Find time to visit the tourist haven of Feni
It is time to know about this coastal district of Bangladesh, which is rich in history, heritage and natural beauty
Feni is a district that quietly holds immense strategic, historical and cultural significance. Huddled in the south-eastern corner of Bangladesh and often overshadowed by its larger neighbours, this coastal district serves as the sole entry point linking the port city of Chattogram with the rest of the country.
Named after the Feni River that flows through its heart, the district is a captivating blend of natural beauty, archaeological heritage and the resilient spirit of its people. To the north of Feni district lie Comilla and the Indian state of Tripura; to the south are Chattogram and the Bay of Bengal; to the east are Chattogram and the Indian state of Tripura; and to the west is Noakhali.
The district comprises of six upazilas Feni Sadar, Chhagalnaiya, Sonagazi, Fulgazi, Parshuram and Daganbhuiyan. Many historical and archaeological sites are found in this district. Bijoy Singh Pond and Chand Gazi Mosque are the two most popular places of interest in this district.
The major tourist attractions in Feni are Golden Sishu Park, Chowdhury Bari Masjid, Sonagazi Muhuri Irrigation Project, Nihal Palli, Shamsher Gazi Dighi, Bashpara Seven Temples, Pagla Miar Mazar.
Bijoy Singh Dighi
Scenic View of Bijoy Singh Dighi Photo: Wikipedia
This historic pond is located in front of the Feni Circuit House at Bijoy Singh village, about 2km west of Feni city. The pond has an area of 37.57 acres. It is located in an excellent natural environment with beautiful trees around. This pond is one of the traditional ponds (Dighis) of Feni.
It is ideal place for those interested in historical sites and natural beauty; this destination offers a perfect blend of heritage and serene surroundings.
Chand Gazi Bhuiya Mosque
View of Chand Gazi Bhuya Mosque Photo: Wikipedia
Chand Gazi Bhuya Mosque, also known as Chad Kha Mosque, is an archaic mosque from the Feni district that was built during 1112 Hijri (Arabic Calendar). According to the inscription at the front door, the mosque was built by someone named Chand Gazi Bhuya.
Apart from the domes, the mosque has 12 minarets over the walls in a symmetric way. Four minarets at the four corners are having similar style and other 8 minarets amid the walls are also having similar style. Eastern side of the wall is having simple terracotta along with the terracotta above the front door.
Chowdhury Bari Masjid
Facade of Chowdhury Bari Masjid Photo: Wikipedia
Ramnagar Chowdhury Bari Jame Mosque is a historic mosque located in Ramnagar village under Daganbhuiyan upazila of Feni district, Bangladesh. The mosque features three domes, and its captivating architectural style is sure to mesmerize you. In front of the mosque lies a vast green field, and about 500 meters to the left is the Chowdhury Bari (the ancestral home). On one side of the mosque is the Chowdhury Bari graveyard, while on the other side there is a ghat-bounded pond and toilet facilities for worshippers. This nearly 158-year-old mosque was built following the architectural style of Iranian mosques.
Beyond these historical treasures, Feni offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors. Families can enjoy the Golden Sishu Park, a recreational escape for children and adults alike.
How to go from Dhaka
Feni is directly connected by road from Dhaka. Direct buses are available daily from Dhaka. The distance is about 134km. It is about three- and half-hour drive. Train services are also available to Feni from many districts of Bangladesh including Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet.
Where to stay in Feni
Accommodation facilities in Feni district are of moderate quality and still have plenty of room for improvement. Nevertheless, there are a few places you may consider staying during your visit.
Some notable hotels and lodges are Idrisiya Hotel, which is located on Station Road in Feni. Another choice is the Feni Circuit House, situated at Bijoy Singh Dighi Par in Mohipal, Feni. Additionally, you may consider the Zilla Parishad Dak Bungalow, which is located at the Zilla Parishad premises in Feni.
From the serene banks of Bijoy Singh Dighi to the ancient minarets of Chand Gazi Mosque and the Iranian-inspired Chowdhury Bari Masjid, Feni offers a rich tapestry of heritage, spirituality and natural beauty. Its strategic importance, agricultural wealth and warm, welcoming people make it a destination worth exploring.