Explore the Sights of Khulna City
Lying on the banks of the Rupsha and Bhairab Rivers in the Khulna district of Bangladesh, Khulna is the third largest city in the country, and is one of the country’s important industrial and commercial hubs. With a population of more than one million people, the city has a strong infrastructure and numerous education institutions. Visitors to Khulna will find a host of interesting places to explore, including the Fultala Zoo, Wonderland Shishu Park, Rupsha Bridge, Gollamari Memorial, Prem Kanun, the former home of Khan E Sabur and the landscaped gardens of Khulna University.
The Rupsha River originates with the Atrai and Bhairab Rivers, passing by Khulna city and changing its name to Pasur River near Chalna before flowing into the Bay of Bengal. The river plays a key role in the economy of Bangladesh, as it connects the Khulna and Bagerhat Districts. Also, many fishermen make a living from catching fish in the river. Visitors can take a walk or drive across the bridge, which connects Bagerhat and Mongla Port, and admire the view of the river and city. A trip along the river offers a pleasant outing and at night the lights of the bridge reflecting on the water is very picturesque. In holiday season, or on occasions of special celebrations, vendors set up a market place selling everything from traditional foods to colorful toys – all in a very festive atmosphere.
Wonderland Shishu Park at Khalishpur is a theme park with family-oriented entertainment which is very popular with both locals and visitors to the city. In the holiday seasons the park is a hive of activity as people travel from the rural areas to enjoy some leisure time. Various activities, including merry-go-rounds, toy train rides and bumper cars keep children busy for hours.
On a more serious note, the Gollamari Memorial, located near Khulna University, serves as a reminder of the mass murder committed in the Gollamari River during the 1971 independence war which ended in East Pakistan becoming independent Bangladesh on December 16, 1971. Another interesting site is the former home of Khan E Sabur, which is open to the public and features a landscaped garden and pond, with a staircase down to the Rupsha River.
Rickshaws are the most popular mode of transport for getting around the city and seeing the sights at a more leisurely pace. Other sites to add to a list of things to see include Prem Kanun with its tree statues, St Joseph’s Church and Fultola Zoo.
