Barishal: The ‘Venice of Bengal’ beckons tourists

Tucked away in southern Bangladesh, Barishal district is emerging as a paradise for travellers seeking rustic charm and aquatic adventure. Known as the "Venice of Bengal" for its network of canals and rivers, this deltaic region offers an experience far from jam-packed beaches or chaotic Dhaka.

Barishal was formerly called Bakerganj district, established in 1797. It shares borders with Madaripur, Shariatpur, Jhalokati, Barguna, Patuakhali, Laxmipur, Pirojpur and Gopalganj. Its ten sub-districts are Barishal Sadar, Bakerganj, Babuganj, Agailjhara, Wazirpur, Hijla, Mehendiganj, Muladi, Banaripara and Gournadi.

Tourist spots at a glance

Notable sites include Kalsakathi Zamindar Bari, Pradrishibpur Church, Kasba Masjid Gournadi, Shrine of Hazrat Mallik Dut Kumar Shah, Mahilara Math, Ulaniya Zamindar Bari, Charamaddi Mungakhan Jame Mosque, Chandshi Ishwar Chandra Secondary School Home, Oxford Mission School, Guthia Mosque, Durgasagar Lake, and the Kirtankhola River.

Landmarks of faith and history

Guthia Mosque in Barishal, a fairy-tale blend of white marble and turquoise spires that draws travellers from across the country. Photo: Wikipedia

Barishal city boasts architectural gems. The Guthia Mosque (Baitul Aman Jame Masjid Complex) is a modern marvel on 14 acres with white marble domes, turquoise spires, a library, and a lungi museum. History buffs should visit Oxford Mission Church and the Barishal Library, colonial-era relics offering peaceful river views.

Durga Sagar

Durga Sagar Dighi, Barishal’s historic lake where calm waters and rural beauty meet. Photo: Durga Sagar Dighi Facebook Page

Durga Sagar, known locally as Madhabpasha Dighi, is the largest lake in southern Bangladesh. It has a total area of about 25 hectares (62 acres). The lake is about 11 kilometres away from Barisal city. Rani Durgabati, mother of Raja Joy Narayan, had the pond excavated in 1780. There is a small island in the middle of the lake; this island was originally not part of the lake; it was created artificially to beautify and increase tourist attraction. During the winter, migratory birds gather here.

Bell’s Park

Airborne view of Bell’s Park, Barishal. Photo: Wikipedia

Bell's Park is a historic urban park and recreation area situated at the heart of Barishal. This park is one of the beautiful areas in Barisal with a playground, walkway, helipad, many trees and an adjacent lake.

The park was constructed in 1896 by subscriptions during the magistracy of ND Beatson Bell to celebrate the visit of Sir Alexander Mackenzie, Lieutenant-Governor of Bengal. The park has been the key playground of the city for decades and is the centre of all sports and athletic activities. Walkway surrounded by the park, flower plants, benches, and illumination, will amaze any visitor.

Cuisine

Barishal is a major producer of Aam panna (raw mango juice) and Jambura (pomelo). The highlight is freshwater fish, Hilsa served with a unique mustard-coconut gravy called Kashundi. Street stalls near Rupatoli Launch Terminal offer hot Chitoi Pitha with fresh date juice in winter.

Best time to visit

Travellers should visit during dry winter (November to February) for pleasant weather or monsoon (June to August) to witness the scenic beauty of the district.

How to go from Dhaka to Barishal

Barishal is 260 km south of Dhaka. A traveller can go there by three options.

By Bus

Departs from Sayedabad, Kamalapur, Gabtoli terminals (Ena, Hanif, Shyamoli). Travel time 4.5–5 hours via Padma Bridge. Fare: Tk 500–1,200 (non-AC to AC).

By Launch

A traveller can reach overnight from Sadarghat (6:00–9:00pm) to Barishal ghat (5:30–6:00am). Launches: MV Sundarban, MV Sonartori, MV Kirtonkhola. Fare: Tk 700 (deck), Tk 1,200–1,500 (non-AC cabin), Tk 2,500–3,500 (AC cabin).

By Air

It will take 35–40-minute flights from Dhaka to Barishal Airport via Biman or US-Bangla. Fare: Tk 3,500–6,000 one-way.
Where to stay in Barishal

Luxury and comfort

Hotel Grand Park, Band Road

Pool, gym, restaurant. Deluxe Tk 8,502, Premium Tk 10,477, Executive Suite Tk 13,569, Family Suite Tk 20,096. Contact 0431-71508.

Hotel Sedona, Sadar Road

Deluxe Single Tk 2,040, Deluxe Queen Tk 3,240, Super Deluxe Tk 4,200, VIP Suite Tk 6,000. Contact 01716480560.

Mid-range 

Richmart Rest House (near launch terminal): From Tk 1,500
Hotel Kingfisher (122 Bir Sreshtho Road): From Tk 2,875

Government rest houses

Circuit House

There are 23 rooms available for guests. For non-officials: VVIP/AC Tk 200, ordinary AC Tk 150, non-AC Tk 100. Contact 01743101320.

Zila Parishad Bungalow

Here, 20 rooms are available for guests. VIP Tk 300, ordinary AC Tk 200, non-AC Tk 100.

Barishal is a place for sluggish travel; the district is considered as safe, welcoming, and rustic. Whether gliding through country boat or taking tea on a launch deck at dusk, it provides a journey that dribbles moderately into the soul.