Embark on an enchanting voyage to Sonargaon and Panam City, two captivating destinations that hold the key to Bangladesh’s rich history and cultural heritage. This insightful day tour takes you on a discovery of ancient treasures, abandoned splendors, and the stories they whisper.
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Car, Rickshaw, Bote
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Dhaka
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Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, June, July, November & December
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Lunch at a local restaurant with authentic Bangladeshi food.
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English
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5
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99
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1 - 20
Overview
Embark on an enchanting voyage to Sonargaon and Panam City, two captivating destinations that hold the key to Bangladesh’s rich history and cultural heritage. This insightful day tour takes you on a discovery of ancient treasures, abandoned splendors, and the stories they whisper.
Sonargaon: Unveiling the Medieval Legacy Set just 37 km away from Dhaka, Sonargaon beckons as the quintessential day tour from the capital. It’s a realm where history, art, and culture intertwine. Locals and visitors alike are drawn to the allure of the Folk Art Museum, an embodiment of the nation’s creativity. The month-long folk art fair and the annual folk festival infuse vibrant energy into this historical enclave.
Journey into the Past: Sonargaon’s Rich Heritage Steeped in history, Sonargaon was once the pulsating heart of medieval Bengal. An administrative and commercial hub, it was a beacon of maritime prosperity. A seat of power for medieval Muslim rulers and Eastern Bengal governors, its relevance spans centuries. It’s where dynasties rose, rulers ascended, and history was scripted.
Lost Glory & Quiet Remnants Sonargaon’s significance as a mint capital is etched in history alongside Gauda. Yet, in 1610, the Mughal rulers shifted the capital to Jahangirnagar, now Dhaka, leaving Sonargaon’s grandeur behind. Today, the village belies its glorious past. Amid the tranquil facade, echoes of an illustrious era beckon curious minds.
Panam Nagar: Echoes of Abandonment A mere stroll from the Folk Arts & Crafts Museum, Panam Nagar stands as a testament to history’s twists. Founded during British rule, this abandoned city was a haven for Hindu merchants trading in cotton fabrics. Fifty-two houses along a single street exude a blend of European and Bengal architecture, narrating tales of a thriving past.
A Glimpse into Eternity: Panam’s Silent Streets Panam Nagar, the world’s sole abandoned city of its kind, unfurls its enigma. Rows of abandoned houses form a ghostly silhouette on the street. A dichotomy of pure residences and entertainment venues comes to life, with tales of Baijis’ lively performances, dancing, singing, and revelry.
Guided Exploration & Time Travel Embarking on this guided day tour, a world of history and wonder unfolds. A boat ride on the Meghna River leads to an island that holds secrets of a bygone era. The Folk Arts & Crafts Museum comes alive, weaving a tapestry of tradition, skill, and culture.
Panam’s Whispers & Moments Venturing into Panam Nagar, you tread upon echoes of the past. Wandering through cobbled streets and past decaying facades, you’ll glimpse into lives once lived here. Opulent residences coexist with entertainment houses, a journey that paints a vivid picture of a forgotten era.
A Day of Connection & Understanding This comprehensive day tour unravels the layers of Sonargaon and Panam City’s history. Amidst cultural riches and forgotten stories, you’ll forge a deep connection with the soul of Bangladesh. As the sun sets on these timeless landmarks, you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the nation’s roots.
Note: Please check the opening hours and off days of Sonargaon Museum and Panam Nagar before planning your visit. The tour provides an all-encompassing experience, merging historical exploration, cultural immersion, and a voyage through time.
Important Notes
Xplore Sonargaon & Panam City Tour is available to book year-round, any day of the week.
Panam Nagar is closed on Sundays of the week and early morning on Mondays. Besides, only the museum is closed on public holidays but Panama City is open.
Sonargaon Museum Opening Hours During Summer (April – September)
Friday – Wednesday: 10.00 AM – 06.00 PM
Sonargaon Museum Opening Hours During Winter (October – March)
Friday – Wednesday: 09.00 AM – 05.00 PM
Sonargaon Museum Off Day
Sonargaon Museum off day will be Thursdays throughout the year.
Sonargaon Museum Opening Hours During the Govt. Holidays
Unlike other tourist sites in Bangladesh, Sonargaon Museum remains open during the govt. holidays except for
the holidays of Sob-e-Borat and Sob-e-Kadar.
Sonargaon Museum Opening Hours During Ramadan
Sonargaon Museum will be closed at 03.30 PM during the holy month of Ramadan.
Sonargaon Museum Opening Hours During Eid Holidays
Highlights
- Ride a boat on the mighty river Meghna.
- Taste some authentic Bangladeshi food at a local restaurant.
- Experience village life on a sandbank island of river Meghna. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the traditional way of life in Bangladesh.
- Visit the Khan Jahan Ali Mosque, a pre-Mughal mosque from the 16th century. This mosque is one of the oldest and most well-preserved mosques in Bangladesh.
- Visit Panam Nagar, an entirely abandoned city of the Hindu cotton merchants from the early 19th century. This city was once a thriving trading center, but it was abandoned after a religious riot in the early 20th century. Today, it is a popular tourist destination for its eerie atmosphere.
- Visit the tomb of Nasiruddin Mahmud, an independent Sultan of Bengal in the 15th century. His capital was Sonargaon, and he is considered one of the most important rulers in the history of Bangladesh.
- Visit the newly renovated Boro Sardar Bari, a massive mansion from the same Panam Nagar period. This mansion was once the home of a wealthy merchant, and it is now a popular tourist destination for its intricate architecture.
- Visit the Folk-arts and Crafts Museum and learn about the country's rich textile heritage. This museum houses a collection of traditional Bangladeshi textiles, jewelry, and musical instruments.
