The Golden Temple: The Largest Theravada Buddhist Temple in Bangladesh

Though the original name of this temple is Mahasukh Mandir or Buddha Dhatu Jadi, it is known among tourists as Bandarban Golden Temple or simply the Golden Temple. Interestingly, despite its name, no structures here are made of gold. You may wonder why it is called the Golden Temple. The name actually comes from the abundance of golden color that decorates the entire temple. This beautiful pagoda, built on top of a hill, is regarded as one of the popular tourist attractions in Bangladesh and serves as a sacred pilgrimage site for followers of Buddhism. Many devotees from both Bangladesh and abroad visit the Golden Temple and offer their prayers. A statue of Buddha, believed to have been created during the lifetime of Gautama Buddha, has been installed here. It cost approximately BDT 10 crore to build this temple. It is one of the significant places of worship among the various Buddhist sites in Southeast Asia. 

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The pagoda’s architectural design draws inspiration from Buddhist temples in Myanmar, China, and Thailand. This pagoda is a brilliant example of modern religious architecture. Every year, a fair is held here at a specific time and brings the community together. The pagoda remains open all day long as a tranquil place for reflection and devotion. If you travel to Bandarban, you must visit the Golden Temple and see it for yourself. Otherwise, your trip to Bandarban will remain incomplete.

From this pagoda, you can enjoy beautiful natural views of Balaghata and its surrounding countryside. The Bandarban radio station and the zigzag road leading towards Chandraghona are also worth seeing. If you plan to visit the Golden Temple, you can go between 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. If you are not a morning person, you can visit between 12:45 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. instead.

What is its history?

Construction of the Golden Temple began in 1995 and took five years to complete. It was officially inaugurated in 2000. Its design was heavily influenced by Arakanese architecture, a style that reflects the rich heritage of Southeast Asia. Inside the temple perimeter, visitors will find a collection of smaller statues, a beautiful golden ball hanging beneath a dragon, and the second-largest statue of Lord Buddha. The temple’s main attraction for pilgrims and tourists is the dhatu, which is considered a sacred relic of Buddha and has been preserved beneath four statues of Buddha. Many Buddhists believe that worshipping the dhatu brings inner peace and happiness. In 1994, the Government of Myanmar gave this dhatu as a gift to Venerable U Pannya Jota Thera, a famous monk and former Senior Assistant Judge of the Bangladesh Government. Moreover, the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) has included this temple in its ‘Buddhist Circuit Tour’ as part of its Tourism Development Project. 

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What are the major attractions?

What makes this temple a must-visit destination for both local and foreign tourists is its beautiful decoration, modern architectural design, and golden color. The temple’s beautiful decoration in golden and maroon colors gives the impression that it is made of gold. That is why it is affectionately called the Golden Temple. The temple reveals its true beauty on every full moon night when thousands of clay lamps illuminate its surroundings. The floor is beautifully decorated with mosaics. Visitors need to climb 180 steps to enter the temple. Once you reach the temple, the spectacular views of the Bandarban hill region will immediately make you forget your tiredness. Far from the noise and chaos of everyday life, it may feel like a paradise in the hills.  

On one side of the temple, visitors will find a museum where they can learn about the historical background of the Buddhist religion. At the top of the hill, there is a small pond known as Debota Pukur, meaning “Pond of the Gods.” There is also an Ethnic Cultural Institute where visitors can explore the local culture.

This temple is surrounded by a dense jungle filled with lush greenery. From the Golden Temple, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Bandarban town, including its beautiful natural landscape, the Sangu River, and Bandarban Radio Station. 

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What it is used for?

This temple is a sacred place for devotees of the Buddhist religion, especially followers of the Theravada Buddhist tradition. This tradition is practiced by the Marma or Mogh indigenous community of Arakan descent living in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Every year, the temple arranges numerous festivals that welcome pilgrims from all over the world. It is the largest Theravada Buddhist temple and is home to the second-largest Buddha statue in the country.

Where is it located?

In the local language, a Buddhist temple is called Kyang. The Golden Temple is located in a remote area and requires a short hike from Bandarban town. Situated on a hill 60 meters (200 feet) above sea level, it is about four kilometers from Balaghata town and 10 kilometers from Bandarban city. This beautiful temple is also 92 kilometers away from the port city of Chittagong. For those travelling from Dhaka, which is 326 kilometers away, reaching this beautiful destination is obviously a day-long journey.

How to go there?

First, you must travel to Bandarban town. Every day, buses operated by several transport companies, such as Shyamoli Paribahan, Hanif Paribahan, S. Alam Paribahan, Saudia Paribahan, Dolphin Paribahan, and Unique Paribahan, depart from Abdullahpur, Arambagh, Kallyanpur, Gabtoli, and Sayedabad in Dhaka for Bandarban. Buses also depart from Kalabagan, Sayedabad, or Fakirapool for Bandarban at 10:00 p.m. or 11:30 p.m. Fares are around BDT 800–900 per person for non-AC buses and BDT 1,200–1,800 for AC buses. It takes approximately 8–10 hours to travel from Dhaka to Bandarban by bus.

If you plan to travel by train, you can take a Chattogram-bound train from Dhaka, such as the Sonar Bangla Express, Subarna Express, Turna Nishitha, or Mahanagar Godhuli. Ticket prices vary depending on the class you choose, ranging from BDT 405 to BDT 1,398. Alternatively, you can travel directly from Dhaka to Chattogram by air.

From Bahaddarhat in Chattogram, two buses named Pubali and Purbani depart for Bandarban. The fare for both buses is BDT 220 per person. Alternatively, you can travel to Bandarban by bus from Dampara Bus Stand in Chattogram, with fares ranging from BDT 200 to BDT 300 per person.

How to get to the Golden Temple from Bandarban?

From Bandarban, you can go to the Golden Temple by hiring a CNG auto-rickshaw or a Chander Gari (a local mountain vehicle). You will have to pay BDT 300–700 for a round trip to the Golden Temple. However, tourists usually reserve a vehicle to visit other notable attractions in and around Bandarban as well, such as Nilgiri, Nilachal, Chimbuk, Shoilo Propat, and Meghla.

You can plan your trip based on your available time and the places you wish to visit, and then reserve a vehicle of your choice. To visit Nilachal, Meghla, and the Golden Temple, renting a jeep (with 6–8 seats) will cost BDT 1,000–1,200, a Chander Gari will cost BDT 1,200–1,500, and a CNG (auto-rickshaw) will cost BDT 500–800. Before agreeing on the fare, make sure to clearly discuss all the places you want to visit and negotiate the price with the driver.

You will need to pay a road toll of BDT 20–30 to reach the Golden Temple by vehicle, and there is an entry fee of BDT 50 per person to enter the Golden Temple.

Where will you stay?

There are numerous resorts, hotels, motels, and rest houses in Bandarban where you can stay overnight for BDT 600 to BDT 3,000.

Holiday Inn Resort: It is situated on top of a small hill opposite the Meghla Parjatan Complex. There are several small cottages here. Contact number: 0361-62896.

Hillside Resort: Milonchhori is located at the 5-kilometre point on the Bandarban–Chimbuk Road. It offers excellent facilities for overnight stays in a pleasant setting. Contact number: 01556539022.

Hotel Four Star: It is located in Bandarban town and offers both AC and non-AC rooms. Every room in the hotel has a television. The rent is BDT 300 for a single room, BDT 600 for a double room, and BDT 1,200 for an AC room. Contact number: 0361-62466.

Hotel Three Star: It is located next to the Bandarban bus stop. Vehicles heading to Nilgiri depart from in front of this hotel. It is a four-bed flat that can accommodate 8–10 people. The rent is BDT 2,500 per night for a non-AC flat and BDT 3,000 for an AC flat. For bookings, contact Manik Chowdhury, the owner of both the Three Star and Four Star hotels, at 01553421089 or 01813278731.

Hotel River View: It is situated in a natural setting beside the Sangu River in Bandarban town. It has its own restaurant. Contact number: 0361-62707.

If you want, you can even choose to stay at Nilachal Escape Resort. It has a total of six rooms in three cottages. The rent for each room is BDT 3,000. The resort management also arranges good-quality meals for its guests. Contact number: 01777765789.

Parjatan Motel: It is located in Meghla, approximately 4 kilometres from Bandarban town, beside the hills and a lake. The rent for each room ranges from BDT 750 to BDT 2,000.

Hotel Plaza Bandarban: It is a five-minute walk from the bus stand. The rent is BDT 400 for a single room, BDT 850 for a double room, and BDT 1,200 for an AC room.

Besides these options, there is a beautiful rest house managed by the District Administration at Meghla Parjatan Complex, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing getaway. It has four rooms available for overnight stays, each costing BDT 2,500 per night. For bookings, you can call 0361-62741 or 0361-62742.

Keep in mind that fares will depend on when you travel. Accommodation rates may be higher during the peak season (December–February) and on public holidays due to the larger influx of tourists. If you plan to travel during the peak season or on public holidays, you can book your hotel room in advance to avoid any hassle. If you visit during the off-season, you can get a 20–50% discount. In addition, there are numerous resorts, hotels, motels, and rest houses where you can easily stay overnight for BDT 500–3,000.

Where will you eat?

There are several mid-range restaurants in Bandarban town for tourists. You can have all three meals at a restaurant of your choice. Some of the popular options include Tazing Dong Café, Meghdut Café, Food Place Restaurant, Ruposhi Bangla Restaurant, Ree Shong Shong, and Kalapata Restaurant.

Advice:

Ø  The best time to visit the Golden Temple is in the afternoon, when the warm sunlight makes the temple look exceptionally beautiful.

Ø  Visitors are not allowed to enter the temple after 6:00 p.m., so make sure to arrive earlier.

Ø  Keep in mind that visitors wearing shorts or lungis will not be allowed to enter the temple.

Ø  Entering the temple while wearing shoes is strictly prohibited. Therefore, follow the proper etiquette and customs before and after entering the temple.

Ø  Visitors can take photographs, but they are not allowed to record videos or touch the sculptures.

Ø  Malaria is a common disease in this region, and deaths caused by cerebral malaria are a serious concern in Bandarban. Visitors are advised to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves against mosquito bites and other diseases.

Aircraft Sculpture at Bijoy Sarani

If you live in Dhaka and have crossed the Bijoy Sarani intersection, you might have noticed the aircraft sculpture and wondered whether it is a real fighter or just a replica. Let me clear up your confusion: it is a real aircraft model. It is reportedly a Chinese-made Shenyang F-6 fighter aircraft bearing the number 632. It used to be a formidable fighter jet, but thanks to advancements in technology, it has now been reduced to just a sculpture. It is displayed on a raised concrete platform for public viewing. Close to this aircraft sculpture roundabout, you will find Novo Theatre, Bangladesh Military Museum, Chandrima Udyan, and Bangladesh Air Force Museum. 

A short history of Asad Gate

If you are a Dhaka city dweller, specifically residing in Mohammadpur or adjacent areas, you might have walked past Asad Gate. You might have been curious to know who this Asad really was. What was his identity? However, in the poet’s poetry, Asad lives on with a different kind of radiance. The most famous poem about martyr Asad was written by Shamsur Rahman, one of the leading poets of modern Bengali literature. He wrote, “Like clusters of red oleanders or the glowing clouds of sunset, Asad’s shirt is flying in the breeze across the blue sky.” It is not just poems that have been written about Asad; the people of his village have also composed many folk songs and Jari songs in his honor, which are still sung locally today. 

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Martyr Asad stands out as one of the heroes of the mass uprising of 1969 in Bangladesh. Martyr Asad, known as Amanullah Mohammad Asaduzzaman, was a student as well as a student leader at the University of Dhaka at that time. He was born on June 10, 1942, in Hatirdia of Dhamua village under Shibpur Upazila of Narsingdi. On January 20, 1969, Asad’s life took a tragic turn when, during a strike held as part of the historic 11-Point Movement against the tyrannical Ayub government, he became the first martyr after being shot by the police in front of Dhaka Medical College. At that time, he was a leader of the then East Pakistan Students’ Union (Menon Group) and the President of the Shahidullah Hall branch of the University of Dhaka. His death sparked a wave of anger among students and the general public, further intensifying the movement. The very next day, Dhaka witnessed the largest mourning procession in its history, as people carried the bloodstained shirt of martyr Asad through the streets. 

The provincial capital, Dhaka, turned into a city of protests. The agitated crowd at that time rushed to the then Ayub Gate, erected in Mohammadpur, and, as a symbol of their furious protest, smashed the nameplate of Ayub Gate and wrote “Asad Gate” there using Asad’s own blood. This act marked the birth of Asad Gate in Mohammadpur as a symbol of heroism. To preserve the memory of Martyr Asad, people did not stop at renaming Ayub Gate; they also changed the name of “Ayubnagar,” then considered the second capital of Pakistan, to “Asadnagar” (now known as Sher-e-Bangla Nagar). 

During this time, poet Shamsur Rahman was moved by the sight of a long procession carrying Asad’s shirt and wrote his famous poem “Asad’s Shirt.” This poem went on to spread far and wide. History tells us that in 1960, Pakistan’s then-President Ayub Khan came to Dhaka and allocated the first 15 houses in the Mohammadpur Housing Estate area to several families. It was during this visit that the archway was built as the main entrance to the residential area and was named “Ayub Gate” after him. 

Martyr Asad was a man of great vision. Not only did he lead as a student, but he was also actively involved in the farmers’ movement. His diary tells us that back in 1968, he established a night school in Shibpur, Narsingdi, for poor and working-class people and dreamed of building a society free from exploitation. 

He dreamed not only of pursuing a career in politics but also of joining the legal profession to provide legal assistance to ordinary people. With this ambition, he enrolled at City Law College. Moreover, as a teacher, he aspired to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Today, in his honor, the Govt. Shahid Asad College has been established in Shibpur, making a significant contribution to promoting education in the area. 

Asad’s father, Maulana Mohammad Abu Taher, served as an officer in the BCS (General Education) Cadre and was the headmaster of Shibpur High School. His brothers were highly educated and supported Asad’s political ideals. 

It is known that Asad’s ancestral home in Narsingdi is still standing strong. His family is making every effort to carefully preserve many of the personal belongings and memorabilia associated with him. He was buried in a family graveyard located right next to the house. 

In recognition of his extraordinary sacrifice, the Government of Bangladesh posthumously awarded him the Independence Award in 2018. 

A brief one-line about martyr Asad is inscribed on the memorial plaque: “Shaheed Asad was killed by police gunfire during the Mass uprising of 1969.” Apart from this, there is no further information written. 

It is worth mentioning that the Asad Gate arch was built with funding from the Dhaka District Council. However, the City Corporation is now responsible for its maintenance. 

Ayub Gate:

When Ayub Khan, the military administrator of East Pakistan, came to power, the then-Governor Abdul Monem Khan built an archway at the intersection of Mirpur Road and Lalmatia. This was to celebrate the handover of the first 15 plots in the Mohammadpur residential area to their owners. This archway was named “Ayub Gate.” At that time, various establishments across East Pakistan were named after Ayub Khan to please him. 

Shaheed Asad:

Among the three people who lost their lives during the Mass Movement of 1969, Martyr Asad was the first to be martyred. The other two were Martyr Rustam and school student Martyr Matiur. On January 4, 1969, students at the University of Dhaka expressed their solidarity with the students’ 11-point program and Bangabandhu’s Six-Point Movement. On January 17, student leaders from the University of Dhaka called for a strike at all educational institutions across the country. At that time, Martyr Asad was a student leader of the Menon Group at the university. In response, Governor Abdul Monem Khan imposed Section 144 in an attempt to suppress the student movement. On January 20, Shaheed Asad led a protest procession of more than ten thousand students through the Chankharpul area beside Dhaka Medical College. When the police tried to stop them, the students sat down on the road and continued chanting slogans. 

Despite the police obstruction, Shaheed Asad was determined to move forward with the procession. Out of nowhere, a police officer shot him from very close range, causing him to fall to the ground. The people around him quickly carried him to Dhaka Medical College, where he was declared dead. Asad’s tragic death intensified the movement. His blood-stained shirt became a powerful symbol of the movement. Across the country, students and members of the general public began changing the names of almost all the gates and establishments named after the autocratic ruler Ayub Khan in honor of Shaheed Asad. Ayub Gate became Asad Gate, which stands today as a testament to his legacy. 

Following the death of Shaheed Asad, on January 24, an overwhelming wave of people from all walks of life surged onto the streets of Dhaka and across Bangladesh in support of the Six-Point and Eleven-Point demands. Ayub Khan’s regime eventually fell. This marked the Mass Uprising of 1969. 

At the time of his death, Martyr Asad was a final-year postgraduate student in the Department of History at the University of Dhaka. 

Nilgiri Hill: A place where you can touch the clouds

If you want to experience the horizon of green hills and a vast panorama, where clusters of clouds drift around the hills, you can visit Nilgiri Hill. For its picturesque landscape surrounded by hills and lush green environment, it is known among travel enthusiasts as the Darjeeling of Bangladesh. The green hills and the clouds playing hide-and-seek across the horizon will fascinate anyone with their beauty. If you have the desire to touch the clouds, Nilgiri will fulfill that wish. It is a 2,200-foot-high hill located approximately 50 kilometers from the Bandarban district headquarters. You can reach Nilgiri by taking the mountainous road from Alikadam in Bandarban, along the Thanchi-bound road. 

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Atop Nilgiri Hill is situated one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Bangladesh, Nilgiri Tourist Center, which was established and is managed by the Bangladesh Army. Due to its high altitude, this tourist center is almost always covered in clouds, which is a unique attraction. Since the beginning of the twenty-first century, it has gradually become known as a tourist destination among people across the country.

If you look around from Nilgiri Hill, you will be fascinated by the sight of clouds drifting across the mountain ranges and the endless beauty of nature. From the top of Nilgiri Hill, along with rows of hills, you can see Boga Lake, Bangladesh’s fifth-highest mountain peak, Keokradong, the Cox’s Bazar Sea beach, Chittagong Port, and the Sangu River. Additionally, from the tribal village near the Nilgiri, you can become acquainted with their culture and traditions. Since there is an army camp on Nilgiri Hill, there is no reason to be concerned about security. Therefore, you can easily visit Nilgiri Hill with your family. 

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When will you go there?

The Nilgiri Hills display their beauty throughout the year. It takes on a different appearance at different times. The play of clouds in the morning, the light of sunrise, the sunset in the afternoon, and the enchanting surroundings of a starry night will undoubtedly leave you spellbound. Usually, during the monsoon, early autumn, and late autumn, you can beautifully witness the clouds playing hide-and-seek. To experience this, you will have to go to Nilgiri Hill very early in the morning. The clouds of early and late autumn blend with the blue sky, and the surroundings are shrouded in a blanket of fog—it is a scene worth seeing. After the rain, the Bay of Bengal also becomes visible from the peak. That is why you can visit Nilgiri Hill at any time. However, during the monsoon season, heavy rainfall increases the risk of landslides, and at such times, the road to Nilgiri Hill often remains closed.

How to get to Nilgiri Hill?

No matter which part of the country you live in, you will first have to come to Bandarban to go to Nilgiri Hill. From various places in Dhaka, buses operated by S. Alam Paribahan, Saudia Coach Service, Saintmartin Paribahan, Unique Paribahan, Hanif Enterprise, Shyamoli Paribahan, and Dolphin Paribahan leave for Bandarban. The fare per person on these buses is approximately BDT 550 for non-AC and BDT 950–1500 for AC services.

If you want to travel by train, you will need to take a Chattogram-bound train, such as the Sonar Bangla Express, Subarna Express, Turna Nishitha, or Mahanagar Godhuli, from Dhaka to Chattogram. Depending on the class, the fare ranges from BDT 350 to 1,200. Additionally, you can travel directly from Dhaka to Chattogram by air.

From Bahaddarhat in Chattogram, two buses, Pubali Paribahan and Purbani Paribahan, depart for Bandarban. The fare for these buses is approximately BDT 220 per person. From Dampara Bus Stand in Chattogram, you can also travel to Bandarban by bus, with fares ranging from BDT 200 to 300 per person. 

From Bandarban to Nilgiri Hill:

From Bandarban, you can go to Nilgiri Hill by taking a jeep (locally known as a Chander Gari), a CNG auto-rickshaw, or a local bus. It is best to go there with a reserved vehicle, as this will allow you to visit and explore a few nearby places as well. If you want to go and return before sunset, you will need to hire a vehicle from the jeep station in Bandarban, with round-trip fares ranging from BDT 3,000 to 5,000, depending on the type of vehicle. A Chander Gari can accommodate around 12–14 passengers, Land Cruiser-type jeeps can carry 7–8 passengers, smaller jeeps can take 4–5 people, and a CNG auto-rickshaw can carry 3–4 people. If there are no problems on the road, it will take about two to two and a half hours to reach Nilgiri Hill. To see the clouds at Nilgiri Hill, you will need to start very early so that you can arrive by 7–8 a.m.

If the number of members is small or if you want to travel at a lower cost, you can go by local bus; however, it will take more time. From Thanchi Bus Stand, buses depart for Thanchi every hour, and the fare is BDT 120. However, if you prefer, you can join another group going to Nilgiri Hill and share the fare.

On the way to Nilgiri Hill, tourists are required to record their names and addresses at the army checkpoint for security reasons. Usually, no vehicles are allowed to travel to Nilgiri Hill after 5 p.m., so keep an eye on the time before traveling. To visit the Nilgiri Tourist Center, visitors are required to pay an entrance fee of BDT 50 per person, in addition to a separate parking fee of BDT 300 per vehicle. 

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Where will you stay?

The army manages several cottages at Nilgiri Hill Resort for visitors. These cottages are Akashlina, Marma Reesa, Nilangana, Tehkho Reesa, Meghdut, and Rongdhonu. The rent for each room ranges from BDT 4,000 to 10,000 per night. However, if you wish to stay at the Nilgiri Hill Resort, you will need to book in advance, and a reference from a known army officer at the officer level is required to confirm the booking. Since the resort is highly attractive to visitors, rooms are usually unavailable unless a reservation is made at least a month in advance, especially during holidays. To book a room, you can call this number: +8801769299999 or +8801769245500.

Apart from these cottages, there are also three tents available, each equipped with four beds. Tourists who wish to stay here will have to pay BDT 2,500 per night. For accommodating an additional person in a cottage, tourists will have to pay an extra charge of BDT 500 per person. However, members of the Bangladesh defense force, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force, will receive a discount on the cottage rental.

Since the Nilgiri Hill Resort is managed by the Bandarban Officers’ Club, which is affiliated with the Bangladesh Army, it is mandatory for visitors to reserve a cottage at the resort through a serving first-class military officer from Bangladesh. To make a reservation, you will need to contact the 69th Infantry Brigade, whose headquarters are in Bandarban Cantonment. Visitors must follow certain procedures to successfully reserve a cottage. For further details regarding the reservation process, contact information, and online reservations, please visit the official website: https://nilgiriresortbd.com.

Besides, most tourists visit Nilgiri Hill from Bandarban during the day and return before sunset. There are several hotels, resorts, and cottages available for staying in Bandarban. These hotels and resorts are located in Bandarban and its surrounding areas. Among the hotels and resorts available for accommodation in Bandarban are: 

• Hotel Hill View: It is located beside the bus stand in Bandarban city. The rent for each room ranges from BDT 800 to BDT 2,500.
• Hotel Hilton: It is located close to the bus stand in Bandarban city. The rent per room ranges from BDT 800 to BDT 3,000.  
• Hotel Plaza: It takes five minutes to reach the hotel on foot from the bus stand. The rent for each room ranges from BDT 600 to 3,000.
• River View: This hotel is located along the bank of the Sangu River in the town. The rent ranges from BDT 600 to 2,000.
• Parjatan Motel: It is located beside the mountains and a lake. It is situated in Meghalay, about four kilometers from the town.

The rent for hotels, resorts, vehicles, and other expenses changes over time. Therefore, the information published in this travel guide may not match the current situation. Kindly check the latest information and plan accordingly before traveling. For your convenience, mobile numbers for hotels, resorts, vehicles, and other contacts are provided here from various sources. It is recommended to verify these numbers before making any financial transactions. This travel guide will not be responsible for any financial loss or other problems.

Travel planning:

On the way to Nilgiri Hill, you will pass by Milanchari Viewpoint, Shoilo Propat Waterfall, Sairu Hill Resort, and Chimbuk Hill Tourist Center. If you take a reserved vehicle, you can stop at these spots and spend some time there. When hiring the vehicle, inform the driver in advance. However, it is best to go directly to Nilgiri Hill in the morning to see the clouds. On your way back, you can spend some time at Chimbuk Hill and then at Shoilo Propat Waterfall. On the way, you will have to stop at the checkpoint at Milanchari Viewpoint, where from you can see the beautiful surroundings. You can also do it the other way around. If you plan to spend the afternoon at Nilgiri, you can stop at the Shoilo Propat Waterfall and the Chimbuk Hill Tourist Center on the way, spend some time there, and then proceed to Nilgiri.

Where will you eat?

There is a restaurant in Nilgiri Hill where you can eat if you feel hungry. However, if you want to dine there, you will have to order in advance. You can eat there for BDT 150–500 per person. Besides, there are some small restaurants in front of Chimbuk Mountain where you can eat. If there are many people, you will have to order in advance.

Or, you can return and have a meal in Bandarban town. Since there are only a few places to eat there, you can carry some dry food with you. In Bandarban town, there are many restaurants where you can eat, including Tazing Dong Café, Meghdut Café, Food Place Restaurant, Rupshi Bangla Restaurant, Ree Song Song, Kalapathar Restaurant, and others.

Places to visit around Nilgiris:

In addition to visiting Nilgiri Hill, there are several other tourist spots nearby. If you plan well in advance, you can visit these places along with Nilgiri Hill. These include:

·       Chimbuk Hill

·       Shoilo Propat Waterfall

·       Meghla Tourist Center

·       Nilachal

·       Double Hand View Point

·       Titanic View Point

·       Neel Digante View Point

·       Golden Temple

·       Boga Lake

·       Thanchi

·       Toma Tungi

·       Tindu

·       Remakri 

Nilgiri Hill travel tips:

Ø  To arrange a vehicle, you should talk directly to the jeep stand. If required, you can negotiate the price.

Ø  You can buy items made by indigenous people at lower prices in Shoilo Propat or Chimbuk.

Ø  The entire route from Bandarban to Nilgiri is a hilly and winding road. So, be careful while traveling.

Ø  Do not ride on the roof of a Chander Gari.

Ø  Be careful when descending to the Shoilo Propat waterfall, as the rocky path is very slippery.

Ø  Please do not do anything that may disrespect the indigenous people.

Ø  If possible, stay one night in Nilgiri. It will be a memory to cherish for a lifetime.

Ø  Do not take any unnecessary risk.

Ø  Always keep a copy of your national identity card with you.

Ø  If you want to travel to Nilgiri at a lower cost, you can go in a group. 

Uttara Gonobhaban: A Palace of Maharajas

Uttara Gonobhaban is perhaps the least visited tourist destination in Bangladesh. However, its rich historical background, popular heritage, and beautiful surroundings have made it a favorite destination for vacationers to plan their holiday trip. From the late seventeenth century until the mid-twentieth century, it served as the residence for seven generations of kings. The picturesque narrative of this site makes it one of the most sought-after tourist attractions, where visitors can spend quality time with their family and friends. It is commonly known as the Dighapatia Rajbari. 

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History:

Dighapatia Rajbari is commonly referred to as Uttara Gonobhaban in Natore, North Bengal. This nearly three-hundred-year-old palace was first built by Raja Dayaram Roy, the founder of the Dighapatia dynasty. However, at the beginning of his life, he served as the dewan for Raja Ramjivan Roy, the first Raja of the Natore Raj family. In 1716, he led the army of Ramjivan Roy and, with the help of the Nawab of Bengal, successfully defeated the rebellious Raja Sitaram Ray, a zamindar (landlord) of the neighboring Bhusna state. Because of his loyalty, diligence, and efficiency, Ramjivan rewarded him with a substantial amount of land in the Rajshahi, Bogra, and Jessore districts. Utilizing these land grants, he established the Dighapatia estate in 1734. 

In 1897, the Uttara Gonobhaban was reduced to ruins after being hit by a devastating earthquake that lasted almost 18 minutes. Pramada Nath Roy, the sixth king of the dynasty, then restored and reconstructed the Rajbari of Dayarampur, a process that spanned 11 years from 1897 to 1908, with the help of foreign experts, engineers, artists, and local craftsmen. 

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The last king of the Uttara Gonobhaban Palace, Protiva Nath Roy, left for Kolkata following the partition of 1947 and the abolition of the zamindari system under the East Bengal State Acquisition and Tenancy Act of 1950, a law passed by the newly formed democratic government of East Bengal in the Dominion of Pakistan.

On July 24, 1967, Abdul Monem Khan, then Governor of East Pakistan, declared it to be the official residence of the governor. On February 9, 1972, after the independence of Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation, declared it Uttara Gonobhaban, an official residence of the Prime Minister in northern Bangladesh.

Opens to visitors:

Prior to its public opening, the palace served as the official residence of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. The current administration has since decided to open it to the public. On October 25, 2012, State Minister for Youth and Sports, Ahad Ali Sarkar, inaugurated Uttara Gonobhaban for visitors. It is now open daily from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Guests must purchase tickets priced between Tk 10 and Tk 20, allowing 30 minutes inside the palace compound. For security, local authorities have installed CCTV cameras and a metal detector.

Main attractions:

The entire Uttara Gonobhaban Palace is a testament to architectural excellence. Many visitors from across the world come to this historical site to admire its beautiful structural design. Upon arrival, visitors are bound to be amazed by its serene atmosphere and the chirping of various bird species. The ancient palatial houses and other installations, which indicate the dominance of past rulers, arouse joy and a sense of nostalgia for long-gone days. Without a doubt, many beautiful features of the site will inspire visitors to return for a second visit. 

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Arched entrance gateway:

The first thing that draws visitors’ attention is its arched entrance doorway, positioned at the center of the eastern outer wall. This three-story pyramidal gateway features equally shaped rooms connected internally on both sides. On each side of the entrance path, there are coiled wooden staircases that provide access to the first and second floors. At the top of the structure, there is a large clock accompanied by two circlets. This clock resembles a replica of ‘Big Ben’ in the UK. It is said that King Dayaram imported this clock from England. Beside the clock, there is a large bell. In the past, the sound of the bell could be heard from far away. The chauchala structure atop the gate gives it a pyramidal look. The exterior of the front gate, which extends over a hundred feet, has been painted red.

Main palace building:

The entrance gateway, adorned with greenery and gardens, guides visitors to the main palace building. This single-story building has nine bedrooms, a conference room, a reception hall, a dining room, and a dance room. The reception hall stands out from the other rooms because on top of it is a large dome built in 1967. The entire dome is decorated with a star design. Aside from this feature, the roof of the palace is flat and constructed with iron beams to support the weight of the roof. Notably, the steps of the veranda and the floors of the rooms are made of white and black geometric shaped marble stones. Perhaps the most aesthetically pleasing arrangement is the flower garden with a water fountain situated in front of the southern veranda of the main palace. There are four vessel motifs on both sides of the fountain, with two on each side. On the four corners of the garden, there are four marble statues of women that imitate ancient Greek architecture. The height from the ceiling to the floor of the reception hall is more than 25 feet, making it much taller than the adjacent rooms. A painted floral motif decorates the ceiling, enhancing the beauty of the palace. Additionally, there is a single-story ‘Rani Mahal’ (Queen’s Palace) located to the south of the main palace block.

Kumar Palace:

The literal meaning of the word ‘Kumar’ is ‘Prince.’ The Kumar Palace, also known as the Yellow Building, is a two-story structure located to the southeast. It stands between the entrance gateway and the main palace compound. The ground floor contains several rooms. These were apparently used as storerooms. The first floor consists of five rooms, including four main bedrooms and a dressing room. A notable aspect of its construction is the use of mosaic on the floors of the rooms and verandas. The central hall is an exception. For safety and durability, the roof is enclosed by a parapet wall. Another distinctive feature is the floral design on a broad frieze. It runs below the cornice of the outer walls on the north, west, and south sides.

Khazanchi Khana:

The term refers to the Treasury Lobby, which is positioned directly behind the Kumar Palace. Specifically, this single-story structure stands between the Main Palace and the Kumar Palace. The building is arranged around an open courtyard and features twenty-six rooms distributed along its sides. On the north façade, a corridor stretches from east to west, fronted by a veranda with an arcade of five pointed arches. Additional verandas are located on the east, west, and north sides of the central courtyard, giving the building both functionality and symmetry.

Italian Garden:

The most remarkable feature of this palace is the Italian Garden. King Dayaram imported much of its furniture from Italy, which is why it is known by this name. Within the garden, visitors can see five marble statues, a fountain, and a sitting bench. Interestingly, the benches were brought from Kolkata, and the word “Kolkata” is still inscribed on their surface. Among the statues, one titled “The Daughter of the Mountain” has a broken hand. According to local accounts, looting occurred during the Liberation War of 1971. The statue’s wrist, once adorned with gold, was broken by Pakistani soldiers who stole the ornament.

Temples:

So far, you have read vivid descriptions of palaces and monuments. Building upon these, a large Mandir Bari (temple complex) of the Dighapatia Raj lies about half a kilometer southeast of the Rajbari. This complex includes four temples: Durga Mandir, Kali Mandir, Radha-Krishna Mandir, and Dhulan Mandir. The architectural design of these temples differs from that of the more ancient ones. Their flat-roofed architecture suggests they are less than 100 years old. The complex is also widely known as the Dighapatia Raj Debottar Estate. 

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Sculptures:

Although the palace grounds were ravaged several times throughout history, some exquisite remnants still exist, such as neo-classical bronze Greek sculptures, flower pots, chandeliers, engraved wooden bedsteads, princely furniture, and light fixtures. There are also two armored knights in the main entrance hall. 

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Location:

The Uttara Gonobhaban is three kilometres away from Natore town in North Bengal under the Rajshahi division. It is located to the east of the Natore-Bogra highway. The approximate distance from Dhaka via the Rajshahi highway is 205.8 kilometers. It may take 4–5 hours to reach the spot.

Transportation:

Direct bus service is available from different points in Dhaka. Locations from where you can get a direct bus to Natore are Kallyanpur (Mirpur Road), Panthapath (Kalabagan), Gabtoli (Mirpur), and Abdullahpur (Uttara).
It is also possible to go there by train. All you have to do is get on the Dhumketu Express train from Kamalapur Railway Station and get down at Rajshahi or Natore.

List of hotels, boarding and rest houses:

In Natore, there are a number of affordable hotels, boarding houses, and rest houses where you can stay. Some of the famous hotels, guest houses, and boarding houses are Hotel VIP (Borohorishpur), Hotel Millat (Madrasha More), Hotel Rukhsana (Kanaikhali, Old Bus Stand), Natore Boarding (Nichabazar, Hospital Road), Hotel Prince (Railway Station Bazar), Hotel Raj (Madrasha More), Natore Sugar Mills Guest House (Natore Sugar Mills area), and Hotel Nice International (Shaheb Bazar).