Jessore, Bangladesh
Jessore is a city located in southwestern Bangladesh known for its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and mouthwatering cuisine. It is a perfect destination for those looking to experience the authentic side of Bangladesh.
Trip to Jessore, Bangladesh
Day 1: Arrival and City Tour
Welcome to Jessore. After checking in at your accommodation, you can take a city tour of Jessore. Start by visiting the Michael Madhusudan Memorial Museum, dedicated to poet Michael Madhusudan Dutt who is considered one of the pillars of modern Bengali literature. Afterward, you can visit the BIRDEM Hospital complex and learn about the history of the hospital and how it started to provide services in 1930. Then head to the nearby Chuknagar to explore the ancient archeological ruins and end the day by visiting the ancient temple of “Jora Shiv Mandir”.
Day 2: St. Martin’s Island Trip
St. Martin’s Island is a breathtaking island located in the northeast of the Bay of Bengal. The best way to reach the island is by taking a boat from Teknaf in the south of Bangladesh. Once you arrive, you can enjoy some of the best seafood, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear water. The island is a popular spot for snorkeling, watching sunsets, and relaxing in a hammock.
Day 3: Shopping at Jessore Bazaar & Jashore Cantonment
Start your day by going to the Jessore Bazaar, which is famous for handicraft items, textiles, and sweets such as ‘Chhana’ and ‘Rasagolla.’ From there, head towards the Jessore Cantonment, which is considered one of the best army camps in Bangladesh. Although it is a restricted area, you can still have a guided tour of the camp. You can see the Inner Market, Army Mess, Gurudwara, the local train, and the cemetery.
Day 4: Venerable Notunpukur Monastery
Visit Venerable Notunpukur Monastery, the biggest Buddhist temple in Jessore, in the morning. The ornate complex is an excellent place to reflect and meditate. Situated in a calm and peaceful environment, you can experience a sense of spirituality. Afterward, you can explore Boro Kuthi, an ancient building, used by the East India Company to store and produce muslin.
Day 5: Benapol Border Market & Gate
Benapole is the largest land port of Bangladesh and is situated just 80 kilometers west of Jessore. You can visit Benapol Border market to experience the hustle and bustle of trade between Bangladesh and India. Here, you can buy spices, clothes, and other goods sold at a reasonable price. Afterward, head to Benapol Gate, part of Bangladesh’s border with India. The gate is a memorial of the Indian independence movement and is a prime tourist attraction.
Day 6: Nawab Palace & Mango Gardens
Visit the Nawab Palace in the morning. The palace was built in the 19th century, and it is a perfect representation of British colonial architecture. Today, it houses the campus of Jessore University of Science and Technology. Later you can head towards the nearby mango gardens, where you can enjoy different varieties of mangoes, including some of the rarest.
Day 7: Chanchra Shiva Temple and Local Life
On your last day in Jessore, visit the Chanchra Shiva temple, a revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. From the temple, you can head to the local market, observe and learn about the daily life of the locals. You can try local delicacies, such as “pitha” and “jilapi,” and take a rickshaw ride around Jessore.