About Place
- Khulna is often described as the "Gateway to the Sundarbans," the world's largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Located in the southwestern part of Bangladesh.
- Less touristy compared to Dhaka or Chittagong.
- Offers a slower pace of life, making it a serene destination.
- Features picturesque riverside views.
Reasons to Visit
- Proximity to the Sundarbans : Khulna is the primary access point for visiting the Sundarbans, home to the Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodiles, and diverse bird species. A trip through this mangrove forest is a must for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
- Historical Significance : Khulna has a rich history, with colonial-era buildings, temples, and mosques. The city is also close to the Bagerhat, a historical site known for the 60 Dome Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Cultural Experiences : The local culture in Khulna is deeply rooted in Bengali traditions, offering visitors a chance to experience local cuisine, festivals, and the traditional art forms of the region.
Visa
- For US, EU, and Canadian Citizens : A visa is required to enter Bangladesh. Visitors can apply for a visa online through the Bangladesh eVisa system or at a Bangladesh embassy or consulate.
- For Indian Citizens : Indian citizens can apply for a visa on arrival at specific entry points, but it’s recommended to obtain a visa beforehand from the Bangladesh High Commission.
- For Other Countries : Citizens from many other countries can obtain a visa on arrival or must apply for a visa prior to travel, depending on bilateral agreements with Bangladesh. Always check with the local Bangladeshi consulate for the latest information.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Destination :
- Flight from Dhaka to Khulna : Approximately $60 per person (round trip). For two people, the total is $120.
- Hotel Cost :
- Accommodation in Khulna (3 nights) : Average $50 per night for a mid-range hotel. For 3 nights, the total is $150 for one room.
- Food Cost :
- Meals for 2 people (3 days) : Average $15 per meal. Total for lunch and dinner over 3 days is $180.
- Activity Cost :
- Sundarbans Tour : Approx. $100 per person for a day trip, including lunch. Total for two people is $200.
- Near Destination Travel Cost :
- Local transportation and rentals : Approx. $30 per day for a car rental with a driver. For 3 days, the total is $90.
Estimated Total : Approximately $740 for two people.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Exploration of Khulna City
Arrive in Khulna and settle into your accommodation. Start your exploration with a visit to the Khulna Divisional Museum, where you can learn about the region's history and culture. In the afternoon, explore the Rupsha River area, enjoying a boat ride or a walk along the riverside. Have lunch at "Mezbaan Bari," a popular restaurant known for traditional Bengali cuisine. In the evening, visit the Shat Gombuj Masjid (Sixty Dome Mosque) in nearby Bagerhat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Khulna for dinner at "City Light Café," which offers a mix of local and international dishes. Enjoy a quiet night at your hotel, preparing for the next day’s adventure.
Day 2 : Sundarbans Adventure
Wake up early and head to the Sundarbans for a full-day tour. You’ll explore the mangrove forests, spot wildlife, and enjoy the serene beauty of the rivers and creeks. The tour usually includes a visit to Kotka Beach, Jamtola Watchtower, and other significant spots within the Sundarbans. Lunch will be provided as part of the tour, featuring local dishes. Return to Khulna in the evening, and have dinner at "Panshi Restaurant," famous for its seafood and authentic Bengali flavors. Spend the night reflecting on the day’s adventure.
Day 3 : Visit to Bagerhat and Departure
On your final day, visit the historical city of Bagerhat in the morning. Explore the Tomb of Khan Jahan Ali, the Nine Dome Mosque, and other ancient structures. For lunch, enjoy local dishes at "Bismillah Hotel," a simple but popular eatery among locals. After lunch, visit the Fakir Lalon Shah’s Shrine, a site dedicated to the famous Bengali mystic poet, if time permits. Return to Khulna and prepare for your departure. You can enjoy a final dinner at "Hotel Royal," which offers a range of Bengali and international dishes. Depart from Khulna with memories of a unique and enriching journey.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly.
- Use bottled water to avoid waterborne diseases.
- Be cautious of street food; choose well-cooked items.
- Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.
- Use reliable transportation options; avoid unmarked vehicles.
- Learn basic phrases in Bengali to help with communication.
- Keep emergency contacts readily available.
- Stay updated on local news and travel advisories.
Flights
- US-Bangla Airlines offers flights from Dhaka to Khulna, taking about 40 minutes. Cost: Approximately $60 per person.
Hotels
- Hotel Castle Salam - Mid-range, comfortable.
- City Inn Ltd - Good amenities, central location.
- Tiger Garden International Hotel - Luxurious option.
- Hotel Royal International - Affordable, well-rated.
- Hotel Jalico - Budget-friendly with basic amenities.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Dhaka : +880-2-882-2780
- Police : 999
- Ambulance : +880-41-762101
- Firefighters : 102
Country
Closet Airport
- Jessore Airport (about 70 km from Khulna)
Nearest City
- Dhaka
Heritage Sites
- Sixty Dome Mosque in Bagerhat (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Airlines
- US-Bangla Airlines
- Novoair
Currency
- Bangladeshi Taka (BDT)
Languages Spoken
- Bengali
Real Story
In the mid-15th century, during the rule of the Bengal Sultanate, the region now known as Bagerhat, near Khulna, was a remote and largely uninhabited area. It was during this period that Khan Jahan Ali, a revered Sufi saint and warrior, arrived with the mission to establish a new Islamic city.
Khan Jahan Ali, whose real name was Ulugh Khan Jahan, was originally from Turkey and had served in the court of the Sultan of Bengal. Recognized for his piety, military prowess, and leadership, he was tasked with spreading Islam in the remote regions of Bengal. In 1429, he arrived in the Sundarbans region, which was then a wild and untamed land.
With a vision of creating a thriving Islamic community, Khan Jahan Ali founded the city of Khalifatabad, which is now known as Bagerhat. He began constructing mosques, roads, reservoirs, and other infrastructure to support the new settlement. His most ambitious project was the Sixty Dome Mosque, known locally as Shat Gombuj Masjid.
The Sixty Dome Mosque, completed in 1459, is an architectural marvel and one of the largest mosques in the Indian subcontinent. Despite its name, the mosque actually has 81 domes—77 on the roof and four corner domes that are larger and support the structure. The interior is supported by numerous stone pillars, creating a stunning visual effect as light filters through the mosque's arches and windows.
The construction of the mosque was a monumental task. The site was surrounded by dense mangrove forests and swamps, making the transportation of materials and labor extremely challenging. However, Khan Jahan Ali's leadership and determination overcame these obstacles. The bricks used in the construction were made locally, using a mix of clay from the region and lime mortar. The unique architecture of the mosque reflects a blend of Turkish, Arabian, and Bengali styles, symbolizing the cultural fusion that was a hallmark of Khan Jahan Ali's mission.
Beyond its architectural significance, the Sixty Dome Mosque served as the heart of the new city. It was not only a place of worship but also a center for education, administration, and social gatherings. The mosque became a symbol of the spread of Islam in Bengal and the development of the region into a vibrant center of culture and religion.
Khan Jahan Ali's contributions to the area extended beyond his lifetime. After his death in 1459, he was buried in a simple tomb near the mosque, which has since become a site of pilgrimage. The legacy of Khan Jahan Ali lives on, with the Sixty Dome Mosque standing as a testament to his vision and the rich cultural history of Khulna and its surroundings.
Today, the Sixty Dome Mosque remains one of the most important historical sites in Bangladesh, attracting visitors from around the world. It is a place where history, religion, and architecture converge, offering a glimpse into the past and the enduring legacy of one man's mission to transform a remote wilderness into a flourishing community.
Cuisine
Khulna's cuisine is a delightful exploration of the flavors and traditions of southwestern Bangladesh. The region’s food is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Sundarbans and the Bay of Bengal, making seafood a central component of the local diet.
One of the most iconic dishes of Khulna is "Shorshe Ilish," which is Hilsa fish cooked in a mustard sauce. The Hilsa fish, known locally as Ilish, is a prized catch in Bangladesh, and Khulna's version of this dish is celebrated for its bold flavors. The fish is marinated and cooked with mustard seeds, green chilies, and turmeric, creating a dish that is rich, spicy, and tangy—a true representation of Bengali culinary tradition.
Another popular dish is "Chingri Malai Curry," a creamy and flavorful prawn curry made with coconut milk. The prawns, often caught fresh from the nearby rivers, are cooked in a delicate sauce made from coconut milk, onions, garlic, and spices, resulting in a dish that is both savory and slightly sweet.
In addition to seafood, Khulna is known for its sweets. "Mishti Doi" (sweetened yogurt) is a traditional dessert that is both simple and indulgent. The yogurt is made from milk and sugar, and it is often flavored with cardamom or saffron, giving it a fragrant and rich taste. Another local sweet is "Chomchom," a syrup-soaked dessert made from curdled milk and semolina, often colored with saffron and garnished with nuts.
Street food in Khulna is also a significant part of the local culinary scene. "Pithas," traditional Bengali rice cakes, are commonly sold by street vendors, especially during the winter months. These cakes are made with rice flour and filled with sweet or savory fillings, such as coconut, jaggery, or spiced lentils.
Khulna’s cuisine is a reflection of its cultural diversity and the abundance of natural resources from the Sundarbans. Whether dining in a local eatery or enjoying street food, visitors to Khulna are sure to experience the authentic flavors of Bangladesh.
Culture and History
Khulna, nestled in the southwestern region of Bangladesh, is a city where tradition and modernity coexist, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Its cultural landscape is deeply intertwined with the history, religion, and natural environment of the region.
Cultural Overview
Khulna's culture is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world. The people of Khulna, like much of Bangladesh, are predominantly Bengali, and the Bengali language is the cornerstone of cultural expression. The local dialect has its own unique flavor, reflecting the area's history and influences.
The city is a melting pot of religious beliefs, primarily Islam and Hinduism, with both communities living in harmony. Festivals play a significant role in the social life of Khulna. Islamic celebrations such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are widely observed, along with Hindu festivals like Durga Puja and Kali Puja. These festivals bring the city to life with vibrant decorations, music, dance, and communal feasts.
Khulna is also known for its folk traditions, including the mystical Baul music. Baul singers, with their soulful songs, express spiritual themes that resonate deeply with the local population. These traditions are often performed in local fairs and gatherings, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural depth of the region.
Historical Significance
Khulna’s history is closely linked with the ancient city of Bagerhat, located nearby. Bagerhat was founded in the 15th century by Khan Jahan Ali, a Sufi saint and a military leader during the reign of the Bengal Sultanate. He established the city as a thriving center of trade and religion, which later became an important part of Khulna’s cultural heritage.
The most significant historical monument in the region is the Sixty Dome Mosque (Shat Gombuj Masjid), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This mosque is an architectural masterpiece of medieval Bengal, representing the height of Sultanate architecture with its numerous domes and intricate terracotta decorations. The mosque served as both a place of worship and a community center, illustrating the role of Islam in the cultural development of the area.
Khulna also has a colonial past, with remnants of British architecture and infrastructure still visible in the city. The impact of British rule is evident in the city’s administrative buildings, railway stations, and educational institutions, which continue to shape the city’s character.
Influence of the Sundarbans
The Sundarbans, a vast mangrove forest that borders Khulna, plays a pivotal role in the city’s identity. The forest is not just a natural resource but also a source of folklore and cultural inspiration. The tales of the Royal Bengal Tiger, Bonbibi (a forest goddess revered by both Hindus and Muslims), and the dangers of the dense, mysterious forest are deeply ingrained in the local consciousness. These stories are passed down through generations, enriching the cultural fabric of Khulna.
The Sundarbans also influence local livelihoods, with many people engaged in fishing, honey collection, and forest-related activities. The struggle between man and nature is a recurring theme in the local culture, reflected in songs, stories, and festivals that honor the balance between human life and the environment.