On the eve of New Year when most of the places in the North American continent are under the grim wrap of freezing cold, you’re probably planning for the next holiday getaway. In that case, nothing could beat the vibrant tropical climate of South Asia and Bangladesh is a country you should look up for. In the heart of the Indian subcontinent, there lies a country on the bed of the Ganges River (Padma) delta. The home of the Royal Bengal Tiger and ‘The Land of Rivers’ never fails to amaze the travelers with its unique cap appeal. If you absolutely love to stay close to the mystery of nature then you will have so many things to explore in Bangladesh that will simply blow you away.
Cox’s Bazar
The jaw-dropping length of Cox’s Bazar will take you by surprise for sure. Known as the longest beach in the world, Cox’s Bazar sea beach is the jewel of Bangladesh when it comes to enjoying the blue beauty of the ocean. The heavenly experience of strolling around the beach during the sunset will make you think, why this place has never been on your bucket list before.
Not just the rumble of the sea, the vast landscape of small hills circling the sea is surely a scenic view for any human eyes. You’ll also find a lot of seafood around to treat your stomach well. Explore the elegance of the sand once again at nighttime under glittering moonlight.
The Sundarbans
Another record-setting natural wonder is situated over there known as the world’s largest mangrove forest. Yes, we are talking about mysterious Sundarbans. The beauty of the saltwater river delta has a unique appeal of its own. Classified as a ‘World Heritage Site’ by UNESCO the vast jungle is the home of the famous Royal Bengal Tiger and a number of other rare wild animals.
If you are an ardent bird watcher then keep your eyes open while traveling through the jungle as the exotic birds such as the white-bellied sea eagle, black-capped kingfisher, small minivet will take your safari experience to the next level and will justify its title, ‘The Paradise of Birds’. During the adventure in water If you ever come across the King of the jungle, Royal Bengal Tiger, watch out, as they often turn out to be maneater as well.
Ratargul, Sylhet
Not every waterway of Bangladesh is rivers, some of them are lakes as well, Ratargul in Sylhet is one of them. Encompassing a huge mass of water body, Ratargul is actually a snake sanctuary. But the fun doesn’t stop here, this is not any ordinary lake of vast water floating around, rather a freshwater swamp forest situated right in the middle of it.
This green forest that remains underwater for most of the year, creates an adventurous view along with its grand natural water bed. The green surroundings will make you feel closer to Mother Nature surely.
Paharpur Bihar
North Bengal or the northern part of Bangladesh has so many unique things to offer to you. Not just its natural beauty like Ratargul, but the ancient artificial wonders such as Paharpur Bihar will take you back to the age of Buddhism. The seventh-century archaeological site has also been declared as a World’s Heritage site. So, you can imagine the historical value the place serves.
This monastery city represents the unique flavor of that bygone era when Bengal was beaming with ‘Mahayana Buddhism’. The breathtaking terracotta art, the carved decoration on the wall of the ruins will give you a lot of food for thought.
Shat Gombuj Masque
Made by a great Khan Jahan Ali, a Muslim Saint with 81 domes, Shat Gombuj Mashjid or Masque has also been labeled a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It doesn’t matter whether you are an archaeological freak or not, you can’t ignore the historical appeal of the structure.
The truth of eternal presence is something that could be felt once you’re inside it. The fifteenth-century architecture terracotta brick and the decorated boundary wall around the mosque yard will remind you of the Indo-Islamic cultural revival in Bengal at that time.
Bangladesh has always been a land of unique natural and cultural appeal. The vibrant life and cultures of the people in alluvium soil will never disappoint you. Doesn’t matter how tiny the country is, the land is fertile with fascinating natural and traditional values that will welcome you in an open hand.