The place haunts me, not in a scary way, but in a manner that is filled with a strong longing to go there again.

I have been to Mymensingh only twice in my life, and the two trips were enough to make me fall in love with the place.

My introduction to Mymensingh happened around a decade ago. It was a quick day trip where the history nerd in me explored some of the fascinating old buildings. The trip was short and yet so impactful that I vowed to go there again.

This year, a couple of my friends and I made an expedition, spending several days there. This second trip, where I had more time and opportunity to experience the wonders of this region, left me in a deeper awe than the fleeting day tour.

One needs to look beyond the hustle and bustle of the region. The elegant ghat at Shashi Lodge calls for a lazy chat. The small hills — lush with large trees that have spread their roots long and wide, as if to declare their claim on the hills — bring a sense of serenity.

A drive through the roads of Kalmakanda reveals nature in its majestic splendour, with the range of beautiful hills on the horizon — a dance of light and shadows, a game of colours with the blue skies, white fluffy clouds, and greenery.

And then there are the cheena matir pahar. Rugged, chalky, yellowish. It feels otherworldly!

Mymensingh feels like it’s straight out of a dream. It haunts me, not in a scary way, but in a manner that is filled with a strong longing to go there again.

By M H Haider

Photo: Shahrear Kabir Heemel

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