Rajshahi is on the banks of the Padma River northwest of Dhaka. It is known as the Silk City and the Education City of Bangladesh. From Dhaka, it only takes a few hours to drive to the city, which offers peace, history, and a taste of traditional North Bengali life.
1. How to Reach Rajshahi from Dhaka
Rajshahi is 250 kilometres northwest of Dhaka, and you can travel to Rajshahi comfortably in a variety of ways:
By Train
Trains like Silk City Express, Padma Express, and Dhumketu Express run daily from Kamalapur Station to Rajshahi.
- Time: 5-6 hours
- Tip: Book tickets in advance from Bangladesh Railway to ensure your preferred seat.
By Bus
We recommend top-rated operations like Hanif, Desh Travels, and Green Line, which run A/C coaches from Dhaka to Rajshahi.
- Travel time: Approximately 5–6 hours along the Bangabandhu Bridge.
- Best route: Dhaka–Tangail–Sirajganj–Rajshahi.
By Private Car
If you prefer a bit of flexibility, then drive via N6 National Highway. The road trip is very beautiful, especially around the Padma River belt, and there are plenty of opportunities for tea and local snacks along the way.
2. Where to Stay in Rajshahi
Rajshahi has everything in the budget to mid-range category, typically enough to accommodate short heritage tours.
- Hotel Nice International
- Hotel Warisan International
- Hotel Mukta International
Online booking platforms like Agoda or Booking.com list reliable hotels in the city center near major attractions.
3. Top Heritage Attractions You Must Visit
Rajshahi is known for some of the most historic and architectural sites in Bangladesh.
Varendra Research Museum
Established in 1910, Varendra Research Museum displays Pala and Sena dynasty sculptures, ancient coins, and other archaeological discoveries from Bengal. It is a great place for history lovers.
Bagha Mosque
Bagha Mosque was built in 1523 during the reign of Sultan Nasiruddin Nasrat Shah. Its terracotta decoration and beautiful stone carvings are the hallmarks of a Sultanate architecture building.
Puthia Temple Complex
Only about 23 km from Rajshahi city, the temple complex is home to several Hindu temples, including Govinda Temple and Shiva Temple. All are beautifully decorated.
Padma River Bank
The ideal spot for travellers in the evening! People come here to enjoy the sunset views and tea and light snacks while the light breezes from the Padma River make the experience all the more rewarding.
4. Enjoy Local Cuisine and Culture
- Rajshahi is famous for mangoes, silk, and sweets.
- Sample Rajshahi biryani or local Hilsa fish dishes at a local restaurant.
- Come during the mango season of May–July for a taste of the region’s world-famous varieties.
- Purchase silk sarees at Rajshahi Silk Factory or Shaheb Bazar to experience the region’s rich tradition of hand-woven textiles.
5. 2-Day Short Heritage Trip Itinerary
Day 1
- Leave early in the morning on a train from Dhaka.
- After arriving in Rajshahi, first visit the Varendra Museum. After the museum, spend some time walking along the Padma River Bank.
- In the evening, have a local dinner in Shaheb Bazar and stay overnight in Rajshahi.
Day 2
- Visit Puthia Temple Complex in the morning.
- Once you have finished the temple complex, visit the Bagha Mosque and a couple of local craft shops.
- Enjoy lunch in Rajshahi and proceed to return to Dhaka in the afternoon/evening.
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