Mymensingh

Mymensingh is a city in northern Bangladesh, about 120 kilometres from Dhaka. Most people reach it by bus or train from the capital. The journey takes roughly two and a half hours by road, depending on traffic. Trains leave from Kamalapur Railway Station in Dhaka and arrive at Mymensingh Junction. The station is close to the city centre, so you can walk or take a rickshaw to your hotel.

If you prefer the bus, several companies run services from Dhaka’s Mohakhali or Sayedabad terminals. Buses drop you at Mymensingh’s main bus stand, which is near the railway station. From there, cycle rickshaws and auto-rickshaws are the easiest way to get around. The city is compact, and most attractions are within a short ride.

Mymensingh is known for its old zamindar houses, the Brahmaputra River, and the nearby Garo hills. The most famous site is the Mymensingh Rajbari, a palace built in the 19th century. It is open to visitors, though some parts are closed for restoration. Another landmark is the Shashi Lodge, which now houses a museum with a collection of folk art and historical items.

The city sits on the banks of the Brahmaputra, and a walk along the riverfront is a good way to spend an afternoon. You can also take a boat ride, though the river’s course has shifted over the years. For a longer trip, consider visiting the Garo hills, which are about two hours away. The hills offer hiking and a chance to see the indigenous Garo community.

Accommodation in Mymensingh ranges from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Most are near the railway station or in the main commercial area. Food options are plentiful, with local restaurants serving traditional Bengali dishes. Try the freshwater fish, which is a local speciality. For a quick meal, street stalls offer snacks like fuchka and jhalmuri.

The best time to visit is between November and February, when the weather is cool and dry. The monsoon season, from June to October, brings heavy rain and can make travel difficult. During the summer, temperatures can exceed 35°C, so plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Getting around Mymensingh is straightforward. Rickshaws are cheap and convenient for short trips. For longer distances, you can hire a CNG auto-rickshaw. If you plan to visit the Garo hills, you will need to arrange transport in advance, as public buses are infrequent.

Mobile network coverage is good in the city, and most hotels offer Wi-Fi. ATMs are widely available, but it is wise to carry cash for smaller transactions. The local currency is the Bangladeshi taka, and credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants.

Safety is generally not a concern in Mymensingh, but standard precautions apply. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar parts. It is also a good idea to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

For a day trip from Dhaka, Mymensingh offers a glimpse of provincial life and history. The journey is easy, and the city has enough to keep you busy for a day or two. If you have more time, combine it with a visit to the nearby archaeological site at Mainamati, though that would require a longer trip.

Before you go, confirm the latest train and bus schedules, as they can change. The Bangladesh Railway website and the bus company offices are reliable sources for current information. Also, check if any entry restrictions apply to the Garo hills, as permits may be required for certain areas.

Getting to Mymensingh from Dhaka

The most practical way to reach Mymensingh is by train. The inter-city trains like the Mymensingh Express and the Brahmaputra Express run daily. The journey takes about two and a half hours. Tickets can be booked online through the Bangladesh Railway website or at the station. It is best to book a few days in advance, especially on weekends.

Buses are another option. Several companies operate from Dhaka’s Mohakhali and Sayedabad terminals. The fare is similar to the train, and the travel time is comparable. Buses are frequent, so you can usually find one without a reservation. The main bus stand in Mymensingh is about a kilometre from the railway station, so it is easy to switch between the two.

If you are coming from other parts of Bangladesh, you may need to change in Dhaka. There are also direct buses from Sylhet and Chittagong, but they are less frequent. For international visitors, the nearest airport is in Dhaka, and from there you can take a train or bus.

Exploring the City and Beyond

The city centre is walkable, but a rickshaw ride is a fun way to see the streets. Start at the Mymensingh Rajbari, which is now a museum. The palace has a mix of Mughal and European architecture, and the gardens are well maintained. Next, head to Shashi Lodge, another historical building that houses a museum with artifacts from the region.

For a break, walk along the Brahmaputra riverbank. The river is wide here, and you can see fishermen at work. There is a small park with benches, a good spot for a picnic. If you are interested in local crafts, visit the Zainul Park, named after the famous artist Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin, who was from Mymensingh. The park has a small gallery with some of his works.

For a day trip, the Garo hills are the main draw. The hills are part of the Madhupur tract and are home to the Garo people. You can hire a CNG or a small bus from Mymensingh to reach the area. The journey takes about two hours. Once there, you can hike to a waterfall or visit a Garo village. Be aware that some areas require a permit, so check with the local administration before you go.

Where to Stay and Eat

Accommodation options are limited but adequate. The Hotel Amir International and the Hotel Green Palace are popular choices. They are in the city centre, close to the railway station. Rooms are basic but clean, and rates are reasonable. For a more budget-friendly option, there are guesthouses near the bus stand.

For food, try the local restaurants that serve traditional Bengali dishes. The fish curry and rice is a must-try. There are also several sweet shops where you can sample local sweets like roshogolla and sandesh. For a quick snack, the street vendors sell pitha, a type of cake, especially during the winter months.

If you are vegetarian, you will find plenty of options as well. Many restaurants have vegetable dishes and dal. It is a good idea to drink bottled water and eat at places that are busy, as that usually indicates fresh food.

In terms of cost, Mymensingh is cheaper than Dhaka. A meal at a local restaurant costs around 200 to 300 taka. A rickshaw ride within the city is about 30 to 50 taka. Entrance fees for museums are minimal, often less than 50 taka. Bring small denominations of cash, as change can be hard to come by.

Mobile connectivity is strong, with all major operators having coverage. If you need to stay online, consider buying a local SIM card. The major operators are Grameenphone, Banglalink, and Robi. You will need your passport to purchase a SIM.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather. The winter months are pleasant, but the summer can be very hot and humid. If you visit during the monsoon, be prepared for rain and possible delays in transport. Always check the weather forecast before your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions