Paharpur - Discovering Bangladesh

Travelling to Paharpur

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Paharpur, a pretty good destination in Bangladesh (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Paharpur and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Paharpur, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Bangladesh, here's everything to know about Paharpur for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Paharpur

Paharpur is an archaeological site located in the northwestern part of Bangladesh. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in South Asia. Paharpur was once a prominent Buddhist monastery and university, which flourished between the 7th and 12th century AD. The site contains the remains of a large brick-built pyramid-shaped structure, with terraced outer walls and a central courtyard. Its archaeological value is significant because it sheds light on the cultural, religious and intellectual history of ancient Bengal. Paharpur is also known for its scenic beauty and attracts a large number of tourists every year.

What to visit in Paharpur

The major tourist attraction in Paharpur, Bangladesh is the Paharpur Buddhist Monastery, also known as the Somapura Mahavihara. Here are some details about the attraction: 1. Paharpur Buddhist Monastery: It is one of the most important archaeological sites in South Asia and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. The monastery was built in the 8th century AD and it served as an important center of Buddhist learning and pilgrimage until the 12th century AD. The site features a large temple complex and several stupas.
2. Archaeological Museum: Located near the Paharpur Buddhist Monastery, the museum houses a vast collection of artifacts excavated from the monastery site. Visitors can see sculptures, carvings, pottery, and other items that provide insight into ancient Buddhist culture.
3. Balihar Raj Palace: The palace is located in the nearby village of Balihar and was built in the early 18th century. The palace features a beautiful courtyard and several rooms furnished with antique furniture and accessories.
4. Digambar Jain Mandir: This ancient temple is located in the city of Dinajpur, which is about 25 km from Paharpur. The temple is believed to have been built in the 17th century and it features intricate carvings and sculptures.
5. Kantajew Temple: Another ancient temple located in Dinajpur, the Kantajew Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and was built in the 18th century. The temple features beautiful terracotta decorations and intricate carvings.
Overall, Paharpur offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural and architectural legacy of Bangladesh.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Paharpur.

When to go on holiday to Paharpur

The best time to visit Paharpur in Bangladesh is during the winter months between November and February, as the weather is cooler and more pleasant during this time. The monsoon season starts from June and lasts till October, so it is better to avoid these months as the heavy rainfall can disrupt your travel plans. March to May can also be quite hot and humid, so it is recommended to avoid these months too.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Paharpur

To get to Paharpur in Bangladesh, you can take a bus or a train from Dhaka city, which is the capital city of Bangladesh. By Bus: 1. You can take a bus from Gabtoli Bus Terminal in Dhaka to Naogaon. 2. From Naogaon, you can take local transport such as bus, microbus or CNG (auto-rickshaw) to Paharpur archaeological site.
By Train: 1. You can take a train from Kamalapur Railway Station in Dhaka to Bogra.
2. From Bogra, you can take a bus, microbus or CNG to Paharpur archaeological site.
It is recommended to take the bus or train during the daytime and to book your tickets in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Paharpur, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Paharpur

Paharpur is a small town located in the Rajshahi Division of Bangladesh. Here are some of the typical foods of Paharpur and a short description of each: 1. Paharpuri Fish: Paharpuri fish is a popular dish made of locally caught fish, which is first marinated in a spice mixture, then cooked over a charcoal fire. It's usually served with rice and a side of vegetables.
2. Murighonto: Murighonto is a traditional Bengali dish that's commonly eaten in Paharpur. Made with fish head, lentils, and vegetables, it's a hearty and healthy meal that's great for cold weather.
3. Chana Dal: Chana dal is a type of lentil that's commonly used in Bengali cuisine. In Paharpur, it's often cooked with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric to make a flavorful and nutritious dish that's perfect for vegans and vegetarians.
4. Bhuna Khichuri: Bhuna Khichuri is a dish of rice and lentils cooked together with vegetables and spices. It's a popular comfort food in Paharpur, and is especially enjoyed during the colder months.
5. Shondesh: Shondesh is a traditional Bengali sweet that's made with milk and sugar. In Paharpur, it's often flavored with cardamom or rosewater, and is a beloved dessert that can be found in many local sweet shops.
You can find general info about typical foods in Bangladesh here.

Is Paharpur an expensive destination for tourists?

Paharpur in Bangladesh is not considered an expensive destination for tourists. However, the cost of your trip will depend on various factors such as your mode of transportation, accommodation, food, and activities that you plan to do. Traveling to Paharpur is relatively easy, with regular public buses available from nearby cities like Rajshahi and Bogra. The cost of transportation is generally affordable, but you may also consider hiring a private car or taking a taxi.
In terms of accommodation, there are several budget-friendly options available in the nearby towns and cities. You can choose from guest houses, small hotels or homestays, which offer comfortable accommodation at affordable prices.
Food is also reasonably priced in Paharpur, with a variety of local eateries serving delicious and affordable food.
Overall, Paharpur is a great place to visit for its rich cultural and historical significance, and you can plan a trip here without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Paharpur

To visit Paharpur, it is best to find accommodation in the nearby towns of Naogaon or Bogra. These towns offer a variety of budget and mid-range accommodations such as hotels, guesthouses, and resorts. Some popular options in Naogaon include Hotel Meanam and Hotel Mukta International, while Bogra has options like Parjatan Hotel Bogra and Hotel Akbaria. Both towns offer convenient access to Paharpur, as well as other nearby attractions like Mahasthangarh and Kantaji Temple.
You can check hotel prices at Paharpur here:
Booking.com

Is Paharpur a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Paharpur in Bangladesh is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. However, like any destination, tourists should take basic safety precautions such as avoiding walking alone in dark, unfamiliar areas at night and being aware of their surroundings. It is also important to follow local customs and culture to avoid any unintentional offense. Additionally, it is recommended to access the latest information about travel warnings and advisories from your government or embassy before planning your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Bangladesh here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Paharpur.

What type of travelers will enjoy Paharpur the most?

Paharpur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which attracts history and culture enthusiasts from all over the world. Its ancient ruins and archaeological remains offer a unique glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Buddhist civilization. Therefore, it is a great destination for those interested in exploring history and culture. While Paharpur can be enjoyed by anyone, it is more suited for families and couples who are looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. It is not a place for young people looking for fun activities or nightlife entertainment. Visitors can also partake in nature walks, visit nearby villages, and enjoy local cuisine.

How to get around Paharpur

In Paharpur, you can use several transportation options to move around including: 1. Rickshaws: Traditional pedal-powered rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Paharpur.
2. Motorbikes: If you want to explore the town on your own, you can rent a motorbike.
3. Taxis: You can hire taxis from Rajshahi city to reach Paharpur.
4. Buses: You can take buses from Dhaka or Rajshahi to reach Paharpur.
5. Private cars: You can also hire a private car with a driver to move around Paharpur.

What to see around Paharpur

Sure, here are some great options for day trips from Paharpur: 1. Mahasthangarh: It's an ancient city ruins located in Bogra, about 80 km away from Paharpur. The place is famous for its archaeological sites and museums.
2. Somapura Mahavihara: It is an ancient Buddhist monastery, UNESCO World Heritage Site and located in Paharpur. The place is a must-visit for history buffs.
3. Gokul Medh, Dinajpur: It's a remnant of a 14th-century temple that belongs to the Hindu goddess Durga.
4. Kantajew Temple: It's one of the most spectacular temples of Bangladesh, located in Dinajpur, about 75 km away from Paharpur. It's famous for its terracotta sculptures and the intricate work on its walls and pillars.
5. Puthia Rajbari Complex: It's a perfect place for architecture enthusiasts, located in Rajshahi, about 90 km away from Paharpur. It showcases the mix of Hindu, Islamic and British architecture.
6. Charan Kibria Shrine: It is located in Joypurhat and is the tomb of a Sufi saint. It is a popular pilgrimage site for many locals.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you need more assistance!
For every travel information about Bangladesh you can click here.

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