10 Scenic Rivers and Waterways in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is referred to as the land of rivers and justifiably so. Having hundreds of rivers, canals and tributaries crossing the country, it provides some of the most beautiful waterways in South Asia. In case you intend to visit here, the best place to start is by getting a Bangladesh travel visa so that you can explore the beauty of this riverine country. Here at Go Kite Tours we take you a step closer to the beauty of nature, culture and heritage and this begins with the lifelines of the country the rivers and waterways of Bangladesh.

Here we go and explore the 10 most beautiful rivers and waterways in Bangladesh:

1. The Padma River

Padma is one of the largest and most famous rivers that are not only a natural miracle but also the identity of Bangladesh. It runs across fertile plains and sustains agricultural and fishing communities all along its banks. Boat rides are popular with the travelers particularly at the golden hours of sunset or sunrise. The recent Padma Bridge adds a modern charm to this timeless waterway, making it both a scenic and historical landmark.

2. The Jamuna River

The Jamuna is a very wide river in the world known as the principal distributary of the Brahmaputra. It has a changing landscape because of its dynamic nature; due to continuous erosion and movement of the sandbanks. Ferries intersect daily and Jamuna Bridge links the northern Bangladesh to the rest of the nation. River cruises along the Jamuna are a memorable experience of seeing a rural landscape and open skies mirrored in the waters of the river to the nature lovers.

3. The Meghna River

Meghna is one of the strongest rivers in Bangladesh that joins with Padma and Jamuna to create the largest delta in the world. Its immense size with fishing boats and cargo vessels in it, brings out the lifeline it gives the nation. The early morning sight of the river is almost spiritual in case you are around Chandpur or Bhairab. A river cruise on the Meghna is a must visit to any one interested to have a glimpse of the splendor of rivers and water ways in Bangladesh.

4. The Buriganga River

The Buriganga has been the heart of Dhaka flowing past the city since centuries. It is a busy river in the country as it is full of passenger boats, cargo ships, and wooden boats. Although it is not as peaceful as any other river, the Buriganga is a raw, real experience of city rivers. A boat journey through Sadarghat gives the tourist a chance to experience the coexistence of tradition and modernity that flourishes on its waters.

5. The Surma River

Emerging from the hills of India, the Surma flows into Sylhet and nourishes the north eastern plains of Bangladesh. This river is known for its peaceful beauty and tea gardens that are located along its banks. The beauty of Sylhet is doubled when seen from a boat drifting across the Surma, as emerald landscapes ripple across crystal waters. It is a must visit for all the travelers searching for peace and natural beauty.

6. The Kushiyara River

The Kushiyara, which runs in parallel with the Surma, is another beautiful river of Sylhet area. It is renowned to have calm waters and green countryside which makes it important in irrigation and farming. Visitors adore the old-fashioned fishing activities and drifting markets that frequently appear on its banks. The Kushiyara enhances the status of Sylhet as one of the most beautiful parts of the country.

7. The Shitalakshya River

Close to Narayanganj, the Shitalakshya River has historical significance. In the Mughal era, it used to be a trading center. Nowadays, the river still has its appeal in small boat trips and peaceful banks with deserted industrialization. In case you are eager in combining history and natural beauty, the Shitalakshya is a wonderful tour of the past of Bangladesh.

8. The Pashur River

The Pashur River is the dream of any adventurer flowing through the Sundarbans which is the largest mangrove forest of the world. Sailing through its waterways will take you to the close proximity of the mangrove trees, exotic birds and even a view of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. For eco-tourism lovers, the Pashur is one of the most scenic and thrilling rivers and waterways in Bangladesh.

9. The Karnaphuli River

Located in Chittagong, the Karnaphuli is unique as it flows through hills before meeting the Bay of Bengal. It has banks where the busiest seaport in the country, Chittagong Port, is located. Another attribute of the river is the Karnaphuli Hydroelectric Project that generates energy to millions of people. Boat rides are available to the travelers as they can take a look at the forested hills, busy docks, and calm waters further down the river.

10. The Turag River

The Turag River is a tributary of the Buriganga, and it is especially important as the venue of the annual Bishwa Ijtema, the second-largest Islamic congregation in the world. It is less hectic than the Buriganga, and has picturesque scenes of boats and fishing, throughout the year. It is unique among the numerous rivers in the area because of its spiritual and cultural value.

Why Explore the Rivers and Waterways in Bangladesh?

Rivers and waterways in Bangladesh do not only represent natural beauties; they are the living and breathing elements of the Bangladesh culture and history. They support agriculture, transport and livelihoods and also provide some of the most picturesque scenes in South Asia. To explore them is to get to the real essence of Bangladesh, villages to cities and tea gardens to mangrove forests.

Whether its roaring down the mighty padma or gliding through the Sundarbans Pashur River, each riverway has a tale of strength, of beauty and of nature in harmony.

Plan Your Journey with Go Kite Tours

Go Kite Tours is a travel company specializing in designing the best of Bangladesh. Whether it is a river cruise, a cultural exploration or a tour that takes you through the rivers we make sure you experience the spirit of the rivers. To start with, ensure that you are having the right travel documents before you are on your journey. Make application to your Bangladesh travel visa now and prepare to experience the magic of this riverine land.

Rivers and Waterways in Bangladesh is an experience that can only be done once in a lifetime, which takes you in touch with nature and history that few places can. Trust Let Go Kite Tours to take you on this adventure.

Therefore, do your packing, create your itinerary and do not forget your Bangladesh visa- because the rivers of Bangladesh are waiting to narrate their everlasting stories to you.