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Top 7 travel destinations in Narayanganj
Many of us long for a rejuvenating outing after a tiresome week. Nevertheless, to our utter disappointment, we realise that all popular tourist spots are either too far or require more time and money to visit than we are ready to spend. But you should not look very far as Narayanganj, located on the banks of the Shitalakshya River and the outskirts of Dhaka, has many picturesque travel destinations that will make your weekend getaway special. To help you have an amazing time and a relaxing vacation, we bring you the top 7 tourist spots to visit in Narayanganj.
Panam Nagar
Once, the historic Panam Nagar was a crucial township of the administrative and commercial centre in eastern Bengal, Sonargaon. The ghost-town atmosphere and assortment of abandoned buildings of Panam Nagar easily conjure curiosity among its visitors. The architectural design of the buildings in Panam Nagar displays both native and western styles and the area has also other places of historical interest making it a perfect place for a day trip from Dhaka.
To visit Panam Nagar, you can board a direct bus heading to Narayanganj from Gulistan in Dhaka. And if you have a car, drive directly towards Narayanganj and enjoy the scenic view along the way.
Tomb of Ghiyasuddin Azam Shah
Situated at Mograpara of Sonargaon upazila, the tomb of Ghiyasuddin Azam Shah is a beautiful structure of the Sultanate period in Bangladesh. The tomb is credited to Ghiyasuddin Azam Shah who had been the third Iliyas Shahi ruler of Bengal and it stands on the banks of a dried-up pond named Magh Dighi. The dargah of Panch Pir is located just about two or three hundred metres away from the tomb.
You can visit the tomb of Ghiyasuddin Azam Shah by taking a rickshaw from the Mograpara junction of Sonargaon.
Jamdani Palli, Rupganj
The traditional art of Jamdani weaving is praised by all; UNESCO has declared it an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. The Jamdani saris of Narayanganj have been celebrated by people from all walks of life. So, why not plan a day trip to the Jamdani Palli of Narayanganj and enjoy the delicate art of weaving Jamdani saris?
The place is situated in Noapara village under the Tarabo Paurashava at Rupganj Upazila. Moreover, while coming back from the Palli, you can also visit Demra Jamdani haat if you are travelling on a Friday.
Zinda Park
Zinda Park, also known as Oikotan Eco Resort, is a very popular tourist destination located in Rupganj Upazila of Narayanganj. It is a beautiful amusement park and leisure centre that features reservoirs, tree houses, cottages, a restaurant, and a library. There is also a mini zoo to entertain visitors. Families regularly come here for picnics.
Built with mud and straw, the cottages of Zinda Park display the rustic infrastructure of Bangladesh and they can be rented for a day.
Zinda Park is sited only thirty-seven kilometres away from Dhaka and you can go there by taking the Purbachal Expressway.
Mayadeep
Mayadeep is a triangular-shaped islet sited at the heart of the mighty Meghna River. The slow rhythmic waves of Meghna that crashes against the sandy shore of Mayadeep are truly mesmeric, and you can also take a refreshing bath in the water of this islet. Sitting beside the Meghna River with your feet in the water while gazing at the passing boats will certainly make you forget about the monotonous life of the city.
To visit Mayadeep first you need to go to Sonargaon and then travel to Baidder Bazaar by auto or rickshaw. After reaching Baidder Bazaar Ghat, you can hire boats to visit Mayadeep.
Murapara Rajbari
The picturesque Murapara Palace is located in the Rupganj Upazila of Narayanganj. This magnificent two-storey building was built by Ramratan Banerjee during the British colonial period. Having a unique mix of exposed red bricks and white plaster of colonial influence, the palace effortlessly emanates a majestic vibe and attracts tonnes of tourists throughout the year. The palace is also surrounded by three vibrant ponds and not far away from the palace stand two stunningly built temples.
Murapara Rajbari is an ideal place for a day trip and you can easily visit the palace by local buses from Dhaka or simply by driving a car.
Hajiganj Fort
Quadrangular in size and very beautiful to look at, Hajiganj Fort is located in the Hajiganj locality of Narayanganj. The fort is located on the western bank of the Shitalakshya River. This splendid fort is made up of a pentagonal curtain wall and in a corner of the fort, a tall square column of brickwork stands, which is regarded as a guard tower. A walk around this striking fort will make you feel nostalgic about our past and glorious architectural establishments.
As Hajiganj Fort is situated in the centre of Narayanganj, you should not have any difficulties locating the fort. BRTC and other local buses are always available from Gulistan and other bus stands, and they will directly take you to Narayanganj.
By Ayman Anika
Photo: Mainul Hasan Foysal