Trip to Sonargaon, the First Capital of Bengal

Trip to Sonargaon – the first capital of Bengal, is a great treat. Sonargaon was the country’s first capital from the 13th to 17th century, located about 30km southeast by the Dhaka Chittagong highway. In its prime time, the ‘Golden City’ was also an important river port and the trading center for the world-famous muslin cloth. The remains of several mosques, tombs, stupas and a bridge in Panam Nagar, the Shiv Mandir (Hindu temple) and the well-maintained Folk-Art Museum are well worth visiting. A boat trip on the Meghna River for some hours and visiting a primitive char village are the activities of this trip.

Embarking on a day trip to Sonargaon is like stepping into a living museum. As you explore the remnants of its glorious past, you can’t help but feel the echoes of bygone eras reverberating through its weathered walls.

One of the highlights of Sonargaon is the magnificent Panam City, a once-thriving trading center during the Mughal era. Today, it stands as a ghost town, its dilapidated mansions and crumbling buildings serving as poignant reminders of its former grandeur. Strolling through its narrow lanes, you’ll encounter architectural marvels adorned with ornate carvings and intricate motifs, transporting you to a time of opulence and prosperity.

A visit to the Folk Art and Crafts Museum in Sonargaon offers a glimpse into the traditional arts and crafts of the region. The museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, including pottery, textiles, woodwork, and metalwork, providing a deeper understanding of the local craftsmanship and artistic traditions.

For a serene escape, visit the charming Goaldi Mosque, an architectural gem adorned with terracotta carvings and intricate details. Its peaceful surroundings and the harmonious blend of Islamic and Bengali architectural styles make it a tranquil spot for reflection and admiration.

At its origin, a visit to the Jamdani saree weaving factory is a must; here, the scholar artist has been weaving their dreams on sarees. With Muslin as its root, the Jamdani Saree is a very old tradition known as Dhakai Jamdani Saree. Jamdani started its journey during the Mughal era as Muslin. This saree represents one of the finest and most ancient forms of weaving that originated in Bengal. Recently this unique technique has got a UNESCO award for its ultra-fine fabric, transparency, and design. It is always a dream for Bengali women to have one pure cotton & silk hand-loomed Jamdani saree in their collection.

No visit to Sonargaon is complete without a boat ride on the mighty Meghna River. Drift along its gentle currents, witnessing the idyllic riverine landscapes and absorbing the tranquility that envelops the area.

Throughout your journey, engage with the locals, who are warm and hospitable, and take the opportunity to savor the flavors of the region’s traditional cuisine. From mouthwatering delicacies like hilsha fish curries to sweet treats like mishti doi (sweet yogurt), the culinary delights of Sonargaon add an extra layer of richness to your experience.

A day trip to Sonargaon offers an enchanting blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. It allows you to step back in time, unraveling the layers of a once-thriving capital and connecting with the heritage of Bengal. As you leave Sonargaon, you’ll carry with you the memories of a journey through history, forever treasuring the cultural significance and timeless charm of this remarkable place.