Silk roads and river songs: Discovering Rajshahi in 10 amazing stops
Whether you're drawn by colonial architecture, riverside tranquility, or the flavours of local sweets, Rajshahi offers a rich travel experience. Here are the top ten places that make it a hidden gem
Rajshahi, nestled on the banks of the Padma River, is known across Bangladesh for many reasons: its summer mangoes, year-round silk, and prominent educational institutions. More recently, it has gained a reputation as the cleanest and greenest metropolitan city in the country.
Many consider it one of the most liveable cities in Bangladesh, but it's also one of the most rewarding destinations for travellers. Here are the top 10 must-visit places for anyone exploring Rajshahi.
Varendra Research Museum
If you're a history enthusiast, you'll be delighted to know that Bangladesh's first museum was founded in Rajshahi in 1913. The Varendra Research Museum boasts one of the world's richest collections of antiquities related to ancient Bengal. Some artefacts here are truly one-of-a-kind, found nowhere else in the world. This museum is a must-visit to grasp the creativity and aesthetic sensibilities of our ancestors.
Holy shrine of Shah Makhdum
After visiting the museum, take a short rickshaw ride to the riverside to find the famous shrine of Shah Makhdum. Legend says he arrived in Rajshahi riding a crocodile and defeated the local king.
It's the only place in Bangladesh where you'll find a shrine dedicated to a crocodile, believed to be his pet. If you explore the shrine grounds carefully, you'll also discover a site where human sacrifices were reportedly made in ancient times.
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Bara Kuthi
Just a few hundred metres from the shrine, by the riverbank, lies Bara Kuthi — one of the city's most iconic historical buildings. Built over 300 years ago by Dutch traders, this type of architecture is rare in Bangladesh.
It later served as the first administrative building of Rajshahi University. Sit near the structure and enjoy the serenity of the Padma River, especially at dusk when the lights from across the Indian border begin to flicker on.
Rajshahi College campus
A short walk from Bara Kuthi takes you to Rajshahi College, established in 1873. Its red colonial buildings are still in excellent condition, and its tree-lined paths create a picturesque setting. The campus also houses one of the earliest Shaheed Minars in Bangladesh.
Rajshahi University campus
Rajshahi is a compact city, making it easy to explore by rickshaw or auto-rickshaw. Start your morning at the lush and well-maintained campus of Rajshahi University — one of the most beautiful in Bangladesh.
Don't miss a stroll down the scenic "Paris Road," shaded by a canopy of massive trees. After exploring, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Silsila Restaurant near the university stadium.
Rajshahi Mishtanno Bhandar
No trip to Rajshahi is complete without visiting Saheb Bazar, considered the heart of the city. Here you'll find Rajshahi Mishtanno Bhandar — the city's most famous sweet shop.
Their breakfast of luchi paired with sweets like Komolavog and Rosokodom is unforgettable and rarely found elsewhere. If you have a second morning in Rajshahi, try the traditional offerings at Jorkhali Mishtanno Bhandar nearby.
The Padma River and its surroundings
Spend your afternoon at the T-Badh (the Police Academy river barrier), a popular riverside spot. Rent a boat and enjoy a tranquil ride while watching the sunset. You might even spot sushuk (Ganges River dolphins) or smooth-coated otters.
During winter, this area becomes one of the best birdwatching sites in the country, drawing birders from all over Bangladesh to photograph rare migratory species.
Silk factory
Head to the Sopura Silk area in the evening, where shops line the streets selling locally made silk products. In one of these stores, you can witness the entire silk production process — from silkworms feeding on mulberry leaves to the spinning of fine silk from cocoons.
You'll be amazed to learn that one cocoon can produce up to 800 metres of silk thread. Entry is free, and you can purchase affordable, high-quality silk products directly from the source, much cheaper than in Dhaka.
Colourful pottery at Basantapur
Just a few kilometres from the airport lies the village of Basantapur, home to generations of potters. Among them is Sushanta Pal, renowned for crafting Sokher Hari — colourful decorative pots of various sizes. Visitors can buy directly from the artisans at reasonable prices and experience the tranquil charm of rural life.
Temples of Puthia
If time permits, make a trip to Puthia, only 22 km from Rajshahi city. This area boasts the highest concentration of terracotta temples in one place in Bangladesh. The intricate craftsmanship of the temples is unparalleled in Bengal and truly deserving of UNESCO World Heritage status.
Travel and Accommodation
Getting There:
- Intercity trains from Dhaka to Rajshahi run daily. The Bonolota Express is the fastest, taking under 5 hours.
- Several flights operate daily.
- Buses from Kallyanpur are frequent and take around 6 hours.
Staying:
- For budget travellers, there are decent hotels around Zero Point.
- Parjatan Motel offers reliable mid-range accommodation.
- For more luxury, try Grand Riverview or Hotel X in the city
