About Place
- "A town where time seems to slow down, with serene river views and a touch of old-world charm."
- "The gateway to the Garo Hills and a cradle of Bangladeshi education and culture."
- "An underrated gem with the Brahmaputra River winding through its soul."
Reasons to Visit
- Cultural and Educational Hub : Mymensingh is home to some of Bangladesh’s most prestigious educational institutions, including Bangladesh Agricultural University. The town has long been a center of learning, and its rich academic history is reflected in its cultural offerings, including numerous libraries, museums, and theaters.
- Natural Beauty and Riverside Charm : The Brahmaputra River is the lifeline of Mymensingh, offering picturesque views and opportunities for boat rides and riverside picnics. The riverbanks are dotted with parks and open spaces, where locals and visitors alike enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Nearby, the green landscapes of the Garo Hills provide a scenic escape into nature.
- Historic and Artistic Significance : Mymensingh has a deep connection with Bengali literature and art, being the birthplace of many famous writers and artists. The Mymensingh Museum showcases this rich heritage, with exhibits ranging from traditional crafts to historical artifacts. The city's architecture, with its colonial-era buildings, adds to its historic charm.
Visa
- For US, UK, EU, and Canadian citizens : A visa is required for entry into Bangladesh. Visitors can apply online for an e-visa or get a visa on arrival for short stays, depending on nationality. The process usually involves submitting a passport-sized photo, passport details, and the payment of a fee.
- For Indian citizens : A visa is required, which can be obtained from Bangladeshi consulates or online. Visa on arrival is also available for certain categories of travelers.
- For citizens of SAARC countries : A visa is generally required but can often be obtained more easily and at a reduced fee.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Mymensingh :
- Estimated cost of round-trip airfare from Dhaka to Mymensingh (via a domestic flight to the nearest airport and a car ride) for two people: $100-$150.
- Hotel Cost :
- Estimated cost for a three-night stay at a mid-range hotel in Mymensingh: $120-$150.
- Food Cost :
- Estimated cost for three days of meals for two people (lunch and dinner): $60-$80.
- Activity Cost :
- Estimated cost for museum entry, Garo Hills excursion, and boat ride for two people: $50-$70.
- Near Destination Travel Cost :
- Estimated cost for car rental and fuel for local travel: $50-$70.
Total Estimated Travel Expenses : $380-$520.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Exploring the City
Upon arrival in Mymensingh, start your day with a visit to the Mymensingh Museum to delve into the rich history and culture of the region. The museum offers a fascinating collection of artifacts, including traditional Bangladeshi crafts, musical instruments, and ancient manuscripts. Afterward, enjoy lunch at Elita Restaurant, where you can savor authentic Bangladeshi cuisine, such as biryani or fish curry. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Brahmaputra River, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views. In the evening, dine at Shahana Restaurant, known for its delicious local dishes, before heading back to your hotel to rest.
Day 2 : Day Trip to Garo Hills
Start your day early with a trip to the Garo Hills, located a short drive from Mymensingh. The hills offer stunning views, lush greenery, and a chance to experience the traditional lifestyle of the Garo people. Spend the morning hiking through the hills and visiting local villages. For lunch, enjoy a traditional Garo meal at a local homestay or a small restaurant in the hills. In the afternoon, return to Mymensingh and visit Alexander Castle, a beautiful colonial-era mansion. End the day with dinner at Spicy Restaurant, where you can try more of the region's culinary delights.
Day 3 : Exploring Educational and Cultural Landmarks
On your final day, visit the Bangladesh Agricultural University campus, known for its lush green environment and significant contributions to agricultural research in the country. Explore the campus and its surroundings, including the botanical garden. For lunch, head to the University Cafeteria for a simple but tasty meal. In the afternoon, visit the Mymensingh Circuit House, a historic building with beautiful architecture and a tranquil garden. Finish your trip with a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River at sunset, followed by a dinner at Suruchi Restaurant, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and delicious food.
Safety Tips
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa at all times.
- Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Be cautious when using public transportation and negotiate fares beforehand.
- Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases.
- Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly.
- Keep valuables in a secure location and avoid flashing expensive items.
- Stay informed about local weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season.
- Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito-borne diseases.
- Make sure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies.
- Keep the emergency contacts of your country's embassy and local authorities handy.
Flights
- Flights from Dhaka to Mymensingh are typically not direct. You can fly from Dhaka to Shahjalal International Airport, then travel by road to Mymensingh. Airlines like Biman Bangladesh and US-Bangla Airlines offer flights from Dhaka to nearby locations.
Hotels
- Hotel Mustafiz International – A comfortable option with modern amenities.
- Hotel Amir International – Known for its central location and good service.
- Hotel Shahjahan International – Offers affordable rooms and easy access to major sites.
- Hotel Al-Amin – A budget-friendly choice with basic facilities.
- Hotel Mymensingh Inn – A mid-range hotel with good reviews and convenient location.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Dhaka : +880 2 882 6900
- Local Police : 999
- Ambulance : 199
- Firefighters : 199
Country
Closet Airport
- Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka)
Nearest City
- Dhaka
Heritage Sites
- Mymensingh Museum
Airlines
- Domestic flights are limited; travelers typically fly to Dhaka and travel by road.
Currency
- Bangladeshi Taka (BDT)
Languages Spoken
- Bengali
Real Story
The Bengal Renaissance was a social, cultural, and intellectual movement that emerged in the Bengal region of the Indian subcontinent during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This movement played a crucial role in shaping modern Indian and Bangladeshi society, leading to significant reforms in education, literature, art, and social practices. Mymensingh, though not as prominent as Kolkata in the movement, had its own vital contributions to this period of awakening.
The Intellectual Awakening
During the late 19th century, Mymensingh became a hub for intellectual and cultural activity. Influential figures from the city, such as Ananda Mohan Bose, played pivotal roles in spreading the ideas of the Bengal Renaissance. Ananda Mohan Bose, born in Mymensingh in 1847, was an educationist and social reformer who was instrumental in promoting the ideals of the Brahmo Samaj, a reformist movement that sought to modernize and purify Hinduism, rejecting caste discrimination and idolatry.
The establishment of Ananda Mohan College in Mymensingh was a significant event in the city's history. The college became a center for higher education in the region, attracting students and intellectuals who were eager to participate in the cultural and intellectual revival sweeping Bengal. The college fostered a spirit of inquiry and debate, contributing to the broader discourse on social and educational reforms.
Cultural Contributions
Mymensingh's contribution to Bengali literature and culture during the Bengal Renaissance is particularly noteworthy. The city's rich tradition of folk music and poetry provided a unique rural perspective to the cultural movement. The Mymensingh Geetika, a collection of folk ballads, is one of the most significant literary contributions from the region. These ballads, which narrate the lives of rural people, their joys, sorrows, and aspirations, were collected and compiled during this period, preserving an essential aspect of Bengali cultural heritage.
One of the most famous stories from the Mymensingh Geetika is the tale of Mahua, a tragic love story between a human and a supernatural being, which reflects the deep connection between the people of Mymensingh and their natural surroundings. The ballads from this collection continue to be a source of inspiration for Bengali literature and art.
Social Reforms and Legacy
Mymensingh also played a role in the social reforms that were a key aspect of the Bengal Renaissance. Influenced by the ideas of the Brahmo Samaj and other reformist movements, the city saw efforts to improve the conditions of women and the lower castes. Educational institutions in Mymensingh began to offer more inclusive opportunities for learning, challenging traditional social hierarchies.
The legacy of the Bengal Renaissance in Mymensingh is evident in the city's continued emphasis on education and culture. Today, Mymensingh remains a city proud of its intellectual and cultural heritage, with its institutions and traditions serving as a reminder of its role in this pivotal period of South Asian history.
Cuisine
Mymensingh offers a delightful array of traditional Bangladeshi dishes, deeply rooted in the flavors and ingredients of the region. The cuisine here is characterized by the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including fish from the Brahmaputra River, a variety of vegetables, and aromatic spices. Here are some of the unique dishes and culinary traditions of Mymensingh:
Ilish Bhapa (Steamed Hilsa Fish)
One of the most iconic dishes in Mymensingh, as well as in the wider region of Bangladesh, is Ilish Bhapa. Hilsa, or Ilish, is a type of fish that is highly prized for its rich, oily flesh and delicate flavor. In this dish, the fish is marinated with mustard paste, green chilies, turmeric, and salt, and then steamed to perfection. The mustard paste gives the fish a tangy, pungent flavor that complements its natural richness. Ilish Bhapa is often served with steamed rice, making for a simple yet deeply satisfying meal.
Bhuna Khichuri
Bhuna Khichuri is a comforting dish made from rice and lentils, cooked together with a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and garam masala. In Mymensingh, Bhuna Khichuri is often prepared during special occasions or as a hearty meal during the monsoon season. The dish is typically served with beef or mutton curry, adding a rich, savory element to the meal. The slow-cooked nature of Bhuna Khichuri allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is both nourishing and flavorful.
Monda (Sweetmeat)
Mymensingh is particularly famous for a traditional sweet known as Monda. Originating from the nearby town of Muktagacha, Monda is made from thickened milk, sugar, and ghee. The mixture is cooked slowly until it forms a dense, fudge-like consistency, which is then shaped into small, round balls. Monda has a rich, creamy flavor with a hint of caramel, making it a beloved treat in the region. It's often enjoyed during festivals, religious ceremonies, or as a special dessert after a meal.
These dishes are just a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Mymensingh, where food is not just sustenance but a celebration of the region's culture and heritage. Whether enjoying a simple meal of rice and fish or indulging in the sweetness of Monda, the flavors of Mymensingh offer a unique taste of Bangladesh's culinary diversity.
Culture and History
Mymensingh is a city deeply embedded in the cultural and historical fabric of Bangladesh. The city's cultural identity is shaped by its long-standing traditions in education, literature, and the arts, as well as its unique geographical and historical position in the country.
Educational and Intellectual Hub
Mymensingh has long been recognized as an important center of education and intellectual activity in Bangladesh. The city is home to the prestigious Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), established in 1961, which has played a critical role in advancing agricultural research and education in the country. BAU is the country's premier institution for agricultural sciences, attracting students from across Bangladesh and beyond. The presence of such a significant institution has imbued the city with a strong academic culture, influencing the social and intellectual life of its residents.
Another notable educational institution is Ananda Mohan College, founded in 1908, which has a rich history of contributing to the educational landscape of Bangladesh. The college is named after the Brahmo Samaj reformer Ananda Mohan Bose, reflecting the city's historical association with the Bengali Renaissance—a period of cultural and intellectual awakening in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Cultural Heritage and the Arts
Mymensingh has a rich tradition of Bengali literature and music. The city has been home to many famous poets, writers, and artists who have significantly influenced Bangladeshi culture. One of the most prominent figures associated with Mymensingh is the poet Mymensingh Geetika—a collection of traditional ballads and folk songs that originated in the region. These songs, often sung by rural bards, reflect the life, struggles, and emotions of the people of Mymensingh and are an integral part of the region's cultural heritage.
The city is also known for its vibrant Jatra (folk theater) performances, which are a popular form of entertainment, particularly in rural areas. Jatra performances are known for their dramatic narratives, often based on historical or mythological themes, and are an important aspect of the local cultural scene.
Historical Significance and Colonial Legacy
Mymensingh's history is marked by its role during the British colonial period. The city was established as a district in 1787 and served as an important administrative center under British rule. The remnants of colonial architecture, such as Alexander Castle (also known as Lohar Kuthi), are a testament to this period. Built by a local zamindar (landlord) in the late 19th century, Alexander Castle is an example of the fusion of European architectural styles with local influences.
Mymensingh's location along the banks of the Brahmaputra River has historically made it a key trading hub, further contributing to its cultural and economic development. The river itself holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for the people of Mymensingh, often featuring in local folklore and literature.