladesh, and tourist spots will be developed by identifying those to attract local and foreign tourists,” the minister said.

Shafique Alam Mehdi, chairman of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, Sardar Abul Kalam, joint secretary of the ministry, and other high officials were present.

Swiss hotel brand eyes Bangladesh market

2009-06-29T10:45:00.000-07:00

The Golden Tulip Hospitality Group expressed its keen interest in bringing in the Golden Tulip brand to Bangladesh with the objective to become a major contributor to country’s hospitality, business and tourism sectors.

Duco E de Vries, business development director of MENA region of the group, said it at a press release on Friday.

‘Introduction of Tulip to Bangladesh will open opportunity to expand business and tourism in this country as well as the opportunities for new different hotel jobs,’ he said.

‘Tulip has a lot on offer. Our success will be a result of the perfect combination of exciting brands, a dedicated professional team, and target markets with great potential for growth,’ he added.

Golden Tulip, the hotel brand of Switzerland based worldwide hospitality company with more than 780 hotels and 75,000 rooms in more than 50 countries, was ranked 18th largest hotel chain around the world by Hotels Magazine in 2006.

As a multi-brand hospitality firm, the Golden Tulip Hospitality Group also offers services in categories with different standards like Tulip Inns, Tulip Residence, Golden Tulip, and Royal Tulip with luxurious and high standard living facilities.

In addition, Golden Tulip offers its services through its commercial alliance with TOP International, a German based hotel consortium.

Barisal divisional museum project shelved for fund crunch

2009-06-27T12:49:00.001-07:00

The Barisal divisional museum project has been shelved for about two years due to fund constraint.
Sources in archaeology department said the authorities concerned had undertaken a Tk 2.43 crore project to renovate the century-old Barisal Colletorate Building, which was turned into a museum.
Former state minister for cultural affairs Selima Rahman inaugurated the project on April 8, 2005.
Central Engineers and Construction Company Ltd got the work order. Renovation work began in July 2005 and it was scheduled to be completed in June 2007.
The sources said as the deadline for the completion of the project expired in June 2007, unused fund amounting to about Tk 43 lakh was sent back to the cultural affairs ministry and the construction work came to a halt.
Barisal Collectorate Building was declared abandoned after the new district administration complex was built on the compound of the deputy commissioner’s office in 1980s.
The government on April 1, 2004 issued a gazette notification declaring the Barisal Collectorate Building as national heritage and asked the district administration and public works department to hand over the building to the department of archaeology.
Shihab Uddin, project officer of Barisal Divisional Museum Project, said the construction work of display galleries and boundary walls under the project have been completed.
He said they made a list of antiques to put them on display. The authorities concerned have yet to approve an organogram of 38 staff including deputy director and assistant deputy director, he added.

Dhaka City Beautification

2009-06-27T12:46:00.001-07:00

City Beautification

For Beautifying the city DCC has developed many water fountain sculptures and garden in different important sites of the city. Every year, DCC allocates more then one crore Taka for the city beautification programme. The Nagar Bhabon and other important places are decorated and lighted on different special and national days of the country.

Dhanmondi Lake Development

Dhanmondi Lake is a prestigious project corporation. Dhanmondi Lake development project was undertaken to provide a place of recreation for the urban community of Dhaka City. This was a part of a long demand of the urban dwellers for their physical as well as mental nourishment. This park stretches with an area of 85.60 acres out of which almost 31 acres of land area and the rest is 54.6 acres water body. This park has also a vision to restore the environmental quality enhancement of public facilities. For operation and maintenance purposes. The whole area is proposed to be eight different sectors and which consists different facilities.

Park

Parks and playground in the city are notoriously few and far between. Needless to says that open public places for relaxation. Recreation and sports play a vital role in any scheme for a rational town planning and are deemed highly desirable from the point of view of the citizens physical well being. The need for having open places assumes greater important in the context of the fact that an immense bulk of the city's populace dwell in sultry hovels where sun and air rarely access. DCC has 42 developed parks; those are situated in different parts of the city. The important parks are as follows:

Name of DCC Parks

1. Banani Children Park, Block- D
2. Banani Children Park, Block- C
3. Banani Children Park, Block- G
4. Banani Children Park, Block- F
5. Banani Lake Park
6. Kamal Ataturk Park
7. Baridhra Park
8. Baridhara Nursery Park
9. Gulshan Tank Park
10. Gulshan Central Park
11. Gulshan Taltola Park
12. Gulshan Chowrasta Park
13. Bahadurshah Park
14. Saydabad Children Park
15. Samibag Children Park
16. Gulistan Children Park
17. Sirajudullah Park
18. Jagonnath Shah Road Park
19. Hazaribagh Park
20. Nowabgonj Park
21. Shamoli Park

22. Shahid Sakil Park
23. Shiya Masjid Park
24. Mohammadpur Iqbal Road Park
25. Shamoli Children Park
26. Kawran Bazar Park
27. Farm Gate Triangle Park
28. Panthokunja Park
29. Kalabagan Lake Circus Park
30. Majed Sarder Park
31. Malitola Park
32. Bongshal Triangle Park
33. Pallobi Vhildren Park
34. Udbid Uddan
35. Narinda Children Park
36. Bosiruddin Darder Park
37. Khilgaon Children Park
38. Outfall Staff Quarter Children Park
39. No l Circular Park
40. Motijheel Park
41. Gulshan Wonder Land Children Park
42. Usmani Uddan

My City-Dhaka and the Lake

2009-06-27T12:37:00.001-07:00

This is gulshan lake. One of the beautiful lake of Dhaka city. This is a good place for walking jogging. I think if any one do not see it yet, see it as soon as possible. Visit my country and enjoy the beauty of my country.

Dhanmondi Lake should be saved

2009-06-27T12:31:00.000-07:00

There is a lake in Dhaka called the Dhanmondi Lake. It was a very beautiful lake once. But its beauty has been ruined by people throwing garbage in the river, and by many other ways. These things are creating pollution and so the fish are also dying. We need to save this lake. We have to stop people from throwing rubbish in the lake. If we save this lake, then it will be good for many people because in this area there is no other lake like this. Then we can also ride on boats. If this lake is not saved, then it will create many problems.

My City-Dhaka and the Lake

2009-06-27T12:24:00.000-07:00

Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
I think you gusy will miss this. who will miss please come to visit Bangladesh. You’re welcome.

Again me and my friends in Cox Bazar

2009-06-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

Me with my friends in Cox Bazar

2009-06-27T11:00:00.001-07:00

Fashion & Jewelry >> Boutique

2009-06-26T11:05:00.000-07:00

Title	Monjima
Address	3/23, Iqbal Road, Mohammadpur
City	Dhaka - 1207
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-2-9126432, 8125015
Fax	+880-2-9125459

Title	Anjans
Address	88, New Circular Road (2nd floor), Siddheswari
City	Dhaka - 1217
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-2-8319278
Website	http://www.anjans.com
	Send Email / Query

Title	Aranya Crafts Ltd.
Address	60 Kemal Ataturk Avenue, Banani
City	Dhaka - 1213
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-2-9882542
Fax	+880-2-8823174
Website	http://www.aranyacrafts.com
	Send Email / Query

Title	Linas Boutique House
Address	34 Moulana Md. Ali Road, Dampara
City	Chittagong - 4000
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+88-01199-267977
Contact Person	Ms. Roslin P.
Description	T-Shirt, Womenswear, Tank Top, Sweater
	Send Email / Query

Title	Nabila
Address	House # 14, Road # 9, Gulshan-1
City	Dhaka
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-2-9896622, 9896655

Title	Nabila (Uttara)
Address	House # 6, Road # 7D, Sector-9, Uttara
City	Dhaka - 1230
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-2-8919071

Title	Libasse Fashion Creations
Address	House # 1, Road # 16, Gulshan-1
City	Dhaka - 1212
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-2-9884862

Title	Zeenatis
Address	108 New DOHS, Park Road, Block-A, Mohakhali
City	Dhaka - 1206
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-2-8812225, 01199-859028
Fax	+880-2-8815086

Title	Zakmars Fasion Ltd. (Dhaka office)
Address	City Heart (7th floor), 67 Nayapaltan
City	Dhaka - 1000
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-2-9346597, 9346950, 8353096
Fax	+880-2-9346951
	Send Email / Query

Title	Zakmars Fasion Ltd. (Head office)
Address	CDA Annex Bldg (3rd floor), Court Road
City	Chittagong - 4100
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-31-615280, 621332, 618235, 01711-748463, 01711-825203, 01711-796129
Fax	+880-31-610204
	Send Email / Query

Title	Zakmars Fasion Ltd. (Khulna office)
Address	219 KDA, New Market (1st floor)
City	Khulna
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-41-725426

Title	Bonon
Address	1 Asad Gate, Mirpur Road
City	Dhaka - 1207
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-2-9128336

Title	NITYA UPAHAR
Address	50, 51, 79, 118/A Aziz Super Market (2nd Floor), Shahabag
City	Dhaka - 1000
Country	Bangladesh
Telephone	+880-2-8629039, 01819-088743
Website	http://www.nityaupahar.com
Contact Person	Bahar Rahman
Description	T-Shirt, Shari, Jents Fotua, Ladies Fotua, Tops, Boys Shirt, Mens Shirt, Pangabi, Three Pace, And Others.
	Send Email / Query

Kayaking on Shangu

2009-06-25T01:58:00.000-07:00

During the long awaited vacation of our Independence Day, we were dying to do some water sports in the Bandarban hills. Since long we have seen the mystic water of the river Shangu during every trekking we made to this area. So, we planned to start trip from Thanchi to Bandarban town.

But after reaching Thanchi we were forced to change our trip course. Our trusted guide and friend Angsui Marma explained the resent security situation. According to him, before and after Ruma Bazar there are a few places which can be dangerous for our first ever kayaking in Bangladesh.

After his suggestion we decided to follow the opposite route from Thanchi to Remakri (Youngrai). This route was short and it would take a day to paddle up and another day to return.

On a bright sunny morning, we kicked off kayaking from Thanchi. It is a common route for Modok Mohal– the farthest south-eastern part of Bangladesh bordering with Burma and India. Remakri can also be reached by trekking.

We spent the first night at our friend’s place in Headman Para, a location close to Thanchi Bazar. We woke up very early in the morning and inflated our two kayaks for the final go. We had to hire another country boat as a rescue and support team. Even at this early morning hour we saw some people near the bank watching us curiously. Some were laughing after seeing the shape of our Kayak as it was quite uncommon. They were concerned about our safety and thought it would be a fatal journey as the route is not so smooth for this kind of soft-shelled boat. There were actually many rough alluvial stones, dead trees, and other objects in the river, which could damage the boat and make it flat. So we had to be very careful if not for our boats but for ourselves.

River Shangu has always been a beauty but it is getting polluted especially near the human settlements like Ruma and Thanchi Bazar. Despite that it is most probably the cleanliest flowing water body of Bangladesh.

We were from Kewkradong Bangladesh– an adventure-based youth community that seeks adventure in every way, but this time it was more than adventure for us as paddling was new to us. We had some practice of paddling boats for a short period of time but such a long duration was completely something new. Only two of our six-member team had proper knowledge of paddling. But after some time we got used to this new adventure.

On our first day, we stopped at Thidu around noon. We cooked our lunch there. Tonmoy found a Banyan tree where we could take rest under its shade and then started again. After some time we suddenly found ourselves in a rock garden! It was rocky all around which we had never experienced before. It was amazing! It was very interesting to find that people have given names to these rocks. Some names were funny, for example, Raja Pathar (King stone), Bara Pathar (Big stone).

Water was calm but it was difficult to maneuver. Sometimes those boulders were so close to each other that we had to cross them very carefully. It took a few hours to cross the rocky region. Finally, we reached Remakri Bazar. Local people helped us bring our luggage and kayaks to the Bazar area. Everyone of the bazaar was curious about us. We were asked to report our names to the adjacent BDR camp. Actually we did it at Thanchi Bazar too.

The local BDR personnel suggested us not to camp anywhere other than the free lawn in front of the Ramkri Bazar rest house. We pitched our tents and fixed our stove to cook dinner. We brought canned foods like roasted beans, sausage, potato and macaroni, and that actually saved our time. A clear moonlit night was a bonus on such a trip.

Next morning we inflated our boats again and started paddling back to Thanchi. We thought going downstream would be easier. Later, we found that the stream was not going down always. At some places we had to paddle against it. It was quite tiring for us and talking longer than we had expected. We paddled throughout the day. In the afternoon, the sky turned dark, showing an ominous sign of a storm. We paddled faster to reach Thanchi before the storm could hit us in the middle of the river. But we could not avoid it. Rain struck us and we had to stop and deflate our boats and dump them on our support boat. After a couple of hours in the storm, we reached Thanchi Bazar when it was already dark. Our friend Angsui Marma already left for home as he though we won’t be coming to Thanchi, but when we knocked at his door he was excited to see us back again.

He arranged delicious food even though it was very late. Next morning we would be leaving Thanchi for BandarBan, then to Dhaka.

We waved our friend from the window of our bus and promised him to get back to Thanchi again for even a bigger trip. He smiled and waved at us. We knew he meant ‘welcome’, not a ‘good bye’!

Story: Muntasir Mamun Imran
Photo: Saad Bin Hossain, Salman Saeed

Travel to Bangladesh

2009-06-24T10:25:00.000-07:00

While Bangladesh might not be everyone’s cup of tea, it certainly makes for unforgettable travel. The country might not be heavily developed in terms of hotels, shops and conveniences, but it still has lots to offer. Most of the attractions here have to do with the incredibly natural wealth of the country.

For the most part, Bangladesh is still relatively unexplored, yet it retains enormous natural wealth and beauty. The country is dotted with rivers, lakes and perpetually green hills. Here and there you will find yourself in the midst of a lush tropical rain forest or perhaps in amongst tea plants as you visit one of the many green tea gardens. Bangladesh is also home to the world’s largest mangrove forest which has been declared a World Heritage Site. These are just some of the amazing natural scenes which greet your eyes while traveling the country. When you look out across the hills and valleys, it is as if you are looking at an artists’ canvas – a view so stunning that it seems possible that it existed only in the painter’s imagination.

But that is not where the wealth of the country ends. Home of the Royal Bengal Tiger – an endangered species – Bangladesh will offer you an unparalleled opportunity to see these exquisite creatures in their natural habitat. You can enjoy the warbling of birds as you don your binoculars to spot the different bird varieties or you can take to the coast and visit the world’s longest natural sea beach – a great place to spend time sunning yourself in a country that has an abundance of sunshine. If culture attractions are more interesting to you, you can visit the relics of ancient Buddhist civilizations and enjoy meeting colorful, friendly native tribes.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable things about traveling around Bangladesh is the fact that you are not merely a spectator simply breezing through the country on a whirlwind commercially-styled trip. Here you will learn amazing things about the people first hand. You will have the opportunity to communicate with the people and to spend time amongst nature truly enjoying the delights it has to offer. Bangladesh is more than just a holiday – it’s a destination.

NATORE IS FAMOUS FOR CHALON BIL AND PALACES

2009-06-24T10:17:00.000-07:00

The fact is that Natore, a well known district of Bangladesh is not famous for any real character. It is most famous for the imaginary character Bonolota Sen. This character is created by Jibananda Das, who is called the poet of nature and poet of silence. When the common people hear the name of Natore they utter Kanchagolla of Natore. Kanchagolla is a kind of sweatmeat.

Then came the Cholon Bil and two famous estates and palaces.

A stranger in Natore is very eager to visit the following places:
RANI BHOBANIR RAJBARI: That means the palace of queen Bhobani. Rani Bhobani was a great social worker. She was the pioneer to spread education for the women of Bengal. It is a historical palace. Its design is charming. It is situated at the Bongojol area in the Natore district town. Everyday, huge visitors gather here to visit the palace. There is a college, a school, and other institutions in the name of Rani Bhobani.
DIGHAPATIYA RAJBARI: It is the most popular sight to the visitors. The kings of Natore lived here. It is call UTTARA GONOBHABAN now. It is one of the official residences of the president of Bangladesh. Everyone wants to see its design and area. It is situated on a large area. It has a large fancy gate, a large garden, and hundreds of rooms. There are a pond and a sculpture here. It is 5km from Natore district town, and the rickshaw fare is 8/10 taka from the Natore bus terminal.
CHOLON BIL: Cholon Bil is a large natural wetland and known to every Bangladeshi. During the monsoon, the area of the Bil increases and touches four upazilas (sub-districts) of the Natore district. The picnic parties come to Cholon Bil every season. They cook, sing, dance, and do everything they wish in their boats.

It looks like a sea, especially during the monsoon. In the monsoon season, the Bil behaves like a naughty boy. During that time, waves hurt the land frequently. Visiting Cholon Bil during monsoon season is not only a mere travel, but also an adventure.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Don’t come back from Natore without tasting the Kanchagolla.

Before visiting the Dighapathiya Rajbari, one will have to have the permission of the D.C. (Deputy Commissioner) of Natore. As it is the official residence of the president, the permission is for security purpose. Cameras are not allowed inside the palace.

If you can’t swim, beware of the boat journey in the Cholon Bil .

Best Way to Get Around:
As Natore is the gateway of northern Bangladesh, it is easy to access here from Dhaka. It is connected with Dhaka by road and rail. The longest highway bridge of Bangladesh, Jamuna Bridge, is on the way from Dhaka.

Take a Walk Along Dhaka’s Bailey Road

2009-06-23T01:35:00.000-07:00

With a population topping twelve million, and a population density of 43,797 people per square kilometer, the city of Dhaka, along with its metropolitan area, is considered by statisticians to be a "megacity". While it’s true that life in the capital city of Bangladesh appears to move at a frantic pace, there are many places in this vibrant city where citizens, and visitors, can take time out to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life – even if only for a short period of time. Bailey Road, or Natok Saroni as it has been officially renamed, is one of these special places, and visitors to Dhaka may want to take some time out to enjoy all that this cultural oasis has to offer.

Bailey Road runs through the suburb of Shantinagar, connecting Siddheshwari junction with the Kakrail-Ramna Road, and is the heart of Dhaka’s theater community. The road had originally been named in honor of Sir Steuart Colvin Bayley who was the Lieutenant-Governor of Bengal from 1879 through to 1882. However, in recognition of Bailey Road’s importance to the theater community of Dhaka, on 26 August 2005 the Mayor of Dhaka, Sadek Hossain Khoka, announced that the name of the road would change to Natok Soroni, meaning "Theater Road". Well respected theater personalities were present at the name change announcement, including Sayed Ahmed, Liakat Ali Lucky, Ramendu Majumdar and Mamunur Rashid.

The two major theaters on Bailey Road are the Guide House Auditorium and Mahila Samiti Auditorium. As the name may suggest, the Guide House Auditorium was initially established as a base for the Bangladesh Girl Guide Association. The auditorium was built in 1982 and underwent extensive renovations in 2003 and 2004 with the objective of using it for theater productions. Both of these theaters regularly host local and international theater performances.

A number of good quality stores, restaurants and fast food outlets add to the appeal of Bailey Road, while the clothing boutiques offer an array of beautiful garments, including Jamdani saris, where the delicate silk fabric has been made on a handloom. Attesting to its cultural worth, Bailey Road has even been featured in a song by the lead singer of Bangladeshi pop-rock band LRB (Love Runs Blind), Ayub Bachchu. So if you are visiting the Bangladeshi city of Dhaka, be sure to take a walk along fascinating Bailey Road/Natok Saroni, maybe taking time out to enjoy a performance at one of the theaters.

Saat Masjid, A remaining archaeological heritage of Mughals

2009-06-23T01:27:00.000-07:00

Archeologists of Bangladesh claim that the Masjid was made by Shaista Khan. He was a Subadhar and army general of Mughal Empire in Bengal region from 1664 to 1688. As the accurate date and year of creation of the Masjid is unknown, we can assume this was made between these years.

Size of the Masjid is 17.67meter X 6.22meter. The masjid has three domes in north to south side and four dooms in four corners. In total it has seven domes, that’s why people call it Sat Gomboj (Seven Dome) masjid. All seven domes are almost in same size.

It has a small gate in front of the masjid. The gate self alone count as an archeological heritage. Place for ablution (Oju) is in the west side of the Masjid. Masjid has a grave yard in east north corner.

After its boundary, there is a big garden, which is also property and part of the masjid. Boundary of the garden ends in the road and just opposite side of the road there is also a small architecture which is actually a shrine (Majar Sharif). People say one daughter of Shaista Khan is sleeping in this Majar sharif.

Architecture of this Majar has similarity with Sat Gambuj Masjid. There is a same architecture in Rohan Pur of Chapai Nawabganj. But the Shat Masjid is an unique Masjid and the same kind of masjid is not found in any other place.

This is a very beautiful architecture by Shaista Khan. This could be one of the places of tourist attractions without hampering the holiness and prayer schedule of the masjid. But I personally didn’t see any initiative by Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) or Department of Archeology of Bangladesh Government. Unplanned buildings very close to the Masjid have also destroyed the beauty of the Masjid. There should be some regulations and implementation of regulations on developing buildings around the archeological heritages.

Some Picture of Saat Masjid

2009-06-23T00:23:00.000-07:00

Some picture of purple sunbird

2009-06-23T00:12:00.000-07:00

Purple Sunbird, the nectar feeder

2009-06-23T00:06:00.000-07:00

Purple Sunbird is a small sized passerine nectar feeder bird. Sunbirds are bold and aggressive and will often fight off larger birds from a preferred food source.

Usually is 10cm in length, width 7.7g, wing 5.5cm, bill 2cm, tarsus 1.4cm and tail 3.3cm. Although very small and active, sunbirds are known to have long lives in the wild: records of lives exceeding 12 years exist.

The male looks different from female. It’s a common resident in villages of Chittagong, Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi and Sylhet division. Bengali name of the bird is Beguni Moutushi.

Globally this is also extends from the Middle East through South, East, and Southeast Asia, including Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Arabia, Iran, Afghanistan, China, Myanmar, Thailand and Indochina.

Habits and behavior

Purple Sunbird inhabits open deciduous forest, cultivation, gardens and homesteads. Usually it seen alone or in pairs.

It feed largely on nectar, although they will also take insects, especially when feeding young. Flight is fast and direct on their short wings. Most species can take nectar by hovering like a hummingbird, but usually perch to feed most of the time.

Breeding and Nesting

Its breeds through the year but mainly season are April-June. The female lays 1-3 grayish-white eggs, 1.6cm x 1.1cm each. Egg incubation time takes 14-15 days. Incubation done by the female alone. Nests are pear-shaped, globular or oval placed in trees or bushes. The nest is an oblong pouch of grass, fiber, leaves and bark, wrapped with cobwebs. The nest is camouflaged by sticking pieces of bark and caterpillar droppings on it.

Asian Paradise-flycatcher, most beautiful bird of Bangladesh

2009-06-22T23:55:00.001-07:00

Asian Paradise-flycatcher is a medium sized crested passerine bird. It’s an uncommon resident and summer visitor of Bangladesh. It usually found in thick forests and other well-wooded habitats of Chittagong, Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi and Sylhet. Local name of the bird is Eshio Shah-bulbuli and also known as Dud-raj. Scientific or Latin name is Terpsiphone paradisi which means a sweet-voice of paradise.

Asian Paradise-flycatcher occurs in two colors morphs, white and rufous. In the white morph, it looks predominantly white except for its glossy black head, throat, ear-coverts, crest, primaries, secondaries and tetials. In the refous morph, it looks rufous from above and grayish from below. Its head, throat, ear-coverts and crest are black like that in white morph. Its 20cm long, weight is 20g, wing 9cm, bill 2.5cm, tarsus 1.7cm, tail 10cm and the main attraction tail-streamer of male is 35cm. The function of the long tail is assumed to be related to sexual selection, with females choosing males based on the length of the tail.

Globally this is also extends through south, east, near east and south-east Asia, including Maldives, China, Japan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Indochina.

Habits and behavior
The Asian Paradise-flycatcher is a noisy bird with a sharp skreek call. It seen alone or in pairs. It feeds on butterflies, bugs, beetles, dragonflies and other large insects. It has short legs and sits very upright whilst perched prominently. They use a variety of foraging techniques, including hawking from a perch, sallying hovering, gleaning, and flush-pursuiting. They bathe in small pools of water in the afternoon by diving from perches.

Breeding and Nesting
Its breeding season is April-August. The female lays 3-4 pink eggs, 2.0cm x 1.5cm each. Egg incubation time takes 15-16 days. It nests on horizontal forks of thin branches. The nest is a tiny cup of grasses, roots, fibers and leaves bound together with cobweb and plastered on the outside with egg-bags of spiders. Paradise-flycatchers like all monarch flycatchers, are monogamous and are generally territorial, although in some cases birds may nest close together and defend the nests together against predators.

Folk beats of Bengal

2009-06-22T23:38:00.000-07:00

On December 30, the walls and ceilings of Nat Mandal theatre in Dhaka University quavered with drum beats of Bengal. The programme held was a demonstration by participants of a 10-day workshop on ‘Raibeshe’ and other folk dance forms of Bengal.
This workshop was conducted by Sutopa and Dr Tarun Pradhan of Sarabhuj, an international dance theatre troupe folklore research institute. Everything was arranged by ‘Shadhona’, currently a very well known cultural organisation in Bangladesh.
‘Raibeshe’ is a martial art form of Bengal, and means ‘royal bamboo’. This is a martial art that was used by ‘lathiyals’ who used to be used by feudal lords to defend their little fiefdoms. It was first documented by Gurushodoi Dutta an IAS officer in the last century, who came across this art form in Birbhum in West Bengal in India. He collected the ‘bolbani’ of ‘raibeshe’ from East Bengal.
The other dance forms that were performed during the demonstration are ‘paik’ which is another martial dance and ‘pata-nach’ which is danced by womenfolk and is named after the ceremony called ‘shoi-patano’ or bonding with girl-friends.
The participants also demonstrated a dance based on ‘lathi’ and ‘dhal’ (stick and shield) used in ‘lathikhela’ all over Bangladesh, which was taught to them by actual ‘lathiyaals’.
The participants in the demonstration included students of various dance institutions from all over Dhaka. The participants’ teachers also came to see the programme, and were mesmerised by the richness of Bengal’s folk culture.
This being only the starting, writers and researchers, who have been trying to revive the almost extinct folk culture of Bengal, say that this only the beginning of what is to come in the future.
Putting aside the serious significance of this demonstration, the participants truly enjoyed themselves, being able to dance to the drum beats of Bengal. The fast and upbeat rhythm was truly intoxicating, and makes one imagine how our ancestors danced and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Budget to have tourism fund for first time

2009-06-22T23:33:00.000-07:00

For the first time in the country’s history, the upcoming budget for 2009-10 fiscal scheduled to be announced on June 11 is going to have a fund for the promotion and development of tourism.
‘There will be a fund for tourism in the budget for the first time since independence. The money will be spent for the promotion and development of the country’s tourism,’ MA Muhaimin Saleh, the president of the Association of Travel Agents of Bangladesh, told New Age.
‘During a recent meeting with finance minister Abul Maal Abdul Muhit, we proposed for a block allocation of Tk 200 crore. And, the minister agreed saying that it was a good proposal,’ he added.
The ATAB president said in order to create employment for unemployed youths, there is no alternative to making Bangladesh tourism industry attractive.
This can be done through different initiatives like vigorous campaign, participating in tourism fair across the world, advertisement on the international media highlighting Bangladesh and its attractive tourist spots and facilitating tour operators from other countries to know the tourist spots, he added.
To achieve these objectives, the ATAB along with Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh made the proposal of block allocation of Tk 200 crore, which will help country’s tourism as well as recession-hit travel agents, Saleh said.
He observed that though the tourist spots in Bangladesh are naturally richer than those in the tourism developed countries like Nepal, Thailand and Malaysia, they could not attract tourists due to poor communication network, lack of standard hotel and sense of insecurity.
Citing an instance, the ATAB president said that if ancient sites relating to Buddhism could be developed and promoted, huge number of tourists from countries like China, Japan would come.
He also suggested on arrival visas for attracting tourists to Bangladesh.
About Bangladesh Biman, Saleh said tourism and the national flag carrier are the two sides of a coin and it is one of the major sources of promoting tourism in a country.
‘For the promotion of tourism, the national carriers of tourist-developed countries offer different promotion packages. But, in my vast experience as a travel agent I have never seen Biman taking any initiative to promote tourism,’ he said.
The ATAB chief said the image of Biman has been totally tarnished due to rampant corruption, misappropriation and poor administration. ‘The reputation of Biman has gone to such a level that lot of foreigners do not use it.’
‘The lost image of Biman has to be restored as a pre-requisite to promote tourism in Bangladesh,’ he added.
Saleh said country’s missions abroad have a major role to play for the promotion of tourism.

Some pictures of Bangladeshi occation

2009-06-20T12:26:00.001-07:00

Bangladesh : Clothing

2009-06-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

Bangladeshi women habitually wear Sarees. Jamdani was once world famous for it's most artistic and expensive ornamental fabric. Moslin, a fine and artistic type of cloth was well-known worldwide. Naksi Kantha, embroidered quilted patchwork cloth produced by the village women, is still familiar in villages and towns simultaneously. A common hairstyle is Beni (twisted bun) that Bangalee women are fond of. Traditionally males wear Panjabis, Fatuas and Pajamas. Hindus wear Dhuty for religious purposes. Now-a-days common dresses of males are shirts and pants.

Government and non-government organizations like Bangla Academy, Nazrul Institute, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Fine arts Institute, Chhayanat etc. play significant role to flourish Bangladeshi art and culture providing encouragement in music, drama, dance, recitation, art etc. Many other cultural organizations are also popularizing Bangladeshi art and culture.

Art & Literature of Bangladesh

2009-06-20T12:07:00.000-07:00

Bangladesh has a rich tradition of Art. Speciniens of ancient terracota and pottery show remarkable artistry. Modern painting was pioneered by artists like Zainul Ahedin, Qamrul Hasan. Anwarul Haque, Shafiuddin Ahnied, Shafiqul Amin, Rashid Chowdhury and S.M. Sultan. Zainul Ahedin earned worldwide fame by his stunning sketches of the Bengal Famine in 1943.

Other famous artists of Bangladesh are Abdur Razzak, Qayyum Chowdhury, Murtaza Baseer, Aminul Islam, Debdas Chakraborty, Kazi Abdul Baset, Syed Jahangir, and Mohammad Kibria
The earliest available specimen of Bengali literature is about a thousand years old. During the mediaeval period. Bengali Literature developed considerably with the patronage of Muslim rulers. Chandi Das, Daulat Kazi and Alaol are some of the famous poets of the period. The era of modern Bengali Literature began in the late nineteenth century Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel Laureate is a vital part of Bangalee culture. Kazi Nazrul Islam, Michael Madhusudan Datta. Sarat Chandra Chattopadhaya, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhaya, Mir Mosharraf Hossain and Kazi Ahdul Wadud are the pioneers of modern Bengali Literature.

Discover the wonderful culture of Bangladesh and it's people

2009-06-20T11:52:00.001-07:00

Bangladesh has a rich, diverse culture. Its deeply rooted heritage is thoroughly reflected in its architecture, dance, literature, music, painting and clothing. The three primary religions of Bangladesh (Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam) have had a great influence on its culture and history.

Bangalees have a rich fictional legacy, with the first available form of literature being over a thousand years old. Bengali literature developed considerably during the medieval period with the rise of popular poets such as Chandi Das, Daulat Kazi an Alaol.

The traditional music of Bangladesh is very much the same as that of the Indian sub-continent. The music in Bangladesh can be divided into three main categories: classical, modern and folk. Both vocal and instrumental classical music is enjoyed in Bangladesh. Ustad Ayet Ali Khan and Ustad Alauddin are two famous classical instrumental players that are internationally known. Modern music is becoming more popular and is practiced widely. Contemporary, pop songs and bands are also enjoying more widespread fame, but are mainly popular in the regions of Dhaka City.

Tribal dances are very popular among the Bangalees. The countryside girls are in the habit of dancing to popular folk music. Their dances require no regulations as such, just a small amount of courage and a big amount of rhythm. Popular songs like Shari and Jari are presented with the accompanying dance of both male and female performers.

Drama and theatre is an old tradition that is very popular in Bangladesh. More than a dozen theater groups in Dhaka City have been regularly staging locally written plays for hundreds of years. Many have also started adopted some plays from European writers. Baily Road in Dhaka is known as “Natak Para” and this is one location where drama shows are regularly held. Many shows are also held at the Dhaka University.

Another important aspect of the culture of Bangladesh is clothing. Bangladeshi woman usually wear Saris, made of the world famous and expensive, finely embroidered quilted patchwork cloth produced by the village woman. Woman will traditionally wear their hair in a twisted bun, which is called the “Beni style”. Hindus will traditionally wear Dhuty for religious purposes. These days most men of Bangladesh wear shirts and pants.

BPC takes part in ATM

2009-06-20T01:25:00.000-07:00

Dubai : Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) took part in the 16th Arabian Travel Mart (ATM) in Dubai held recently at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Bangladesh's Consul General Mohammad Abdul Hai, Commercial Counsellor Md Mahmudur Rahman were present at the inaugural ceremony.

The Arabian Travel Mart is one of the Middle East's most high profile travel and tourism events. The ATM is held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, and under the auspices of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Government of Dubai.

The Ruler of Dubai, visited various pavilions and stalls at the Mart and evinced keen interest in products and services of different countries.

Executive Officer Touhidul Islam represented BPC at the Mart.

Revival of pottery, an ancient art

2009-06-20T01:12:00.000-07:00

Dhaka : Since ages Bang-ladeshis have proved themselves adept in producing exquisite pottery products. Pottery in this region can be traced back to around 1500 BC. At least six types of earthenware of high quality have been found in archaeological sites like Maha-sthangarh, Govinda Vita, Vasu Bihara, Wari-Batesh-war, Mainama-ti and Pahar-pur.

There were 'Kumarpara' or 'Palpara' - of potters in al-most all the villages of rural Bangladesh since ancient times. Besides pots and jars for everyday use, ceremonial pots such as Rasherhari, Shakherhari, Dharmaghat, Shitalghat, Nagghat, Manasaghat, Muharramghat, Ghazighat, Mangalghat, Laksmisada bear testimony to the ancient potters' art of Bengal.

An integral parts of Bang-ladesh's culture for hundreds of years, pottery has now become popular interior decoration materials across the country, specially in the cities.

Once used in day-to-day lives of the people of the country for cooking and storing water or religious purposes, pottery items are now used as show pieces and adorn posh homes. Aluminum products had almost driven them out of their business. But present trend of decorating houses with pottery items is helping revival of the art, which was on the verge of extinction.

Though many shops in posh shopping centres of Dhaka sell pottery items, the footpath near the Bangladesh Shishu Academy in the city is the favourite place of those who wish to buy items for decorating their homes. A good number of nursery plant shops alongside help increase the sale of shops of pottery and terracotta showpieces.

Affluent people of the city, university students and tourists mainly visit the shops and buy terracotta items of their choice. "Pottery items and terracotta showpieces are very popular among the city people. Buyers generally opt for this place as this is the biggest market of pottery and terracotta items,' said a shopkeeper.

New terracotta showpieces including wall hanger, sculpture, flower vase and ashtray are also available in different shops.

'Sales depends on weather, political situation and new arrivals of products,' a shopkeeper said. 'Increased sale of nursery plants in the nearby nursery shops give a boost to our business,' another shopkeeper added.

Potters of Comilla, Savar, Barisal, Patua-khali and Bhola supply products to the shops. The clay of these places are said to be best for making pottery products. The shopkeepers often paint them to make the items attractive.

Earthen ornament sets, flo-wer vase, wall hangings, ear-then 'banks' for collecting coi-ns, candle sta-nds, clay mugs and bells, animal figures, replicas of bri-des and gro-oms can be found near the Shishu Acade-my and also in the posh shops. The price of pottery varies according to their design and size. A small item can fetch at least Tk 150 if it is of good quality.

Lately there has been trend of producing replicas of famous paintings of Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin and Patua Qamrul Hasan.

Pottery items are already being exported. It is hoped that if it receives the attention of the government and easy loans from the banks, this ancient craft would become popular household decoration in many parts of the world.

Tourism is expected to have a new lease of life

2009-06-20T00:43:00.000-07:00

Dhaka : Tourism industry in Bangladesh seems to have attracted the kind of attention it deserves. Res-ponding to the long-felt need, the government has already updated the National Touri-sm Policy and a powerful Natio-nal Tourism Organisation (NTO) to re-place the moribund Bangla-desh Parjatan Corporation is on the way.

The government has already updated the National Tourism Policy and drafted lawto create a powerful NTO as regulator and facilitator. It is titled Bangladesh Parjatan Board (BPB).

Creation of new NTO was initiated by the immediate past caretaker government. A draft law was finalised. But that draft has been modified by the present government to provide the NTO the regulatory function..

The concerned law--Bangladesh Parjatan Board Act, 2009 is expected to be placed before the Jatiya Sangsad during the current budget session. This was disclosed by GM Qader, Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism while exchanging views about the draft law with some of the stakeholders at Hotel Abakash, on May 27.

"The government in principle agreed to formulate a time-befitting Bangladesh Parjatan Board and we want to enact such a law with the opinions of all stakeholders, so that it will be acceptable to all and help promote the tourism sector," he said.

Following the enactment of Bangladesh Parjatan Board Act, 2009, The Sarais Act, 1867 (Act No. XXII of 1967), Bangladesh Parjatan Corpo-ration Order, 1972 (PO No. 143 of 1972), The Bangladesh Travel Agencies (Registration and Control) Ordinance, 1977 (XLVIII of 1977) and The Bangladesh Hotels and Res-taurants Ordinance, 1982 (Ordinance No. LII of 1982) will stand null and void.

The law will pave the way for creation of Bangladesh Parjatan Board (BPB) with the objective for overall improvement of tourism industry and services, management, expansion and uphold the standard.

Updating of National Tourism Policy and the formation of Bangladesh Parjatan Board clearly demonstrate sincere desire of the government not only to put the tourism industry on the right track, but also to take it further and earn for the country its share of the global tourism boom.

The policy
The policy has identified immediate needs for the development of multi-sector industry like tourism. It has recognized that for the development of the industry, there is need to have long term national plan, investments, mobilisation of financial and technical assistance, facilitate infra-structural development, preservation of historical and archaeological sites and attractions, identification and preservation of potential sites, development of art and culture, relaxation of rules concerning travel of foreign nationals, preservation of forest and bio-diversity, improvement of airport facilities for passengers, marketing and publicity abroad and coordination of river cruise.

In addition to these, the policy also recognised the need for different accommodation for tourists such as hotel, motel, resort, cottage, boatel, aptel, farm house, wayside hotel, highway inn, tourist home, time sharing, home-stay etc and creation of food and entertainment activities. Also creation of favourable atmosphere and necessary affective measures for package tours.

The policy said that the government would remain as felicitator and help private sector to play active role in the development of tourism. All efforts should be made to ensure safety and security of tourists. Special importance should be given to the development of domestic tourism. Effective initiative should be taken for manpower development at public and private levels. Close coordination should be established among all tourism stakeholders.

The tourism policy also recognised and identified urgent need of coordination between various corporations, departments and ministries for proper tourism development in the country. In particular, the coordination between the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism and the ministries of environment and forest; cultural affairs; communication; land; Chittagong hill tracts affairs; information; water transport; foreign affairs; education; home affairs; water resources; local government, rural development and cooperatives; youth and other important government departments and all private sector investors is most important.

The policy has underscored the urgent need for allocation of government fund and effective coordination among the ministries concerned for wide spread development of tourism in the country.

NTC & Cabinet Committee
Headed by the Prime Minister there will be a National Tourism Council (NTC). Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism will be vice-president and 14 other ministers as members. Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism will be the Member-Secretary of the Council. The council is not new. It was created when National Tourism Policy was first adopted in 1992. In its 17-year life the last council met only once. So, the update policy apart from various improvements, has a provision that the NTC will meet at least every six month.

The council will approve on principle, plans concerning national and regional tourism development. Enhance image of Bangladesh though publicity and marketing campaigns at national and international levels. Decide on principal, the improvement of communication to important tourist spots. Decide on principal on imposition of tourism related law and other administrative measures and steps.

Measures to provide financial facility to private sector. Review recommendations of Tourism Advisory Committee and provide approval when necessary.

The decision of the council will the obligatory and all concerned ministries will implement those decisions.

According to the policy, from time to time, the government will form cabinet committee and decide its agenda. Moreover, to coordinate and implement the tourism policy, there will be a 22-member inter-ministerial committee. Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism will be convener of the cabinet committee, 16 Secretaries of the government, Chairman, National Board of Revenue, DG, NGO Bureau, Chairman, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, Managing Director, Bangladesh Biman Limited will be Members while Joint Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism will be Member Secretary.

To maintain and develop local tourist resources, at divisional level Dhaka, Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, Sylhet and Barisal City Coporations will be given specific responsibility for creating entertainment for the people. In phases local governments will get this responsibility. Formed with Deputy Commissioners as Convenors, District Tourism Development Committees will be made effective and given responsibility to maintain and develop local tourist attractions.

The updated National Tourism Policy appears to have made sincere effort to identify core problems concerning development of tourism in the country. It has also come up with measures to tackle these problems. Sincere implementation of the policy is expected to solve most of the problems hindering the growth of tourism and put tourism on the track.

BPB Admin Structure
The proposed Bangladesh Parjatan Board Act, 2009 is designed to create a functional and powerful Board to facilitate development of tourism in the country as well as maintain discipline in the industry.

A 13-member governing body headed by Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism as Chairman will be responsible for running the board. The following will be 12 members; (1) representative of the Ministry of Culture (not below the rank of Joint Secretary); (2) representative of the Home Ministry (not below the rank of Joint Secretary); (3) representative of the Ministry of Environment and Forest (not below the rank of Joint Secretary); (4) representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (not below the rank of Joint Secretary); (5) representative of the Land Ministry (not below the rank of Joint Secretary) (6) representative of Roads and Railways Department (not below the rank of Joint Secretary), (7) a government nominated representative from travel agencies; (8) a government nominated representative from tour operators; (9) a government nominated representative from Hotels and Guest House Owners Association; (10) a government nominated representative from Rent A Car) and (11) a government nominated woman with knowledge about tourism. Chief Executive of the Board will be Member-Secretary.

Function of the Board
The function of the Board will be to (a) formulate appropriate and realistic policies to achieve the purpose and objective of the law. (b) Implement plan to overall development of tourism. (c) Identify tourism product, preservation, development, expansion and creation of public awareness. (d) Ensure participation of government, private sector, local people, local administration, non-government organisations, women organisation and media to implement responsible tourism. (e) Establish contact with foreign tourism and international organisations. Help and coordinate efforts to establish contact between domestic private tourism organisations and foreign tourism related establishments. (f) Coordinate with different government agencies for different interest of tourist including security.

(g) Ensure favourable supportive aspects of tourism industry, undertake tourism related development programme, and maintain regular contact and coordination with various government and non-government organizations and ministries in respect of marketing. (h) Establish and operate training institutions for development of human resources for tourism sector and encourage private sector to invest in training. (i) Introduction of Tourism Satellite Account to measure contribution of tourism in national economy. (j) Measures to introduce quality tourism services for the interest of users and quality control. (k) Ensure facilities for participation of disabled tourists. (l) Encourage participation of women in tourism industry. (m) For development of tourism appropriate actions following research, international market watch and analysis. (n) Undertake necessary programme as registration authority for Travel Agency, Hotel and Restaurant, Tour Operator, Guide Service Transportation (Rent-a-Car), Tourism Training) Institutes.

As a regulatory authority, BPB will also have the power to impose various fees on Travel Agents, Hotels and Restaurants, Tour Operators, Guide, Rent-a-car companies, Tourism Training Institutions. Classification of hotels will also be an important job.

The Board will have the power to impose fine and even close business of these tourism stake-holders for violation of rules and regulations.

BPB will have its own fund to run the programmes to improve and expand the standard of tourism industry and services, encourage and help tourism related activities.

The source of this fund will be-(1) Initial government grant; (2) Fees from business under its control and government budget allocation from consolidated fund; (3) Grants from foreign government or organisation and international organisations.

Prior government approval will be needed to receive these grants; (4) Donation from local authority; (5) Donation from individual or organization and (6) Money received from other sources.

BPB will also have the power to earmark tourism protected area for the development and expansion of tourism in the country.

Appointment of CEO
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will be the person who will run the administration of the board and its day-to-day activities. BPB will appoint CEO from outside and the CEO will be responsible to the board for his or her activities.

This provision of appointment of CEO from outside, will facilitate selection of appropriate person for the job-not a bureaucrat. However, pending appointment of the CEO, government may appoint a person with the status of a Joint Secretary or Additional Secretary as Chief Executive on deputation.

The key role
The government has the key role to play in the development of tourism in Bangladesh. Through the NTO, the government by implementing the policy contributes in the tourism development. The government has the main role in regulation and supervision of industry.

It must be admitted that on paper both the policy and law are looking almost flawless. There is hardly anything new to add. But success will depend on how soon policies are translated into action. The past experience in this regard is bitter.

The governments in the past did nothing but neglect to tourism. Policies and plans remained confined to papers. So, there is reason to be apprehensive.

Let us hope, this time there will be no dearth of action and government will sincerely do what are needed to be done. Moreover, the task before the proposed new NTO will be fairly tough as it will be required to begin its journey with no track record to follow.

There is dearth of person with adequate experience and expertise about tourism in the country. So, to find appropriate person for the position of CEO from within the country will be difficult. A person with leadership quality, imagination and initiative is needed for the job and so, a lot will depend on right choice and right decision in this regard. For the greater interest of the industry, the question of hiring from abroad is an option which may be seriously considered.

Kantajees Temple [Dinajpur]

2009-06-20T00:40:00.001-07:00

Kantajee's Temple is in Dinajpur district. It is the most ornate among the late medieval temples of Bangladesh is the Kantajee's temple near Dinajpur town, which was established in the year 1722 by Ram Nath, son of Maharaja Pran Nath .

The temple, a 51' square three storied edifice, rests on a slightly curved raised plinth of sandstone blocks, believed to have been quarried from the ruins of the ancient city of Bangarh near Gangharampur in West Bengal . It was originally a navaratna temple, crowned with four richly ornamental corner towers on two stores and a central one over the third stored.

Unfortunately these ornate towers collapsed during an earthquake at the end of the 19th century. ln spite of this, the monument rightly claims to bathe finest extant example of its type in brick and terracotta, built by Bengali artisans. The central cells is surrounded on all sides by a covered verandah, each pierced by three entrances, which are separated by equally ornate dwarf brick pillars, Corresponding to the three delicately cusped entrances of the balcony, the sanctum has also three richly decorated arched openings on each face.

Fair & Festivals of Bangladesh

2009-06-18T02:24:00.000-07:00

Fairs and festivals have always played a significant role in the life of the citizens of this country. They derive from them a great amount of joy, entertainment and color for life. While most of the festivals have sprung from religious rituals, the fairs have their roots in the very heart of the people, irrespective of religion, caste or creed.

Pahela Baishakh
The advent of Bengali New Year is gaily observed throughout the country. The Day (mid-April) is a public holiday. Most colorful daylong gatherings along with arrangement of cultural program and traditional Panta at Ramna Park, is a special feature of Pahela Baishakh. Tournaments, boat races etc. are held in cities and villages amidst great jubilation. Many fairs are held in Dhaka and other towns and villages.

Independence Day
March 26 is the day of Independence of Bangladesh. It is the biggest state festival. This day is most befittingly observed and the capital wears a festive look. It is a public holiday. The citizens of Dhaka wake up early in the morning with the booming of guns heralding the day. Citizens including government leaders and sociopolitical organizations and freedom fighters place floral wreaths at the National Martyrs Monument at Savar. Bangla Academy, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and other socio-cultural organizations hold cultural functions. At night the main public buildings are tastefully illuminated to give the capital city a dazzling look. Similar functions are arranged in other parts of the country.

21st Feb, the National Mourning Day and World Mother Language Day
21 February is observed throughout the country to pay respect and homage to the sacred souls of the martyrs' of Language Movement of 1952. Blood was shed on this day at the Central Shahid Minar (near Dhaka Medical College Hospital) area to establish Bangla as a state language of the then Pakistan. All subsequent movements including struggle for independence owe their origin to the historic language movement. The Shahid Minar (martyrs monument) is the symbol of sacrifice for Bangla, the mother tongue. The day is closed holiday. Mourning procedure begin in Dhaka at midnight with the song Amar vaier raktay rangano ekushay February (21st February, the day stained with my brothers' blood). Nationals pay homage to the martyrs by placing flora wreaths at the Shahid Minar. Very recently the day has been declared World Mother Language Day by UNESCO.

Eid-e-Miladunnabi
Eid-e-Miladunnabi is the birth and death day of Prophet Muhammad (s). He was born and died the same day on 12th Rabiul Awal (Lunar Month). The day is national holiday, national flag is flown atop public and private houses and special food is served in orphanages, hospitals and jails. At night important public buildings are illuminated and milad mahfils are held.

Eid-ul-Fitr
The biggest Muslim festival observed throughout the world. This is held on the day following the Ramadan or the month of fasting. In Dhaka big congregations are held at the National Eidgah and many mosques.

Eid-ul-Azha
Second biggest festival of the Muslims. It is held marking the Hajj in Mecca on the 10th Zilhaj, the lunar month. Eid congregations are held throughout the country. Animals are sacrificed in reminiscence of Hazrat Ibrahim's (AM) preparedness for the supreme sacrifice of his beloved son to Allah. It is a public holiday.

Muharram
Muharram procession is a ceremonial mournful procession of Muslim community. A large procession is brought out from the Hussaini Dalan Imambara on 10th Muharram in memory of the tragic martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) on this day at Karbala in Iraq. Same observations are made elsewhere in the country.

Durga Puja
Durga Puja, the biggest festival of the Hindu community continues for ten days, the last three days being culmination with the idol immersed in rivers. In Dhaka the big celebrations are held at Dhakeswari Temple, where a fair is also held and at the Ram Krishna Mission.

Christmas
Christmas, popularly called "Bara Din (Big Day)", is celebrated with pomp in Dhaka and elsewhere in the country. Several day-long large gatherings are held at St. Mary's Cathedral at Ramna, Portuguese Church at Tejgaon, Church of Bangladesh (Protestant) on Johnson Road and Bangladesh Baptist Sangha at Sadarghat Dhaka. Functions include illumination of churches, decorating Christmas tree and other Christian festivities.

Rabindra & Nazrul Jayanti
Birth anniversary of the noble laureate Rabindranath Tagore on 25th Baishakh (May) and that of the National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on 11th Jaystha (May) are observed throughout the country. Their death anniversaries are also marked in the same way. Big gatherings and song sessions organized by socio-cultural organizations are salient features of the observance of the days.

Tagore is the writer of our national anthem while National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam is famous as Rebel Poet.

Langalbandh Mela:
At a place near Sonargaon (about 27 km. from Dhaka) a very attractive festival observed by the Hindu Community every year on the last day of Chaittra (last Bengali month) - mid April, when the devotees take religious bath in the river.

There are various other festivals that are habitually observed by Bangalees all the year round.

Rivers of Bangladesh in map

2009-06-17T12:34:00.000-07:00

In this Bangladeshi map you can find the rivers of Bangladesh.

Turag River

2009-06-17T12:28:00.000-07:00

The Turag River is the upper tributary of the Buriganga, a major river in Bangladesh. The Turag originates from the Bangshi River, the latter an important tributary of the Dhaleshwari River, flows through Gazipur and joins the Buriganga at Mirpur in Dhaka District. It is navigable by boat all year round.

Exemplifying the riverine character of Dhaka, the Turag is abundant in fish^[ but suffers from acute water pollution. While attempts have been made to marginally widen the river, the majority of industry has made little effort to follow environmental lawand the water has become visibly discolored.

Religious significance:

Tabligh Jam'at, a popular Islamic movement originating in South Asia, initially took hold in Dhaka in the 1950s as Maulana Abdul Aziz and other leaders set up the regional headquarters at the Kakrail Mosque near Ramna Park. An initiative of the movement is an emphasis on the six uṣūl or "basic principles," two of which include ilm, the pursuit of knowledge, and dhikr or zikr, a method of prayer involving repetitive invocation of hadith and Qur'an passages. To this end, the movement places importance on ijtema or assembly, where members gather to practice and participate in dhikr, hear religious sermons and discuss their activities.

The largest of these, the Bishwa Ijtema, is situated by the Turag River in Tongi and attracts estimates of between two to four million Muslims annually as well as representatives from over sixty countries, making it the second biggest Islamic congregation after the Hajj.

Titas River

2009-06-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

Titas River is a trans-boundary river of south-eastern Bangladesh. It originates in the state of Tripura in India where it is known as Haora River in Bengali and Saidra in the local Kokborok language. Flowing near Agartala, (India), it enters Bangladesh through Akhaura Upazila in the Brahmanbaria District of Bangladesh, then merges with the Meghna River to the south near Ashuganj. The length of the river is about 98 km. There is another river of the same name which starts as a distributary of the Meghna and flows back into it.

Teesta River

2009-06-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

The River Teesta said to be the lifeline of the Indian state of Sikkim, flows for almost the entire length of the state, carving out verdant Himalayan temperate and tropical river valleys. The emerald coloured river then forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal before joining the Brahmaputra as a tributary in Bangladesh.

Course:
The river originates from Cho Lhamu Lake at an elevation of 5,330 m (17,500 feet) above sea level in the mighty Himalayas. This lake lies to the north of the Donkia Pass near Shetschen, where the summit of the pass is about eight kilometres north-east of Darjeeling as the crow flies.

The Teesta River is then fed by rivulets which arise in the Thangu, Yumthang and Donkia-La ranges. The river then flows past the town of Rangpo where it forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal up to Teesta Bazaar. At Teesta Suspension Bridge, which joins Kalimpong with Darjeeling, the river is met by its main tributary, the Rangeet River. At this point, it changes course southwards flowing entirely into West Bengal. The river hits the plains at Sevoke, where it is spanned by the Coronation Bridge which links the north east states to the rest of India. The river then courses its way to Jalpaiguri and then to Rangpur District of Bangladesh, before finally merging with the mighty Brahmaputra at Fulcherry (in Bangladesh).

Geography:
Through its course, river has carved out ravines and gorges in Sikkim meandering through the hills with the hill station Kalimpong lying just off the river. Variegated vegetation can be seen along this route. At lower elevations, tropical deciduous trees and shrubs cover the surrounding hills; alpine vegetation is seen at the upper altitudes. The river is flanked by white sand which is used by the construction industry in the region. Large boulders in and around the waters make it ideal for rafting enthusiasts. Between the towns of Rangpo and Lohapul, the Teesta flows with a very strong current, ideal for white river rafting. Towns like Teesta Bazaar and Melli have facilities for group rafting. Though an innocuous looking river, the underlying current is very strong. In 1915, G.P. Robertson, the then Municipal Engineer of Darjeeling, while surveying the river, drowned after losing control of the boat in the turbulence. The boat then struck a partially hidden boulder and was sucked in by a whirlpool, leaving no trace of the occupants.

During the monsoons this humble river distends its banks; both in size and turbulence. Landslides in this region often dam up parts of the river in this season.

Changes in the course of rivers:
Great changes have taken place in the course of some of the rivers in Bengal and the adjoining areas, during the period since 1500 AD. Although positive evidence is lacking, similar changes can be assumed in the remoter past. The Teesta is one of the rivers that has changed over the years. .

The Teesta earlier ran due south from Jalpaiguri in three channels, namely, the Karatoya to the east, the Punarbhaba in the west and the Atrai in the centre. The three channels possibly gave the name to the river as Trisrota (possessed of three streams) which has been shortened and corrupted to Teesta. Of these three the Punarbhaba joined the Mahananda. The Atrai passing through a vast marshy area known as Chalan Beel joined the Karatoya and the united stream joined the Padma near Jafarganj. In the destructive floods of 1787, the Teesta forsook its old channel and rushing south-east it joined the Brahmaputra.

Rennel made a survey between 1764 and 1777 and his maps are one of the earliest authentic maps of Bengal in existence. In these maps Teesta is shown as flowing through North Bengal in several branches – Punarbhaba, Atrai, Karatoya etc. All these streams combined lower down with the Mahananda, now the westernmost river in North Bengal, and taking the name of Hoorsagar finally discharged into the Ganges at Jafarganj, near modern Goalundo. The Hoorsagar river is still in existence being the combined outfall of the Baral, a spill channel of the Ganges, the Atrai, the Jamuna or Jamuneswari (not the main Jamuna through which the Brahmaputra now flows), and the Karatoya, but instead of falling into the Ganges, it falls into the main Jamuna, a few miles above its confluence with the Padma at Goalundo.

Proposed Dams:
India has proposed a huge 31 Billion Dollar series of Dams within the Teesta river that will lead to 50,000 MW within the next 10 years. With some of the largest sediment loads, the creation of a resivoir will lead to only increased pressure on an active fault area. There are concerns that the creation of these dams may lead to river induced seismicity.

Climate and tectonics of Tista river:
Tista river has preserved good imprints of climatic and tectonics along its valley and catchments.The significant fluvial landscape of the Tista river has been described by few workers e.g Archarya, Mukhopadhyay,Malay Mukul,Ingocha Meetei Lukram etc.International papers published about Tista river can be counted within fingers.Recent paper of Mr.Ingocha Meetei Lukram suggested that climate change, particularly on a millennial to multi-millennial scale, during late Quaternary had strong system-wide influence on sediment production, transport and deposition in the Tista (Teesta) river system (Meetei et al., 2007) The interrelationship between climate, erosion, deposition and tectonic activities is not properly understood to date. However, it appears that major alluviation and incision events could be ascribed to the factors associated with climatic processes such as strengthening or weakening of monsoonal precipitation and related fluvial discharge. Tectonic activity affects sediment fluxes and is responsible for the insetting of younger terraces/fanlobes into the older terraces/fanlobes. During seismic events, landslide activity along the slopes of river valleys influences sediment delivery into the valleys, causing the effects of tectonics to be intricately coupled with that of climate (Meetei et al. 2007). The terraces and floodplains, valley-side slopes and landslide slopes, alluvial cones of different generations, kettle shaped depressions, sickle shaped ranges, leveled plains, undulating plains and deeply-dissected valleys, glacial and periglacial deposits are some of the geomorphological features observed in the Teesta river basin in Sikkim (Mukhopadhayay, 1982). Three prominent knick points have been observed along the Teesta river profiles which correspond to the zones of tectonic discontinuities, the important ones being the MCT and MBT (e.g. Seeber and Gornitz, 1983). From the recent studies of Mukul 2000,Mukul et al.,2007, it is proved that the southern part of the frontal wedge near foothill zone is tectonically active along with the formation of NKT,SKT and MFT structures within the sub Himalaya in Tista basin.

Kosi:
The Kosi (Kausiki), which now flows through the north-eastern Bihar and joins the Ganges at a point much higher up than Rajmahal, originally ran eastward and fell into the Brahmaputra. The channel of the Kosi, therefore, must have been steadily shifting towards the west, right across the whole breadth of North Bengal. There was a time when the Kosi and the Mahananda joined the Karatoya and formed a sort of ethnic boundary between people living south of it and the Kochs and Kiratas living north of the river

Surma River

2009-06-17T12:12:00.000-07:00

The Surma River is a major river in Bangladesh, part of the Surma-Meghna River System. It starts when the Barak River from northeast India divides at the Bangladesh border into the Surma and the Kushiyara rivers. It ends in Kishoreganj District, above Bhairab Bazar, where the two rivers rejoin to form the Meghna River. The waters from the river ultimately flow into the Bay of Bengal.The average depth of river is 282 feet (86 m) and maximum depth is 550 feet (170 m).

Course:

From its source in the Manipur Hills near Mao Songsang, the river is known as the Barak River. At the border with Bangladesh, the river divides with the northern branch being called the Surma River and the southern the Kushiyara River. This is where the river enters the Sylhet Depression (or trough) which forms the Surma Basin.

The Surma is fed by tributaries from the Meghalaya Hills to the north, and is also known as the Baulai River after it is joined by the south-flowing Someswari River.

The Kushiyara receives tributaries from the Sylhet Hills and Tripura Hills to the south, the principal one from the Tripura Hills being the Manu. The Kushiyara is also known as the Kalni River after it is joined by a major offshoot (distributary) from the Surma. When the Surma and the Kushiyara finally rejoin in Kishoreganj District above Bhairab Bazar, the river is known as the Meghna River.The Surma passes through many haors.

Shitalakshya River

2009-06-17T12:03:00.001-07:00

Shitalakshya River, also known as Lakhya River is a distributary of the Brahmaputra. In its initial stages it flows in a southwest direction and then east of the city of Narayanganj in central Bangladesh until it merges with the Dhaleswari near Kalagachhiya. A portion of its upper course is known as Banar River. The river is about 110 km long and at it widest, near Narayangani, it is 300 meters in width. Its highest discharge has been measured at 2,600 cusec at Demra. It remains navigable year round.The river flows through Ghazipur forming its border with Narsingdi for some distance and then through Narayanganj.The river's maximum depth is 70 feet (21 m) and average depth is 33 feet (10 m).

Change in course of rivers:

The Shitalakhya is a branch of the Brahmaputra which has changed its course at least twice in the Bangladesh region in the fairly recent past, indirectly affecting the flow of water in the Shitalakhya. In the 21st century, the main flow of the Brahmaputra waters is through the Jamuna channel. Earlier, after tracing a curve round the Garo Hills on the west, it took a sharp turn in the south-east direction near Dewanganj, and then passing by Jamalpur and Mymensingh, threw off the Shitalakhya branch and flowed through the eastern part of Dhaka district and fell into the Dhaleshwari. The Shitalakhya ran almost parallel to the Brahmaputra and after passing by Narayanganj joined the Dhaleswari. The course of the Brahmaputra through Dhaka district was deserted by the 18th century when it flowed further east and joined the Meghna near Bhairab. Towards the end of the 18th century the Jamuna channel increased its importance and around 1850 it became the main channel of the Brahmaputra.

In Van den Brouck’s map the river is marked as Lecki, flowing west of Barrempooter (Brahmaputra). In Van den Brouck’s time (1660), it was large and swift flowing river. It was so till the early 19th century.There, however, are some reservations about the accuracy of Van den Brouck’s map.

Historical importance:

Sonargaon, a former capital of the region, stood on the banks of the Shitalakhhya. A fort was built by Isa Khan, a former ruler of the area, on its banks. It is believed that it was connected with Lalbagh Fort in Dhaka through an underground tunnel. Sonakanda fort, also on the river, was built to counter Magh and Portuguese pirates. There are several historical mosques on its banks – Bandarshahi mosque (built in 1481 by Baba Saleh), Kadam Rasul mosque (containing the footprints of Hazrat Mohammad), Mariamer masjid (built by Shaista Khan) etc.

Economic importance:

In the past, the famous muslin industry of the country flourished along the Shitalakshya. Even today, there are centres of artistic weaving on its banks. There also are a number of industrial units on its banks, including the Adamjee Jute Mills. Thermal power houses are located at Palash, north of Ghorashal, and at Siddhirganj, on the bank of the river.Industrial affluent dumped into the river resulting in high levels of pollution is a cause for concern.

There is a river port in Narayanganj. Numerous launches move out along the river to different parts of Bangladesh. The government has approved construction of a container terminal on the river Shitalakhya with foreign investment.

Pasur River

2009-06-16T12:47:00.000-07:00

The Pusur River is a river in southwestern Bangladesh and a tributary of the Ganges.

Punarbhaba River

2009-06-16T12:41:00.000-07:00

The Punarbhaba is a river of Bangladesh and West Bengal in India, of total length about 160 km and a width of 3-8 km. It originates from the lowlands of Thakurgaon District. The river's upper part is a few kilometres west of Atrai. It flows through Gangarampur and Tapan community development blocks of Dakshin Dinajpur district of West Bengal.^[1] After flowing to the south, this river meets with the Dhepa River. Ultimately it flows into the Ganges.

Padma River

2009-06-16T12:32:00.000-07:00

The Padma is a major trans-boundary river in Bangladesh. It is the main distributary of the Ganges, which originates in the Himalaya. The Padma enters Bangladesh from India near Chapai Nababganj. It meets the Jamuna near Aricha and retains its name, but finally meets with the Meghna near Chandpur and adopts the name 'Meghna' before flowing into the Bay of Bengal. Rajshahi, a major city in western Bangladesh, is situated on the north bank of the Padma. It's maximum depth is 1,571 feet (479 m) and average depth is 968 feet (295 m)

Course:

Originated in the Gangotri Glacier of the Himalaya, the Ganges runs to the Bay of Bengal through India, entering Bangladesh at Shibganj in the district of Chapai Nababganj. Just west of Shibganj, the distributary Bhagirathi emerges and flows southwards as the Hooghly. After the point where the Bhagirathi branches off, the Ganges is officially referred to as the Padma and the river Bhagirathi uses the name of Ganga. Later the Britishers started calling Bhagirathi as Hoogly river.

Further downstream, in Goalando, 2200 km away from the source, the Padma is joined by the mighty Jamuna (Lower Brahmaputra) and the resulting combination flows with the name Padma further east, to Chandpur. Here, the widest river in Bangladesh, the Meghna, joins the Padma, continuing as the Meghna almost in a straight line to the south, ending in the Bay of Bengal.

Mythology:

The Padma is numerously mentioned in Hindu Mythology including the Vedas, the Puranas, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. In all myths, the river is mentioned as a Goddess though the origin differs.

In Valmiki’s Ramayana, Ganga (Sanskrit for Ganges) is described as the daughter of Lord Himalaya and Menaka who was abducted to the heavens by the deities and started to live in heaven from then, inside Karmandala, a spout shaped vessel.

In Vishnu Purana, Ganga is said to be issued from the toe of Lord Vishnu’s left foot. And was falling down. The pole star caught her in the middle of descent and kept her on his head round the clock.

Most myths agree on the incident how Ganga came down to earth.. By a special favour of Lord Shiva, King Sagara had sixty thousand sons, all of who were burnt into ashes as they disturbed the Mighty Kapila in his meditation. King Sagara, being informed by the heavenly wanderer Narada, sent his grandson Ansuman to Kapila to ask for his mercy. Kapila granted that the souls of the sixty thousand sons of King Sagara can be retrieved, but only by the mighty waters of the Ganga. Ansuman’s grandson Bhagiratha approached Ganga and made her agree to come down. To balance such great force of impact of Ganga falling to earth from heavens, Lord Shiva used his matted hair.

Naf River

2009-06-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

Naf River (নাফ নদী) is a river marking the border of Bangladesh and Myanmar.

It is an elongated estuary in the extreme southeast of Cox's Bazar district dividing the district from Arakan, Myanmar. It rises in the Arakan hills on the southeastern borders of the district and flows into the Bay of Bengal. Its width varies from 1.61 km to 3.22 km. The river is influenced by tide. Akyab in Myanmar is on the eastern bank and Teknaf upazila of Cox's Bazar district is on the western bank of the river.