🌿 The Hidden Waterways of Bengal – An Unforgettable 2-Day Journey through Barishal & Swarupkathi 🇧🇩
🚌 The Night Before (Day 0):
Under the soft glow of the night, we will set sail from Dhaka to Barishal by launch. Drifting on the mighty rivers, feeling the cool breeze, sharing stories under a sky full of stars—this is where our journey truly begins.
🗓️ Day 1: History, Heritage, and River Life
Our morning in Barishal starts with a visit to the serene Madhabpasha Dighi—a historic pond surrounded by lush greenery, whispering tales of centuries gone by.
Next, we will explore the majestic Guthia Mosque, an architectural masterpiece where tranquility and grandeur meet.
We’ll then journey to Chakhar, the birthplace of the legendary Sher-e-Bangla A.K. Fazlul Huq. Walking the peaceful village roads, you’ll feel a deep connection to the history and the roots of Bengal.
As the golden sun sets, we’ll head to the banks of the Sandhya River to witness the traditional art of Hilsa fishing—a magical moment where nature and human life intertwine.
🌙 Optional: Spend the night in a cozy local homestay. Taste authentic Bengali cuisine, meet warm-hearted villagers, and immerse yourself in rural hospitality.
🗓️ Day 2: Floating Markets, Crafts & Village Life
Our second day begins with a magical ride to the famous Floating Guava Market—one of the world’s rarest river bazaars. Here, boats turn into colorful floating shops where locals trade fresh guavas right on the water.
We’ll then explore lush Guava Orchards and witness the fascinating process at a Salt Processing Farm.
The afternoon takes us through unique craft villages:
🏏 Cricket Bat Making
🍘 Puffed Rice Factory
🧺 Bamboo & Cane Craftsmanship
🪑 Furniture Making
🌸 Floating Plant Nurseries & Flower Gardens
Throughout the journey, you’ll get to: 🍛 Enjoy delicious home-cooked local meals
🛶 Take a traditional boat ride
🌅 Experience the quiet beauty of a sunset over the river
🤝 Meet artisans, farmers, and everyday heroes of rural Bengal
🛳️ Return (Day 2 Night):
As the day winds down, we’ll board the launch from Barishal, carrying with us memories of rivers, stories, flavors, and smiles. The overnight journey brings us back to Dhaka the next morning.
✅ Pro Tips:
Best enjoyed between June–September when the rivers are full and the floating markets are alive.
Bring your camera, sunscreen, and a curious heart!
50 Things To Do:
Additional Activities -
1. Visit Madhabpasha Dighi
2. Explore Guthia Mosque
3. Discover Sher-e-Bangla A.K. Fazlul Huq's House
4. Watch Hilsa Fishing on Sandhya River
5. Explore Floating Guava Market
6. Visit Guava Orchards
7. See Salt Processing Farm
8. Watch Cricket Bat Making
9. Visit Puffed Rice Factory
10. Explore Bamboo Craft Village
11. Visit Cane Craft Village
12. Explore Furniture Making Village
13. Visit Floating Plant Nursery
14. Discover Flower Gardens
15. Ride a Traditional Boat
16. Taste Fresh Hilsa Curry
17. Join a Local Family for Lunch
18. Stay in a Local Homestay
19. Enjoy Sunset Boat Ride
20. Visit Barishal City’s Bell’s Park
21. Discover Oxford Mission Church
22. Explore Durga Sagar Dighi
23. Ride local public transport "Palki"
24. See Fishermen's Life on Shondha River
25. Visit local life of Swarupkathi
26. Try Local Rice Cakes (Pitha)
27. Visit Swarupkathi Agricultural Area
28. Explore Local Village Markets
29. Photograph Barishal's Wooden Boats
30. Explore river life
31. Taste Fresh Coconut Water
32. Visit Local Tailoring & Handicraft Shops
33. Enjoy Rural Cycling around Villages
34. Discover Local Fishing Techniques
35. Taste Date Palm Jaggery (Winter Special)
36. Visit Brick Fields & Learn about Brick Making
37. Join a Traditional Village Fair (if available)
38. Visit a School in a Rural Area
39. Try Toddy (Local Palm Wine)
40. Witness Local Weddings (with permission)
41. Participate in Rice Planting or Harvesting
42. Visit an Ancient Temple or Shrine
43. Take a Photography Tour of Backwaters
44. Watch Local Kids Playing Football or Cricket
45. Visit Local Mosque & Experience Community Life
46. Explore Old Colonial Buildings in Barishal
47. Enjoy Tea at a Village Tea Stall
48. Taste Local Sweets (Chomchom, Roshogolla)
49. Visit floating guava garden
50. Take a Sunset Walk Along Riverbanks
