Welcome to Dhaka, the vibrant capital of Bangladesh—a city of over 20 million people, ranked among the world’s largest and most densely populated megacities. It is the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country, famous for its rich history, bustling streets, and colorful traditions.

Today, we focus on exploring Old Dhaka and its most iconic tourist attractions:

1. National Parliament Building (Exterior) – Designed by world-renowned American architect Louis I. Kahn, this architectural masterpiece was built between 1961 and 1982. Initiated under Pakistani rule and completed after Bangladesh’s independence under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, it stands as one of the most celebrated modernist buildings in the world.
2. Kawran Bazar – Established in the late 18th century during the Mughal period by merchant Kawran Singh, this bustling market has evolved into one of Dhaka’s largest wholesale and commercial trading hubs.
3. Dhaka University – Founded in 1921 during the British colonial period, its campus features elegant architecture with a distinctly British design influence.
4. Lalbagh Fort – An incomplete Mughal fort complex begun in 1678 by Prince Muhammad Azam, son of Emperor Aurangzeb. Construction was later halted by Governor Shaista Khan after the tragic death of his daughter. Today, it is a historic landmark and a popular tourist attraction.
5. Dhakeshwari National Temple – Built in the 12th century, this sacred Hindu temple is an important spiritual center for Bangladesh’s Hindu community.
6. Star Mosque (Tara Masjid) – Built in 1860 by Mirza Ghulam Pir, it is adorned with exquisite star-patterned mosaic tiles, making it one of Dhaka’s most beautiful mosques.
7. Armenian Church – Built in 1781 by the Armenian community in Dhaka, this historic church is a reminder of the city’s once-thriving Armenian merchant population.
8. Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace) – The former residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka, now a museum showcasing artifacts from the colonial period and the city’s aristocratic past.
9. Buriganga River & Shipyard – End the day with a boat ride along the Buriganga River to witness the lively river traffic and explore the historic shipyard area of Dhaka.

Overnight Stay: Dhaka

We begin our journey toward the gateway to North Bengal, Bogura, departing around 8:30–9:00 AM. The day will be filled with rich cultural and historical experiences.

1. Bangladesh National Monument (Savar) – A powerful memorial dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives during the 1971 Liberation War. Its striking architecture symbolizes the nation’s resilience and pride.
2. Atia Mosque (Delduar, Tangail) – Built in 1609 during the Mughal period, this mosque blends Mughal and Bengal architectural styles with stunning terracotta ornamentation.
3. Tangail Weavers’ Village – Tangail is famous for its handloom sarees, especially the iconic Tangail saree. We will visit local weaving communities to witness the centuries-old tradition of weaving exquisite fabrics.

We will pause for lunch before continuing to Sirajganj.

4. Noborotno Temple (“Dol Moncho”) – Hatikumrul, Sirajganj – A magnificent 3-storey 18th-century Navaratna-style terracotta shrine built between 1704–1728 by Ramnath Bhaduri, inspired by Dinajpur’s Kantajew Temple. The temple once had nine pinnacles (navaratna) and is adorned with beautiful floral and deity terracotta panels, making it the largest historical monument of its kind in Bangladesh.

Overnight Stay: Bogura City

Today we explore some of Bangladesh’s most significant archaeological and architectural treasures before heading to the clean, green city of Rajshahi.

1. Mahasthangarh (Bogura) – The oldest archaeological site in Bangladesh, dating back to at least the 3rd century BCE. Once the ancient city of Pundranagara, it features impressive fort ruins, ancient inscriptions, and relics from early urban civilization.
2. Gokul Medh – Built between the 6th and 7th centuries during the Gupta or early Pala period, this unique mound structure is linked to both Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Though the exact builder is unknown, its architecture and historical significance are undeniable.
3. Paharpur Mahavihara (Naogaon) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Buddhist monastery south of the Himalayas, built in the 8th century under the Pala dynasty. Once a leading center for Buddhist learning and culture, it features a grand central stupa, intricate terracotta plaques, and rows of monastic cells that fascinate historians and architecture lovers alike.

We will stop for lunch on the way before continuing our heritage journey.

4. Kusumba Mosque (Naogaon) – Known as the “Black Gem of Bengal”, this exquisite 16th-century stone mosque was built in 1558–59 during Suri rule and later renovated after the 1897 earthquake. With its six domes, octagonal corner towers, and fine stone carvings, it stands beside a large historic pond, enclosed by a walled courtyard.

Overnight Stay: Rajshahi

Today’s journey covers approximately 200 km as we travel from Rajshahi to Khulna, exploring remarkable heritage sites and unique cultural traditions along the way. We begin early in the morning.

1. Puthia Temple Complex (Rajshahi) – Known as the Temple Capital of Bangladesh, Puthia is home to some of the country’s most beautiful Hindu temples:
   • Shiva Temple – A majestic Pancha Ratna (five-spire) temple built by Rani Bhubonmoyi Devi (1823–1830), the largest Shiva temple in Bangladesh. Overlooking the serene Shiv Sagar Lake, it houses a massive black basalt Shiva-linga.
   • Radha-Krishna Temple (Rajbari Complex) – A 19th-century red-brick shrine built by the Puthia royal family (1823–1895) with exquisite terracotta panels depicting Radha-Krishna themes. Still active for worship, it is a masterpiece of Bengal temple architecture.
   • Ahnik Temple, Small Govinda Temple, Dol Temple, and Puthia Rajbari Museum – Each offering unique terracotta artistry and insight into Bengal’s historic religious and royal heritage.
2. Tiger Mosque (Bagha Mosque) – Built in 1523–1524 by Sultan Nasiruddin Nasrat Shah of the Bengal Sultanate, this mosque is celebrated for its intricate terracotta ornamentation and distinctive tiger motifs adorning its walls.

We will pause for lunch before our final cultural experience of the day.

3. Otter Fishing (Gobratola, Jashore) – A rare, centuries-old fishing tradition where trained otters help fishermen herd fish into nets. This remarkable practice reflects a deep bond between humans and animals and offers visitors a truly unique experience of Bangladesh’s living heritage.

Overnight Stay: Khulna City

Today we explore the edge of the Sundarbans mangrove forest and the historic mosque capital of Bagerhat before continuing to Barisal.

1. Karamjol (Sundarbans) – Our first stop is Karamjol, a popular gateway to the Sundarbans. Known for its wildlife sanctuary and crocodile breeding center, Karamjol offers walking trails through lush mangrove forests, opportunities to spot deer and monkeys, and tranquil boat rides along calm river channels.
2. Sixty Dome Mosque (Shat Gombuj Masjid, Bagerhat) – Located in the Mosque City of Bagerhat, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest historic mosque in Bangladesh. Built in the 15th century by Khan Jahan Ali during the Bengal Sultanate period, it features 77 domes supported by 60 stone pillars and stands as a masterpiece of medieval Islamic architecture.
3. Khan Jahan Ali’s Shrine – The mausoleum of the saint-general who founded Bagerhat, a revered site for both history and spirituality.
4. Nine Dome Mosque (Singra Mosque) – A beautiful 15th-century mosque known for its nine domes, rich terracotta ornamentation, and peaceful setting.

Overnight Stay: Barisal City

We start early in the morning, traveling about 35 km from Barisal City to the Banaripara Ferry Ghat, where we begin a scenic backwater boat journey.

1. Floating Vegetable Market – A vibrant river-based marketplace where traders sell fresh produce directly from their boats, creating a colorful and lively scene unique to Barisal’s waterways.
2. Timber Market – A bustling riverside hub for timber trading, showcasing traditional methods of commerce and transport along the rivers.
3. Riverside Village Life – As we cruise through narrow canals and open rivers, we’ll witness the peaceful lifestyle of riverside communities, meet friendly locals, and experience the charm of beautiful rural Bangladesh.

After the boat trip, we return to Barisal and then continue our journey back to Dhaka.

Overnight Stay: Dhaka

We begin at 9:00 AM from Dhaka, traveling about 30–35 km to explore the cultural heritage and river beauty of Narayanganj and Sonargaon.

1. Jamdani Weaving Village (Narayanganj) – Visit the heart of Bangladesh’s UNESCO-recognized Intangible Cultural Heritage, where skilled artisans hand-weave the world-famous Jamdani fabric. Witness centuries-old techniques that produce fine muslin with intricate, geometric, and floral patterns.
2. Panam City (Sonargaon) – Built in the late 19th century, Panam City was once a bustling hub for wealthy Hindu merchants. Around 50 historic buildings line a single street, blending Mughal and colonial architectural styles. Though many structures are abandoned, their timeless charm makes this a photographer’s dream.
3. Boro Sardar Bari & Sonargaon Folk Arts and Crafts Museum – Once the opulent mansion of a wealthy landlord, Boro Sardar Bari showcases traditional Bengali architecture. Now part of the museum complex, it displays an array of cultural treasures, including Jamdani textiles, folk musical instruments, and rural crafts.
4. Meghna River & Nolachor Island – Enjoy a peaceful boat ride along one of Bangladesh’s largest rivers, the Meghna, and explore the scenic Nolachor Island—a tranquil escape with beautiful river views.

We return to Dhaka in the evening, concluding our memorable tour.