Rajshahi - Discovering Bangladesh

Travelling to Rajshahi

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Rajshahi, a pretty good destination in Bangladesh (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Rajshahi and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Rajshahi, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Bangladesh, here's everything to know about Rajshahi for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Rajshahi

Rajshahi is a major city in the northwest region of Bangladesh, situated on the north bank of the Padma River. It is the administrative hub of Rajshahi Division and one of the most populous cities in the country. The city has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with ancient ruins and historical landmarks such as the Varendra Research Museum and the Bagha Mosque. The region is known for its lush mango orchards and the famous silk produced in the nearby town of Pabna. Rajshahi is also home to some of the largest educational institutions in Bangladesh, including Rajshahi University and Rajshahi Medical College. The climate in Rajshahi is generally subtropical, with hot and humid summers and mild winters.

What to visit in Rajshahi

There are several tourist attractions in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Some of the most popular ones are: 1. Varendra Research Museum: It is one of the oldest and renowned museums in the country. The museum contains a huge collection of ancient sculptures, coins, manuscripts, and other archaeological artifacts.
2. Puthia Temple Complex: Puthia Temple Complex is the largest temple complex in the country. This archaeological site features a variety of temples with stunning architecture reflecting the Hindu, Islamic, and Buddhist religions.
3. Bagha Mosque: It is an ancient mosque, located in Bagha in the north of Rajshahi. It was built during the reign of Sultan Nasiruddin Mahmud Shah in the 15th century, and it is a great example of Islamic architecture.
4. Varendra Research Botanical Garden: The botanical garden is home to several species of plants, trees, and flowers. The garden is a perfect spot for nature lovers, where they can enjoy the natural beauty and learn about the different species of plants.
5. Barendra Museum: It is situated on the bank of Padma River and is a great historical monument. It has a collection of coins, sculptures, manuscripts, and other archaeological artifacts that depict the history and culture of Rajshahi.
6. Natore Rajbari: It is a beautiful palace situated in the heart of Natore, which was the residence of the Rajas (kings) of Natore. The palace has an old-world charm and visitors can witness stunning architectural designs, rare antiques, and vintage artworks.
7. Chhoto Sona Mosque: Chhoto Sona Mosque is a historical mosque situated in Gaur in the north of Rajshahi. It was built during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah in the 15th century, and its architecture is inspired by Islamic design.
All these tourist attractions in Rajshahi can provide visitors a glimpse into the impressive history and culture of Rajshahi, and they are definitely worth exploring.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Rajshahi.

When to go on holiday to Rajshahi

The best time to visit Rajshahi is during the winter months (November to February) when the temperature is relatively mild and pleasant. During these months, the average temperature ranges from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season starts from June to October with heavy rainfall and high humidity, which may affect outdoor activities. The summer months from March to May are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 40 degrees Celsius. It's best to avoid visiting during this time to prevent the risk of dehydration and heat stroke.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Rajshahi

There are several ways to get to Rajshahi, Bangladesh depending on where you are starting from. Here are some options: 1. By air: The nearest airport to Rajshahi is Shah Makhdum Airport in Rajshahi city. Several domestic airlines, including Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Novoair, operate regular flights from Dhaka Airport to Rajshahi Airport. The flight usually takes around 50 minutes. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a rental car to reach your destination.
2. By train: Rajshahi is well connected to Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, through train services. Several trains run daily from Dhaka's Kamalapur Railway Station to Rajshahi. The journey is around 5-6 hours, depending on the train and the stops on the way. There are also some overnight trains with sleeper accommodations.
3. By bus: Several bus companies, including Greenline Paribahan, Shyamoli Paribahan, and Hanif Enterprise, operate regular bus services between Dhaka and Rajshahi. The journey usually takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Rajshahi in Bangladesh.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Rajshahi, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Rajshahi

Here are some typical foods of Rajshahi (Bangladesh): 1. Pitha: Pitha is a traditional snack made of rice flour and a variety of fillings such as coconut, jaggery, or sesame seeds. Pitha is usually steamed, but it can also be fried or baked. It’s a popular winter delicacy in Rajshahi.
2. Bharta: Bharta is a dish made of vegetables that are mashed and seasoned with spices and mustard oil. Some popular bharta dishes in Rajshahi include eggplant bharta, tomato bharta, and pumpkin bharta.
3. Polao: Polao is a fragrant rice dish made with spices, ghee (clarified butter), and meat or vegetables. In Rajshahi, the most popular type of polao is made with beef or mutton.
4. Fish curry: Fish is a staple food in Rajshahi. Fish curry is a spicy dish made with fish, onions, garlic, ginger, and a variety of other spices.
5. Dal: Dal is a lentil soup that is typically served with rice. It’s a staple food in Rajshahi and is often cooked with different vegetables and spices to add flavor and nutrition.
6. Chutney: Chutney is a condiment made of fruits or vegetables, spices, and vinegar or lemon juice. In Rajshahi, chutney is often made with mangoes or tomatoes and is served as a side dish with meals.
7. Sweets: Rajshahi is famous for its sweets. Some popular sweets include roshogolla (a syrupy ball made of cottage cheese), sandesh (a sweet made of cottage cheese and sugar), and mishti doi (a sweet yoghurt made of condensed milk).
You can find general info about typical foods in Bangladesh here.

Is Rajshahi an expensive destination for tourists?

Rajshahi is generally considered to be a budget-friendly destination for tourists. The cost of living in Rajshahi is lower than in many other popular tourist destinations in Bangladesh. However, the cost of accommodations, transportation, and activities may vary depending on the time of year and the type of experience you are looking for. It's always a good idea to research the cost of your itinerary beforehand to ensure it fits your budget. Additionally, haggling is common practice in Bangladesh, so don't be afraid to negotiate prices with vendors and service providers.

Where to find accomodation in Rajshahi

To visit Rajshahi in Bangladesh, it is best to find accommodation in the central areas of the city such as New Market, Shaheb Bazar, Laxmipur, or ShahMakhdum areas. These areas offer easy access to many popular tourist attractions, including the Varendra Research Museum, Barendra Park, and Paharpur Buddhist Stupa. Additionally, they are well-connected with buses and other public transportation options.
You can check hotel prices at Rajshahi here:
Booking.com

Is Rajshahi a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Rajshahi is considered a safe place for tourists in Bangladesh. However, as with any city, it's always a good idea to take certain precautions like avoiding walking alone at night and storing your valuables in a secure place. It is also important to be respectful of the local culture and dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Overall, tourists who use common sense and stay aware of their surroundings usually have a positive and safe experience in Rajshahi.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Bangladesh here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Rajshahi.

What type of travelers will enjoy Rajshahi the most?

Rajshahi, the silk city of Bangladesh, offers a unique experience for all types of travelers. Couples can enjoy romantic walks through the lush greenery of Varendra Research Museum and the Banani Mosque, or they can cozy up and watch a beautiful sunset by the Padma river. Young people can have fun exploring the city's vibrant local markets like the Shaheb Bazar and the Saheb Bazar, or they can indulge in adrenaline-pumping water sports at the Bagha Lake. Families can enjoy a day out in the open air in amusement parks like the Nagar Kasba and the Zoo, where they can watch the animals living and playing in their natural habitats, and they can also partake in cultural events and festivals happening around the city. In conclusion, Rajshahi has something for everyone, and it's capable of providing an unforgettable experience for all types of travelers.

How to get around Rajshahi

There are several modes of transportation to move around Rajshahi, Bangladesh. The most common mode of transportation is auto-rickshaws, which are three-wheeled vehicles that are relatively cheap and readily available. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transportation, as well as taxis, buses, and motorcycles. It is important to note that road conditions in Rajshahi can vary, so it is recommended to exercise caution while traveling by these modes of transportation.

What to see around Rajshahi

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Rajshahi: 1. Puthia Temple Complex - A historic temple complex with some of the most beautiful and ornate terracotta temples in Bangladesh.
2. Bagha Mosque - A 15th-century mosque that features intricate stone carvings and impressive architectural design.
3. Mahasthangarh - An ancient archaeological site containing the ruins of an important city from the 3rd century BC.
4. Varendra Research Museum - A great museum that houses impressive collections of archaeological and historical artifacts from the region.
5. Barind Tract - A unique ecosystem with a distinctive landscape, where you can spot many species of birds and other wildlife.
I hope this helps, let me know if you need any further assistance.
For every travel information about Bangladesh you can click here.

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