Mymensingh, Bangladesh
Region: Mymensingh Division
Geographic Coordinates: 24.753900, 90.403100
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 35.0°C (59°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 576722
Language: Bengali
Mymensingh is a city in northern Bangladesh, Located approximately 120 km north of the capital Dhaka. It serves as the administrative headquarters of Mymensingh district and has a population of over 225, 000 people. The city lies on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, Which adds to its scenic beauty. Mymensingh boasts a rich cultural heritage dating back to ancient times. The city was once part of the Pundra Kingdom that prospered in this region during Mauryan Empire rule. Later on, It came under various rulers’ control, Including Mughals, British and Nawabs.
This diverse history is evident in its architectural marvels such as Shashi Lodge, Zainul Abedin Museum and Kali Bari Temple. Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), One of Asia’s leading institutions for agricultural research and education founded in 1961 is one of Mymensingh’s most notable attractions. With an area covering over 1, 200 hectares with modern facilities and lush green fields that attract students from all over Bangladesh. Bhaluka Upazila – a sub-district known for its scenic beauty and historical significance is another popular destination for tourists visiting Mymensingh.
Here you can find ancient ruins such as Kantajew Temple – an impressive Hindu temple built during Raja Pratapaditya Roy Chowdhury’s reigns in 1722 AD. The local cuisine offers visitors an opportunity to taste some unique dishes not found elsewhere in Bangladesh; shutki bhorta made from dried fish blended with spices like onion or chili pepper or garlic paste served with rice or bread being one such dish.
In addition to historic sites and cultural landmarks, Mymensingh also boasts several natural attractions surrounded by lush green forests perfect for trekking enthusiasts like Madhabpur Lake attracting tourists with serene surroundings & scenic beauty. Mymensingh has a vibrant local economy, Driven primarily by agriculture & industry. The city is home to many small-scale industries such as jute mills, Textile factories, Rice mills and sawmills. It also serves as a hub for trade between northern Bangladesh and neighboring countries like India. Overall, Mymensingh is a fascinating destination for travelers looking to explore Bangladesh’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying its natural beauty.
With its unique blend of history, Culture, Cuisine and natural attractions – it continues to attract visitors from all over the world!
- The Brahmaputra River is a well-known attraction in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, providing a picturesque view for tourists.
- Shashi Lodge is a museum housed in a historical building that draws many visitors to Mymensingh.
- Ramsagar National Park features walking trails and a large lake, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers near Mymensingh.
- Bijoypur Rajbari is an ancient palace dating back to the 18th century located in Mymensingh.
- Gauripur Zamindar Palace is another historical palace turned museum located near Mymensingh.
- Muktagacha Rajbari is an old palace situated about 20 km from Mymensingh in Muktagacha.
- Akhra Mosque dates back to the 16th century and can be found near Mymensingh as another example of ancient architecture.
- Shahid Minar Monument serves as an essential landmark commemorating those who lost their lives during Bangladesh’s War of Independence in 1971, attracting both locals and tourists alike to visit it.
- Tara Masjid or Star Mosque was built by Mirza Ghulam Pir during the early eighteenth century and has unique wall decorations made from broken pieces of china plates resembling sparkling stars.
- Birishiri Hill or Shuvolong waterfall situated under Netrokona district offers breathtaking natural beauty that makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations around Mymensingh region.
- Agriculture
- Fisheries
- Poultry farming
- Textile manufacturing
- Pharmaceuticals
- Food processing
- Small-scale cottage industries
- Educational institutions
- Healthcare facilities
- Government offices
- Banks
- The establishment of Mymensingh district during the British colonial period in 1787.
- The birthplace of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, who spent a significant part of his childhood and youth in Shelaidaha Kuthibari in Mymensingh, despite being born in Jorasanko Thakur Bari, Kolkata.
- The Great Bengal Famine of 1943-44 that resulted in the death of millions across Bengal, including Mymensingh.
- The contribution made by revolutionary leaders like Surya Sen and Pritilata Waddedar to the Indian independence movement from British colonial rule.
- The role played by political parties and leaders based in Mymensingh during the Language Movement (1952) and Liberation War (1971), which led to the establishment of Bangladesh as an independent nation.
- Numerous notable personalities are associated with Mymensingh, including poet Jasimuddin, author Syed Mujtaba Ali, musician Ustad Alauddin Khan, painter Zainul Abedin, and politician Sheikh Fazlul Haque Mani among others.
- Mymensingh Museum: The museum houses a collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and other historical objects related to the region’s culture and history.
- Shashi Lodge: A historic building that reflects the colonial architecture of Mymensingh, it is a popular tourist destination.
- Brahmaputra River: The river flows through the city and offers scenic views for visitors.
- Gauripur Zamindar Bari: A traditional mansion built by a wealthy landlord during the British era, it is now a heritage site open to visitors.
- Bagha Mosque: This ancient mosque is an excellent example of Islamic architecture in Bangladesh.
- Bhaluka Lalbagh Fort: A historic fort built during the Mughal period, it is located in Bhaluka Upazila near Mymensingh city.
- Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University Botanical Garden: It’s one of Bangladesh’s largest botanical gardens with various species of plants and flowers on display for visitors to enjoy.
- Modhumoti Cinema Hall: One of the oldest cinema halls in Bangladesh, it has been restored recently and offers an experience from another era for movie lovers.
- Dhanmondi Lake Park: A peaceful park with beautiful lakeside views that offer relaxation away from busy city life.
- Birishiri Hill Districts: Birishiri hill districts are famous for its natural beauty which includes hills, rivers, waterfalls, etc.
- Pahela Baishakh is the Bengali New Year and celebrated with great enthusiasm in Mymensingh.
- Boishakhi Mela is a fair held during Pahela Baishakh where people come together to celebrate the new year.
- Eid-ul-Fitr is the festival of breaking the fast after Ramadan, celebrated by Muslims all over Bangladesh.
- Durga Puja is a Hindu festival celebrating goddess Durga’s victory over evil, marked by elaborate pandals and processions.
- Saraswati Puja is another Hindu festival dedicated to goddess Saraswati, who represents knowledge and learning.
- Bijoy Utsav is celebrated on December 16th to commemorate Bangladesh’s victory in the Liberation War of 1971 against Pakistan.
- Shadhinota Dibosh (Independence Day) is celebrated on March 26th to mark Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971.
- Baul Festival is a music festival celebrating Baul culture, a unique form of folk music that originated in Bengal centuries ago.
- Rash Mela is an annual fair held at Rashidpur village near Mymensingh, dedicated to Radha-Krishna worship and festivities.
- Lalon Shah Mela is a three-day event honoring Lalon Shah, a famous Bengali mystic poet and songwriter who lived in the region during the late 19th century.
- Mymensingh Biryani: This is a delicious biryani made with aromatic rice and tender meat, cooked with a blend of spices.
- Pitha: These are traditional Bengali sweet or savory cakes made from rice flour and filled with coconut, jaggery, or vegetables.
- Shorshe Ilish: This is a popular fish dish made with Hilsa fish cooked in mustard sauce.
- Kachchi Biriyani: This is a slow-cooked biryani where the meat and rice are layered together before being cooked over low heat.
- Chotpoti: This is a spicy street food snack made from boiled chickpeas, tamarind sauce, chili powder, and chopped onions.
- Hotel Al-Razzak: This restaurant serves some of the best biryanis in town along with other local delicacies like shorshe ilish and pitha.
- Hotel Nannu Mia’s Kitchen: Another great place to try local cuisine like kachchi biriyani and chotpoti.
- Rabbani Hotel & Restaurant: A popular spot for their delicious shorshe ilish and other seafood dishes.
- Cafe De’Niro’s Kitchen & Coffee House: A cozy cafe that serves both local and international cuisine including burgers, sandwiches, pizzas alongside traditional dishes like pitha.
- Cafe Lighthouse Bistro & Lounge Bar – A trendy cafe that offers fusion cuisine along with traditional Bengali dishes like chotpoti served in an elegant ambiance overlooking the Brahmaputra riverbank at night time.
- Ananda Park
- Brahmaputra Riverfront Park
- Mymensingh Stadium
- Shishu Park Mymensingh
- Bhaluka Upazila Sports Complex
- Gauripur Botanical Garden and Eco-Park
- Mymensingh Golf Club
- Birishiri Tourist Spot and Waterfall
- Charpara Wildlife Sanctuary
- Sombhuganj Haat for shopping and dining options
