The sandy landscape of Charkhanpur, often called a “desert-like” char area, lies close to Rajshahi in northwestern Bangladesh. Although it is only about 1.5 kilometres from the city across the Padma River, reaching the location can be challenging due to the river crossing and rugged sandy terrain.
Visitors usually travel by local transport to the riverbank, cross by boat, and then continue across sandy river islands known as chars. The entire journey typically takes one to two hours, depending on weather and river conditions.
Overview of the Journey
To visit Charkhanpur, travelers begin their journey from the main areas of Rajshahi. From there, they head toward the banks of the Padma River, often near places like Godagari Upazila or Katakhali Upazila.
Because the area is located near the border of India—specifically close to the Murshidabad District—regular buses or public transport do not go directly to the char area. Most travelers rely on local boats and motorcycles to complete the journey.
Step-by-Step Route to Charkhanpur
1. Travelling to the Padma River Bank
To travel to the Bank of the Padma River from Rajshahi’s central commercial areas (Railway Station and New Market), you can catch a CNG auto-rickshaw or Rickshaw or local bus to the ghats along the bank of the Padma River.
- Travel Time: 20-30 minutes
- Estimated Cost: 50-100 BDT
2. Crossing the River via Boat
Once you arrive at the Ghat, in addition to local fishermen taking people across the river with their small engine boats, local fishermen transfer people using their boats from the ghat to the Char Island and back.
- Travel Time: approximately 10-20 minutes
- Estimated Cost: per group 200-500 BDT
Crossing the river is considered one of the most fun parts of your adventure and gives you a great view of the expansive Padma River and surrounding regions.
3. Travelling across the Sandy Char
When you arrive on the Char, you will have approximately 3-5 km to travel on the Char by either walking or hiring a motorcycle from the locals.
- Cost to Rent a Motorcycle: Approximately 100-300 BDT
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the pathway can be very uneven and dusty.
4. Arriving at Charkhanpur
Once you travel through the Village of Navaripur, the path will lead you to the village of Charkhanpur, which is a large sandy area, much like a small desert.
Travel Tips and Safety Advice
- Visit during the dry season (November–March) when river levels are lower.
- Carry water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes for the sandy terrain.
- Since the location is near the border, follow instructions from Border Guard Bangladesh if required.
- Travel with friends or a guide to avoid getting lost in the char area.
FAQs
1. Where is Charkhanpur?
Charkhanpur is a char area in northwestern Bangladesh, not far from Rajshahi.
2. How long does it take to get to Charkhanpur from Rajshahi?
It usually takes 1 to 2 hours to get there, including crossing the river and driving across the sandy char.
3. Do I need to ask permission to go to Charkhanpur?
Visitors from Bangladesh usually don’t need a permit, but foreigners might need one because of where the border is.
4. When is the best time to go?
The best time is from November to March, when it is dry, and flooding is less likely.
5. Is Charkhanpur really a desert?
It is not a desert in the strictest sense; it is a sandy river channel made by the Padma River that looks like desert land.
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