On the other hand, back in Durgapur, one can visit the two memorials paying tribute to the Tonk Movement, a struggle that occurred around the end of the British colonial period.

Meanwhile, located in the Kendua upazila are the ruins of Ruailbari Fort, a site that is believed to be a military outpost from the Sultanate era. Thanks to the excavation works, it is now an archaeological site that will surely be of interest to history buffs.

A sweet treat

Last but not least, anyone visiting Netrokona town must visit Gayanath Mistanno Bhandar for its highly acclaimed balish mishti.

This pillow-shaped mishti is one of the glories of Netrokona. After enjoying over a century of popularity, the balish mishti has also recently earned the GI (Geographical Indication) tag.

This sweet is very much a part of the Netrokona culture. Celebrations like weddings call for Gayanath’s balish sweets, which come in various sizes. The larger ones can even feed five people.

As one can understand, there is passion as well as pride among the locals regarding this delicacy. And so, if you are in Netrokona, this soft, sweet, pillow-shaped wonder that has survived the test of time is something you should definitely dig your teeth into.

Essentials

Netrokona is indeed not only about Birishiri and the China Clay Hills. It is so much more: a promise of spending a memorable time amidst nature, history, and delicious food!

One of the best ways to get there is by road (buses or, more comfortably, by car). From the Mymensingh district, you can make a day trip to Netrokona; it takes about 2.5 hours. Depending on your itinerary, a full day may suffice if you start off early.

There are a number of good hotels in Mymensingh city. Stay in one of those for a night, and return to Dhaka the next day, or perhaps go for another spot in the division.

Mymensingh division is dotted with numerous places of interest!

So, the next time you are planning a trip — especially if you are looking for a place that has yet to become crowded or too common — exploring Netrokona is perhaps what you are looking for.

By M H Haider

Photo: Shahrear Kabir Heemel