Discover Khulna Division: Bangladesh’s Southwestern Jewel
Khulna Division, nestled in the southwestern part of Bangladesh, is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. With its striking natural beauty, rich culture, and historical landmarks, this region offers experiences that many travelers overlook. From the bustling streets of Khulna City to the serene landscapes of the Sundarbans, the division is packed with unique offerings.
The Sundarbans: A Natural Wonder
Exploring the World’s Largest Mangrove Forest
The Sundarbans is not just the largest mangrove forest in the world, covering over 10,000 square kilometers, but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the iconic Bengal tiger, the Ganges River dolphin, and various species of birds and fish. The forest boasts an astonishing biodiversity, with more than 400 species of flora and fauna. Conservation efforts are crucial, as several species, including the Bengal tiger, face threats from habitat loss and climate change. Initiatives like the Sundarbans Tiger Project have helped promote ecotourism while working to protect this fragile ecosystem.
Navigating the Waterways: Boat Tours and Wildlife Spotting
Exploring the Sundarbans often involves boat tours, which allow visitors to journey through the intricate network of rivers and canals. Popular routes can last anywhere from half a day to several days, providing a chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is cooler, and animal sightings are more frequent. Visitors should practice sustainable tourism by respecting wildlife, avoiding littering, and supporting local guides.
Khulna City: A Vibrant Urban Hub
Historical Landmarks and Architectural Gems
Khulna City showcases a mix of historical landmarks and modern architecture. Key sites include the iconic Sixty Dome Mosque, a marvel of Islamic architecture built in the 15th century. This stunning mosque features unique brickwork and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can also admire the colonial-era buildings scattered throughout the city, reflecting a variety of architectural styles.
The City’s Culture and Culinary Delights
Khulna’s culture is vibrant and diverse. Festivals such as the Nobanna Festival celebrate the harvest season, featuring local music and dance. The city is also known for its delicious cuisine. Must-try dishes include ‘shorshe ilish’ (hilsa fish in mustard sauce) and ‘panta bhat’ (fermented rice). As food blogger Sayeda Rahman notes, “The flavors of Khulna are as rich as its culture.”
Local Markets and Shopping Experiences
The local markets in Khulna offer a lively atmosphere filled with colorful stalls. Here, shoppers can find handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce. Bargaining is common and part of the fun, so visitors should approach negotiations with a friendly attitude.
Beyond the City: Exploring the Districts
Rural Life and Agricultural Practices
Khulna Division’s economy heavily relies on agriculture, with rice, jute, and shrimp being the main products. The lush fields and rural landscapes present a stark contrast to urban life. Farmers work tirelessly under the sun, and their hard work sustains the local economy.
The Diverse Cultures and Traditions of Khulna Division
Each district in Khulna Division has its own unique traditions. For example, the traditional boat races during the ‘Nabanna’ festival are a sight to behold in many areas. Regional clothing, like the vibrant sarees worn by women, showcases the local craftsmanship. Music and dance also play a significant role in community gatherings, often reflecting the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Connecting with Local Communities: Responsible Travel
When visiting villages, it is vital to interact respectfully with locals. Engaging in activities like cooking classes or agricultural experiences can provide deeper insights into daily life. Supporting local businesses, such as handicraft shops, helps promote economic growth in these communities.
Accessibility and Getting There Transportation Options: Reaching Khulna Division
Traveling to Khulna Division is convenient, with various transportation options. Daily flights connect Dhaka to Khulna City, taking about one hour. Buses are also a popular choice, with travel times ranging from 6 to 8 hours at a reasonable cost. For those seeking a scenic route, ferries offer a unique experience along the rivers.
Navigating Within the Division
Once in Khulna, getting around is easy. Rickshaws, buses, and local boats are the primary means of transport. Rickshaw fares are affordable, making them an excellent choice for short distances. Staying alert and using registered transport options helps ensure safety.
Planning Your Trip to Khulna Division
Accommodation Options: From Budget-Friendly to Luxury
Khulna Division offers various accommodation options, catering to all budgets. Hostels and guesthouses provide budget-friendly stays, while hotels like the Royal Tulip offer luxury experiences. Booking websites can help in finding suitable places to stay.
Budgeting for Your Trip: Costs and Expenses
Traveling in Khulna can be affordable. A rough budget might look like this:
- Accommodation: $10 – $100 per night
- Meals: $2 – $15 per meal
- Transportation: $1 – $10 for local travel
- Activities: $5 – $20 for tours and experiences Finding local eateries and using public transport can significantly lower costs.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip
Travelers to Khulna should check visa requirements ahead of time. It’s wise to have health precautions, such as vaccinations or medicine, in order. Packing light and including essentials like insect repellent is recommended. Staying connected is easy with local SIM cards or Wi-Fi, and travelers should remain aware of any safety advisories.
Conclusion: Unveiling the Hidden Charms of Khulna
Khulna Division is a captivating destination filled with natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. From the dense mangroves of the Sundarbans to the lively streets of Khulna City, this region offers a myriad of experiences. Embrace the adventure and uncover the hidden charms of this often-overlooked part of Bangladesh. Visitors are sure to leave with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for Khulna’s diverse offerings.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Khulna Division
খুলনা বিভাগ Jahanabad |
|
| Division of Bangladesh | |
| Clockwise from the top: Sixty Dome Mosque, Khan Jahan Ali Bridge, Shilaidaha Kuthibadi, Sundarbans, KUET and Hiron Point within Sundarbans |
|
| Nickname:
Gateway to the Sundarbans |
|
| Khulna Division in BangladeshDistricts of Khulna DivisionShow all | |
| Coordinates: 22°55′N 89°15′E | |
| Country | Bangladesh |
| Established | 1960 |
| Capital and largest city |
Khulna |
| Government | |
| • Divisional Commissioner | Md. Hilal Mahmud Sharif[1][2] |
| • Parliamentary constituency | Jatiya Sangsad (36 seats) |
| Area | |
| • Division of Bangladesh | 22,284.22 km2 (8,603.99 sq mi) |
| Population | |
| • Division of Bangladesh | 17,415,924 (Enumerated) |
| • Urban | 4,312,418 |
| • Rural | 13,102,183 |
| • Metro | 719,465 |
| • Adjusted Population[3] | 17,813,218 |
| Languages | |
| • Official language | Bengali[4] |
| • Indigenous minority languages | show
List[5] |
| Time zone | UTC+6 (Bangladesh Standard Time) |
| ISO 3166 code | BD-D |
| HDI (2018) | 0.641[6] medium |
| Notable sport teams | Khulna Tigers, Khulna Division |
| Website | khulna.gov.bd |
Khulna Division (Bengali: খুলনা বিভাগ) is the second largest of the eight divisions of Bangladesh. It has an area of 22,285 km2 (8,604 sq mi) and a population of 17,416,645 at the 2022 Bangladesh census (preliminary returns). Its headquarters and largest city is Khulna city in Khulna District.
History
In the British Raj Khulna Division was a part of Presidency division. Before 1947 The Presidency division had six major districts, Murshidabad, Calcutta, 24 Parganas, Khulna, undivided Jessore, and undivided Nadia. In 1947 The Partition of India divided this division into two. The district of Khulna and the lion half of Jessore District and Nadia District become part of Newly established East Bengal. And rest of the district of the Presidency division become part of West Bengal. In 1948 The lion half Nadia district of East Bengal formed a new Kushtia District. And the government of East Bengal added the Jessore, Khulna & Kushtia district into Rajshahi Division. After in 1960 the government of East Pakistan, This three district from Rajshahi Division and one district from Dacca Division create new Division of Khulna. In 1993 the Barisal Division is formed from Khulna division.
Geography
The Khulna division borders to India by the State of West Bengal to the west, the Rajshahi Division to the north, the Dhaka division and the Barisal division to the east, and has a coastline on the Bay of Bengal to the south. It is part of the Ganges River delta or Greater Bengal Delta. Other rivers include the Madhumati River, the Bhairab River and the Kapotaksha River. The region also includes several islands in the Bay of Bengal.
The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, is in the southern part of the delta. Khulna is in the northern part of the district, and the Mayur River is the western boundary of the metropolitan area.
Administrative districts
The division was formed in 1960. Khulna Division consists of the following ten districts (zilas), subdivided into 59 sub-districts (upazilas):
| District | Administrative centre |
Area in km2. |
Population 2001 Census |
Population 2011 Census |
Population 2022 Census |
| Bagerhat District | Bagerhat | 3,959.11 | 1,549,031 | 1,476,090 | 1,613,076 |
| Chuadanga District | Chuadanga | 1,174.10 | 1,007,130 | 1,129,015 | 1,234,054 |
| Jashore District | Jessore | 2,606.94 | 2,471,554 | 2,764,547 | 3,076,144 |
| Jhenaidah District | Jhenaidah | 1,964.77 | 1,579,490 | 1,771,304 | 2,005,849 |
| Khulna District | Khulna | 4,394.45 | 2,378,971 | 2,318,527 | 2,613,385 |
| Kushtia District | Kushtia | 1,608.80 | 1,740,155 | 1,946,838 | 2,149,692 |
| Magura District | Magura | 1,039.10 | 824,311 | 918,419 | 1,033,115 |
| Meherpur District | Meherpur | 751.62 | 591,430 | 655,392 | 705,356 |
| Narail District | Narail | 967.99 | 698,447 | 721,668 | 788,671 |
| Satkhira District | Satkhira | 3,817.29 | 1,864,704 | 1,985,959 | 2,196,582 |
| Total Districts | 10 | 22,284.22 | 14,705,223 | 15,687,759 | 17,415,924 |
Demographics
| Religion in Khulna division (2022) | ||
| Religion | Percent | |
| Muslims | 88.21% | |
| Hindus | 11.53% | |
| Christians | 0.24% | |
| Others | 0.02% | |
Muslims are the predominant religion with 88.21%, while Hindus are main minority with 11.53% population. Christians and others are 0.24% and 0.02% respectively.[3]
Economy
Most parts of the largest mangrove forest in the world — the Sundarban — is spread over the three most southerly districts of Satkhira, Khulna and Bagherhat. Khulna’s GDP is the third-largest GDP behind Dhaka and Chittagong. It possesses a GDP of $53 billion.
Education
The division contains educational institutions including
Universities
Public Universities
- Khulna University
- Khulna University of Engineering and Technology
- Khulna Agricultural University
- Sheikh Hasina Medical University
- Jashore University of Science and Technology
- Islamic University, Bangladesh
- Mujibnagar University
Private Universities
- North Western University, Bangladesh
- Northern University of Business and Technology Khulna
- Rabindra Maitree University, Kushtia
- Lalon Science and Arts University, Kushtia[9]
- First Capital University of Bangladesh, Chuadanga.
- Khan Bahadul Ahsanullah University, Khulna
Medical Colleges
Public
- Khulna Medical College
- Kushtia Medical College
- Jashore Medical College
- Satkhira Medical College
- Magura Medical College
- Army Medical College, Jashore
Private
- Khulna City Medical College Hospital[10]
- Gazi Medical College
- Ad-Din Akij Medical College hospital, Khulna
- Khulna Homeopathic Medical College
- Ad-Din Sakina Medical College & Hospital, Jashore
- Selima Medical College & Hospital, Kushtia
Colleges
- Khulna Public College
- Ahsanullah College, Khulna
- Kushtia Government College
- Khulna Collectorate Public School & College
- Kushtia Government Central College
- Kushtia Government Womens College
- Police Lines School and College, Kushtia
- Khulna Govt. Model School and college, Khulna
- Kushtia Islamia College,
- Kumarkhali Govt. College, Kushtia
- Govt. Bangabandhu College, Rupsha, Khulna
- Bheramara Govt. College, Kushtia
- Bheramara Govt. Womens College, Kushtia
- Chuadanga Govt College-Chuadanga
- Government B L College, Khulna
- Government Joybangla College, Khulna
- Jhenaidah Cadet College
- Majid Memorial City College, Khulna
- Cantonment College, Jashore
- Azam Khan Govt. Commerce College, Khulna
- BN School & College, Khulna
- Govt. H.S.S College, Magura
- Michael Modhushudon College, Jashore
- Govt. Pioneer Woman’s College, Khulna
- Khulna Govt. Girls College
- Govt. Sundarban Adarsha College, Khulna.
- Govt. K.C. College, Jhenaidah
- Government P.C. College, Bagerhat
- Daulatpur College (Day/Night), Daulatpur, Khulna
- Govt. Keshabpur College, Keshabpur, Jashore
- Khan Jahan Ali Ideal College
- Chuknagor College, Dumuria, Khulna
- Dr. Abdur Razzak Municipal College
- BAF Shaheen College, Jashore
- Jashore Govt. City College
- Dawood Public School, Jashore
- Adarsha Degree College, Magura
- Sreepur Degree College, Magura
Polytechnic institutes
- Khulna Polytechnic Institute
- Jashore Polytechnic Institute
- City Polytechnic Institute, Khulna
- Mangrove Institute of Science and Technology
- North South Polytechnic Institute Khulna
- Jhenaidah Polytechnic Institute
- Khanjahan Ali college of Engineering and Technology
- BCMC College of Engineering & Technology
- Khulna Mohila Polytechnic Institute
- Kushtia Polytechnic Institute
- Satkhira Polytechnic Institute
- Magura Polytechnic Institute
Schools
- V J Govt High School, Chuadanga
- Chuadanga Govt Girls’ High School-Chuadanga
- Govt. Coronation Girls’ High School-khulna
- Islamabad Collegiate School
- Government Naldanga Bhushan Pilot Secondary School, Jhenaidah
- Dighalia M.A. Majid Secondary School, Khulna
- Jashore Zilla School
- Khulna Zilla School
- Kushtia Zilla School
- Fatima Girls High School, Khulna
- Jashore Cantonment Public School
- Keshabpur Govt. Pilot Higher Secondary School, Jashore
- Khulna Collegiate Girls School
- Khulna Engineering University School
- Khulna Lions Schools
- Adarsho Girls’ School, Keshabpur, Jashore
- Sagardari Michael Madhusadan Institution, Keshabpur, Jashore
- Kumira High School
- M.M. High School
- Mangolkot M.L High School, Keshabpur, Jashore
- Rev. Paul High School
- Rosedale International School
- Rotary School, Khalishpur, Khulna
- S.B.S.N, Damoder
- St. Joseph’s High School, Khulna
- St. Xavier’s High School, Khulna
- Udayan Khulna Zilla Police School
- Manirampur Government High School
Other educational institutes
Khulna has six integrated general and vocational (IGV) schools and one technical school of UCEP (Underprivileged Children’s Educational Programs), which is a non-profitable organization.
- UCEP Mohsin Khulna TVET Institute, Baikali, Khulna
- UCEP Mohsin Khulna Technical School, Baikali,
- UCEP Sonadanga Technical School, Sonadanga
- UCEP M.A Majid Technical School, Fulbarigate
- UCEP Khalishpur Technical School, Khalishpur
- UCEP Johara Samad Technical School, Tootpara
- UCEP Wazed Ali Technical School, Banorgati
Transportation
Khulna Division has highest transportation link with other area in Bangladesh as well as with India by Road, Rail, Air and Waterways
Road
The national highway (N7) cross through Khulna Division which connects Dhaka to Port of Mongla. The AH1 and AH41 also Cross through Khulna division. It also connects with India by Port of Benapole, Port of Darshana, Port of Mujibnogor, and Port of Bhomra through various Road links.
Rail
There are several Railway route in Khulna Division which Connect various city of Bangladesh. It has also 2 international route which connect India by train.
Air
There are two airport in Khulna Division. One of them is functional and one under construction. The Jashore Airport is the functional airport in Khulna Division which connect Dhaka, Chattogram and Cox Bazar By air. And the Khan Jahan Ali International Airport is now under construction.
Waterways
Port of Khulna, Port of Kustia, Port of Noapara are the main three river port in Khulna division. Every day various ship are leaving from thus port to various part of Bangladesh.
Port of Mongla is the solo sea port in Khulna division.
Newspapers and magazines
Daily and weekly newspapers are published from Khulna Division, including:
- Anirbhan
- Janmobhumi
- Khulna News
- Lok Samaj
- Probaho
- Purbanchal
- satkhiranews.com
- The Daily Gramer Kagoj
- The Daily Spandan
- Tribune
- Daily Mathabhanga
Points of interest
Sixty Dome Mosque – Situated in the suburbs of Bagerhat, at the meeting-point of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers, this ancient city, formerly known as Khalifatabad, was founded by the Turkish general Ulugh Khan Jahan in the 15th century. The city’s infrastructure reveals considerable technical skill and an exceptional number of mosques and early Islamic monuments, many built of brick, can be seen there.[14]
The Sundarbans mangrove forest, one of the largest such forests in the world (140,000 ha), lies on the delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna rivers on the Bay of Bengal. It is adjacent to the border of India’s Sundarbans World Heritage site inscribed in 1987. The site is intersected by a complex network of tidal waterways, mudflats and small islands of salt-tolerant mangrove forests, and presents an excellent example of ongoing ecological processes. The area is known for its wide range of fauna, including 260 bird species, the Bengal tiger and other threatened species such as the estuarine crocodile and the Indian python.[14]
Mobarakganj Sugar Mills Limited is a prominent sugar manufacturing company located in Mobarakganj, Jhenaidah, Bangladesh. Established with the goal of supporting the agricultural sector and contributing to the national economy, the company produces high-quality sugar and related by-products.
Lalon is Bengali Baul saint. Lalon Shah was a songwriter, social reformer, and thinker. He is most popular as Lalon Shah or Lalon Fakir. He wrote many songs, and these songs are known as Lalon Geeti. Fakir Lalon was born in 1774 and died on 17 October 1890 in Kushtia district, Bangladesh. He is known as the Baul Samrat.
Shilaidaha Kuthibadi is a place in Kumarkhali Upazila of Kushtia District in Bangladesh. The place is famous for Kuthi Bari; a country house made by Dwarkanath Tagore. Rabindranath Tagore lived a part of life here and created some of his memorable poems while living here.
1971: Genocide-Torture Archive & Museum – Rare pictures and paintings depicting the genocide of Bangalees by the Pakistan army hang on the wall. There is also a rich collection of books and audio-visual materials on the ruthless massacre against the unarmed people. The aim of the museum is to educate people, especially youths, about the genocide committed by the Pakistan army in association with their local collaborators, said Prof Muntassir Mamoon, chairman of the trustee board that runs the institution.[15]
Language
Bengali is the widely spoken language in Khulna division.
